Former two-time featherweight champion José Aldo has walked away from the UFC before. Back in 2022, he stepped away from the Octagon to chase a new challenge in boxing. Aldo eventually made his return, reminding fans of his legendary skill with a win over Jonathan Martinez. However, back-to-back losses followed, and now it seems the final chapter has been written. After a unanimous decision defeat to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315, Aldo has announced his retirement once again. While there was a controversy surrounding the decision after his fight, this time, it feels like the end of an era.
In a quiet, emotional gesture that spoke volumes, Aldo removed his gloves and placed them gently on the canvas. Despite his recent run inside the Octagon, the Brazilian is without a doubt one of the legends of the sport. Aldo became the first-ever UFC Featherweight Champion and defended his title an incredible seven times. He dominated the division with his explosive striking, surgical leg kicks, and elite takedown defense. At his peak, he seemed almost untouchable, outclassing contenders and showcasing his fierce, technical brilliance.. In the twilight of his career, Aldo dropped to bantamweight, reinventing himself yet again.
‘Scarface’ proved he could still compete at the highest level and scored some notable wins and even challenged for the 135-pound title. But as we say, all good things come to an end, and so did Aldo’s incredible career. Wishes have flown in from all around the corner, and Aldo’s coach, Andre Pederneiras, has also joined in. MMA Fighting took to their Instagram account to share what exactly the coach had to say about his favorite pupil. The message read as, “It’s impossible not to say Aldo is the greatest featherweight of all time. And forever will be. Even if someone manages to surpass what he’s done, he was the first.”
With a career that spanned nearly two decades, José Aldo leaves behind a legacy of greatness. His career was marked by unmatched skill, heart, and the spirit of a true champion. But does he deserve to be called the greatest featherweight of all time? There’s no doubt that the UFC has seen some incredible champions in the division. The likes of Alexander Volkanovski will always be in contention to be called the greatest featherweight. So, what do the fans think about the claims made by Aldo’s coach? Do they agree with it? Let us take a look at it below.
Fans agree with Jose Aldo’s coach for labelling him as the ‘greatest of all time’
At a press conference at Nova Uniao’s training center, Jose Aldo pointed out why exactly he came back into the UFC. He said, “When I went back [to the UFC in 2024], it wasn’t for money, it was for a purpose, I had a calling. I tried doing it and it didn’t work. I gave my all and was happy with everything I’ve achieved.” The Brazilian has indeed achieved everything a fighter would like in their career. From titles to the love of the fans, ‘Scarface’ has it all. The fans have now come forward to show their appreciation for the former champion.
One of the users handed him the biggest compliment any fighter can get in his career. It’s a nod to his dominance, influence, and iconic status within the 145-pound class. He commented, “He’s on the Mt. Rushmore of featherweights for sure.” Another user laid out the hard facts of Aldo’s dominance, A decade-long unbeaten run. Seven consecutive UFC title defenses. Only if the UFC had introduced featherweight earlier, Aldo’s record might rival or surpass the all-time greats in other divisions, and commented, “Defended his UFC belt 7 times in the midst of a 10-year undefeated streak. Had the UFC had lighter divisions earlier, Aldo would have most title defenses of all time. Definitely FW GOAT.”
One user settled the debate and pointed out that there are just two fighters running for the title of G.O.A.T. He commented, “either him, or volkanovski.” Volkanovski is great, no doubt—but Aldo held the throne for nearly a decade. An unmatched reign in terms of longevity and consistency at the top was pointed out by one of the users as he commented, “People forget that Aldo reigned for 10 years. Volk didn’t.” One of the fans spoke not just for themselves, but for the entire MMA community. Aldo wasn’t just a champion—he was a cornerstone of the UFC’s global rise, and his absence will be deeply felt, as reminded by his comment, “We (UFC) will miss him dearly!!! What a legend.”
With so many huge compliments coming in from different corners, one fan kept it short and simple. He kept it Short and simple and commented, “Yes.” This one-word reply might seem small, but it’s packed with agreement and validation. One user acknowledged that Aldo wasn’t just dominant in one organization—he ruled both WEC and UFC as the undisputed featherweight king. Even after retiring once, he ventured into professional boxing, showing the world he wasn’t just an MMA legend. He commented, “He was king on WEC and UFC and even trying boxing. Even in his last fights he had show that his techniques is there. An amazing and complete mma fighter.”
Together, these comments reflect not just admiration for Aldo’s skills but reverence for his legacy. They capture the end of an era—one defined by explosive talent, quiet humility, and a fighter who inspired a generation. But what do you feel about Jose Aldo’s career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
The post “He’s on the Mt. Rushmore” – Fans in Tune With Jose Aldo’s Coach for Cementing GOAT Status After Retirement Controversy appeared first on EssentiallySports.
