Jose Aldo Announces Retirement After Loss to Aiemann Zahabi – UFC 315 Recap (May 10, 2025)
MMA legend Jose Aldo has officially retired from professional mixed martial arts following a hard-fought and controversial unanimous decision loss to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315, held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, in Montreal, Quebec.
The fight was initially booked at bantamweight, but due to a difficult weight cut, it was moved up to the featherweight division. Despite the change, both fighters brought intensity and heart to the Octagon in what became an emotional farewell for one of the greatest featherweights in MMA history.
In round three, Aldo looked like he might close the show after landing a crushing knee that nearly finished Zahabi. But as the Brazilian legend pursued the finish, Zahabi reversed the momentum, dragging Aldo to the mat and unleashing vicious elbows that opened a cut and stunned the crowd. The final horn sounded with both fighters exhausted and bloodied, sending the outcome to the judges.
Ultimately, Zahabi was awarded a 29-28 unanimous decision victory, the biggest win of his career so far. For Aldo, it marked the end of a legendary run spanning over two decades.
🔹 Result: Aiemann Zahabi def. Jose Aldo via unanimous decision (29-28)
🔹 Event: UFC 315 – Montreal, Quebec
🔹 Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
🔹 Weight Class: Featherweight (originally Bantamweight)
Jose Aldo Retires from MMA (Again) After UFC 315 Loss
After the fight, 38-year-old Jose Aldo left his gloves in the center of the Octagon, signaling his second and likely final retirement from MMA. His emotional post-fight interview confirmed what fans feared:
“I just don’t have it in my heart anymore. I think this is the last time you’ll see me,” Aldo said.
This marks the end of an era for the former UFC and WEC featherweight king. Aldo held the title through some of the sport’s most memorable wars and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2023. His legacy includes seven UFC title defenses, an 18-fight win streak, and iconic matchups against fighters like Frankie Edgar, Chad Mendes, Urijah Faber, and Conor McGregor.
Though Aldo returned to MMA in 2024 after a brief boxing stint, his comeback run ends at 1-2, following back-to-back losses to Mario Bautista and now Zahabi.
What’s Next for Aiemann Zahabi?
For Zahabi, younger brother of famed Tristar coach Firas Zahabi, this win puts him at 13-2 and extends his win streak to six. Despite beating a legendary name, some analysts caution that a victory over a retiring veteran may not immediately place Zahabi in the bantamweight title conversation.
However, at 37 years old, Zahabi is clearly aiming for high-stakes fights before time runs out on his career. A top-10 opponent could be next, especially after the spotlight he gained in front of a hometown crowd.
Final Thoughts
Jose Aldo’s retirement from MMA at UFC 315 closes the book on one of the most decorated and respected careers in combat sports. From WEC champion to UFC icon, Aldo’s legacy is untouchable. Fans and fighters alike will forever remember his speed, technique, and warrior spirit.
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