UFC Legend Jose Aldo Announces Final Retirement After UFC 315 Loss in Montreal

Jose Aldo, one of MMA’s all-time greats and a UFC Hall of Famer, announced his retirement for the second—and likely final—time following a unanimous decision loss to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315 in Montreal. At 38, Aldo cited a grueling weight cut, physical exhaustion, and a lack of desire to continue as key reasons for stepping away, stating, 'I just don't have it in my heart anymore.' The fight, originally scheduled at bantamweight, was moved to featherweight after Aldo struggled to make weight, highlighting his ongoing battle with the physical demands of the sport. Despite a strong showing in the early rounds, Aldo ended the match on his back, absorbing heavy elbows, and many observers felt he deserved the win in what was a controversial judges’ decision. Aldo’s departure was marked by an absence of a formal UFC tribute, which some fans saw as disrespectful given his legendary status. He retires with a professional MMA record of 32-10, having held titles in both the WEC and UFC, and is widely regarded as one of the sport’s greatest champions.