If you were thrilled by the news that Jose Aldo and Alexander Volkanovski were going to fight at UFC 237 (and you should have been), unfortunately, it looks like the fight’s status is still up in the air.

The former featherweight champ is booked to fight the rising Volkanovki at the May 10th card, which will go down in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Recently, however, it was reported that Aldo had been hospitalized due to a knee infection. Once word that the star had been released, things were looking up, in terms of the fight proceeding.

But, while speaking to the media this week in advance of the card, Aldo reported this (quotes via MMA Junkie):

“I went to the hospital on Wednesday and they wanted me to stay for one night to take antibiotics,” Aldo said. “Then, the next day the antibiotics didn’t work, only on Friday when they changed it. At that moment, it did go through my mind that I might not be able to fight. I thought I was practically out.

“I’m not even saying I’m in yet. I can’t confirm that because I still have a medical evaluation to do. If the doctor lets me, I’m in. But we sent the video of the puncture they did on my knee, we sent it to (UFC matchmaker Sean Shelby), so everyone knows what’s happening.”

“…I’ve been trying. I want to prove that I’m fine and I want to fight at UFC Rio. It’s not only up to me now, but the doctor’s evaluation and ‘Dede’ (Andre Pederneiras), as well, who has the final word.”

So, here’s hoping Aldo heals up quickly and gets cleared to fight. Not only because a bout between him and Volkanovki is almost certain to entertain, but because it’s a pivotal match-up at 145.

Now that Max Holloway is fighting for the interim lightweight belt on April 13th, it’s not clear whether “Blessed” will return to 145 to defend that belt (if he wins the interim title). The winner of Aldo – Volkanovski would almost certainly advance to a fight for an interim or vacated featherweight belt.

UFC 237 will also featured strawweight champion Rose Namajunas taking on Jessica Andrade and the legendary Andersonl Silva facing Jared Cannonier.

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