Jose Aldo returned to the win column at UFC Vegas 17, and after doing so, the former featherweight champ made it clear he’s still gunning for the bantamweight title. How so?

The legend called out the former 135 pound king, T.J. Dillashaw.

Aldo expands on calling out Dillashaw

The 34-year-old Aldo faced Marlon Vera in the co-headliner of UFC Vegas 17, and he worked his way to a decision win. Heading into the final round, the bout was up for grabs. But, Aldo controlled the frame with his grappling game and received the decision win.

It was a pivotal victory for the Brazilian star, as Aldo was coming off three straight losses. In addition, Aldo had gone 0-2 so far in the bantamweight division, via losses to Marlon Moraes (split decision) and the champ, Petr Yan (stoppage).

After the victory, Aldo relayed he wants to fight Dillashaw next, who is set to return from his USADA suspension in early 2021. During the post-fight presser, Aldo was asked to elaborate on the callout and he said this (quotes via MMA Fighting).

“I don’t have anything personal with T.J.,” Aldo said. “I just want to make great fights for the fans. I think T.J. is a great former champion, and I think this fight makes sense for everybody.”

“After every fight, I sit with [my coach Andre] ‘Dede’ [Pederneiras] and talk about the future,” Aldo also noted in the press conference. “Always ‘Dede’ tells me, of course, one day you are champion again.”

Dillashaw was either watching the card or quickly caught wind of Aldo’s comments, as he tweeted out this.

I heard everyone is calling me out, cause they all know that’s my belt

Will Aldo get his wish?

So, in terms of strategic and impressive callouts, you have to hand it to Aldo here. Clearly he remains as confident as ever in his ability to beat the best-of-the-best at 135.

Since he already has a loss to the champ Yan, he will need to either rack up multiple wins or, take a top-tier fighter. Dillashaw is the latter.

But, it’s not clear yet what the UFC’s plan for Dillashaw is. The former champ has said he’s been told he’ll return to a title shot.

Dillashaw has also said he’s willing to take another fight, if he needs to. But, given that Aldo has already lost to Yam will Dillashaw be interested in that match-up?

Hard to say. One thing is certain, Aldo – Dillashaw is a very intriguing fight.

Mentioned in this article:

More About: