UFC 315: Jose Aldo Retires After Close Decision Loss to Aiemann Zahabi

Jose Aldo announced his retirement from the UFC after losing a close decision to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315 in Montreal. The fight ended with Aldo saying, “I just don’t think I have it anymore,” making it clear this was a final step for the former champion. The emotional moment happened right inside the Octagon, with Aldo taking off his gloves and reflecting on a long MMA career.

UFC 315 brought fans a memorable match as Aldo faced Zahabi, a rising star in the division. The decision was close and controversial, sparking discussion among fans and experts across the MMA world. The outcome in Montreal added another major chapter to Aldo’s story, showing both the highs and lows that come with a legend’s final performance.

Aldo’s departure marks the end of an era in the UFC and MMA overall. His legacy, including championship wins and highlight-reel fights, will be remembered by fans long after this final match. To learn more about his decision and see a full breakdown of the fight, visit the recap at ESPN.

Jose Aldo vs. Aiemann Zahabi: Fight Overview and Decision

Jose Aldo’s final UFC bout against Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315 featured a close, action-packed contest. The match was filled with tactical exchanges and intense moments, ultimately ending in a unanimous decision in favor of Zahabi.

Fight Highlights and Tactics

Jose Aldo showed his signature quick striking and strong defense in the early rounds. He landed crisp leg kicks and used sharp combinations to keep Zahabi on the defensive. Zahabi, fighting from the welterweight division previously, matched Aldo’s pace and proved difficult to corner.

Both fighters used diverse strategies. Aldo focused on movement and clean stand-up exchanges, while Zahabi looked for opportunities to clinch and change levels. There were moments when Aldo pressured with flurries, but Zahabi’s counters slowed his momentum.

Takedown attempts were rare, as the contest stayed mostly on the feet. Grappling and wrestling were limited, with both athletes relying on striking exchanges. In the championship rounds, Aldo pressed for a finish, but Zahabi’s stamina allowed him to withstand late surges.

Judges’ Scorecards and Unanimous Decision

The decision went to the judges after three hard-fought rounds, all contested at an even pace. The official scorecards read a unanimous decision victory for Zahabi, though some observers felt the rounds were competitive and could have gone either way. The scores reflected Zahabi’s consistency and his ability to answer back every time Aldo attacked.

A table of official scores is shown below:

Judge	Aldo	Zahabi
Judge 1	28	29
Judge 2	28	29
Judge 3	28	29

Most media and fans debated the outcome, with some believing Aldo did enough early on, while others noted Zahabi’s strong finish was the deciding factor. Despite Aldo’s efforts, Zahabi maintained slight advantages in control and effective striking.

Aiemann Zahabi’s Remarkable Performance

Zahabi’s performance against a former UFC featherweight champion attracted attention throughout the MMA community. He demonstrated improved stand-up technique and resilience, especially when facing Aldo’s aggressive attacks. Many were surprised by how Zahabi weathered a near-knockout in the second round, staying composed and quickly recovering.

He also showcased notable striking accuracy and defensive skills, limiting Aldo’s reach and power punches. Zahabi avoided getting caught in dangerous exchanges and displayed strong fight IQ by adjusting when needed. This win marked a pivotal moment in Zahabi’s career, extending his fight win streak on a major UFC stage and signaling his readiness for tougher competition.

Impact of the Outcome for Featherweight and UFC Rankings

Aldo’s retirement after this close decision leaves a gap in the featherweight division, as he was a legendary fighter with multiple title defenses. His exit changes the title picture, creating opportunities for new contenders to move up.

For Zahabi, the unanimous decision victory boosts his standing in the UFC and positions him as a rising threat in the division. His performance against Aldo is expected to move him up in the official UFC rankings. The win places him firmly in the conversation for future high-profile fights and possible title eliminators.

This result may also influence future matchmaking in both the featherweight and welterweight divisions, as fighters and fans look to see who will fill the void left by Aldo’s departure. Athletes who have been on the edge of title contention could see new opportunities as a result of these changes.

Jose Aldo’s Retirement: Legacy and Future Implications

Jose Aldo’s decision to retire after UFC 315 ends a storied career that shaped the featherweight division and left a lasting mark on mixed martial arts. His final bout, a razor-close loss to Aiemann Zahabi, changes the trajectory for several fighters and shifts attention to the future of the division.

Aldo’s Career Achievements and UFC Hall of Fame

Jose Aldo is one of the most respected fighters in UFC history. He first gained fame as the UFC Featherweight Champion, defending his title against top contenders. Nicknamed the “King of Rio,” Aldo’s speed, leg kicks, and aggressive style helped him dominate for years.

He has already been inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame, highlighting his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Aldo also made a successful transition to professional boxing during an earlier retirement, but his return to MMA in 2024 showed both his passion and the physical challenges of competing at an elite level. The loss to Zahabi may have ended his run, but his influence on the featherweight division will remain.

Career Highlights:

• UFC Featherweight Champion (2010–2015)

• Multiple title defenses

• UFC Hall of Fame Inductee

• Notable wins over Chad Mendes, Frankie Edgar, and Urijah Faber

Future for Aiemann Zahabi and Division Landscape

Aiemann Zahabi’s win over Aldo at UFC 315 puts his name in the spotlight. The victory over a Hall of Fame legend boosts Zahabi’s stock significantly. Many will be watching his next fights to see if he can take advantage of this momentum.

Aldo’s retirement further opens up the featherweight rankings for rising talent. Fighters who were once blocked by Aldo’s presence may now climb the ladder faster. The division could see new title challengers emerge, adjusting strategies to account for Aldo’s absence.

Shifts in the Division:

• Zahabi likely to face ranked opponents soon

• Possible shakeup in contender matchups

• Openings for new stars in the featherweight division