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Jose Aldo opens up about how his relationship with Conor McGregor changed
Photo By Thomas King/Sportsfile via Getty Images

Jose Aldo and Conor McGregor may have started out as fierce rivals, but they’ve come a long way since then.

Back in 2015, the two finally met inside the Octagon to settle their long-standing rivalry over the UFC featherweight belt.

The fight capped off months of hype and tension, with both men travelling the globe for press events to build anticipation for their showdown.

In that time, Aldo’s frustration towards McGregor only grew. And that intensity seemed to play a part in how things unfolded, with McGregor knocking him out in just 13 seconds to take the title.

How Aldo’s connection with McGregor shifted over time

Even years after their fight, Aldo’s feelings toward McGregor hadn’t softened, and they never shared the Octagon again. But things have changed since then.

Speaking to Jackpot City Casino, the Brazilian said their relationship is now completely different. They’ve built a strong friendship over time, a far cry from how things started.

“What is my relationship with Conor like now? It’s very good,” Aldo told Jackpot City Casino.

“Not just with Conor, but with all my opponents, I’ve always had respect and a certain fondness for everyone. We exchange messages now and then. Recently I told him I was very happy he accepted Jesus as his saviour. I congratulated him and all that.”

Aldo went on: “Brazilian fans feel strongly because of how our fight went and everything that happened. But I have a good relationship with him and I always wish him the best. I hope he continues on the right path and does great things in life.”

The Irishman is being linked to a return at UFC 329 during International Fight Week in July 2024, with Max Holloway emerging as the frontrunner for that bout.

Aldo commented on the potential matchup: “If it happened now, I think it would be a great fight for both Conor and Holloway. Both are stand-up fighters, similar in age; it’s a great matchup and a great comeback opportunity for Conor.”

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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