Jose Aldo Retires After Controversial Decision in UFC 315 Farewell Fight

Fighting at the Bell Centre in Montreal at UFC 315, the 38-year-old Brazilian icon removed his gloves in the Octagon, signaling the end of a storied 18-year career.

"I don’t think I have it in me anymore," Aldo told Daniel Cormier through a translator. "I don’t want to go into war all the time... I just don’t have it in my heart anymore."

The emotional moment marked the second retirement for Aldo, who briefly returned to competition in 2024 after initially stepping away in 2022.

"I think this is the last time you’ll see me," Aldo said, leaving the Octagon for the final time.

The fight itself was a reflection of Aldo’s late-career struggles and enduring brilliance. After struggling to make weight, Aldo started strong, landing crisp combinations and a vicious head kick in the third round that nearly finished Zahabi.

However, fatigue set in, and Zahabi capitalized, reversing the momentum with a barrage of ground-and-pound that left Aldo bloodied. Though the judges awarded Zahabi a 29-28 unanimous decision, many fans and analysts questioned the scoring, with some believing Aldo was robbed of a win.

Aldo’s legacy is undeniable. A former WEC and UFC featherweight champion, he defended his title seven consecutive times—a record that still stands.

While his career didn’t end with a victory, his final bout displayed his patented traits of relentless aggression, technical mastery, and an unshakable fighting spirit.