Lightweight legend Jose Aldo has retired from the UFC and the game of MMA after an 18-year profession, the UFC confirmed on social media.
Aldo negotiated an early launch from his UFC contract, which means his his final battle got here as a loss to Merab Dvalishvili final month.
“The King of Rio calls it a career. Congratulations @JoseAldoJunior on a legendary run,” the UFC tweeted.
The star was because of battle once more in October within the remaining battle left on his contract however has bowed out early after a storied profession that noticed him develop into certainly one of MMA’s most recognisable names.
Having began his MMA profession in 2004, Aldo grew to become featherweight UFC champion in November 2010 and went on to defend the title seven occasions.
He relinquished the title in 2015 when Irish fighter Conor McGregor defeated him in simply 13 seconds. Aldo, who’s thought to be one of many biggest of all time, finishes his profession on a file of 31-8.
Tributes have poured in following the announcement, with former rival Max Holloway saying: “The King of RIO! What a career brother! Go enjoy retirement brother. Eat some açaí with cashew and powder milk for me.”
Gaston Reyno added: “Jose Aldo retires, one of the best inside the Octagon, and one of the most loved by all outside. THANK YOU FOR SO MANY UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS WARRIOR!”
And Alex Volkanovski – one other former foe wrote: “Wish nothing but the best to the Featherweight Goat.”
Reports recommend Aldo will not be stepping away from sport utterly, with some believing he might flip his hand to boxing.
Source: www.impartial.co.uk