José Aldo
- Nickname: Junior
- Age: 38
- Height: 5'7" / 170.18 cm
- Weight: 135 lbs / 61.23 kg
- Record: 32 wins, 8 losses
- Association: Nova Uniao
José Aldo is a legendary figure in mixed martial arts, known for his striking prowess and tactical acumen. With a striking accuracy of 53% and a well-rounded skill set, he has earned 17 of his wins by knockout (TKO). Aldo's experience is unmatched, having defended his UFC title seven times, establishing himself as one of the greatest featherweights of all time. However, at 38 years old, Aldo's recent performance has raised questions about his durability and ability to keep pace with the younger competitors in the bantamweight division. He is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Jonathan Martinez, showcasing his resilience and tactical intelligence.
José Aldo - Last 5 Fights
- Win vs. Jonathan Martinez – UFC 301 (May 4, 2024) – Decision (Unanimous)
- Loss vs. Merab Dvalishvili – UFC 278 (August 20, 2022) – Decision (Unanimous)
- Win vs. Rob Font – UFC on ESPN 31 (December 4, 2021) – Decision (Unanimous)
- Win vs. Pedro Munhoz – UFC 265 (August 7, 2021) – Decision (Unanimous)
- Win vs. Marlon Vera – UFC Fight Night 183 (December 19, 2020) – Decision (Unanimous)
Mario Bautista
- Nickname: N/A
- Age: 28
- Height: 5'9" / 175.26 cm
- Weight: 135 lbs / 61.23 kg
- Record: 14 wins, 2 losses
- Association: MMA Lab
Mario Bautista is an emerging talent in the bantamweight division, boasting a well-rounded skill set and a solid ground game. With 50% of his wins coming by way of submission, Bautista's grappling ability poses a significant threat to opponents, particularly against strikers like Aldo. His striking accuracy is commendable, and he possesses the ability to finish fights, making him a dangerous contender. Bautista is coming off a notable win, building momentum as he faces a seasoned veteran in Aldo.
Mario Bautista - Last 5 Fights
- Win vs. Ricky Simón – UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs. Walker 2 (January 13, 2024) – Decision (unanimous)
- Win vs. Da'Mon Blackshear – UFC 292 (August 19, 2023) – Decision (unanimous)
- Win vs. Guido Cannetti – UFC Fight Night: Yan vs. Dvalishvili (March 11, 2023) – Submission (rear-naked choke)
- Win vs. Benito Lopez – UFC Fight Night: Rodriguez vs. Lemos (November 5, 2022) – Submission (reverse triangle armbar)
- Win vs. Brian Kelleher – UFC on ESPN: Tsarukyan vs. Gamrot (June 25, 2022) – Submission (rear-naked choke)
Fight Breakdown
This matchup is expected to be a clash of styles, with Aldo’s striking versus Bautista's grappling. Aldo will look to utilize his legendary striking skills to maintain distance and avoid being taken down. His experience and fight IQ will be critical in navigating Bautista's grappling attempts. Meanwhile, Bautista will aim to bring the fight to the ground, where he can leverage his submission skills against Aldo, who has shown vulnerability on the mat in previous bouts.
Prediction
Given José Aldo's vast experience and striking proficiency, he enters this fight with an edge. However, Mario Bautista's grappling can potentially turn the tide. If Bautista successfully implements his wrestling, he could capitalize on any openings. Nonetheless, Aldo's ability to control the pace and land effective strikes may prove decisive.
Prediction: José Aldo by Unanimous Decision.
