José Aldo backs Conor McGregor’s UFC comeback

Former rival believes McGregor can return at 155

José Aldo offered his former fierce rival Conor McGregor some advice and words of encouragement.

In July, Conor McGregor lost his bout against Max Holloway within the first few seconds after apparently sustaining an injury. It later became clear that his cruciate ligament and meniscus had failed him. This happened after a five-year absence from the sport, as he had taken a long hiatus. However, the Irishman is already aiming for a comeback in the summer of 2027, which will also be his final fight under his current UFC contract.José Aldo not only wishes him all the best, but also believes that Conor McGregor can indeed become a force to be reckoned with once again. This is actually rather unusual, given that the two had a very tense relationship in 2015 leading up to their title fight. Conor McGregor won the bout via knockout after just 13 seconds, simultaneously ending José Aldo’s 18-fight winning streak. Conor McGregor really tore into him beforehand, which resulted in some videos that are still well-known today. Nevertheless, José Aldo doesn’t seem to hold a grudge anymore and said:

"I always hope for the best, so I hope that tomorrow he’s doing well physically and psychologically, too, and that he can return to the UFC and have great fights again. I think first he needs to go through some dietary re-education to see if he can get back down and be lighter again. I think, in my opinion, he has the frame for 155, so it would be good"

In addition, José Aldo believes that Conor McGregor can immediately put himself back in title contention with a rematch.

"And I’ll tell you this… Today, if Conor fights at 155 and beats a name, the division is wide open again. To me, the division has kind of stalled there. Ilia Topuria moved up and lost to Justin Gaethje, so it’s a bit of a mess there and anyone can come in and snatch the title"

he said.

These are very interesting but also bold statements, since many have lost some hope in Conor McGregor. What do you think?

I also find José Aldo’s opinion questionable, but I think it’s incredibly brave of him to speak up. I wouldn’t have thought it possible to speak kindly about this person again after such psychological torment. What do you think?