UFC PRESIDENT DANA White called it “the greatest featherweight championship fight” he has ever seen.
As Conor McGregor watched on from octagonside in Rio, Jose Aldo retained his UFC title after a five-round war against Chad Mendes.
Aldo’s seventh title defence turned into a legitimate Fight of the Year contender before the Brazilian won a unanimous 49-46 decision.
Unsurprisingly Aldo and Mendes pocketed $50,000 Fight of the Night bonuses while Performance of the Night went to Fabio Maldonado and Gilbert Burns.
Although he is only ranked fifth in the division, McGregor has widely been touted as the next in line for a title shot.
After his win, Aldo couldn’t resist a pop at the Dubliner who was in Brazil this week as a UFC guest.
“I will face everyone who they put in front of me. I’m here as a champion.
“I think the court is complete — I’m the king, Chad is the prince and now we have a joker.”
McGregor, who was given a hostile reception by Brazilian fans during a Q&A session on Friday, paid tribute to both fighters.
He tweeted: “Toasting whiskey to a phenomenal contest. Respect and congrats to both competitors. Rest up well. The King is coming.”
UFC 179 – Main card results
- Jose Aldo def. Chad Mendes (UD)
- Phil Davis def. Glover Teixeira (UD)
- Fabio Maldonado def. Hans Stringer (TKO2)
- Darren Elkins def. Lucas Martins (SD)
- Beneil Dariush def. Carlos Diego Ferreira (UD)
