Moicano Weighs In on Potential Aldo vs O’Malley: “He has no chance”
UFC Lightweight contender Renato “Moicano” recently shared his opinion regarding the comeback of one of the UFC Hall of Famers José Aldo, and what fans should expect in a potential new run for the title for the “King of Rio”.
Aldo returned from retirement to defeat Jonathan Martinez at the UFC 301 co-main event. Coming back at 37 years of age to face a dangerous prospect as Martinez was seen as a tough task for the Veteran.
After all, the American contender is not only 8 years younger but was also coming from a 6-fight win streak in the UFC. However, ranked 12th in Bantamweight at the time, Martinez was the lowest-ranked opponent Aldo had faced since 2009 before his WEC reign.
However, the Brazilian’s performance impressed everyone as he looked as fast and explosive as he did in his prime.
Moicano Doubts Aldo Could Beat O’Malley
After winning the bout, Aldo showed interest in having another run at the title currently held by Sean O’Malley. MMA fans were instantly thrilled at the potential fight between a legend and one of the most dominant champions of the UFC.
However, 10th-ranked lightweight Renato “Moicano” doubts the former champion’s chances against O’Malley. In an appearance on MMA podcast “Sexto Round,” Moicano expressed his concerns, starting with his initial impression of Aldo’s return. “The first impression I had when José Aldo entered the octagon was that he looked thin. I thought he hadn’t recovered well.”
Despite these initial doubts, Moicano acknowledged Aldo’s impressive performance. “He started moving his head, and I thought, ‘Wow, he looks really good, very fast.’ He kicked the leg and put on a show, man, it was a show.” Yet, Moicano urged fans not to get too excited about Aldo’s future prospects against O’Malley.
“Despite being a big fan of José Aldo, I’ll tell you, I never imagined I would say this five years ago, but he won’t beat O’Malley. I think he won’t beat O’Malley,” Moicano stated. He elaborated on the evolving nature of the sport, noting that Aldo’s classic Muay Thai techniques might not be sufficient in today’s Bantamweight division.
“Now O’Malley, with his feints, switch stances, the way he fights with speed, touching Aldo… I don’t think Aldo beats O’Malley.”
Moicano’s insights reflect the challenging reality for even the most revered fighters, emphasizing the constant need to adapt to new generations of competitors. Despite being one of the most proficient strikers to ever enter the octagon, the notion that Aldo wouldn’t be able to compete with the new age of champions sheds light on the evolution of the sport.
However, fans won’t know for sure who will end up winning, unless the UFC books this clash of generations in the near future.
