Issue 155

June 2017

Who will reign as undisputed champion after two featherweight title holders collide in Rio de Janeiro?

Kenny Florian: Former 145lb title challenger

Holloway has been calling everybody out and deserves his shot at the full title more than anybody else in any weight division. He’s been on an absolute tear since losing to McGregor. He’s an animal at 145lb and has been Mr Consistency throughout that time, racking up 10 straight wins. Aldo is the most consistent featherweight the sport has ever seen and he’ll be out to prove that once more. He knows he made a huge mistake against McGregor, getting caught so early on, but he’s got to focus on the next young fighter chasing his tail now because he underestimates Holloway at his peril. On paper, José wins this in style, but Max has his tail up.

Jimi Manuwa: Top-five UFC 205lb’er

José Aldo is one of my favorite fighters and I think he gets it done. Max Holloway is a great fighter and very well-rounded but I want Aldo to win. He’s been my favorite fighter for ages. Even after the Conor McGregor knockout, I still love him. I think he’ll be able to finish him, but Holloway is on a tear. I think Aldo wins, maybe on points.

Arnold Allen: Tristar’s featherweight prospect

That’s an interesting fight. Holloway has looked really good recently but Aldo looked really good against Frankie Edgar. I could see Holloway picking him o from range, using his distance over five rounds, definitely. I wouldn’t be too surprised if Holloway could beat Aldo. He has improved massively every time he fights. He looks at a different level every time.

VERDICT JOSE? ALDO

It’s going to be a close one, but the balance of the breakdowns leans slightly in the Brazilian’s favor.

*This article was written in March 2017, the fight between Aldo and Holloway took place in June, with Holloway being the unlikely victor with a KO/TKO