Few legends have given more to mixed martial arts than Jose Aldo, the former featherweight king and one of the most respected fighters in UFC history. But despite his loyalty, dominance, and willingness to fight anyone, anywhere, anytime — the UFC didn’t treat him like the legend he is. In fact, as time has passed, it’s become clear: Jose Aldo was scumbagged by the UFC.

A Reign of Greatness, Disrespected

Jose Aldo ruled the featherweight division with iron precision, going undefeated for over a decade and becoming the inaugural UFC featherweight champion after the WEC merger. He defended the title seven times against top-tier opposition, building one of the greatest legacies in MMA history.

But what did he get in return when things turned rough? Neglect, mismatches, and political games. From matchmaking decisions to how his losses were handled, the UFC often treated Aldo more like an obstacle than a foundational star.

The Conor McGregor Fallout

Everything began to shift after Aldo’s infamous 13-second knockout loss to Conor McGregor in 2015. Despite Aldo being champion for over six years, he was denied an immediate rematch, while McGregor was allowed to move up in weight — and eventually never returned to defend the featherweight belt.

Aldo was left behind, mocked, and essentially erased from the spotlight as the UFC cashed in on McGregor’s meteoric rise. Even when Aldo returned and captured the interim and later undisputed title again, the promotion failed to properly rebuild his brand or give him the push he deserved.

Thrown to the Wolves at Bantamweight

When Aldo dropped to bantamweight in 2019, many doubted him — but he looked sharp and competitive. However, the UFC immediately matched him with killers: Marlon Moraes, Petr Yan, and Merab Dvalishvili. Instead of building him up or giving him the respect other aging champions received, Aldo was used to boost younger contenders.

He fought for the vacant title against Yan after a controversial loss to Moraes, only to be TKO’d late in a grueling war. Many felt the UFC rushed that fight to fill a gap—not to honor Aldo’s career.

Exit with Little Recognition

When Aldo retired from the UFC in 2022, the announcement was quiet. No retirement fight. No fanfare. No tribute to a legend. He left through the back door, and the UFC barely acknowledged it. Compare that to how they’ve treated other champions—like Khabib, Bisping, or even Ronda Rousey—and the difference is glaring.

Still Fighting, Still Respected

Aldo returned to combat sports in 2023 with a successful boxing career and a one-off UFC bout in 2024, proving he still has the skills. Fans continue to show love and respect, even if the promotion never gave him the honor he earned.

Conclusion: The UFC Got It Wrong

The UFC has done incredible things for MMA, but it dropped the ball with Jose Aldo. A fighter of his caliber should have been protected, promoted, and properly celebrated. Instead, he was used, cast aside, and left without the respect a true champion deserves.

Jose Aldo wasn’t just a fighter — he was a foundational pillar of modern MMA. The UFC scumbagged him, and the fans won’t forget it.