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‘I Wouldn’t Do a Joke Fight’- Jose Aldo Shrugs Off Potential Boxing Fights With YouTubers

Published 08/13/2021, 2:29 PM EDT

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Former UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo wants to focus on achieving UFC gold again rather than getting involved in a boxing match with YouTubers. The Brazilian legend recently defeated Pedro Munhoz in the co-main event of UFC 265 to move closer to a championship opportunity.

In an interview with ‘AG Fighting’, the veteran fighter revealed he had an interest in switching to boxing. But in the latest trend, where some MMA fighters readily agree to fight YouTubers instead of legitimate prizefighters, has made him lose interest. He instead wants to focus on capturing the UFC gold again.

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“I’m focused on fighting in the UFC, on being champion. That’s what keeps me motivated, making me look for new things and always learning until I’m champion again,” Aldo said. “I like boxing, but I wouldn’t do a joke fight like that, fighting a YouTuber.”

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“I respect those who do it because the financial side is very good, but according to my philosophy I don’t see myself making a mockery like this, facing a guy who has never done a martial art.”

“(If I fought boxing) the idea was to fight other fighters who have a name, who were champions. But for that I would have to do several boxing matches beforehand, show my skill, and that I’m able to get to face someone in boxing,” he added. (via B. J. Penn)

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Aldo is obviously talking about the Paul brothers. Both of them are looking to compete against MMA fighters and have issued challenges as well. Jake, who has already fought Ben Askren, is gearing up to face Tyron Woodley. Whereas his elder brother, Logan, was looking for a fight with UFC veteran Anderson Silva before it fell off the rails.

What’s next for Jose Aldo after UFC 265?

After his dominant win over Munhoz, the one name that circled around Aldo’s mind vs T.J. Dillashaw. The Brazilian wanted Dillashaw and his match to be a title eliminator. But the former will be out of action after tearing up his ligaments. And it’s almost certain that he will get a title shot next.

Keeping that in mind, Aldo has to figure out other options. A fight with Rob Font can do wonders for either party. Font has won four fights in a row to put himself dead straight for a title challenge.

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But is still some fights away from that opportunity. A win over Aldo will help him build his resume even more. For Aldo, it will cut out a contender from his path.

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It will be interesting to see how UFC goes ahead with Also’s case. But no matter who he faces, it will be difficult for his opponent to negate the newfound vigor in him.

Who do you see Aldo facing next?

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Written by:

Akshyay Srichandan Mahapatra

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Akshyay Mahapatra is a UFC author for EssentiallySports. He wished to combine his passion for the UFC (that he has been following since 2008) as well as his love for writing. This motivated him to enter the world of combat sports journalism.
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