“This is a Horrible Time to Do That”- Jose Aldo Says Timing Not Right for a Fighter’s Union

UFC Bantamweight Jose Aldo spoke to the media at a scrum ahead of his title fight at UFC 251. The former 145-pound champion gave his views to the media via MMA Junkie on the current landscape of fighter’s unionization. The matter was touched upon by the Brazilian in the past, and there was curiosity surrounding his current beliefs.

It appears that Jose Aldo believes that much remains to be desired in terms of the timing for the fighters union. It was largely believed that a union would occur for the fighters following the Reebok deal. However, those projections failed to materialize.

Jose Aldo believes the UFC is already spending enough

Speaking to the media, Aldo reiterated his desire to see the actualization of a fully functioning union. However, he would go on to detail his contention with the overall timing of the operation.

“I think this is a horrible time to do that. We see so many companies go bankrupt. People losing their long time jobs and here’s the UFC trying to make us work. Look at all the money they’re spending, look at everything they’re doing to get back.”

The conversation surrounding fighters pay began when Jorge Masvidal began campaigning for better pay. The public dispute with the UFC brass brought about a larger conversation amongst fighters. Additionally, light heavyweight champion Jon Jones also began feuding with the promotion over the same.

If the former WEC and UFC champion is to be believed, this current landscape of fight promotion will yield futile results.

“I do agree that there needs to be some type of union and fighter pay needs to be discussed. But right now, look at the families that don’t know what it’s going to be tomorrow. Here we are, we have a chance to work, we’ve made it this far, and this is not the right time to do that.”

As the debate rages on, Jose Aldo has a tall task to overcome as he is set to face Petr Yan for the vacant 135-pound title. Moreover, a gold strap in a second weight class would help bolster his Hall of Fame legacy.