UFC on Fox 30: 5 talking points

#3 Is Jose Aldo back to his best?

Jose Aldo picked up his first finish since 2013 by stopping Jeremy Stephens

It’s hard to believe given his dominance of the 145lbs division over the last decade, but going into last night’s show, Jose Aldo’s only win since October 2014 was his decision victory over Frankie Edgar at UFC 200. His last two fights had seen him simply dismantled by Max Holloway, and in both outings, Aldo looked like a man who’d slipped out of his prime and into the twilight of his career.

Last night though, the Brazilian turned back the clock. ‘Scarface’ not only weathered a storm early on from the dangerous Jeremy Stephens, but in landing a big left hand to the body and then swarming ‘Lil Heathen’ until he was unable to continue, Aldo not only won, but he picked up his first finish since his August 2013 TKO of Chan Sung Jung.

Is Aldo back to his best? If we’re honest, it’s hard to say. Stephens had been on a strong run but his wild, aggressive style was always a good match for the Brazilian and he’d never beaten anyone close to Aldo’s calibre. And this win didn’t really give anyone the idea that Aldo could step in and beat Holloway – assuming he can get healthy – or Brian Ortega either for that matter, as prior to the fight-ending shot he did look a little rattled.

The likelihood is that Aldo is on the downswing regardless of last night’s result, but the win at least keeps him relevant in the division. Where he goes next is anyone’s guess really – maybe the long-rumoured move to 155lbs? – but it was nice to see a legend pick up a much-needed win.