UFC legend and record holder Jose Aldo retires

David Pávek

Aldo defended the featherweight title seven timesProfimedia

Brazilian MMA pioneer Jose Aldo (36) has retired from the UFC, per reports in his home country. He spent 11 years with the biggest mixed martial arts company.

Aldo last fought in August, suffering a decision loss to Merab Dvalishvili (31). He still had one fight on his contract, but according to Brazilian outlet Combate, he and the UFC came to an agreement to terminate the deal early so he can retire.

The Brazilian has been a mainstay in MMA for 18 years and holds a record of 31-8. In 2009, he became the WEC Featherweight Championship and was later promoted to the UFC Featherweight Champion when the UFC bought WEC. He holds the record with most featherweight title defences with seven, a streak which ended with a loss to Conor McGregor.

According to multiple reports, Aldo is interested in competing in other combat sports after retiring from MMA. Boxing is an option for him, as is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, in which he is a national champion.

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Mixed martial artsCombat SportsUFCJose Aldo