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Aldo: Tears After McGregor KO Stemmed From Lost Rematch Hope, Not Defeat

2 min read
Source: Sherdog
Aldo: Tears After McGregor KO Stemmed From Lost Rematch Hope, Not Defeat
Photo: Sherdog
TL;DR

Jose Aldo revealed that his post-fight tears at UFC 194 were caused by the realization that a rematch with Conor McGregor was impossible, not the 13-second knockout itself. Dana White informed Aldo that McGregor would move to lightweight, ending Aldo's chance to reclaim the title.

Key points

  • Aldo stated he cried because he believed a rematch was guaranteed as the dominant champion, but Dana White told him McGregor would move up in weight.
  • The 13-second knockout loss at UFC 194 in December 2015 ended Aldo's 18-fight winning streak and his status as the first and only featherweight champion in history.
  • Aldo has since developed a friendly relationship with McGregor and publicly supported his recovery from a recent knee injury.
  • McGregor's move to lightweight led to him becoming a two-division champion, while Aldo regained the featherweight title in 2016.

Background

Aldo previously advised McGregor to return to featherweight after a knee injury setback in 2026. He also criticized the UFC's handling of other fighters like Movsar Evloev. McGregor is currently recovering from an ACL injury and aims to return in 2027.

How outlets are covering it

All four sources agree that Aldo's tears were due to the lost rematch opportunity, not the loss itself. SHERDOG and MMA FIGHTING emphasize the immediate backstage conversation with Dana White. MMA SUCKA adds that Aldo's winning streak lasted nearly 10 years. EssentiallySports provides additional context, noting that McGregor initially suggested a rematch was possible but later pursued the lightweight title, and that Aldo had pushed for the rematch with Dana White and Lorenzo Fertitta.

Why it matters

This revelation recontextualizes a defining moment in UFC history, highlighting the emotional impact of lost opportunities on fighters and the strategic decisions made by the promotion.

What to watch

McGregor is expected to return to competition in 2027, while Aldo continues to support his former rival's recovery.

Topics:sportsmma#conor-mcgregor#dana-white#featherweight#jose-aldo#mma#ufc-194
Share this article
  1. Jose Aldo says he cried after Conor McGregor KO, but not over the loss  Sherdog
  2. Jose Aldo reveals real reason why he ‘cried a lot’ after Conor McGregor loss  MMA Fighting
  3. Jose Aldo Shares Emotional Backstory on Why He ‘Cried a Lot’ After Conor McGregor Fight  MMA Sucka
  4. Jose Aldo Reveals His Tears After Conor McGregor KO Weren’t About Losing  EssentiallySports
  5. Jose Aldo Reveals Real Reason He Cried After McGregor Loss  MMANews.com

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