Aldo returns to UFC: opponent and fight date already announced

Former dominant UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo will return to the promotion to fight Jonathan Martinez at UFC 301 in Rio de Janeiro on May 4.

The 37-year-old hasn't competed in MMA since 2022, when he lost to Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 278. Since then, the Brazilian has been competing in boxing events, with his last ring appearance coming in a win over Esteban Espindola last July.

Aldo's last three boxing fights have been at 140, 147 and 140 pounds, and his last six fights in the UFC have been at 135 pounds. Prior to the loss to Dvalishvili, Aldo was riding a three-fight winning streak, having consecutively defeated Rob Font, Pedro Munoz and Marlon Vera.