Jonathan Martinez vs Jose Aldo Prediction & Betting Tips - UFC n°301

Prediction published on 04/05/2024, 19:00  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 04/05/2024 at 19:44 in MMA Predictions

The co-main event at UFC 301 in Rio de Janeiro will see Jose Aldo return to the ring to face Jonathan Martinez in an eagerly-anticipated featherweight bout. Martinez is 19-4-0, while Aldo is 31-8-0. 

Jonathan Martinez's journey in the UFC has been impressive since his short-notice debut loss in Moncton. With ten wins in a dozen starts, he currently boasts a six-fight winning streak, making his upcoming bout on Saturday his most high-profile pairing to date. Notably, his five-fight winning streak in the bantamweight division ranks as the third-longest active streak, trailing only Merab Dvalishvili (nine wins) and Mario Bautista (six wins). Hailing from Factory X Muay Thai, Martinez is renowned for his punishing kicks, which have proven decisive in victories over fighters like Cub Swanson and Adrian Yanez. Operating from a southpaw stance, he strategically targets his opponent's lead leg with low kicks before transitioning to body shots, particularly effective against opponents in the open stance. While Martinez possesses sharp boxing and an active lead hand, his rear leg attacks stand out as his most potent weapon. Notably, he shares a rare distinction with Edson Barboza as one of only two fighters in UFC history to secure multiple leg kick TKO victories.

Jose Aldo's return after a 21-month hiatus marks the longest break in his nearly two-decade career. Eager to bounce back from his last loss to Merab Dvalishvili, which ended his three-fight winning streak and was presumed to be his final UFC appearance, Aldo seeks redemption in front of his hometown crowd. As the only two-time UFC featherweight champion and one of just nine fighters in UFC history to hold two reigns in a single weight class, Aldo's legacy was further solidified with his induction into the UFC Hall of Fame last year. Known as the King of Rio, Aldo is revered for his aggressive fighting style, yet his defensive prowess often goes underrated. A lightning-fast counterstriker with lethal precision, Aldo boasts exceptional takedown defense. While his leg kicks were once a trademark weapon, he has diversified his approach in recent years. Aldo's return signifies a significant moment for both himself and his fans, as he aims to thwart Martinez's ascent in the division and add another victory to his illustrious career.