Max ‘Blessed’ Holloway became the undisputed featherweight champion of the UFC by defeating Jose Aldo in Brazil. The main event at UFC 212 in Rio de Janeiro promised to be a battle full of emotion and it delivered. It was the biggest test in Max Holloway’s career. The moment to show his 10-win streak was no coincidence and to make people believe we truly are at the beginning of a new era in the 145-pound division. On the other hand, it was Jose Aldo’s chance to prove he remained the great dominant champion he once was.
The fight did not disappoint. The greates champion in the history of the featherweight division came out confident. Cautious but establishing his counterpunch game, controlling the distance and taking the first round easily against a very uncomfortable Max Holloway who couldn’t find his range. The speed and accuracy of Aldo’s punches made us think he was back. That he had gotten over that devastating loss against Conor McGregor in 2015. And he was back and ready to put the house in order and establish himself as the undisputed king of the division once again.
During the first two round of the bout, Holloway failed to do what he’s known for: throwing long combinations while moving forward. He was too careful, showing way too much respect to the Brazilian. As the second round was about to be over, Max finally dared to take the offense and charge forward. His combinations started to land and his confidence got a huge boost even though Aldo was landing some punches as well.
In the third round Max used the most basic combination in boxing, the 1-2. That was all he needed to put his opponent on the canvas.
OHHHHHHHHHHH @BlessedMMA DROPS ALDO IN ROUND 3!!!!! #UFC212 pic.twitter.com/jCRYvEuHSo
— UFC (@ufc) June 4, 2017
The rest was only a matter of time and patience. As Aldo was struggling to survive, Holloway landed some sloppy ground and pound, then decided to go for a submission. When the submision attempt failed, he was able to improve the position and just pound away on Aldo until ‘Big John’ McCarthy stopped the fight.
Revive la impresionante victoria de Max Holloway ante Jose Aldo en #UFC212 para convertirse en campeón absoluto de peso pluma #DiarioMMA pic.twitter.com/y6iCP94RD1
— Diario MMA (@DiarioMma) June 4, 2017
