Jonathan Martinez relishes the opportunity to face Jose Aldo at UFC 301.
UFC Hall of Famer Aldo (31-8 MMA, 13-7 UFC) will come out of retirement to face Martinez (19-4 MMA, 10-3 UFC) on May 4 at Rio Arena in Rio de Janeiro (pay-per-view, ESPN+).
With UFC 301 needing another big fight, rumors emerged of a potential fight between former champions Aldo and Dominick Cruz. Martinez admits he was surprised to get the call.
“I never thought I was going to fight Jose Aldo, but it’s a big name, and I’ll be ready for it,” Martinez told MMA Junkie Radio.
Martinez is on a six-fight winning streak, including leg-kick finishes of Cub Swanson and Adrian Yanez. Aldo isn’t currently ranked at bantamweight, but Martinez knows the value of fighting the former featherweight champion.
“It’ll help me a lot just because he’s a big name, and a win is going to open a lot of doors,” Martinez said. “That’s the way I see it.”
Martinez will have to withstand the rowdy Brazilian fans, who will be cheering for “The King of Rio.” But for Martinez, who hasn’t competed in front of a large crowd since February 2020, a booing crowd is better than no crowd.
“Honestly, I’m ready for the boos just because I’ve been fighting at the Apex for a long time,” Martinez said. “Hearing boos to me is going to feel like they’re cheering for me.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 301.
