UFC 179: Jose Aldo defeats Chad Mendes in their rematch in Rio de Janeiro

Jose Aldo persevered through his most gruelling challenge to date at UFC 179’s rematch with Chad Mendes, winning a unanimous decision but receiving criticism for two illegal strikes.

At the end of a frenetic first round that saw both men trade heavy blows, Aldo punched Mendes twice momentarily after the bell sounded – but the referee did not deduct a point.

The Brazilian featherweight champion, who stopped Mendes two years ago, went on to emerge victorious in his seventh defence despite the visible improvement of his challenger.

The Rio de Janeiro bout was scored 49-46 by all three judges in the champion’s favour but that does not accurately convey the closeness of the contest – and the lengths that Mendes was able to push Aldo.

Mendes’ wrestling was largely nullified by Aldo’s outstanding defence but the challenger did damage with thumping punches. The champion responded similarly.

Although the fight was interrupted by eye pokes and low blows, Aldo was consistently dangerous with boxing combinations (earning an early knock-down) while Mendes’ power was demonstrated by the champion’s swollen eye.

Aldo, winning his 18th consecutive fight, also addressed his only flaw by maintaining the same pace into the 25th minute.

The next challenger to the featherweight title is likely to be Conor McGregor who watched from ringside in Rio. The Irishman must first get past Denis Siver in January but could meet Aldo afterwards.

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