At UFC 315, held on May 10, 2025, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Aiemann Zahabi faced former UFC and WEC champion Jose Aldo in a highly anticipated featherweight bout. Originally scheduled to take place in the bantamweight division, the fight underwent a significant change when Jose Aldo, who weighed in at 143 pounds, exceeded the bantamweight weight limit. Montreal’s commission rules prohibit a more than five-pound difference between fighters, and with Zahabi weighing in at 136.8 pounds, the bout was moved to the 145-pound featherweight division.
Despite the weight class change, Zahabi, who had already cut down to bantamweight, decided to accept the fight. After consulting with his brother, renowned MMA coach Firas Zahabi, and drawing inspiration from teammate Xavier Alaoui’s “fight anytime, anywhere” mentality, Zahabi chose to move forward with the fight. The decision proved to be a pivotal moment in the event, and the matchup remained one of the main attractions of UFC 315.
As the fight unfolded, Zahabi displayed impressive technique and composure against Jose Aldo’s aggressive style. Jose Aldo, known for his striking and power, tried to pressure Zahabi throughout the fight, but Zahabi’s defensive skills and strategic approach allowed him to maintain control. He consistently evaded Jose Aldo’s attacks while landing clean counters and controlling the tempo of the fight.
The contest, which took place in front of a raucous Montreal crowd, was a true test of Zahabi's adaptability and skill. Despite Jose Aldo’s pedigree as one of the most accomplished fighters in the sport’s history, Zahabi’s technique and execution of his game plan proved superior on the night. The fight went the distance, with Zahabi earning a unanimous decision victory from the judges, cementing his place in the featherweight division.
For Zahabi, this win marks a significant achievement in his career, not only due to his victory over a seasoned former champion like Jose Aldo but also for his ability to accept and adapt to an unexpected situation. The fight’s weight class change presented an unusual challenge, but Zahabi’s decision to fight at featherweight showed his commitment to making the most of every opportunity in the ever-changing landscape of MMA.
On the other hand, the loss raised questions about Jose Aldo’s future in the sport, especially with his recent struggles to make weight for the bantamweight division. Jose Aldo’s failure to meet the weight limit and subsequent loss to Zahabi may lead him to reconsider his weight class or, perhaps, his career trajectory. Fans and analysts alike are now left to wonder what’s next for Jose Aldo after this disappointing defeat.
As UFC 315 came to a close, fans were left discussing the unexpected turn of events and the implications of Zahabi’s victory. The performance solidified his standing in the featherweight division, and his adaptability was praised by fans and analysts. For Jose Aldo, the future remains uncertain, and he will have to make critical decisions regarding his next steps in the sport.
This fight, which originally began as a bantamweight clash, turned into a fascinating featherweight encounter. Zahabi’s willingness to adapt to the change exemplified his growth as a fighter, while Jose Aldo’s challenges moving forward will be the topic of conversation for the foreseeable future.
