In the immediate wake of featherweight champion Jose Aldo’s most recent title defense, talk and promotion immediately moved to a possible super fight between him and lightweight champ Anthony Pettis. At the post-fight press conference after he systematically dismantled challenger Ricardo Lamas at UFC 169, UFC president Dana White declared the the fight was ‘done’ and the two champs were ready to face-off.
Pettis and Aldo were scheduled to meet in the summer of 2013 at UFC 163. Unfortunately, Pettis was forced out with a knee injury and Aldo defended his title against Chan Sung Jung instead. It worked out well for Pettis as he came in as a late replacement to upset Ben Henderson for the 155 lb. strap.
Despite White’s claim that the fight was ready to go, negotiations have already hit a snag. Shortly after UFC 169 Aldo and his camp showed some reticence. One of the biggest hurdles that has to be overcome is Dana’s insistence that Aldo drop his featherweight belt to challenge Pettis. Aldo’s camp proposed a catchweight fight as a compromise, though Dana has since said Jose’s concerns have been assuaged.
For Pettis’s part he told MMA Junkie that he doesn’t care what weight the fight takes place:
“I just got my belt,” he said Friday on AXS TV’s “Inside MMA.” “I think it’s right I defend my belt. He’s defended his belt a lot of times already. So it’s up to the UFC, whatever they decide. Catchweight, 155, 145 – I’m always game.”
I’m inclined to agree with Pettis here. As the newly crowned champion there’s no reason for him to be taking fights outside the lightweight division. If Aldo chooses not to move up, then both champions should continue their reigns in their respective divisions. If he does choose to vacate, the super fight has all the potential to become a fight of the year.
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