UFC bantamweight contender Cory Sandhagen has decided to break down the UFC 301 clash between Jose Aldo and Jonathan Martinez.
While the upcoming card at the Rio Arena, in Rio de Janeiro, is pitted with the monumental task of matching UFC 300, there are several some exciting fights expected to take place. This includes the return of former WEC and UFC featherweight champion, Aldo, who will square-off against rising contender, Martinez.
Aldo had retired from MMA following his decision loss against Merab Dvalishvili in August of 2022. However, the Brazilian would compete in three boxing matches last year, including one against former opponent and UFC vet Jeremy Stephens.
The surprise return was announced last month by the UFC in what is a real boost to the promotions return to Brazil. However, Aldo will have his hands full as the surging Martinez is riding a six-fight win streak – most recently stopping Adrian Martinez in the second round.
Cory Sandhagen predicts Jose Aldo Vs. Jonathan Martinez
Speaking with James Lynch, fellow 135lber’ Sandhagen broke down the upcoming matchup. ‘Sandman’ had high praise for Martinez, declaring the 30-year-old as one of the divisions most unappreciated talents.
“I think that Martinez is really good, man,” Sandhagen began. “I think that he’s kind of a sleeper and I think that he’ll work his way up but honestly Aldo might be a really good test for him because he hasn’t really fought anyone with a ton of experience and he kind of does what he does.
“Martinez doesn’t do the most complex of thing in the world but what he does works, and he does look like a dense guy, looks like he kicks and hits really hard. So yeah, it’ll be interesting man I defiantly think that Martinez is one of the sleepers in the division that doesn’t get enough credit for his skill but who cares about internet credit anyways but obviously the UFC sees something in him because they’re giving him Aldo.
“If I had to guess, it would be the young guy who’s working his way to the top rather than a guy who’s coming out of retirement.”
Aldo Vs. Martinez is set to be the co-main event this weekend and will competed over three rounds.