UFC 194, Aldo vs McGregor

The Aldo vs McGregor card of UFC 194 is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated MMA fights of all time. With the popularity of the sport fuelled by personalities such as Ronda Rousey and Conor McGregor who have embraced their new found celebrity, the UFC is one of the fastest growing sports franchises. 490 000 viewers tuned in to watch Rousey vs Holm (UFC 194), arguably one of the biggest upsets in the history of any combat sport. After the defeat of Ronda Rousey, one of the most prolific fighters in her category in the UFC, it is clear that in MMA, anything can happen making the sport all the more engaging to the viewer.

Following his victory by KO/TKO in the second round against Chad Mendes, McGregor was awarded the title of interim champion. The victory over Mendes was enough to convince many that he deserves the shot at Aldo and the title.

McGregor often throws a number of rangy, flamboyant, powerful kicks early to intimidate his opponent, allowing him to control the fight. Primarily from a striking background, McGregor has a success rate of 44% (in the UFC) and 16 knockouts in his MMA career. He is however also an accomplished grappler, holding a brown belt in the discipline of Brazilian jiu jitsu and a takedown accuracy of 83%.

McGregor’s flashy style continues beyond the ring with the Irishman wearing expensive suites and making bold claims such as proclaiming himself “king of Dublin”. The Irishman has been talking smack about Aldo since their first conference in March, making the allegation that Aldo is “running scared” after pulling out of UFC 189. The Irishman even went as far as stealing Aldo’s belt during a press conference. His arrogant style and unwillingness to filter his comments during conferences has given birth to a marmite effect in which you either love him or hate him.

Jose Aldo sports an impressive 25-1-0 record in professional MMA. Looking to defend his title for the 7th time, Aldo has one of the highest KO/TKO records, achieving 15 of his 25 wins by knockout. Despite coming from a primarily grappling (Brazilian jiu jitsu) background, Just 2 of the UFC featherweight champion’s victories have come from submission. With a striking avoidance success rate of 71% (UFC) and a striking success rate identical to McGregor’s (UFC) it will be undeniably difficult for McGregor to out strike Aldo.

McGregor’s public criticisms of Aldo and obvious wind-up tactics have been on-going since before UFC 189 in which Aldo pulled out due to injury shortly before the fight (with Mendes taking his place). Aldo’s withdrawal from the fight has been the main target of McGregor’s outbursts, often flaring his temper at the Irishman’s comments. In essence, it could be argued that McGregor’s comments are getting into Aldo’s head. Whether or not this will have an effect on the title holder’s composure in the ring is yet to be seen, nevertheless it would seem that McGregor is attempting to use this to gain a tactical advantage before the fight.

Many find it difficult not to become enamoured by McGregor’s showmanship and lack of tact, however others are adamant that he can only be a victim of his own demise. I would have to say that at this point, it appears that McGregor is winning the post-fight battle of composure. Often this edge is enough to give a fighter enough of an advantage to in fights, however Aldo is an experienced fighter and should know better than to lose his cool and rise to McGregor’s mind games. This is a close one to call but if I had to give it to someone I would say that, although McGregor seems to have self-belief, as the more experienced and well-rounded fighter Aldo has the edge. But that’s just my ignorant op
nion.

Aldo mcgregor