UFC 251: Petr Yan vs. Jose Aldo

Petr Yan vs. Jose Aldo

Anton Tabuena: This will be a lot closer than some people think, because despite the wear and tear through the years, Aldo is still very very technical and can cause him a lot of issues. If it remains a close and back-and-forth affair as I think early on though, I have a feeling that Aldo will run into problems and could drop rounds to the judges as his volume and output tapers again. I think Aldo has to flat out outclass him, or else the younger, faster, and more aggressive opponent will slowly chip away, throw more shots, and win rounds as the fight continues. Petr Yan by decision.

Mookie Alexander: Aldo isn’t washed up but he is clearly not in his prime. This “Vintage Aldo” narrative that came out of the UFC broadcast commentary of the Marlon Moraes fight is beyond me. Going toe to toe with Petr Yan could lead to Yan getting caught and stunned — John Dodson dropped him — but more likely Aldo just fails to keep a high pace with the Russian and he gets worn down in the later rounds. If leg kicking Aldo returned, I’d give him a better chance. Unfortunately, Yan is too potent offensively and his timing and accuracy is too much for 2020 Jose to take. Petr Yan by TKO, round 5.

Zane Simon: I’m firmly of the belief that Aldo will have a great shot to win this fight in the first two rounds. He still has fantastic power. He slips shots better than any of Yan’s previous opponents, and he has the kind of physical strength that I think has posed Yan a few problems when he’s fallen into the clinch during exchanges. Still though, Aldo’s cardio over a 5 round fight? I can’t trust it. Especially not against the kind of opponent who is only known for building volume and layers to his offense as the bout goes on. Petr Yan by TKO, round 4.