Fear not, UFC fans: Jose Aldo will be in the Octagon against Conor McGregor at UFC 189.
Reports surfaced earlier this week that Aldo had broken his ribs in a training session and subsequently would not be able to fight at UFC 189, which takes place in approximately two weeks.
UFC released a statement Wednesday, though, clarifying the report:
“In light of recent reports regarding the status of UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo, UFC has received official medical confirmation from several doctors that Aldo did not suffer a broken rib. Following a review of the scans, it has been determined that the champion suffered a bone bruise to his rib and cartilage injury during training.
“With this news, Aldo has expressed that he has every intention of facing Conor McGregor at UFC 189.”
Should Aldo need to withdraw from the fight, there also is a backup plan in place.
“While Aldo has indicated that he will compete in Las Vegas on July 11, UFC has confirmed a contingency plan,” the statement read. “No. 1 featherweight contender Chad Mendes will face McGregor for the interim UFC featherweight championship in the event Aldo cannot compete.
“UFC remains committed to delivering the featherweight and the welterweight championship fights at UFC 189 during UFC International Fight Week in Las Vegas.”
Mendes fought Aldo in Brazil last October at UFC 179, so he’s a logical replacement for Aldo should he not be able to go next month.
McGregor probably won’t be too happy with this news. He’s been predicting he’ll defeat Aldo for several months and will want a fair fight with no potential excuses, and Aldo’s rib injury certainly provides one. Either way, any fight with McGregor involved is one we want to watch.
Thumbnail photo via Jason Silva/USA TODAY Sports ImagesÂ
