As had been feared, expexted, and rumored, is now officially a reality. A rib injury will sideline Jose Aldo and now “Notorious” Connor McGregor (17-2 ) will face Chad “Money” Mendes (17-2 ) July 11th at UFC 189 for the interim UFC Featherweight title.
What feels like forever ago it was announced that Jose Aldo had injured his ribs in sparring. Originally the rumor was fractured ribs, it then went to they where just brused. That announcement was followed by that if Aldo couldn’t fight, Mendes would be taking his place. Foreshadowing, inveability, conspiracy, who knows. But facts remain the most hyped UFC title fight of all time has been posponed by injury.
McGregor is Irelands biggest star an favorite son, has won 13 fights in a row. In the octagon McGregor is 5-0 with TKO wins over Marcus Brimage, Diego Brandao, Dustin Poirier, and Dennis Siver; and a decision over Max Holloway.
Mendes in his career has only lost to one man,Jose Aldo. Mendes has twice failed to capture the UFC Featherweight title, in their fist meeting knocked Aldo knocked out “Money”with a knee right before the first round bell. Their 2nd bout is in my opinion one of the greatest UFC title fights ever, ending in a unanimous decision for the champion. Mendes would rebound from the loss 6bmonths later with a 1st round TKO of Ricardo Lamas.
