Aldo On McGregor's Lightweight Return

Jose Aldo believes Conor McGregor can return to lightweight if he takes the proper steps.

McGregor has not fought at 155 pounds since breaking his leg against Dustin Poirier in 2021. His brief UFC 329 comeback against Max Holloway last month took place at welterweight and ended with another injury just past the one-minute mark. McGregor tore his ACL and meniscus, sidelining him until at least summer 2027.

Aldo Says McGregor Has Frame For 155

Aldo told MMA Fighting that McGregor needs to address his nutrition before attempting the drop. "I think first he needs to go through some dietary re-education to see if he can get back down and be lighter again," the Hall of Famer said. "I think, in my opinion, he has the frame for 155, so it would be good."

The Brazilian added that the current lightweight landscape could favor a McGregor comeback. "Today, if Conor fights at 155 and beats a name [that isn't necessarily at the top], the division is wide open again," Aldo said. "To me, the division has kind of stalled there. Ilia [Topuria] moved up and lost to [Justin] Gaethje, so it's a bit of a mess there, and anyone can come in and snatch the title."

Aldo and McGregor fought at featherweight in 2015, with McGregor stopping Aldo in 13 seconds. Gaethje, who now holds the lightweight belt, has said he would prefer to fight McGregor before retiring.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Conor McGregor can return to lightweight with the right plan, says former foe Jose Aldo: “Anyone can come in and snatch the title”