Jose Aldo Set For October Return Against Vera

UFC Hall of Famer Jose Aldo will return to competition on October 4th, facing former bantamweight title challenger Marlon Vera in a submission grappling match. According to BJ Penn, Aldo announced the Hype FC event on Thursday, marking his first combat sports appearance since his UFC retirement in May.

The match will headline a Hype FC card in Quito, Ecuador. Aldo hung up the gloves after losing to Aiemann Zahabi at UFC 315, closing a legendary run that saw him dominate the featherweight division for years before his 2019 knockout loss to Conor McGregor ended his title reign.

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Vera's Recent Struggles Set Stage For Grappling Clash

Vera brings a four-fight losing streak into the grappling match, most recently dropping a unanimous decision to David Martinez in February. The Ecuadorian challenger is scheduled to return to the Octagon next month against Charles Jourdain at UFC 331, which features Joshua Van versus Alexandre Pantoja 2 in the main event.

Vera previously competed in a Hype FC grappling match against UFC featherweight Jean Silva, with that contest ending in a draw. Whether Aldo's submission grappling appearance signals a broader comeback or remains a one-time venture remains unclear.

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Aldo retired as arguably the greatest featherweight in UFC history, with victories over Chad Mendes, Frankie Edgar, and Urijah Faber before his late-career slide. He has stayed engaged with the sport since retirement, reportedly following recent developments including Max Holloway's win over McGregor at UFC 329.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Jose Aldo set for October 4th fighting return vs. former UFC title challenger