When Chad Mendes travels to Rio de Janeiro to fight Jose Aldo he’ll put more than just his undefeated mark on the line.
Aldo is the current UFC Featherweight Champion and has lost only one fight in his career.
The 25-year-old is not only the favorite and current title holder, but he also has the privilege of fighting in front of hometown crowd.
In September of 2010, Aldo defended his then WEC Featherweight Championship and was promoted to UFC Featherweight Champion, the first ever of its kind, when WEC merged with UFC.
He’s since defended his title twice – both wins by unanimous decision.
His challenger, American Chad Mendes, has never fought outside the US, but is more than capable of pulling off the win in Rio.
Mendes is 12-0 and fighting what will be only his second ever UFC fight after coming over in the merger as well.
The former Cal-Poly wrestler was supposed to get a shot at Aldo at UFC 133, but the Brazilian was still nursing injuries and Mendes went on to defeat another Brazilian, Rani Yahya, instead.
Mendes is fast-rising star in the sport, as is Aldo, and this could be the beginning of a solid rivalry.
Mendes’ wrestling style vs. Aldo’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu create an interesting matchup. Aldo’s going to work from distance offensively and should rack up points early. The longer the fight goes the more it favors Mendes though.
Stamina and endurance will come into play and if Mendes can put Aldo on his back this will quickly turn.
Aldo hasn’t been dominant in his two title defenses despite winning by unanimous decision, and Mendes, who has the tutelage of Urijah Faber – someone who has already lost to Aldo and his powerful kicks – will have given the American a ton of insight.
If Mendes can avoid mistakes early in this fight and tire out out the home country favorite, he’ll earn his first win outside of the US and the UFC Featherweight title.
Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com