According to Jose Aldo‘s manager, Ed Soares, the UFC featherweight champion is not injured but it isn’t likely he’ll be prepared in time to fight Chad Mendes at UFC 133.
The news became apparent after Soares revealed to MMAJunkie.com about Aldo’s absence.
“Jose is just resting right now and rehabbing a few small lingering injuries,” Soares told MMAJunkie.com
Soares said Aldo is still under medical suspension until next week and cannot resume training until then. for now, Aldo is focusing on his health and intends to be 100 percent healthy once his suspension is lifted.
Following his title bout against Mark Hominick at UFC 129, rumours were swirling as to who Aldo’s next challenger would be, and all signs pointed to a bout with Chad Mendes at UFC 133 in August. However, Soares said that the featherweight champion would hope for some additional time off to rest and recuperate, citing the date as too soon, which would only allow Aldo to train 10 weeks instead of 12.
“Whether it’s Chad Mendes or any other top contender, Jose is competing against the very best opponents in the world, and he wants ample time to prepare,” Soares said.
“When you’re the champion, everyone is gunning for you, and it’s important to be 100 percent.”
Soares said he clarified that Aldo did not turn down the bout, but he rather prefer to fight Mendes later this year. He expects to return in September to defend his featherweight crown.
As for his opponent, Mendes, he does not intend to wait for Aldo to heal.
Mendes’ manger, Mike Roberts, said he expects Mendes to still compete on the main card at UFC 133, whether it is against Aldo or not.
“We’re not going to wait for Jose Aldo. Chad wants to fight. If Aldo can’t fight, Chad will move on and fight somebody else,” Roberts said to MMAJunkie.com.
And if isn’t against Aldo, Roberts said he hopes it is still a competitive opponent for his client and a tough competitor in the UFC featherweight division.
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