José Aldo reveals surprising career change after UFC retirement

UFC 315 wasn't the end of José Aldo's competitive spirit, so long as a recent social media post is anything to go by.

Aldo lost a contentious decision to Aiemann Zahabi on the night's main card and decided to lay down his gloves.

While Aldo confirmed his retirement in a final statement, he isn't giving up being an athlete altogether.

Undefeated MMA prospect sends bold message to UFC CEO Dana White after dominant win

José Aldo moves to bodybuilding after UFC retirement

Taking to social media not too long after confirming retirement, Aldo released a video with the caption 'Project bodybuilding,' with the 'King of Rio' working on some lat pulldowns. [h/t Red Corner MMA]

🏋️💪 Jose Aldo begins a new chapter in fitness, focusing on bodybuilding after retiring from MMA. pic.twitter.com/P71BLyhuv5
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 24, 2025

At 38, Aldo has chosen a tough career to follow, but at least it doesn't involve being punched in the face.

One lesser-known fact about Aldo is that he trained to become a professional footballer before entering MMA, which is reflected in his gnarly kicking game.

Aldo showed off some of those mean soccer kicks against Zahabi in the third round of their fight...

Jose Aldo almost gets the KO with a punt kick at #UFC315 pic.twitter.com/Y2oC2NArSG
— AlAudhli 𝕏 العوذلي (@alaudhli) May 11, 2025

Aldo caps off a legendary MMA career, during which he was effectively the reigning featherweight champion from 2009 until 2015, spanning from the WEC to the UFC.

He continued his fighting career well into his twilight years, knocking back the very best the UFC had to offer, including rising prospects Rob Font and Jonathan Martinez, showing how Aldo's longevity in the sport is testament to his status among the greatest fighters of all time.

More MMA Knockout News

Stick with MMAKnockout for more FREE coverage of the UFC, MMA, Boxing. Follow MMAKnockout on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.