Close to facing Aldo, Marlon maintains respect for his compatriot: 'One of the best'

M. Moraes (photo) shows anxiety to face J. Aldo in the UFC 245. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook ufcbrasil

The Brazilian Marlon moraes is close to being part of an important milestone in the career of José Aldo. Scheduled to 'welcome' Manauara on his migration to the rooster division (up to 61,2kg), this Saturday (14), at UFC 245, the Friborg native adopts a respectful stance when talking about the former featherweight champion (up to 65,7kg). In an interview with 'Combate', Marlon spoke about his expectations for this weekend's fight.

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“I know that a lot of people in this division (bantamweight) didn’t want the fight (against Aldo). I was one of the only ones who raised my hand and said I would take the fight. If he wants to go down and be the champion, it makes perfect sense to fight against one of the challengers”, declared Marlon.

The clash between Moraes and Aldo represents a great opportunity for both athletes. While the 'People's Champion' makes his debut in the new division, his compatriot seeks to get back on the winning path to try for a new title fight, as he was defeated in his last attempt, in June, in the main fight of the UFC 238.

Throughout the preparation for the highly anticipated clash, Aldo has publicly stated that he has felt good about the weight cut and that he considers himself one of the strongest competitors in the new category. Aware that he will not have an easy task this Saturday, Marlon treats the commitment as one of the most important of his career to date.

“You can’t run away from an opportunity to fight a guy like that. I already fought against (Henry) Cejudo for the belt and I didn't win. I want to challenge myself, have new perspectives, new challenges, and fighting against one of the best of all time is attractive. In whatever category he fights he (Aldo) will be a big name. I want to be on the other side and give the audience a show. It will definitely be a great fight,” said Moraes.

A victory for either athlete could make them favorites to face Cejudo, who hasn't fought since his victory over Marlon in June. The North American still doesn't have a fight scheduled, as he is recovering from shoulder surgery suffered as a result of the fight against the Friborg native for the vacant title in the category.