Close to the return, TJ Dillashaw responds to José Aldo's challenge

T. Dillashaw can compete again from January 2021. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @tjdillashaw

Close to returning to the octagon after two years suspended for doping, TJ Dillashaw may be close to having his new opponent confirmed. The former bantamweight champion (up to 61,2kg) was eventually challenged by José Aldo, which surpassed Marlon Vera this Saturday (19), at UFC Las Vegas 17. Moments after the invitation made by the Brazilian, the North American used social media to comment on the situation.

See too

After winning his first bantamweight fight, Aldo explains the challenge to Dillashaw and mentions other possible opponents

José Aldo dominates Marlon Vera, wins at UFC Las Vegas 17 and challenges TJ Dillashaw

VIDEO: Watch José Aldo's victory over Marlon Vera at UFC Las Vegas 17

“I heard that someone was challenging me. It’s because everyone knows that’s my belt”, TJ wrote on his Twitter account.

PUBLICITY:

Considered one of the best fighters in recent bantamweight history, Dillashaw has not performed since his loss to Henry Cejudo, in January 2019, when he ventured into the flyweight division (up to 56,7kg.) to try for his second title. On that occasion, in addition to being easily beaten by his compatriot, the athlete admitted to having ingested prohibited substances that would help with weight cutting.

Even before being judged, TJ gave up his belt in the 61,2kg division. The athlete then received the maximum penalty from USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) and was not able to perform last season and in 2020.

PUBLICITY:

In January, the suspension of the fighter will end, as he is willing to prove that he remains the absolute leader of the group. Today, the belt belongs to Petr yan, who won the position by beating precisely José Aldo, in July.