José Aldo or Pitbull? Patrício opens up about legacy dispute with UFC legend

P. Pitbull with his two Bellator belts. Photograph? Reproduction/Instagram @bellatormma

Biggest name in Bellator history and featherweight icon (up to 65,7kg.) in MMA, Patrick Pitbull vented about the constant comparisons between his legacy and that of his compatriot, José Aldo. With a successful career in the sport, the native of Rio Grande do Norte clarified the 'dispute', treating the matter respectfully. The statement was given in an interview with 'Portal do Vale Tudo'.

“'Who's better, you or Aldo?'. I have to bet on myself. There's room for everyone. Each one has their story. We are in different organizations. (…) Maybe, if you fight, you won’t win. We'll only know if we win. I don't have that desire to fight Aldo. The fans punished me a lot in Brazil because they are very 'neighborhood'. The UFC was traditional in Brazil, and throughout the world too, because it is the oldest event. Aldo was the champion who had won the hearts of the crowd, but I also represent Brazil”, said Pitbull.

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A professional in MMA since 2004, Pitbull has established himself worldwide fighting with Bellator gloves. For the company chaired by Scott Coker, the native of Rio Grande do Norte leads the featherweight division, having also already worn the lightweight belt (up to 70,3kg).

A living legend of the company, the fighter will still have the chance to expand his legacy. Recently, Patrício was confirmed as Sergio Pettis' rival in a clash valid for the bantamweight throne (up to 61,2kg). If he wins the title, the native of Rio Grande do Norte will reach an unprecedented milestone in mixed martial arts, becoming the first triple champion among the biggest companies in the world.

Member of the UFC 'Hall of Fame', José Aldo gained notoriety for his long reign at the company. A featherweight icon, the athlete competed at bantamweight in recent years, until retiring at the end of the 2022 season.

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