UFC legend Jose Aldo says he is now friends with former rival Conor McGregor.
The Brazilian MMA legend was confirmed as an inductee into the promotion’s ‘Hall of Fame’ during the UFC 283 broadcast in Rio de Janeiro.
Jose Aldo reacts to the announcement of his impending induction into the UFC hall of fame during the UFC 283 event at Jeunesse Arena
Jose Aldo and Conor McGregor have now put their beef behind them as the Brazilian claims they are now pals
Aldo was visibly emotional after the announcement at the event in the Jeunesse Arena after being recognised for his achievements in the sport.
Aldo will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s ‘Modern Wing’ as a member of the Class of 2023.
The 2023 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place during the 11th Annual UFC International this summer in Las Vegas.
UFC President Dana White has hailed the popular Brazilian as the greatest featherweight of all time due to his run in the WEC and UFC.
He said: “José Aldo is the greatest featherweight of all time,
“From WEC to UFC, Jose helped us build the sport of MMA and UFC as a brand, as well as change the perception of the smaller weight classes and what they could accomplish inside the Octagon.
“It will be an honour to induct him into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer.”
A veteran of 39 fights during his 18-year professional MMA career Aldo’s winning streak rocketed to an impressive 17 over eight years.
Most read in The Sun
During the title reign, he would serve as the final WEC featherweight champion and become the inaugural UFC featherweight champion in 2010, as the organisation was absorbed by Zuffa.
Aldo would lose the title to Dublin’s McGregor at UFC 194, after a fierce and heated build-up that got very ugly at times with both having to be separated after some very personal tirades.
But now the ‘King of Rio’ has claimed that the pair have put their differences behind them.
Aldo says that the former bitter rivals now follow one another on social media, and he confirmed that they often share messages.
He also hailed the Dubliner for making him the most money.
BETTING OFFERS: FREE BETS AND BEST NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
Speaking at a UFC 283 press conference, Aldo said: “I do have a lot of respect for Conor McGregor, we’re friends. We even follow each other on Instagram, we exchange dialogue there.
“Sometimes fans come up to me and say, ‘Do you feel like beating up Conor McGregor or something?’ – “How can I [have animosity]? – That’s the guy who gave me the most money.”