TJ Dillashaw Open To Future Matchup With José Aldo: “We’ll Have Our Time”

Former UFC bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw would welcome a future matchup with former UFC featherweight champion José Aldo.

Dillashaw spoke with ESPN’s Brett Okamoto and discussed his feelings on Aldo consistently calling for a fight with him. The 35-year old Sonora, California native believes the bout with the Brazilian legend is inevitable, but ultimately his primary focus currently is on getting his 135-pound title back.

“I think he has called me out after every one of his fights recently which is amazing,” Dillashaw said (h/t MMA News). “Especially because I’ve looked up to Aldo, I think everyone has looked up to Aldo. Aldo’s been like one of the godfathers of the lower weight classes, but we’ll have our time, he keeps doing what he’s doing, I’m going to get my belt back, and then it would be really amazing. I’ve been impressed with how he’s kind of turned it around at 135. A fight with me and Aldo is amazing. Stylistically I think that matchup’s really great for me. He’s got some stuff I can take advantage of for sure, but he’s dangerous. He’s very explosive, you got to be on your toes with that guy. You never underestimate him whatsoever.”

He continued on to reveal how the recovery process has gone from the torn PCL injury he suffered in his left knee during his unanimous decision win over Cory Sandhagen last July in the main event of UFC Vegas 32, and when he expects to return to the Octagon next.

“It’s on track, I just didn’t realize how much work I would have to get done,” Dillashaw told said. “I didn’t realize how beat up my knee was. I knew what I tore but once I watched the video of what [the surgeon] did to me, I messed it up really bad. I almost have a full range of motion. Strength is there. I’ve just gotta make sure I’m safe about getting those full motions. I wouldn’t say an exact timeframe, but I imagine halfway through the year. I’m able to hit mitts, strength, and conditioning. I haven’t done any grappling yet. That’s the last thing I’ll feel comfortable about again. And then I have to start thinking about getting into a camp.”

Fightful has all of your MMA and Boxing needs covered. Follow us on Twitter for updates, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for exclusive interviews, lists, news updates, and predictions