by King Hazard
UFC Featherweight Champion José Aldo (23-1) won’t be returning inside the Octagon until early next year because of the broken foot he incurred in the first round against Chan Sung Jung (13-4) at UFC 163. Aldo still managed to defend the featherweight title and finished Jung in the fourth round with strikes after he noticed Jung’s shoulder was dislocated. It was a devastating loss for Jung, however, he recovered faster than Aldo since his shoulder was popped back into place in the medical room.
Although Jung is ready to fight again and would love to get a rematch with Aldo, the Brazilian champion is looking past Jung and is already eyeing his next opponent. According to MMA Fighting, after Aldo analyzed the list of top contenders in the division, he feels Ricardo Lamas (13-2) or Cub Swanson (20-5) is next in line for a title shot.
I’m not the one who decides that, but in my mind I believe Ricardo Lamas is the next in line. He already earned his chance. If it’s not him, I believe Cub Swanson should be the next option.
Because Aldo is still recovering from his foot injury there’s still a chance the UFC will do a rematch between Lamas and Swanson for the No.1 contender spot. Aldo said, “that’s OK too”, but when asked about Chad Mendes (15-1), he hinted that Mendes needs to fight better guys before he gets another shot at him:
Chad Mendes is still starting, haven’t fought anyone ranked yet, only fought guys that are not that good. He’s coming off good wins, but he hasn’t beaten good guys. So I believe the next two should be Ricardo Lamas and Cub Swanson.
Mendes is currently coming off a four-fight win streak, he knocked out all of his opponents since losing to Aldo at UFC 142.
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