UFC Rio 2012: Why Chad Mendes Victory over Jose Aldo Would Be Bad for UFC

This Saturday, the UFC featherweight title is on the line as Jose Aldo looks to defend it against Chad Mendes. 

In it's second year of existence, the featherweight division has had a great champion in Aldo, but if Mendes takes it away from him in Rio, it will be bad news for the division and UFC. 

Both fighters are good at what they do, but Aldo is more flashy and much more fun to watch. This is certainly an intriguing matchup, as it pits a classic striker against a wrestler. 

Mendes thrives on the takedowns, and while the ground game is a part of the sport, fans would rather see the big strikes land for crushing blows. 

It's always a little disappointing to see such an anticipated fight end by submission. Yes, some of them can be nice, but the truth of the matter is fans live for the knockout. 

Fans are shelling out the big bucks to watch two men beat each other up with little clothing on. The big blows to the head and body are much more entertaining than the fighters just rolling around on the mat. 

Aldo has the ability to fight on the ground, but majority of the time he throws strikes. Mendes, on the other hand, would prefer to take his opponents to the ground and stay there. 

It's his style, and there is nothing wrong with it. After all, this is mixed martial marts.

However, when it comes to a champion, people want it to be someone who will entertain them throughout. Those who hold the belt are in the primetime fights, and nothing would be worse than seeing a boring fight for the main event. 

At 11-0, Mendes has shown that he is a true competitor in UFC, but if he takes the title from Aldo, it could very well ruin the still young featherweight division. 

UFC needs Aldo to remain on top because of his great success since arriving to the sport. He's the main main at the 145, and is making his case as one of the best pound for pound fighters.

Change can be good at times, but here, UFC would be much better off if Aldo retains the title because of what he brings to the sport.