UFC 142 Results: Key Takeaways from Jose Aldo vs. Chad Mendes

In the main event of UFC 142 in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday night, Jose Aldo knocked out Chad Mendes in literally the final second of the first round to retain his UFC featherweight title.

At 4:59 of the opening stanza, Aldo (21-1) spun out of the arms of Mendes (11-1) and landed a knee to the challenger's forehead. Two academic hammer-fists later, and referee Dan Miragliotta called a stop to the contest.

Here are some key takeaways from the bout. 

What We'll Remember About This Fight 

In all reality, it will be the knockout, a surgical-grade knee that Aldo threw as he was turning to face Mendes.

But the runner-up might be Aldo's post fight celebration, which saw him charge into the stands, where ecstatic fans lifted the champ onto their shoulders.

What We Learned About Jose Aldo

That he might have the best takedown defense in the game. Mendes, a standout wrestler, shot repeatedly for single- and double-leg takedowns, but Aldo easily brushed them aside. To his credit, Mendes was persistent, and even had Aldo against the fence for a time. But when Aldo threw his final knee, that exchanged ended the way all the others had: with the champ on top. 

What We Learned About Chad Mendes

He doesn't have the stuff to beat Aldo. Hoping to be an irresistible force against Aldo, the champ and his takedown defense proved to be a virtually immovable object.

What's Next for Aldo?

His sixth consecutive title defense, going back to the WEC. But against whom? Diego Nunes? Hatsu Hioki? You have to wonder if there's any featherweight in the world who can truly threaten Aldo.

What's next for Mendes?

After suffering his first professional loss, Mendes is still a very good fighter. He'd provide a great measuring stick for a youngster like Dustin Poirier or Erik Koch.