The much awaited showdown between Jose Aldo and Conor McGregor is days away, with both men confident that they will conquer the other.
Both would have figured in the middle of 2015, had Aldo not been injured on the rib during training.
McGregor, who later on revealed he had knee issues as well, went on to face Chad Mendes and win at UFC 189. He's been using that as leverage, telling Aldo that he had more guts to compete through pain, and such has worked to his advantage.
Of course, the two have had a colorful history that has led to the color developing behind them. McGregor has been known for shooting his mouth off, a talker which many (including Aldo) believe was what allowed him to be where he is right now.
Speaking of which, it will be all skill once the two get it on at UFC 194 at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas on Dec. 12, and many believe that Aldo will come out on top.
With professional names like Jared Rosholt, Glover Teixeira, and Frankie Saenz pointing out the skill and tenure of Aldo as a big advantage, it remains to be seen if their insights will bear fruit.
Indeed, Aldo has proven to be a good fighter, allowing him to hang on to the UFC featherweight title for long. McGregor, on the other hand, is a fighter on the rise, although it remains to be seen if his success thus far will carry on to UFC 194.
But there are some who believe that it is time for The Notorious to reign. Tim Means and Myles Jury seem to be impressed with McGregor's rise, although it may take more than talk for him to defeat Aldo.
It is indeed a close one to call, but if Aldo keeps his emotions in check, he could likely silence McGregor at least for a night. But if McGregor connects with his strikes, Aldo will likely find himself in a world full of trouble which could possibly signal the end of his reign.
