Jose Aldo dominated Jonathan Martinez in his return from retirement back in May, winning a lopsided decision at UFC 301 in Rio de Janeiro. He decided to sign a new deal with the organization a few weeks after. The former champion admits, however, that he expected to compete for a belt next.

Instead, the “King of Rio” is facing Mario Bautista at UFC 307 this Saturday in Salt Lake City, Utah.

“I even thought I could go straight for the title, but it didn’t happen, but as I said, I accept any challenge,” Aldo said during UFC 307 media day on Wednesday. “This is my life, to fight and win regardless of the opponent, Mario or Jonathan. Since the UFC put him, I have to fight. If that’s what I want to become champion, then I’ll face anyone.”

Aldo said he respects Bautista as he would respect UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili, but feels he’s levels above him.

“I see this as another test,” Aldo said. “They were testing me last time to see if I still wanted this or not. Like it or not, I have a different level. It’s another test to me to get closer to the belt, which is my goal.”

Aldo stopped every takedown attempt by Dvalishvili when they fought in Salt Lake City in August 2022, but ultimately lost a decision. The Nova Uniao star retired that night, and pursued a career in boxing, but returned less than two later to defeat Martinez.

He’s now back in Utah for UFC 307, and laments the way his fight against Dvalishvili played out.

“My performance wasn’t good that night,” Aldo said. “It wasn’t my fault or Merab’s, but the referee let the fight stay too long against the fence, and it was very boring. There was no fight, basically. I was very sad. Everybody comes to a fight expecting the best of Aldo and I couldn’t show them was I was capable of that night.

“The fire was out. Last time I left this place feeling really sad, knowing I wouldn’t go back to the octagon again, and two years later this fire is back again. I trained so hard. Those around me in the gym can say that. The young ones in the gym had their jaws dropped, saying, ‘Damn, this guy is a phenom. He’s accomplished everything and is still here putting on his best performance.’ The fire is burning. I want to put on a great fight. I have to win this fight, and I know I’ll be close to a title shot.”

Aldo was also asked if he was still interested in facing former champion Dominick Cruz in a legend vs. legend clash and said it was discussed prior to UFC 301 in May. However, he feels they’re on different trajectories in their careers.

“I’m on another path right now,” Aldo said. “I’m looking for a title fight, and that’s what I’m focused on today. I have the dream of becoming champion and I give my all in training for that. I do what it takes, and rest assured that I’m well-prepared.”