It is a difficult truth that combat sports do not treat elder statesmen with reverence until they are no longer of use. While active, they are often viewed by matchmakers and prospective opponents alike as bridges to the next generation. No one bothers to tell them. It’s just as well; they wouldn’t believe it anyway. The only way to survive so long in such an unforgiving sport is by excelling through impossible and unwavering self-belief. Even if skills start slipping, even as success starts to fade, it must feel like a minor glitch in the system.
Jose Aldo is one of the rare few to receive the message without being told.