Aldin Bates’ journey in 2024 has been nothing short of inspiring. From breaking jaws, to hitting floors, Bates has experienced it all…
The Perth based welterweight started 2024 with a scratched title fight against a 'Krazy Horse' and swiftly transitioning to a title bout with 'The Captain’, within a mere two weeks.
Originally slated to face Kaleb 'Krazy Horse' Rideout at Eternal MMA 82 on February 10th, Bates found himself without a suitable opponent due to Rideout's injury, jeopardising his shot at Eternal glory and the conclusion of a more than decades long coronation.
Undeterred, the seasoned 37-year-old West Australian found a new challenger in the form of the young and hungry 5-0 Hex Fight Series welterweight champion, Jono 'The Captain' Micallef.
The fight, set for March 2nd at Melbourne Pavilion, would prove to be a test of Bates' skills against the up-and-coming hometown favourite.
The narrative going into the bout focused not on Aldin's knockout power, but rather on how he would handle grappling, navigate the later rounds, and contend with a much younger opponent.
The fight delivered on its promise, with more bombs exchanged than a second hand car yard, and a display of Aldin's resilience and improved prowess with age.
As the championship rounds unfolded, expectations before the fight, may have leaned towards 'The Captain' taking control. However, Bates defied predictions, showcasing exceptional jiu-jitsu skills, escaping submissions, and even weathering a head kick that would floor most heavyweights.
In a stunning reversal, Aldin Bates landed decisive hooks that brought an end to the night for Jono Micallef. *FIGHT HIGHLIGHTS (watch)*
While acknowledging Micallef's undeniable talent and a probable journey to the UFC, the fight undeniably belonged to Aldin Bates.
In title fights, Aldin Bates has been on two ends of the highlight reel. This bout, I believe, has encapsulated Bates' career - a strong start at 5-0, setbacks & re-tracks (notably the loss to Kitt Campbell & the grappling exchanges). And moments that could have ended it all (highlight reel knockout & the head kick from Micallef). Yet a resilient comeback from the Jamaican Warrior provided Bates a decade long opportunity to arrive where he was once predicted to be. On top as the Australian welterweight world…
This isn’t the end for both men, just a chapter of a book just getting started, and a book that doesn’t look close to the end.
Aldin Bates vs Jono Micallef was not just the fight of the night, but perhaps, the fight of the year… In the words of the great Molly Meldrum, do yourself a favour, and go check it out…
