UFC Returns to Montreal: Zahabi Shocks Aldo, Barriault Delivers a Devastating Finish

By William Dumoulin
Photo credit: Perry Nelson

For its first event in Montreal in over a decade, the UFC delivered a night to remember as Laval native Aiemann Zahabi (13-2) pulled off a major upset, defeating organization legend José Aldo (32-10) by unanimous decision. The featherweight bout went the distance, with all three judges scoring it 29-28 in favor of the Quebec fighter, who edged out a pivotal third round to seal the win. This signature victory could catapult Zahabi into bigger matchups before year’s end.

Another highlight of the night saw Marc-André Barriault electrify the hometown crowd with a thunderous first-round knockout of Bruno Silva. Coming off a string of tough losses, Barriault was under pressure to deliver—and he rose to the occasion with authority.

Stunner in the Main Event: Belal Muhammad’s Title Run Cut Short

In the main event, unpopular welterweight champion Belal Muhammad (24-4) saw his reign come to an abrupt end at the hands of Australian contender Jack Della Maddalena (18-2). Maddalena claimed a unanimous decision victory (48-47 x 2, 49-46), halting what had been a brief and largely quiet title run.

Shevchenko Retains Flyweight Title

In the co-main event, flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko (25-5-1) successfully defended her belt against France’s Manon Fiorot (12-2), winning by unanimous decision (48-47 across the board). The fight was tightly contested through the first three rounds, but Shevchenko’s composure and experience proved decisive down the stretch.