Chad Mendes confident in his ability to finish Jose Aldo at UFC 142

There aren’t many things unbeaten featherweight Chad Mendes wants to be #2 at. However, when it comes to his January 14 title-bout against champion Jose Aldo at UFC 142 Mendes has no problem being second, at least when it comes to finishing the 20-1 Brazilian.

Aldo’s only career loss came in his teens when he was submitted by Luciano Azevedo on a card in Brazil. He has since won thirteen straight, a run Mendes expects to stop cold come showtime.

“If I want to take it to the ground, I take it to the ground. That’s where it’s gonna go,” explained the 26-year old in an extended preview for the event. “I don’t think he’s fought anybody with the athleticism, the strength, and the wrestling background that I have. It’s gonna be tough for him to throw any kind of submission when I’m on top, punching him in the face.”

Mendes Thinks Aldo Could Have Easily Lost to Kenny Florian

The 11-0 Mendes, who said he’s as motivated by the belt as he is in getting revenge for teammate Urijah Faber who lost to Aldo in 2010, offered up a telling prediction that no doubt may be used by the 145-pound king as “chalkboard” material.

“If my right hand hits him on the chin he’s gonna go to sleep,” stated Mendes frankly. “I will defeat Jose Aldo. I’m gonna go into Brazil and I’m gonna take that belt.”

Aldo-Mendes will be part of a PPV also featuring Sam Stout vs. Thiago Tavares and Vitor Belfort vs. Anthony Johnson. Preliminary fights will be shown on FX.

Check out the full preview below:

PHOTO CREDIT – UFC