By: Udit Pandit Image credit: YouTube
A fan favorite in the lightweight division of the roster, Paul Felder, who has had a decent career with the promotion with a professional record of 17-6, announced his retirement at the age of 37.
Felder's decision to step down from the UFC came as he didn't see a direct path to a UFC championship in his future, considering he was one of the best lightweights in the world.
"I always said if I don't see that title picture a year or so into my future, I would retire and I would do it for my friends, family and myself, I love the UFC with all my heart" stated Felder.
The 39-year-old, who had also been on commentary duty for the UFC, shared a concerning health update in August due to his stressful workouts in his training years.
The Irish Dragon, who had been dealing with hip issues, revealed that they had turned severe, with an MRI showing a lack of soft tissue in the hips after a rigorous long run and bike session.
"I have the hips of an 80 year old man. I have no soft tissue left and am grinding bone on bone. I don’t know what’s next! I have to speak with some specialists and find out." Felder revealed.
In the excitement of fans to watch Felder in the octagon, Paul addressed during the UFC Paris pay-per-view that he is back in the USADA testing pool and he is enjoying training.
“I’m getting old, and there might be some old dudes out there that might want to dust it up in six months. Other than that, I have no idea," stated Felder, as his comeback has yet to be confirmed.
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