P. Felder announced his retirement during the broadcast of UFC Las Vegas 27. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @UFC
In addition to 12 fights fought, the UFC Las Vegas 27 was marked by an unusual announcement. During the North American broadcast of the show, the light weight (up to 70,3 kg.), Paul felder, confirmed his retirement from MMA live. Last man to defeat the current champion of the category, Charles of the Bronx, the veteran took advantage of his work as a commentator to break the news, in the press conference after the show, he explained the decision to the fans.
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“I really waited until I was sure (about the decision to retire). After the fight against (Dan) Hooker (in 2019), I was emotional and I lost, being far from home. Afterwards, I found motivation again, when I accepted the fight (against Rafael dos Anjos, last minute),” said Felder.
Paul's decision was made thoughtfully. Analyzing his career consciously, the veteran was realistic when talking about his future in the category led by Charles.
“I don’t think I would get the belt. I think it's the first time I've really seen things after losing two in a row, watching guys like (Ronaldo) Jacaré having his arm broken, 'Cowboy' (Donald Cerrone) doing more fights than I think I should. I won't be that guy. From the beginning in the sport, I said that I wouldn't be the guy who would continue fighting 'after the deadline' and I think that's where it is. Better now than later”, he revealed.
For Felder, an athlete must have ambition to continue competing at a high level. Thus, the fighter confirmed that he no longer felt the pleasure of maintaining the tough routine for a high-level fighter.
“The spark that I need to fight, especially the way I fight, was no longer there. I'm not itching to go train and do the fights that are offered to me. The only reason it took me so long to decide was because I gave them the chance to really convince me. The UFC was very good and had patience with me”, he admitted.
Last man to bat Charles of the Bronx, Paul also commented on the Brazilian’s recent achievement. According to the American, the São Paulo native's triumph was not enough to seek a new fight against an opponent who is on his list of victims.
“It didn’t (motivate me). He's not the same guy. He's a 'monster' now. I'm not saying I couldn't beat him. I still don't think there's a guy in the division that I can't beat, but I don't think I'll get the fights and the winning streak that would take me to that fight (rematch)”, he concluded.
At 37 years old, Felder leaves the sport with a positive record. Current number nine in the ranking led by Charles, the North American has competed in 23 fights as a professional in MMA. In total, the athlete had 17 positive results and six negative results.
Paul's last fight took place in November 2020, when he agreed to face Dos Anjos at the last minute. On that occasion, the veteran ended up defeated in a split decision by the judges.
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