‘It’s Been a Great Ride’- Paul Felder Pens An Emotional Tweet on His UFC Journey

Published 05/23/2021, 11:09 AM EDT

UFC lightweight veteran and perennial fan favorite Paul Felder announced his retirement from MMA. Felder, who headlined his past two events participation broke the news while commentating during UFC Vegas 27 event.

It comes as a bit of a shocker for fans and MMA pundits, as he was still in good shape, health-wise. But clearly, the veteran had figured it out that he won’t be fighting for the championship anytime sooner, so he had to make a call.

Article continues below this ad

After the announcement, he took to Twitter and penned an emotional post, remembering his time and also thanking his fans.

He wrote, “It’s been a great ride! I wanna thank all my supporters. I will miss making that walk, the smell of fresh leather gloves, the countdown to walk. Sh*t… I’ll miss the weight cuts a bit too. But I have really thought this through and it’s time. Thank you.”

It’s been a great ride! I wanna thank all my supporters. I will miss making that walk, the smell of fresh leather gloves, the countdown to walk. Shit… I’ll miss the weight cuts a bit too. But I have really thought this through and it’s time. Thank you https://t.co/BoTP5iLZeu
— Paul Felder (@felderpaul) May 23, 2021

Earlier Paul announced his retirement from MMA during commentary. He said, “I don’t have a burning desire to fight up for many more years and become a champion, 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’m 37 years old and I feel very fresh. I love the UFC with all my heart for everything they’ve given me and the opportunity they’ve given me (for commentating). I’m retiring officially from the sport of mixed martial arts.”

Should Cody Garbrandt Consider Retirement After His Latest Loss at UFC Vegas 27

How did Paul Felder fare in his recent fights?

Article continues below this ad

Felder (17-6) started his UFC career in 2014 with a split decision victory over Jason Saggo. After 7 years in the promotion, he retired after figuring that it won’t be soon getting a title fight opportunity.

He blew hot and cold in his last 4 fights with 2 wins and 2 losses apiece. But the losses came in his last two fights, one against Dan Hooker at UFC Fight Night 168 and the latest one against Rafael dos Anjos at UFC Fight Night 182. Both came last year via a split decision.

Article continues below this ad

Felder apologized for holding certain fights and hoped that some deserving fighters will get a chance to move ahead. His fans though would have wished for a retirement fight. He was ranked No.9 in lightweight rankings while announcing his retirement.

What did you make of Felder’s tweet reminiscing his career?

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Akshyay Mahapatra is a UFC author for EssentiallySports. He wished to combine his passion for the UFC (that he has been following since 2008) as well as his love for writing. This motivated him to enter the world of combat sports journalism.

‘It’s Been a Great Ride’- Paul Felder Pens An Emotional Tweet on His UFC Journey

How did Paul Felder fare in his recent fights?

Trending

“Bubble Gut From High HGH Abuse” – Joe Rogan’s Dire Health Concern Flares Up as Fans Worry About UFC Commentator

Violently Threatening Conor McGregor Takes a Bad Turn for 50 Cent as UFC World Condemn Rapper After Old Beef Resurfaces

Alex Pereira’s Offical Status for Tom Aspinall Confirmed by UFC 300 Star’s Team

Dana White Confirms Big Change in UFC 300 Bonus for Max Holloway After Justin Gaethje’s Devastating KO

Dana White Set to Make Huge Loss for Conor McGregor Return as Fans Promise They “Will Not Be Buying” UFC 303 PPV for Michael Chandler Fight