Triple Take: Should Paul Felder retire after his UFC on ESPN+ 26 loss to Dan Hooker?

In our latest edition of Triple Take, three writers take a look at whether Paul Felder should retire after UFC on ESPN+ 26.

Danny Segura: Felder still has plenty to give

Felder had to travel across the world and fight one of the most dangerous rising contenders in his home country.

It’s a tough ask for any 155-pound fighter on the planet, and yet, Felder managed to take New Zealand’s Hooker to a split decision. Felder came up short, but made it close enough to have some questioning the call.

Either way, it was phenomenal performance that proved once again Felder is one of the best and most entertaining fighters at lightweight. And that’s a good reputation to carry in the UFC.

Felder is no rookie, but he’s far from being part of the legends division. At 34 years of age, “The Irish Dragon” has massive experience while still having a world-class athletic ability. He went five, high-paced rounds against younger opponent and was the one pushing the action for the majority of the final 10 minutes.

Retirement is a personal decision that should be respected. If Felder wants to call it quits it would be understandable. It’s a rough sport and he has a bright career as an analyst and commentator for the UFC.

However, Felder has a lot to give to the sport. And with Conor McGregor taking shots at him and showing interest in a potential matchup and just simply being in a red-hot division with strong draws, Felder could have big opportunities ahead.

The Roufusport fighter could very well be a win or two away from a big bout. After all, Felder is 5-1 in his last six lightweight bouts. You never know how the tides will turn at lightweight, and walking away would certainly close any opportunities for Felder to have a career defining moment or a large payday.

[opinary poll=”what-are-the-chances-felder-vs-hooker-is-DvZSwM” customer=”mmajunkie”]