Last night in Auckland, New Zealand, Dan Hooker narrowly defeated Paul Felder via split decision. The two lightweights delivered what will likely be one of the best fights of 2020, yet the headline of the evening was what Paul Felder announced following his loss.
In an interview with Dan Hardy immediately after the fight, Paul Felder stated “that might be it for me.”
Even the Auckland crowd, which was rooting against Felder the entire fight, displayed their appreciation for the Irish Dragon.
Felder has produced several incredible performances throughout his UFC career, including two fights with Edson Barbosa that were certified wars. Moreover, his bouts with Mike Perry, Charles Oliveira, and James Vick were all memorable moments. Whether Felder steps inside the octagon again or not, there is no doubt he will continue to find success in his second career as an analyst.
UFC fans were extremely excited for Fight Night 168’s main event, and the fight lived up to the hype. Hooker executed a perfect game-plan early on as he chopped away at Felder’s lead leg with vicious calf kicks. He did so while remaining on the outside and avoiding most of Felder’s heavy strikes. The New Zealand native Hooker impressed early, but Felder never wavered.
As the contest wore on, Felder’s continuous forward pressure never stopped and his left hook began to land solidly. Felder looked to be the fresher fighter in the final minutes.
A late takedown from Hooker may have given him the final round and possibly the victory; since the outcome was a split decision.
After being awarded the victory, Hooker did something few lightweights have the guts to do: call out the red-hot Justin Gaethje. A fight between Hooker and Gaethje would be a barnburner and must-watch TV. It also makes sense to do, with Gaethje awaiting his next opponent and Hooker coming off a big victory.
Admittedly, it was a bit upsetting to see Paul Felder possibly hang up the gloves after a narrow loss. Still, it is undeniable that the main event was a display of skill, toughness and heart from both fighters.
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