Paul Felder (photo via UFC / YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Following Paul Felder’s thrilling war, and loss to Dan Hooker at UFC Auckland, the rugged vet said he was thinking about retiring. But, Felder’s manager is reporting “Th Irish Dragon” ultimately told him he’s not ready to retire just yet.

Felder faced Hooker in the main event, and the lightweights slugged it out for five rounds. After the competitive battle, Hooker was awarded the split decision win. In his post-fight interview, Felder said he might retire, on account of his family responsibilities. But, since then, Felder’s manager Brian Butler told MMA Junkie this:

“Paul will be back,” Butler said. “He said it to me in the back. … Emotions run high, but Paul knows he won that fight and is not hanging it up just yet.”

Felder’s coach, Duke Roufus, also reported this:

“His retirement comments were in the moment Paul’s not done.”

The 34-year-old Felder was coming off back-to-back wins heading into Saturday’s fight. His record now stands at 17-5.