Photo by Mike Roach/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
According to a report from ESPN, Paul Felder is set to make his return to mixed martial arts (MMA) to take on Rafael dos Anjos in the main event of UFC Vegas 14, set to go down this Saturday night (Nov. 14, 2020) in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“RDA” was originally set up to face Islam Makhachev before a staph infection forced the Russian-born fighter out of the ESPN+-streamed event, which will go down inside UFC APEX. And after Michael Chandler turned down dos Anjos’ attempts to get him to step in, UFC matchmakers turned to a familiar face.
Felder hasn’t competed since losing a split-decision to Dan Hooker this past February in what was an absolute dog fight (see it here), snapping his two fight win streak in the process. “The Irish Dragon” teased retirement shortly thereafter, but ultimately opted to remain an active fighter as long as the right opportunity came along.
And it seems a five-round Lightweight showdown against the former division champion on five days notice was the perfect opportunity.
While on hiatus from fighting, Felder has been staying busy as a member of UFC’s broadcast team, calling several fights in Abu Dhabi, even taking the time to corner a friend in the middle of his duties.
It seems the legend of Paul Felder is about to get a whole lot bigger, especially if he can score a big win against dos Anjos.