Paul Felder has officially re-entered the UFC’s anti-doping program, a necessary step for him to potentially make a return from retirement, and if he passes the required drug testing, he could be cleared to compete in April 2024.
Paul Felder, a veteran lightweight and current UFC color commentator, has taken a significant step towards a possible return from retirement by officially entering the UFC’s anti-doping program. According to online records, Felder underwent his first drug test in October, submitting a single sample for collection. As per the program’s rules, Felder will need to undergo six months of drug testing before being cleared to compete again. Therefore, if all goes well, he could potentially make a comeback in April 2024.
Although Felder had previously announced his reentry into the anti-doping program, he had not yet decided whether he would actually compete again. However, he has been training more regularly, indicating a possible return to the Octagon. Felder mentions that he went through the program “just in case [he does end up fighting again],” acknowledging his age but remaining open to the idea of facing other fighters in the future.
After suffering back-to-back split decision losses to Dan Hooker and Rafael dos Anjos, Felder retired in 2021. Despite earning Fight of the Night bonuses in both fights, he chose to shift his focus to his broadcasting responsibilities at the UFC and his acting career in shows like HBO’s Hacks. However, with his reentry into the anti-doping program, Felder has taken the necessary steps to pave the way for his potential return to the octagon following the required six months of testing.
By rejoining the UFC’s anti-doping program and committing to the necessary testing procedures, Paul Felder has demonstrated his renewed commitment to his fighting career. While there is no scheduled fight at the moment, it is clear that Felder is enjoying his training and leaving the door open to future opportunities to compete. MMA fans and pundits will be eagerly anticipating any updates regarding Felder’s potential comeback and the possibility of his return to the lightweight division.