BJ Penn wasn’t the only UFC legend that announced his retirement on Sunday. Prior to The Ultimate Fighter 19 Finale, inaugural UFC Lightweight Champion (and TUF 5 coach) Jens Pulver announced that he’s also calling it quits. was also hanging up the gloves. During an interview with MMA Heat, Pulver said:
“I did (compete at) 135 for a bit, and everyone was saying ‘time to retire’, this and that, and I just refused to announce it or say it, but I think I’ve said it like three times already today I’m done. I mean, I’m done.”
“I think most people are like ‘I thought you were done like 5 years ago?'”, he joked. “I’ve got two guys that I’ve started coaching. My two-time national champion is unreal. I’m having a blast doing it. I’m back in Iowa, and I’m training with the old Miletich camp and I’m going to start being a coach there. That aspect I of course love.”
As for what’s next for Lil’ Evil, he’s interestd in doing MMA commentary and spending more time with his family.
“I want to commentate. I got to do Cage Warriors, and I get to do that again in Ireland on August. I love commentating. You know me, I love to talk. It’s the best seat in the house, and you get to have opinions, I love it!” he continued, “I would love to continue doing that, but above all, I want to raise my kids. Be around with my kids, and be a better dad than my dad was.”
He also commented on his longtime friend and training partner Pat Miletich being inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.
“I think it’s about time. I’m glad. Everybody is like ‘no, you need to be in it!’, I’m like ‘no, Pat needed to be in there’. I’m glad for him,” he said, “He’s my older brother, and this takes me back to when we started this all, this crazy journey. To see him there get his retirement and get his dues in the UFC, it’s cool. I’m trying not to cry.”
