UFC on Fuel TV 6: Why Rich Franklin Should Retire After Embarrassment in China

Rich Franklin was embarrassed by Cung Le in Macau, China on Nov. 10 during the UFC on Furl TV 6 main event. Le knocked out the American striking specialist just two minutes and 17 seconds into the first round.

As a result, the former UFC Middleweight champion would be best served to retire now and move on to a different role within the sport. He could make a transition to training or go back to coaching in the Ultimate Fighter.

Whatever he does, he shouldn’t get back into the Octagon.

Still, it’s tough to advocate retirement after an embarrassment like the one he suffered in China, but what’s the alternative? Sure, losing hurts and he would like to get back out there and make up for it but what’s the point if it ends in more embarrassment?

Another loss like this would do nothing but tarnish the impressive career of the Cincinnati native.

Franklin’s clearly lost the competitive edge that could have taken him to a title shot with middleweight champ Anderson Silva. Besides, we’ve already seen the ending to that book. Silva dominates, retains title, etc.

And, let’s face it, the only Silva Franklin has been able to beat and could beat still is Wanderlei.

That’s nothing to call home to mom about.

The biggest reason why Franklin should bow out of the Octagon now is that there aren’t really any avenues he could pursue that would end in him gaining another title before he retires. It’s a low-probability, even if he moves back up to the light heavyweight division, that he’d even be able to get a shot let alone win the title.

What’s the point then for the 38-year-old striker?

Hopefully, Franklin won’t be the guy who keeps fighting well past his prime. He’s had a heck of a career and should hang up the gloves and go out with some dignity.

Mike Hoag Jr. is a Breaking News Team writer and NFL featured columnist for Bleacher Report. Follow him on Twitter:

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