BJ Penn: 5 Things We Learned About the Prodigy at UFC 137

BJ Penn entered the Octagon at UFC 137 to take on one of the most dangerous strikers in mixed martial arts today—Nick Diaz.

Diaz outlasted Penn and captured the unanimous decision victory for his 11th straight victory.

Despite the losing effort in what might be the last fight of his career, Penn taught us a few things.

The following slides display five things we learned about the Prodigy from UFC 137.

Let's take a look.

He Can Still Hang'

Despite coming up short to Diaz in UFC 137's main event, Penn showed signs his former self.

Penn came out and captured Round 1 by overwhelming Diaz with vicious strikes and uppercuts.

Even in the third and final round, when Penn was all but gassed, he remained in the fight, swinging for the fences, warrior style.

He's (still) Unconditioned

There aren't many things BJ Penn can be criticized for, as he's come to be one of the greatest fighters of all time.

But, Penn's conditioning is an exception.

Once again, it was Penn's lack of conditioning that proved to be the determining factor in his loss.

He's Still Classy

While we've all heard Penn call out his fair share of fighters over the years, when it really comes down to it, Penn's a class act.

Even after being disrespected at the pre-fight weigh-ins, Penn showed Diaz the respect he deserved following the decision.

All jokes aside, beneath his sarcasm is a man with a good heart.

He Doesn't Belong in the Welterweight Division

After losing his lightweight championship to Frankie Edgar, Penn made the transition back to the welterweight division.

Since jumping back to the 170-pound weight class, Penn has posted a subpar 1-1-1 record with his only win coming against Matt Hughes at UFC 123.

While Penn may be able to hang with the mid-tier welterweights, he's no longer a legitimate contender.

He's Retiring

Following his fight with Diaz, BJ Penn was asked what was next on his agenda by UFC color commentator Joe Rogan.

Penn responded by stating he does not want to continue going home to his daughter looking so bruised and batter, and that this would be his last fight, retiring from the UFC.

As hard as it may be to believe, it may be best for Penn to go out now, so as not ruin his great legacy.