Former UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz has offered an insightful perspective on why so many fighters struggle to adapt to life after stepping away from competition.
Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Cruz explained that years of living as a professional fighter fundamentally changes a person’s outlook on life and purpose. He said:
“I think fighters get out and they go, ‘How are you guys all doing this?'”
The former champion added that the mentality works both ways, with fighters often struggling to understand how ordinary people live without the intensity of combat sports:
“You guys are all looking at fighters like, ‘How do you do that?’ And I’m looking at you guys like, ‘How do you not?'”
Cruz officially retired from MMA last year after an injury-plagued but legendary career that saw him become one of the greatest bantamweights in UFC history.
Since retirement, he has remained involved in the sport through commentary and analysis, admitting that staying connected to fighting has been crucial for his well-being. Cruz continued:
“I’m still doing it, but now I’m just not in the competition pool. It saved my life.”
Dustin Poirier’s recent struggles highlight Dominick Cruz’s point
Dominick Cruz’s comments come at a time when several former fighters have openly discussed the emotional difficulties of retirement.
Former interim UFC lightweight champion Dustin Poirier recently found himself in the headlines after being arrested at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. According to reports, Poirier got into an argument with airport security personnel after being removed from a Delta flight due to claims of public intoxication.
Following the incident, ‘The Diamond‘ publicly apologized and admitted that adjusting to life after retirement has been difficult. The former title challenger revealed that he had been struggling mentally since ending his career and acknowledged that he needed help.
Poirier’s situation has reignited conversations regarding the lack of structure many fighters experience once competition ends. After spending decades preparing for fights, making weight, and chasing championships, retirement often leaves athletes searching for a new sense of purpose.
‘The Dominator’ believes this challenge is unique to combat sports because fighting becomes deeply ingrained in a competitor’s identity. He concluded:
“I don’t know how anybody lives life without fighting somebody in the morning.”
Check out Dominick Cruz’s comments below:
While the quote may sound extreme, it perfectly encapsulates the mentality of elite fighters.
As more athletes continue to speak openly about the realities of retirement, discussions surrounding mental health and post-career support in MMA are becoming increasingly important. Cruz’s comments serve as another reminder that for many fighters, the toughest battles often begin after they leave the cage.
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