Anthony Smith, a UFC fighter, engages in risky activities outside of the cage because he struggles with the inactivity and lack of a target to pursue in his personal life, and he believes that all successful athletes face an identity crisis once they reach the top.
Anthony Smith, a UFC fighter, seeks risky activities outside of cage-fighting to fill the void in between fights. He enjoys off-roading and celebrity bull-riding for an adrenaline rush, but also stays busy with media obligations. Smith empathizes with fighters who struggle with inactivity after finding success, particularly champion fighters who have fewer opportunities to compete.
Smith plans to transition into a career in broadcasting and media once he retires from MMA. However, the idea of retiring is “terrifying” for him, as he’s unsure of how to cope with it. He believes fighters are better at chasing goals, as they have spent years making sacrifices and focusing solely on their careers.
Life outside the cage presents a challenge for athletes who have dedicated themselves so fully to their sport. Smith says, “You have to focus for so many years, and you have to just dial in on this one thing, and it has to become who you are, and you make a lot of sacrifices.” This intense focus can make it difficult for athletes to transition to a different lifestyle once their competitive careers are over. Smith’s solution to this identity crisis is to immerse himself in broadcasting and media once he retires.