Steven Bartlett Explores the ‘Second Death’ of Retirement for Elite Athletes

In a recent LinkedIn post, Steven Bartlett explores the profound psychological challenges faced by elite athletes transitioning out of their professional careers, particularly focusing on the concept of a “second death” that occurs after retirement.

Bartlett, host of the popular podcast “The Diary Of A CEO,” shared insights from a conversation with MMA fighter Dustin Poirier, highlighting the immense void left when the structure and identity built over decades of intense competition suddenly disappear. Poirier, who spent nearly twenty years as a professional fighter, including significant UFC bouts and an interim world title win, is now navigating life after his fighting career has concluded.

“If you’re lucky, you get to die twice.”

This striking line, shared by Poirier, encapsulates the core of the issue Bartlett is examining. As Steven Bartlett explains, the first death refers to the retirement itself, where the persona of the elite athlete is shed, and the individual must confront who they are without that defining role. This transition, Bartlett suggests, is often far more difficult than anticipated.

The Identity Crisis of Retirement

Steven Bartlett delves into how the identity of an elite athlete is deeply intertwined with their sport. For Poirier, fighting was not just a career but the primary vehicle for channeling anger and aggression, stemming from a fragmented relationship with his father. The sudden absence of this structured outlet and the loss of the fighter persona can lead to significant personal turmoil.

According to Steven Bartlett, the cessation of a high-pressure career like professional fighting leaves a void that can be hard to fill. He notes that this loss of identity doesn’t excuse mistakes made during the transition, but it does shed light on the inherent fragility of such career changes.

“I just wanna dream again.”

This quote from Poirier, as shared by Bartlett, underscores a desire to recapture a sense of purpose and passion beyond the competitive arena. Bartlett points out that for many athletes, the structure and discipline of their sport provide a roadmap for life, and its absence can make navigating personal challenges, such as the role of alcohol, particularly dangerous.

Beyond the Octagon: Broader Implications

While the discussion centers on MMA fighter Dustin Poirier, Steven Bartlett emphasizes that the themes are universally applicable. He argues that the experience of losing a defining identity is not exclusive to athletes but affects anyone whose life has been overwhelmingly shaped by a singular pursuit.

The Long-Term Costs and Lack of Support

Bartlett also touches upon the more serious, long-term consequences of a career in contact sports, including brain trauma and the potential for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). He highlights a critical gap in support systems for retired fighters, stating that there is often no clear roadmap for their transition into civilian life.

“This isn’t just about fighting. It’s about what happens to anyone when the thing that defined them is suddenly gone.”

This sentiment, articulated by Steven Bartlett, serves as the central thesis of his post. He frames the conversation as an exploration of the “good, the bad AND the human” aspects of life transitions, underscoring the need for greater understanding and support for individuals navigating such profound changes, regardless of their field.

The post also briefly mentions Poirier’s recent arrest and his ongoing work with The Good Fight Foundation, illustrating the multifaceted nature of his post-retirement journey.