Cody Garbrandt believes the conversation about life after fighting deserves more attention, especially after Dustin Poirier’s recent arrest and emotional comments about retirement.
The former UFC bantamweight champion said Poirier’s situation reminded him of the challenges many fighters face once their careers come to an end.
Garbrandt calls for better retirement support
With his own career entering its later stages, Garbrandt admitted to MMA Junkie that he has started thinking about what comes next.
“I don’t know how many years I have left in the sport, but I pray that God lets me stay healthy, intact, and I can leave on my own terms,”
He believes many fighters are forced to compete because they need the money and wants the UFC to offer more long-term support.
“I wish the UFC did a little more in helping us out with that: healthcare, insurance, 401K.”
Garbrandt defends Poirier after public criticism
Garbrandt also came to Poirier’s defense following the former interim lightweight champion’s public apology after his airport arrest.
“I feel for Dustin. I get choked up just thinking about it because he’s such a good dude,”
“People are just ridiculing him in the media for one slip up he had.”
Garbrandt believes Poirier should be remembered for everything he has accomplished inside and outside the Octagon rather than one mistake.