Cage fighting, also known as mixed martial arts (MMA), is an intense and demanding sport. Many fighters devote their lives to training and competing in the cage. However, after years of battling in the octagon, some of the most famous cage fighters have decided to pursue new careers outside the sport. In this article, we’ll take a look at a few fighters who successfully transitioned to new paths after their MMA careers.

1. Randy Couture – Hollywood Star
Randy Couture is one of the most successful and respected fighters in the history of MMA. A two-time UFC Hall of Famer, Couture was a champion in both the light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. However, after retiring from the cage, he decided to try a career in acting.
Couture found success in Hollywood, starring in films such as The Expendables series, Redbelt, and Escape Plan. He also appeared in several TV shows and documentaries. His transition from the cage to the big screen showed that MMA fighters can make a successful move into acting, leveraging their fame and athletic background.
2. Brock Lesnar – WWE Superstar
Brock Lesnar is another famous cage fighter who changed careers. After dominating the world of professional wrestling in WWE, Lesnar moved to MMA and became a UFC heavyweight champion. His skills inside the octagon earned him a reputation as one of the most powerful fighters in the sport.
However, after a successful run in MMA, Lesnar decided to return to the WWE, where he became one of the biggest stars in sports entertainment. His career change didn’t surprise many, as he had already made a name for himself in both wrestling and MMA. Today, Lesnar continues to compete in WWE, showing that fighters can make successful transitions between different types of sports entertainment.
3. Conor McGregor – Business Mogul
Conor McGregor is one of the most well-known names in MMA history. Known for his brash personality and incredible fighting skills, McGregor became the first fighter in UFC history to hold two championship belts simultaneously. While McGregor is still active in MMA, he has expanded his career beyond the cage.
McGregor launched his whiskey brand, Proper No. Twelve, which quickly gained popularity. Additionally, he’s involved in various business ventures, including clothing lines and fitness programs. His success in business shows that a famous fighter can build a brand and make millions outside of the sport. McGregor has proven that MMA is just one part of his career journey.
4. Chuck Liddell – Entrepreneur and Businessman
Chuck Liddell, also known as “The Iceman,” was one of the most popular fighters in the early days of the UFC. He was known for his aggressive fighting style and knockout power, and he became a UFC Hall of Famer. However, after retiring from fighting, Liddell transitioned into business and entrepreneurship.
Liddell has invested in various companies, including businesses related to fitness, energy drinks, and merchandise. He also works as a commentator and trainer, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger fighters. Liddell’s shift from fighter to businessman shows that MMA athletes can find success in other industries after their fighting careers end.
5. Gina Carano – Actress and Producer
Gina Carano was one of the pioneers of women’s MMA and became a fan favorite due to her toughness and fighting abilities. Carano had a successful run in MMA, competing in various promotions, including Strikeforce. However, she eventually decided to leave MMA and pursue a career in acting.
Carano found success in Hollywood, starring in action films such as Haywire, Fast & Furious 6, and Deadpool. She also appeared in TV shows like The Mandalorian. Her career change from fighter to actress showed that MMA athletes have the potential to succeed in mainstream entertainment, using their athletic background and popularity to open new doors.
6. Tito Ortiz – Politician and Businessman
Tito Ortiz is another fighter who changed careers after his time in the cage. Ortiz was one of the most successful and controversial fighters in UFC history, known for his brash personality and aggressive style. After retiring from MMA, Ortiz shifted his focus to politics and business.
He became involved in local politics, running for a position on the Huntington Beach City Council in California. Ortiz has also worked as a businessman, launching several ventures related to fitness and sports. His career path shows that fighters can transition to public service and business, using their platform and experience to influence others outside the sport.
Conclusion
The world of MMA has produced some incredible athletes, and many of these fighters have gone on to achieve great success outside of the cage. Whether they’ve ventured into acting, business, or even politics, these famous cage fighters prove that life after MMA can be just as rewarding. Their careers show that with hard work and dedication, a fighter can transition to a new path and thrive in new industries. If you’re a fan of MMA, it’s exciting to see where these athletes will go next!