The problem with these people is, not only that they are delusonal,and in major denial,but their despair comes from the fact, that deep down they gotta know the reason for this humiliating defeat is staring at them in the mirror, and they just cant face it!
From the direct interactions I have had with them I just don't see them as being introspective. They are victims and victims are always powerless and at the mercy of others. They cannot compete effectively so they revert to dragging their opponent down to their level in order to make themselves equal. This is one reason they are so bent on 'equality' and 'fairness'.