Report: Greg Hardy to make pro MMA debut, could sign contract with UFC

Greg Hardy has been committed to carving out a career in mixed martial arts since his NFL career infamously fell apart, and it sounds like he is a step closer to accomplishing his goal.

ESPN’s Brett Okamoto reports that Hardy, who is 3-0 in amateur MMA fights, has booked a heavyweight fight for June 12 on the “Dana White Tuesday Night Contender Series.” The event features several live fights in Las Vegas, and at least one fighter is offered a multi-fight deal with the UFC when it’s over.

Hardy will reportedly face Brandon Sayles, who is 5-1 and has not lost a fight since 2012.

Hardy, 29, has not totally given up on his pro football career, as he is currently signed with the Richmond Roughriders of the American Arena League. He was once one of the best pass-rushers in the NFL until disturbing details of his domestic violence case were released, which basically made him untouchable to NFL teams. Hardy was also arrested for possession of cocaine more recently, but he says he is not giving up on playing football or becoming a UFC champion.