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Alabama in the Pros

Ex-Tide LB Eryk Anders signs with Bellator

Former Alabama linebacker Eryk Anders defeats Jesse Grun during MMA's Valor Fights 37: Photo courtesy of Anders

The grind in being a mixed martial arts fighter is paying off for Eryk Anders.

On Thursday, Anders signed with Bellator. The deal was inked shortly after he became 5-0 as a professional. Bellator, an MMA company, was founded in 2008 by Chairman and CEO Bjorn Rebney.

Anders joins the team as a middleweight and will fight for them on Oct. 21 in Memphis, Tenn.

anders

Former Alabama linebacker Eryk Anders signs contract with Bellator MMA company: Photo courtesy of Anders’ Facebook

His match can be seen on Spike TV. Prior to MMA, Anders spent four seasons at the University of Alabama as a jack linebacker (2006-09). He recorded a crucial strip sack of Texas’ quarterback Garrett Gilbert in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game (2009 season), securing a 37-21 win.

Alabama - Texas 2009 - Anders Fumble

Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.

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Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

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