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.
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.
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.
