Former Cowboys, Panthers DE Greg Hardy knocked out in pro boxing bout

Greg Hardy might not have the same touch inside the boxing ring as he once did. The former NFL lineman was knocked out in a recent boxing bout against Alexander Flores.

Hardy was knocked to the canvas twice in the 17th of 18 rounds in a Team Combat League event on Friday. Eventually, he was knocked out, suffering his first pro boxing loss.

Previously, Hardy owned a 2-0 record outside of the TCL.

Yoooo former football player Greg hardy got knocked out 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/hMg2bEfdpr

— Shannonnn sharpes Burner (PARODY Account) (@shannonsharpeee) June 3, 2023

After the fight, Hardy commented on TCL’s official Instagram page that highlighted the fight.

“Good stuff by the big man, and I enjoy the league but get a better head line guys lol lets be sports man lol can’t wait to get another shot,” Hardy wrote. “Here to learn and excited about doing work with real killers. No excuses and congrats to LA. Hands down, Man down.”

The Instagram headline Hardy referenced read, “The bigger they are, the harder they fall.”

Since his final NFL season in 2015, Hardy has dabbled in a variety of fighting leagues. He pursued careers in UFC and boxing. But success has eluded the former NFL star in this realm recently.

Hardy has lost each of his last three MMA fights via knockout. He was also knocked out earlier this year in a Bare Knuckle Boxing bout against Josh Watson.

Making the transition from the NFL to the UFC or boxing realm isn’t the most uncommon path, and Hardy found success early in his career. Recently, though? It’s not been smooth sailing for the ex-Ole Miss standout.

Greg Hardy played last NFL game in 2015

Hardy spent a majority of his NFL career with the Carolina Panthers, suiting up for the team from 2010-14. He earned his lone Pro Bowl selection in 2013 after tallying 59 total tackles and recording 15 sacks.

In 2014, Hardy faced serious domestic violence allegations and played in just one game for the Panthers. Before the 2015 campaign, the defensive end signed with the Dallas Cowboys.

Because of violations against the NFL’s Code of Conduct policies, Hardy faced a 10-game suspension. Eventually, that number was dropped to four and he played in 12 games for the Cowboys that year.

Because of his off-field troubles and issues with the Dallas coaching staff, the Cowboys opted not to resign Hardy following the 2015 season. He ended his career with 238 tackles, 40 sacks and eight forced fumbles.