From the Gridiron to the Cage

[MasterShake]

Battle of former NFL players is in the works for the undercard of EliteXC’s debut show on CBS on Saturday, May 31 in Newark, N.J.

Multiple sources have revealed exclusively to FiveOuncesOfPain.com (Five Ounces of Pain | Your Destination for Insider MMA News and Opinion) that event organizers are currently trying to line up an opponent for a proposed match involving former Steelers and Jets All-Pro offensive tackle Carlton Haselrig.

Haselrig, whose football career was cut short due to injuries and off-the-field issues, made his professional MMA debut on April 10 during a Battle Cage Xtreme show in Atlantic City, N.J. The former college wrestling standout recorded a first round TKO over former IFL heavyweight fighter Shane Ott in what was billed as the evening’s main event.

EliteXC wanted to put together a “Jets vs. Giants” themed match involving the 42-year old Haselrig and heavyweight prospect Bobby Jones. Jones, a recent signing by EliteXC, played offensive line for one season with the Giants. Despite already being under contract to the promotion, he was unable to accept the match due to a neck injury.

Several alternatives are being considered with the most notable being former Giants fullback Jarrod Bunch. If Haselrig and Bunch are signed for the fight, it will not be the first time Bunch has squared off against another former football player, as he submitted to a rear naked choke by former Washington wide receiver Michael Westbrook during a King of the Cage card in 2005

I wish him the best but I think he is a little to old to just be starting in MMA, if he fights some legit competition he could be in serious trouble.

[gogoplata]

LOL who cares? lets watch some 40 something get his head beaten in! With all of the younger, fresher, more educated up and comers in MMA I see this as money at the dumpster promotions. Why isnt some MMA scouts scouring south america and asia for the next young Fedor/Bruce Lee/Couture/Gracie Hybrid?

[Lord Faust]

Considering how much of a meat-grinder the NFL is, I don't know if this is such a good idea. Football players sustain A LOT of injuries; hopefully this guy is healthy and has some kind of combat background to supplement his late start in the game.

I wish the best for anyone with the balls to step in the cage. I don't think it will go so well for him, though...