Ex-NFL Star Greg Hardy’s Shocking Collapse in Boxing—What Really Happened in Round 3?

In a troubling incident during a boxing match in Vologda, Russia on November 28, 2025, former NFL player Greg Hardy experienced a significant asthma attack between rounds. The 37-year-old, who once made a name for himself as a Pro Bowl defensive end with the Carolina Panthers and Dallas Cowboys, was unable to continue his exhibition fight against MMA fighter Evgeny Goncharov.

Hardy, who played in the NFL from 2010 to 2015, has transitioned into fighting after his football career. He initially entered the UFC, participating in 13 bouts with a record of 7 wins, 5 losses, and 1 no contest, before making the switch to boxing in recent years. His match on Friday, however, took a concerning turn as he struggled to catch his breath and requested an inhaler while sitting in his corner, ultimately leading to the fight being stopped after the third round.

Former UFC fighter and NFL Player Greg Hardy collapses into his corner and retires at the end of Round 3 of his exhibition bout with Evgeny Goncharov in Vologda, Russia, with the American seen asking his corner for an inhaler pic.twitter.com/qaZHJ6nlKc

— Tokkerū (@ATokkers5) November 28, 2025

During the match, Hardy took several punches before doubling over in his corner, where on-site medical personnel rushed to his aid. His situation raised alarms not just about his health but also about the potential physical toll of transitioning from one high-intensity sport to another.

Hardy's fighting career has not been without controversy. Following his release from the Dallas Cowboys in 2016, he faced several legal troubles, including a June arrest for allegedly assaulting a family member—charges he has labeled as "lies and rumors." His past also includes a 2014 arrest for assaulting and threatening to kill a woman, which was initially convicted but later overturned on appeal the following year, as well as a cocaine possession charge in 2016.

Originally drafted as a sixth-round pick out of the University of Mississippi, Hardy made significant headlines during his NFL career, particularly for a standout 2013 season where he recorded 13 sacks and earned a trip to the Pro Bowl. Despite his athletic achievements, his post-NFL career has been marred by legal issues and the challenges of adapting to a new sport.

The ramifications of Hardy's asthma attack extend beyond just the ring. As more athletes transition between sports, particularly from football to MMA or boxing, the physical and mental demands can be profound. For someone like Hardy, who has faced both health challenges and legal issues, the path forward is fraught with complexity. The incident serves as a reminder of the rigorous demands placed on athletes, both in terms of physical conditioning and mental resilience. As Hardy continues to navigate his fighting career, many will be watching closely, not just for his performance but for his well-being and how he addresses these ongoing health concerns.