Former NFL linebacker Anthony Wint is entering the octagon.
Wint, who was with the Jets in 2018, is attempting to earn a UFC contract on Dana White’s Contender Series in August, ESPN reported Saturday.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity,” Wint told ESPN. “I feel like I’m arriving at a point in my career where preparation and timing are finally meeting. I’m still just scratching the surface. I’ve spent years developing not only as a fighter, but as a man mentally, spiritually and professionally.
“I respect everybody in this sport, but I truly believe I’m built for the highest level. The goal isn’t just to win fights. It’s to leave a mark and become someone people remember long after I’m done competing. Some people would say it’s better to go straight to the UFC, but I love the opportunity to perform in front of UFC CEO Dana White and earn it. My plan is to walk in there and become an overnight star.”
Wint (6-0) is set to face off against Matt Adams (6-2) at Meta Apex in Las Vegas on Aug. 11.
The 30-year-old made his amateur MMA debut in 2021. He has recorded finishes in five of his six appearances, four of which were by knockout.
Wint also won a heavyweight title on the regional scene in March in Fury FC.
He played in two games for the Jets in 2018, forcing a fumble and recording one tackle.
Wint is not the only ex-football player who will be fighting at Meta Apex in the coming months, with former Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel fighting social media star Bob Menery at the venue on May 23.
White, the president and CEO of UFC, will be hosting the event. He previously said he would bet $10,000 on Menery flaking out on the fight.
“Menery hits me up and says, ‘Who are you betting on?’ I said, ‘I’m betting on you don’t even show up, that’s my bet,’” White said on Instagram in April.
“Menery never does anything he says he’s going to do,” White added. “There’s no way 49 percent of people believe in Bob Menery and that he’s going to show up.”
