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Over 317 NHL games, Brian McGrattan was one of the most feared fighters in the hockey. He’s in the American Hockey League now with the San Diego Gulls, affiliate of the Anaheim Ducks, and he’s still making a living with his fists. No matter the level, no matter the code that is supposed to protect them, an enforcer’s trade is a dangerous one.

That danger came to fruition Wednesday night in a game against the San Antonio Rampage when McGrattan squared up with defenseman Daniel Maggio. The two traded punches, but it was Maggio who landed a heavy right, dropping McGrattan. In an awful scene, McGrattan appeared to lose consciousness and landed face first onto the frozen surface, compounding an already troubling situation for the 34-year-old.

This video of the incident was taken from the stands. It's not easy to watch:

Medical staff from both teams arrived to McGrattan’s aid very quickly, running with the assistance of the players on skates. Though it is not in the video, McGrattan was stretchered off the ice.

Sadly, the home fans continued to cheer wildly and ring cowbells as McGrattan laid motionless on the ice.

The news later from the Gulls was about as good as one could expect in this situation:

McGrattan has been doing in the AHL what got him into the NHL and kept him there for nine seasons. He has 94 penalty minutes in just 36 games with the Gulls. So few true enforcers remain in the NHL and the role is being phased out at other levels, but McGrattan is still going.

He’s an interesting story, fighting his way to the top level of the sport. However, he also has had to overcome alcoholism, which he managed to do with rehab. He is one of the true success stories of the NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program and often talks to other players dealing with similar issues.

This could be the last season in pro hockey for the 6-foot-4, 235 pound forward. To see an injury like this happen at this stage of his career is certainly concerning.

Update: McGrattan wanted everyone to know he is doing better the day after this fight:

This was a scary scene in the AHL Tuesday night. (YouTube)
This was a scary scene in the AHL Tuesday night. (YouTube)