Johnny Football is trading the gridiron for the boxing ring. Former Texas A&M star and 2012 Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel is set to make his professional boxing debut on Saturday, May 23, in Las Vegas. The announcement, made by Brand Risk Promotions, pits the electrifying former quarterback against social media personality Bob Menery in the main event at UFC APEX.
Manziel, who took the college football world by storm as a redshirt freshman, led the SEC in completion percentage, rushing yards, and rushing touchdowns that season, becoming the first freshman ever to win the Heisman. While his numbers as a sophomore were arguably even better, a 5th-place Heisman finish couldn't dim the legacy of one of the sport's most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks.
Now, Manziel is channeling that athleticism into a new arena. A former Texas safety recruit who later spent time in the NFL and CFL, he was known for his quickness, elusiveness, and surprising strength. Those traits could translate well into a boxing ring, giving him both the ability to avoid damage and the power to land a significant blow.
His opponent, Bob Menery, is best known as the host of the Full Send Podcast. Interestingly, this isn't a first meeting for the two: Menery was an owner of the team Manziel played for in the now-defunct Fan Controlled Football league, adding a layer of familiarity to this unique matchup.
With the date set and the venue locked in, all eyes will be on Las Vegas this May to see if Johnny Football can land a knockout in his latest sporting chapter.
