Former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel will return to the spotlight in a sanctioned boxing match against social media influencer Bob Menery on May 23, 2026, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The bout, which serves as the main event for Brand Risk Promotions’ BRP14 card, marks a surprising transition into combat sports for the 33-year-old former Heisman Trophy winner. The event is set for 8:00 PM PST and will be broadcast free across multiple streaming platforms, including Kick and YouTube.
The matchup stems from a long-standing tension between the two figures that reportedly began during their involvement in Fan Controlled Football. Johnny Manziel, who played for the Zappers in that league, has had a volatile public relationship with Bob Menery, a comedian and podcast host who previously held an ownership stake in one of the league’s teams. While some observers have questioned the authenticity of their “beef,” the rivalry has gained enough traction to lure UFC CEO Dana White into the promotion of the spectacle.
Dana White has become a central figure in the lead-up to the fight, offering his meta-commentary on Bob Menery’s reliability. The UFC boss famously wagered $10,000 that Menery would fail to show up for the fight, citing the influencer’s history of unfulfilled commitments. White’s involvement has lent a layer of corporate legitimacy to the Brand Risk Promotions event, as the UFC Apex—typically reserved for professional MMA bouts—will host the influencer-led card for the first time.
Johnny Manziel transitions from gridiron to the boxing ring
For Johnny Manziel, this fight represents the latest chapter in a career defined by massive highs and well-documented struggles. After winning the Heisman Trophy at Texas A&M in 2012, Manziel was selected 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns in 2014. However, his NFL tenure lasted just two seasons, hampered by inconsistent play and off-field addiction issues. Since leaving the NFL in 2015, Manziel has remained a fixture in the public eye through stints in the CFL and alternative football leagues.
His move into boxing follows a broader trend of retired professional athletes testing their mettle in the ring. While Manziel does not appear on any lists of the most dangerous boxers in 2026, his name recognition remains a powerful draw for digital audiences. The 33-year-old has reportedly been training for the physical demands of a boxing match, though neither Manziel nor Menery has professional experience in the sport.
The “Johnny Football” narrative, which was explored in depth in a 2023 documentary, continues to evolve as he seeks a new competitive outlet. Analysts suggest that while his technique remains an unknown variable, his natural athleticism could give him a distinct advantage over the 38-year-old Menery. The fight serves as an entry point into the lucrative world of exhibition boxing that has recently seen heavyweights and influencers alike find massive commercial success.
Streaming logistics and the BRP14 full fight card
The event is a production of Brand Risk Promotions, founded by popular Kick streamer Adin Ross. Unlike traditional pay-per-view boxing events, BRP14 will be available for free. Fans can watch the action via Kick, YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, and X. This distribution model aims to capture the largest possible digital audience, pivoting away from the gate-driven revenue models typical of Las Vegas boxing cards.
The undercard features a heavy leaning toward celebrity and influencer matchups, including a co-main event MMA bout between professional musician Ray J and viral personality Supah Hot Fire. As the boxing business continues to grapple with fallout from traditional promotional structures, these influencer-led events are carving out a significant niche. Below is the confirmed bout list for the evening.
- Johnny Manziel vs. Bob Menery (Boxing Main Event)
- Ray J vs. Supah Hot Fire (MMA Co-main Event)
- Flyy Soulja vs. Jeremy Smith
- No Neck Jay vs. Shane Chance
- Dom The Troll vs. Tommy Tough Knuckles
- Sean Garcia vs. Scam Likely
- Antonio Williams vs. Haskell Rhodes Jr.
- Gabe Silva vs. Malcolm Peck
- AP The Fighter vs. Ethan Stern
- Andrew Garcia vs. Deshawn Prather
- Britton Norwood vs. Alvin Varmall Jr.
Betting markets and Dana White’s skepticism
Despite the official scheduling, skepticism remains regarding whether the fight will actually take place as planned. Prediction markets like Polymarket have tracked the likelihood of the event, with Bob Menery’s “show up” probability fluctuating wildly. Initially dipping as low as 49% after Dana White’s public doubts, the market now gives the influencer an 85% chance of stepping into the ring on May 23.
Dana White’s vocal criticism of Menery has become a primary marketing tool for the event. “Menery never does anything he says he’s going to do,” White stated during a recent appearance. However, the UFC CEO has promised to attend the event in person if Menery successfully makes the walk to the ring. This dynamic has turned a celebrity exhibition into a high-stakes test of reputation for the host of the “Full Send” podcast.
The outcome of this boxing venture could dictate future athletic opportunities for Johnny Manziel. If he performs well, he may join the ranks of other former players who have found a second life in combat sports. Regardless of the technical display, the intersection of NFL stardom and social media influence ensures that eyes will be on the UFC Apex this Friday night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where and when can I watch the Johnny Manziel vs. Bob Menery fight?
The fight is scheduled for Friday, May 23, 2026, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada. The broadcast begins at 8:00 PM PST (11:00 PM ET) and will be streamed live and for free on YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, X, and Adin Ross’s Kick channel.
Why are Johnny Manziel and Bob Menery fighting?
The two have a storied rivalry dating back to their time in Fan Controlled Football, where Menery was part-owner of a team Manziel played for. Their relationship soured over a series of public interviews and personal disagreements, eventually leading to this sanctioned boxing match promoted by Brand Risk Promotions.
Is this a professional boxing match or an exhibition?
While the event is hosted at the UFC Apex and promoted by Brand Risk Promotions, it is considered an influencer/celebrity boxing match. Neither Johnny Manziel nor Bob Menery has a professional boxing record, though the event follows standard boxing timing and rules under the BRP14 banner.
