Johnny Manziel Set To Make Boxing Debut This Month

As college football legend continues to try and find new things to do in his post-playing career, he's primed to begin a new venture later this month: Boxing.

On Wednesday, Brand Risk Promotions announced that Manziel will take on Bob Menery on May 23 at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas for their 14th live event. The event will be streamed on multiple major outlets including YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, Kick and X.

It will be the boxing debut for Manziel and will serve as the main event for the show.

Manziel will be the second ex-NFL player to fight for the brand. Last year, former Pro Bowl running back Le'Veon Bell fought and defeated Supah Hot Fire.

Combat sports have become notable second career for some NFL players in recent years. Notable examples of stars who went into combat sports include Greg Hardy, Frank Gore and Adrian Peterson.

The Rise and Fall of Johnny Manziel

Manziel rose to fame as one of the most electrifying (and polarizing) players in college football history. After arriving at Texas A&M University, Manziel exploded onto the national scene in 2012 with his dual-threat ability and high-energy playmaking. Nicknamed "Johnny Football," he became the first freshman ever to win the Heisman Trophy after leading Texas A&M to a breakout season that included a signature upset victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide football. His celebrity status quickly grew beyond sports, fueled by highlight-reel performances, media attention, endorsements, and a party-boy image that made him one of the most talked-about athletes in America.

Manziel's NFL career, however, unraveled quickly after the Cleveland Browns selected him in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Struggles with preparation, inconsistent play, off-field controversies, and substance abuse issues derailed his development as a professional quarterback. He started only a limited number of games in Cleveland before being released in 2016 amid mounting concerns about his behavior and personal life.

In later years, Manziel openly discussed his battles with mental health and addiction, while attempting football comebacks in leagues such as the CFL and the Alliance of American Football. His story became a cautionary tale about fame, pressure, and unrealized potential.

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This story was originally published May 9, 2026 at 8:55 PM.