Former NFL quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel is set to enter the world of combat sports, making his boxing debut on May 23 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Manziel, 33, will face social media influencer Bob Menery in a highly anticipated bout.

The event is being promoted by Brand Risk Promotions, founded by Kick streamer Adin Ross, a company known for organizing boxing matches between celebrities and content creators. Initially, there were discussions that the fight might take place in Miami, but it was ultimately confirmed for the UFC Apex, a venue choice that is significant due to UFC CEO Dana White's keen interest in the matchup.

Dana White's involvement adds an intriguing layer to the event, given his previously tumultuous relationship with Bob Menery. White had publicly expressed skepticism, even betting $10,000 that Menery would back out of the fight. Now, White will host the very event featuring the influencer he once doubted.

Johnny Manziel's athletic career began with immense promise, starring as a quarterback at Texas A&M before being a first-round NFL draft pick for the Cleveland Browns in 2014. His NFL tenure, however, was brief, lasting only two years before he was cut by Cleveland in the 2016 offseason, having thrown for 1,675 yards and seven touchdowns. Following his NFL departure, Manziel continued to play in other football leagues, including the Canadian Football League. His story was also chronicled in the Netflix documentary "Johnny Football," which premiered in 2023.

The boxing match is expected to draw considerable attention, particularly as combat sports reporter Andreas Hale from ESPN will be covering the event. Hale, who covers MMA, boxing, and pro wrestling, brings extensive experience to the coverage, having previously been a senior writer at DAZN and Sporting News. He also has a background as a music journalist and is an NAACP Image Award-nominated filmmaker.