Former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel is set to make his professional mixed‑martial‑arts debut on the evening of May 23, stepping into the cage against internet personality Bob Menery at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
Menery, who has built a following of 2.8 million on Instagram through comedic sketches and sport‑casting clips, is listed at 5‑9 and roughly 190 pounds, while Manziel stands 6‑0 and weighs about 205 pounds, giving the former quarterback a modest height and weight advantage.
The bout has been thrust into the spotlight by influencer Adin Ross, who is co‑promoting the event, and UFC President Dana White, who famously wagered $10,000 that Menery would not show up; the challenger duly arrived, turning the pre‑fight narrative into a headline.
Fans will be able to watch the fight live for free on both YouTube and Kick, with the stream hosted on Brand Risk 14 channels; the broadcast will feature amateur MMA rules, three rounds, and 6‑ounce gloves.
A Crossover Event Like No Other
The undercard adds another layer of intrigue, featuring former NBA forwards Michael Beasley and Lance Stephenson, both of whom bring size and athleticism to the cage — Beasley at 6‑9 and Stephenson at 6‑5 — in a separate MMA matchup.
Beyond the main attraction, the card includes a slate of additional contests, such as a showdown between Ray J and Supa Hot Fire, promising a night of crossover entertainment that blends sports, celebrity, and digital culture.
With the eyes of both traditional sports enthusiasts and the digital‑media crowd on them, the May 23 showdown could redefine how celebrity‑driven fights are packaged and consumed, setting a precedent for future collaborations between athletes, influencers, and combat‑sport promoters.