Johnny Manziel wins amateur MMA debut against Bob Menery in 2:15
Former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel defeated social media influencer Bob Menery by TKO in the first round of an amateur MMA bout at Brand Risk 14 on May 23, 2026. The fight took place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
nypost.comJohnny Manziel defeated Bob Menery by technical knockout at 2:15 of the first round in an amateur mixed martial arts bout on May 23, 2026. The 205-pound fight headlined Brand Risk 14 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Manziel secured a takedown early, moved to mount position, and landed strikes that prompted the referee to stop the contest.
Manziel, a former NFL quarterback and 2012 Heisman Trophy winner, received an honorary belt after the victory. He told Menery, “Respected you for getting in here. ”
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Promoter Adin Ross moved the show to Las Vegas after receiving approval from UFC CEO Dana White. White had publicly placed a $10,000 bet that Menery would not appear.
Attendees included musician Chris Brown, Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, and UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- May 23, 2026
Johnny Manziel defeated Bob Menery by TKO at 2:15 of Round 1.
1 sourcenypost.com - May 23, 2026
Dana White publicly placed a $10,000 bet that Menery would not appear.
1 sourcenypost.com - May 24, 2026
Both fighters stated they have no plans to compete again.
1 sourcenypost.com
Potential Impact
- 01
Brand Risk Promotions held its first event outside Miami or Nashville.
- 02
Manziel and Menery both stated they will not fight again.
Transparency Panel
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