Former NFL first-round quarterback and 2012 Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel made his amateur MMA debut against social media influencer Bob Menery on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The bout headlined Brand Risk 14, a viral combat sports event promoted by internet streamer Adin Ross, blending traditional athletes with online personalities.
Weigh-ins revealed a notable size difference: Manziel, 33, stands 6 feet tall and weighed 205 pounds, while Menery, 38, measured 5-foot-9 and weighed 190 pounds.
The fight used modified amateur MMA rules: three rounds with 6-ounce gloves, and no elbows or knees to the head allowed.
UFC CEO Dana White had publicly questioned Menery's commitment before the weigh-ins, adding to the event's online buzz.
Menery, who has 2.8 million Instagram followers from comedic videos and sports commentary, acknowledged the physical gap in a pre-fight interview.
"I have so many disadvantages in this thing. He's got me by 25 pounds," he said.
The event aired free on Brand Risk 14's YouTube and Kick channels, featuring an 11-fight card that included a match between former NBA players Michael Beasley and Lance Stephenson.
