Manziel Ends MMA Debut in First Round, Vows No Further Fights
The bout at the UFC Apex Centre concluded at the 2:16 mark of the opening round, with Manziel citing the victory as a singular professional engagement.
Former American football player Johnny Manziel secured a first-round technical knockout against social media influencer Bob Menery at the UFC Apex Centre in Las Vegas on Saturday night. The bout, held on 24 May 2026, served as the main event for a card promoted by Brand Risk Promotions, an organisation founded by internet personality Adin Ross.
Manziel, 33, utilised his height and weight advantage over the 38-year-old Menery from the outset. The former Texas A&M star and Heisman Trophy winner immediately took control, delivering a series of kicks before taking Menery to the canvas. He maintained a dominant position, pinning Menery down and landing repeated punches that left the influencer unable to defend himself.
The referee intervened at the 2:16 mark of the first round, stopping the contest after Menery lost his mouthpiece and could no longer protect himself. Menery, known for his comedy content on Instagram and work in voice acting and broadcasting, offered little resistance, remaining on the defensive throughout the brief encounter.
Despite the decisive victory, Manziel indicated that this performance would not mark the start of a sustained mixed martial arts career. Speaking via ESPN, the former NFL player stated that the win was sufficient for a single engagement, confirming that this would be his only professional fight.
The event card also featured a contest between former NBA players Lance Stephenson and Michael Beasley. Stephenson secured a first-round submission victory over Beasley, adding to the roster of matches involving social media personalities and former athletes on the Brand Risk Promotions lineup.
