Johnny Manziel stepped into the cage for the first time on Saturday night, and it turns out that was all the fighting career he needed. The former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback dominated social media personality Bob Menery in a first-round stoppage at the UFC Apex Center in Las Vegas, then promptly declared his combat sports career over.
Manziel, 33, needed just 2 minutes and 16 seconds to finish Menery, landing a barrage of punches and leg kicks that forced the referee to step in. The fight, promoted by Kick streamer Adin Ross' Brand Risk Promotions, was Manziel's first and last, according to the man himself.
“This was good enough for one time,” Manziel said after the fight, confirming his plan to end his fighting career with a pristine 1-0 record.
Manziel entered the bout as a heavy favorite, and he looked every bit the part. The former Cleveland Browns first-round pick showcased improved striking and composure, overwhelming Menery from the opening bell. The 38-year-old Menery, best known for his viral "Buffalo Wild Wings" commercials, simply had no answer for Manziel's athleticism and power.
Manziel's decision to walk away from fighting after just one bout is a rare move in the celebrity combat sports world. Unlike some other former athletes who have flirted with serious injuries while chasing multiple paydays, Manziel seems content to hang up his gloves immediately.
Menery, to his credit, took the loss in stride. He posted a classy apology on Instagram after the fight, writing, “I didn’t expect you to come in hot like that. Good stuff. I’m sorry I let everyone down.” It takes guts to step into the ring, especially against a former professional athlete, and Menery earned respect for his willingness to compete.
For Manziel, this marks another chapter in a post-football life that has included everything from headline-grabbing personal moments to a brief stint in Fan Controlled Football. His foray into fighting was brief but memorable, and he walks away with the only undefeated record that matters: his own.
While some celebrities get hooked on the adrenaline of combat sports, Manziel is clearly not one of them. He came, he saw, he conquered, and he left. At 1-0, Johnny Manziel's fighting career is now a perfect footnote in a wildly unpredictable athletic journey.
