Manchester United legend Patrice Evra is set to make his debut in the PFL (Professional Fighters League) next month.
Evra, known for a stellar football career including major titles with Manchester United and Juventus, as well as representing the French national team, has been training for combat sports since 2016. Initially focusing on boxing, he is now transitioning to MMA.
He has been training with PFL star Cedric Doumbe in preparation for his first professional MMA bout. His debut is scheduled for May 23rd in Paris, France. As a former captain of the French national football team, his appearance is anticipated to draw significant attention.
Evra`s PFL Debut Confirmed for May 23rd
PFL has confirmed that the former football star will step into the SmartCage on May 23rd at the promotion`s event at the Accor Arena in Paris. This event is part of PFL`s European tournament series.
Details regarding his opponent and weight class are still pending confirmation, but the fight is officially on the PFL Europe card in Paris.
Evra commented, stating, “You guys should know by now, I love this game too. I`ve performed on the world`s biggest stages, won every major trophy in football, but PFL Europe Paris will be an incredibly special night for me.
He added, “I`ve been training alongside the best in the world for years, and they`ll also tell you I`m ready for this. I`m going to put on a show at the Accor Arena on 23 May, so come watch the spectacle.”
PFL CEO Peter Murray expressed excitement, stating, “I`m told he loves this game as much as us, and we`ll find out on 23 May! We`re incredibly excited to have the superstar that is Patrice Evra fight under the PFL banner, as we`re all about exciting match-ups and making history.
Murray concluded, “I can`t tell you how excited Patrice has been putting this together, but I think you`re going to see it at the Accor Arena. Paris, we`re coming to put on another historic evening of MMA, don`t miss out.”
Evra`s Previous Foray into Combat Sports
This isn`t Evra`s first attempt at a combat sports appearance. In 2022, he was slated for a celebrity boxing match against YouTuber Adam Saleh in London, but the event was ultimately cancelled.
Evra has also recently interacted with figures prominent in the YouTube boxing scene, appearing on a show with KSI`s group, the Sidemen.
As noted earlier, Evra began boxing training while still playing football at Juventus in 2016. He officially retired from professional football in 2018 after a period with West Ham. At 43, he is now set to pursue his combat sports ambitions.
