Former Manchester City star Micah Richards has bizarrely thrown his hat into the ring to be the next celebrity to turn their hand to boxing.
Several celebrities have jumped into the ring over the past few years, with ex-Leicester City defender Danny Simpson and countless TikTok influencers getting involved with Misfits Boxing – a company founded by YouTuber-turned-celeb KSI.
Wayne Rooney and Luke Littler have previously joked that they wouldn’t mind joining the ever-growing roster in the future, with reports claiming that a bout between TV personality Joey Essex and Tommy Fury, brother of Tyson, is on the cards.
Related articles
With the rise of influencer boxing showing no signs of slowing down, pundit Richards has joked that he wouldn’t reject an invitation for a fight – though he has set his sights quite high given his lack of experience.
The ex-Aston Villa skipper recently boxed with ex-fighter Malik Scott, who married Richards’ CBS Sport colleague Kate Abdo earlier this year. Footage of the 36-year-old on the pads was then broadcast earlier this week, and his combinations did earn him some praise.
Commenting on the clip, Abdo said: “Very nice. Misfits Boxing? Celebrity fight, will that be calling for you? Have we got any beef with anyone we can settle? Let's make some money."
Float like a butterfly, sting like Big Meeks! ???????????? pic.twitter.com/RmQGNIjvYg
— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) October 2, 2024
Richards then replied: “Jake Paul's fighting Mike Tyson, isn't he? So, I'm next. Iron Mike Jr is what they're calling me." The response was met with laughs in the studio, though Thierry Henry did interject to warn his colleague not to bite off more than he could chew.
The Frenchman said: “Be careful what you wish for."
Paul is set to clash with heavyweight boxing legend Tyson in November, though the bout has been overshadowed by controversy over whether the latter is fit enough to compete. The fight was set to take place in July but the 58-year-old was forced to withdraw due to an inflamed ulcer halting his training.
Tyson is now back in training and there is confidence that both fighters will take to the ring on November 15 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Tyson last fought professionally in 2005, when he was surprisingly beaten by Kevin McBride.
