Football icon and former Manchester United and France defender Patrice Evra is scheduled to make his mixed martial arts debut in Paris next month.
The 43-year-old is set to compete in a bout at the Professional Fighters League (PFL) Europe event taking place in Paris on May 23, hosted at the Accor Arena in Bercy.
Evra has reportedly been training in combat sports for nearly a decade and has been preparing for his competitive entry alongside friend and PFL star Cedric Doumbe.
The identity of Evra`s opponent for the upcoming bout has not yet been officially announced. Commenting on his move into the cage, Evra stated: “As many of you know, I have a great passion for this sport as well. I’ve performed on the world’s biggest football stages, won every major trophy, 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 can attest that I’m ready for this challenge. I plan to deliver an exciting performance at the Accor Arena on May 23rd, so come and witness the spectacle.”
PFL CEO Pete Murray also commented on Evra`s participation: “We hear he shares our passion for this sport, and the truth will be revealed on May 23rd! The PFL is thrilled to have a superstar like Patrice Evra competing under our banner. We are dedicated to creating thrilling match-ups and making history, and this fight certainly fits that mold.”
During his distinguished football career, Evra spent eight and a half seasons with Manchester United, securing five Premier League titles among a host of other honours.
Following his successful period at United, he transferred to Juventus in 2014. He officially retired from football six years ago, having concluded his playing career with a brief spell at West Ham.
Marcus Bellamy