The idea is electrifying: could Wayne Rooney, the legendary Manchester United striker, trade his boots for boxing gloves? Former teammate Wes Brown has thrown down the gauntlet, suggesting a showdown with Spanish football icon Sergio Ramos.
Rooney’s passion for boxing isn’t a secret. He’s a regular fixture at fights, absorbing the atmosphere, and once walked alongside boxing great Ricky Hatton as he entered the professional arena – a clear indication of his deep respect for the sport.
Ramos, now 39, isn’t just toying with the idea. He’s been actively training, sparring with UFC star Ilia Topuria, and whispers suggest he’s seriously considering a foray into professional boxing. His recent departure from Monterrey leaves the door wide open.
While a rematch between Ramos and Mohamed Salah was briefly considered, Brown believes Rooney presents a more compelling challenge. He emphasizes Rooney’s long-held interest and the crucial foundation of having some existing experience with the discipline.
Beyond Rooney, other former United stars are also exploring the world of boxing. Rio Ferdinand previously considered the switch, possessing the natural physique for the sport, and Danny Simpson has already embraced the challenge, finding it a rewarding way to stay in peak condition.
The appeal, according to Brown, isn’t just about fitness. It’s about recapturing the intensity and drive that competitive athletes crave – the relentless training, the pursuit of victory, and the sheer exhilaration of pushing oneself to the limit.
Rooney himself has acknowledged the interest, revealing he’s been approached by promoters. However, his current focus remains firmly on returning to football management, a path he’s determined to pursue.
Despite turning down the immediate opportunity, the allure of the ring clearly hasn’t faded. The possibility of seeing Rooney step between the ropes remains a tantalizing prospect for fans of both sports.
Ramos’ ambitions extend beyond boxing, however. He’s currently leading a consortium attempting to acquire his beloved former club, Sevilla, and has even offered to return as a player for a third spell, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the team.
The future remains unwritten for both footballing legends, but the potential for a dramatic shift into the world of boxing has certainly captured the imagination.
