If you told me a few years ago that Patrice Evra-the same guy who used to bomb down the left wing at Old Trafford-would one day be swapping football boots for MMA gloves, I probably would’ve laughed. And yet, here we are: Evra, now 43, is gearing up for his first-ever MMA fight at PFL Europe’s Paris event on May 23. And just when you think this story couldn’t get any wilder, UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov himself has popped up, offering to help Evra get fight-ready.
From the Pitch to the Cage: Evra’s Next Challenge
Let’s be honest, most retired footballers spend their days on the golf course or in the pundit’s chair. Not Evra. He’s been spotted in the gym, throwing punches and working on his ground game, all while keeping that trademark grin. His opponent? Still a mystery. But if there’s one thing we know about Evra, it’s that he never does things by halves.
And he’s not alone on this journey. Paul Pogba has already dropped by to offer some encouragement (and probably a few dance moves). But the real headline-grabber? Khabib’s surprise call.
Khabib’s Classic Banter: “Send Me Location!”
Picture this: Evra’s in the gym, sweating it out, when his phone rings. On the other end? None other than Khabib. The undefeated champ doesn’t waste time: “Brother, you don’t need this! Why do you have to train? If you need to fight, I’m going to fight for you!” Evra laughs, “Thank you for having my back brother! But I need to train, bro. I need to take it seriously.”
Of course, it wouldn’t be Khabib without the famous “Send me location!” line-a cheeky nod to his epic showdown with McGregor. Evra plays along, joking he’s too scared to send his location, but admits he’s training in Dubai and would love a session with Khabib when he’s free.
Khabib, ever the motivator, promises, “When I see you, you have to be ready. I’m going to teach you how to smash people.” Evra can’t help but tease back: “I know you love me, but I feel like you want to kill me and destroy me!” Khabib, grinning, reassures him: “No, no. I just want you to improve yourself. Nothing else. It’s very good to see you brother. See you soon.”
Evra’s Dream Opponent? You Guessed It: Luis Suarez
Trust Evra to stir the pot. When asked who he’d most like to face in the cage, he didn’t hesitate: Luis Suarez. Yep, the same Suarez who once bit him during a Premier League match. Evra even joked online, “He can even bite me-I’ll pay out of pocket!” You’ve got to love the banter.
What’s Next for Uncle Pat?
Khabib may have hung up his gloves with a perfect 30-0 record, but he’s clearly not done with the fight game. Passing on his wisdom (and a few jokes) to Evra, he’s making sure the Frenchman is as ready as possible for the big night.
As for Evra, win or lose, you just know he’ll bring energy, heart, and a bit of mischief to the cage. With Khabib in his corner-even if it’s just for moral support-this debut promises to be one for the books.
So, will Evra shock the world? Who knows. But one thing’s certain: with these two personalities involved, you won’t want to miss it.
