AFCON 2025
Former Manchester United defender, Patrice Evra is gearing up for a surprising new challenge, a mixed martial arts debut scheduled for May 23 in Paris under the Professional Fighters League (PFL) banner.
At 43, the ex-France international has shifted focus from football pitches to the fight world, diving into intensive training for his first professional bout.
Though his opponent has yet to be announced, Evra isn’t stepping into the cage unprepared. He has had previous experience in combat training and is now receiving guidance from some of the sport’s biggest names.
He has caught the attention of none other than retired UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, who reached out via video call in a moment shared on social media.
In the light-hearted exchange, Khabib jokingly offered to step in and fight on Evra’s behalf. “Brother, you don’t need to train,” he said. “If there’s a fight, I’ll do it for you!”
Laughing, Evra responded that he was committed to taking the sport seriously. “You know how much I respect you and the sport, that’s why I want a real training session with you.”
Khabib, known for his iconic “Send me location” line, repeated the phrase to Evra, offering to meet up and help him prepare. Evra teased back, “I’m scared to send you my location! I’m in Dubai now, training hard. When you’re ready, I need your help.”
Promising to help sharpen Evra’s skills, Khabib replied with a grin, “I’ll teach you how to smash people.”
Evra, slightly wary of the Dagestani’s intense approach, quipped, “Are you sure you love me? Because sometimes I feel like you want to destroy me!” With a chuckle, Khabib reassured him, “No, brother. I just want to help you improve.”
Khabib, who retired undefeated in 2020 with a perfect 30-0 record, has stayed close to the sport as a coach and mentor.
