Former UFC fighter Darren Till has issued a surprising challenge to Cristiano Ronaldo, daring the Portuguese football icon to fight him in a boxing ring. Known for his outspoken personality, Till made the provocative statement while discussing his upcoming professional boxing debut against Tommy Fury, scheduled for January 18, 2025, in Manchester.
Till, 30, is making the leap from mixed martial arts to boxing and appears eager to test himself against more than just professional fighters. Speaking to Norske Bettingsider, he singled out Ronaldo as a dream opponent, citing the footballer’s renowned physical prowess and disciplined fitness regime.
I’d like to fight Cristiano Ronaldo, Till said. “He looks like a big, tough guy—very explosive. I’d love to see his speed and power. He’s got the build and discipline of someone who could transition to combat sports, but I’d like to test him in the ring.
While Till’s challenge to Ronaldo may sound far-fetched, it adds a layer of intrigue to the crossover between sports. Ronaldo, now 39, currently plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia and remains one of the fittest athletes in the world. Known for his extraordinary dedication to physical training, he has often expressed his admiration for boxing and mixed martial arts.
In addition to calling out Ronaldo, Till also mentioned former Manchester United player Gary Neville as a potential opponent. The two have clashed on social media in the past, with Till referencing their disagreements.
I’ve had a bit of a problem with Gary Neville on Twitter, Till revealed. He doesn’t like me, and I don’t particularly like him either. I wouldn’t mind stepping into the octagon with him.
Although Till’s comments were lighthearted, they reflect his interest in drawing attention to his new career in boxing.
Before fantasizing about fights with Ronaldo or Neville, Till will first face Tommy Fury, a seasoned boxer best known for his recent victory over KSI. The January 18 bout at Co-Op Live in Manchester is a significant step for Till as he transitions from MMA to professional boxing.
Despite Till’s challenge, Ronaldo is unlikely to swap the football pitch for the boxing ring. However, his interest in combat sports is well-documented. A fan of MMA, Ronaldo has shared opinions on fighters like Francis Ngannou and Ilia Topuria, even sparking debates with his remain.
While a fight between Till and Ronaldo is improbable, the mere suggestion highlights the growing interplay between football and combat sports, captivating fans of both worlds.
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