Thanks to Euro 2024, football dominated the attention of punters assessing the best free betting offers in Summer 2024, with fans around the world tuning in to events out in Germany. Some of the biggest names from the fighting game were likely among that number, with many fighters making no secret of their love for the beautiful game over the years.
It seems safe to assume that these fighting football fans were backing their home nation during Euro 2024, but have you ever wondered which club sides boxing and MMA stars support? Here, we look at a selection of fighters who are proud to wear their club allegiance on their sleeve.
Andy Ruiz Jr. and C.D. Guadalajara
Andy Ruiz Jr., the American-Mexican heavyweight who shocked the world by defeating Anthony Joshua, is a die-hard fan of C.D. Guadalajara. Despite his busy schedule, Ruiz finds time to support his favourite team. His love for Guadalajara was evident when he posted about attending a match at Estadio Akron, even though his team suffered a 4-2 loss to Pachuca.
Tyson Fury and Manchester United
The Gypsy King, Tyson Fury, is a proud supporter of Manchester United. After his Lazarus-like draw with Deontay Wilder, Fury was seen at Old Trafford cheering the Red Devils on against bitter rivals Arsenal. Fury’s connection with United goes some way towards explaining his stated desire to fight at the iconic Old Trafford Stadium.
Ricky Hatton and Manchester City
On the other side of Manchester, former light-welterweight champion Ricky Hatton is a staunch Manchester City supporter. Hatton, who now trains and manages fighters, can often be seen in the stands at the Etihad cheering on Pep Guardiola’s troops. Hatton got to live out his dream when retaining his IBO title against Juan Lazcano at the home ground of his beloved Citizens in 2008.
Anthony Yarde and Arsenal
British light heavyweight boxer Anthony Yarde is a vocal Arsenal fan and can regularly be spotted sporting a Gunners top when training. No stranger to the Emirates Stadium, Yarde has been sighted mingling with Arsenal players and other sports stars at the ground.
George Groves and Chelsea
George Groves, the former WBA super middleweight champion, is a devoted Chelsea supporter. Although he never got the chance to fight at Stamford Bridge, Groves often attends matches and shows his support. His loyalty to the Blues remains strong even after his retirement from boxing.
Callum Smith and Liverpool
Callum Smith, who claimed the WBA super middleweight title by defeating Groves, is a fervent Liverpool fan. The Smith brothers, all professional boxers, regularly appear on Liverpool’s official channel, LFCTV. Their dedication to the Reds is a family affair, with frequent visits to Anfield to support their beloved team.
Tony Bellew - Everton
Tony Bellew is a passionate supporter of Everton FC. Frequently attending matches, Bellew's dedication to the club is well-known, often expressing his loyalty through social media and public appearances, including during his famous stint on "I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here".
UFC Stars in the Stands
It’s not just boxers who are smitten by football; UFC stars also have their favourite teams.
Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former UFC lightweight champion, supports Real Madrid, Spartak Moscow, and Anzhi Makhachkala.
Conor McGregor, the notorious Irishman, was a decent player in his youth before opting for a career in MMA – not a bad decision in the end. Notorious has a soft spot for Manchester United and Celtic, with numerous images showing him training in the hoops of the Glasgow side.
Elsewhere in the MMA world, Francis Ngannou, the Predator, cheers for Arsenal; Michale Bisping is a die-hard Manchester United supporter; Brazilians Anderson Silva and Jose Aldo support Corinthians and Flamengo, respectively; Ciryl Gane backs leading French outfit PSG, and Liverpool native Darren Till ties his mast to the red side of Merseyside as a Liverpool fan.
