Former NFL stars Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson and James Harrison are set to square off in an exhibition mixed martial arts (MMA) bout in New Orleans next year, the pair announced on social media. The high-profile clash is slated to take place ahead of Super Bowl LIX.
While Johnson initially suggested a three-round bout, Harrison countered with a proposal for a five-round match. The discrepancy in their preferred durations has already sparked a war of words between the two gridiron legends.
Johnson, known for his flamboyant personality and electrifying on-field performances, expressed his confidence in a swift victory, predicting a first-round knockout. Harrison, a fearsome defensive force throughout his NFL career, responded with a defiant challenge, asserting his dominance.
This won’t be Johnson’s first foray into combat sports. In 2021, he stepped into the boxing ring and faced off against MMA fighter Brian Maxwell, competing on the undercard of the highly anticipated Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Logan Paul bout.
Johnson’s NFL career spanned 11 seasons, the majority of which he spent with the Cincinnati Bengals. He also had stints with the New England Patriots. Throughout his time in the league, Johnson amassed impressive statistics, recording 766 receptions for 11,059 yards and 67 touchdowns. His standout performances earned him six Pro Bowl selections and three first-team All-Pro honors.
Harrison, on the other hand, enjoyed a 15-year NFL career primarily with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Renowned for his ferocious defensive prowess, he played a pivotal role in the Steelers’ Super Bowl victories and was named the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2008. Harrison’s accolades also include five Pro Bowl appearances and two first-team All-Pro selections.
Following his tenure with the Steelers, Harrison had brief stints with the Bengals and Patriots before retiring from the NFL.
The upcoming MMA bout between Johnson and Harrison promises to be a highly anticipated event for sports fans, as two of the most iconic figures in recent NFL history collide in a new arena.
