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Jake Paul
A potential match against YouTuber turned boxer Jake Paul is being considered for Wayne Rooney's debut. Paul, known as Problem Child, would be attracted to the fight due to Rooney's massive name and the pay-per-view buys he would generate. However, the fight's likelihood is uncertain as it would have to take place on KSI's rival promotion.
KSI
Social media sensation KSI, who is part of Misfits along with his friend Mams Taylor, might have been involved in the recent talks about Rooney's boxing debut. However, KSI himself has expressed little excitement about facing the Premier League icon, stating that he would be open to it if Rooney is interested.
Wayne Bridge
Former Chelsea and England defender Wayne Bridge, who has previously dabbled in boxing, could be a suitable opponent for Rooney. Bridge had a clash with former Made in Chelsea star Spencer Matthews in 2018, nearly knocking him out. Rooney might consider facing him if he wants to lace up his gloves again.
Phil Bardsley
Rooney's former Manchester United teammate Phil Bardsley is a popular choice among football fans to go head-to-head with the 38-year-old. Bardsley infamously knocked Rooney out during a friendly kitchen scuffle in 2015. A boxing match between the two could be a chance for Rooney to seek revenge.
Jamie Vardy
Leicester City legend Jamie Vardy has a playful history of sparring, as seen in a 2020 session with teammate Wilfried Ndidi. Vardy dropped Ndidi with a left uppercut to the body, entertaining his teammates. While Vardy's interest in boxing is uncertain, a match against him could be an intriguing option for Rooney.
Tyson Fury
While it's not part of his five-fight plan, heavyweight champion Tyson Fury did participate in a crossover bout with former UFC champ Francis Ngannou in 2021. Fury's involvement with Misfits is unlikely, but he has expressed willingness to have Rooney help him prepare for a fight against Oleksandr Usyk. A matchup between the two is not entirely out of the question.
Rio Ferdinand
Rio Ferdinand, Rooney's former Manchester United and England teammate, expressed interest in pursuing a professional boxing career in 2017. However, his application was rejected by the British Boxing Board of Control. Nevertheless, Ferdinand could potentially lace up his gloves under the Misfits banner, as they are not regulated by the BBBOC.
As negotiations continue for Wayne Rooney's potential boxing debut, fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of his opponent. Whether it's one of these contenders or someone entirely unexpected, Rooney's foray into the boxing world is sure to captivate audiences.
