Million Manhoef: Son of MMA Legend Carves His Own Path in Football

From MMA Icon to Football Star

Million Manhoef, son of MMA and kickboxing legend Melvin Manhoef, is making waves in the Championship with Stoke City after joining from Vitesse Arnhem. Despite coming from a family of combat sports royalty, Million opted for a career in football and is shining on the pitch.

Athletic Stock

With three goals and one assist in six appearances for Stoke City, 22-year-old Million Manhoef is proving to be a force to be reckoned with. His explosive performance on the field is not surprising, given his father's ferocious reputation as a striker in the world of combat sports.

Choosing Football Over Kickboxing

Despite showing promise in junior Muay Thai fights and becoming the Dutch kickboxing champion, Million decided to focus on football. Reflecting on his decision, he shared, "Kickboxing is certainly a great passion, but at a certain point I could no longer combine the two sports and I chose football."

Carving His Own Path

While acknowledging his father's legendary status in combat sports, Million emphasized the importance of paving his own way in football. He mentioned facing pressure due to his surname but remains focused on establishing his own identity in the sports world.

Legacy of a Legend

Melvin Manhoef, known for his 28-year-long combat career with over 100 professional fights, retired in September 2022 after a loss to Yoel Romero at Bellator 285. Despite his father's iconic status in the ring, Million is determined to leave his mark on the football field.