From MLB Mound to Boxing Ring: Rocker vs. Mahomes Sr. Showdown

By Oliver Wiener February 21, 2025 07:04 GMT+4 min read

Who would've thought we'd see two former MLB hurlers trading punches instead of pitches? But that's exactly what's on tap as John Rocker and Patrick Mahomes Sr. gear up for a showdown in the squared circle. These ex-big leaguers are set to settle their beef at Barstool Sports' "Rough N' Rowdy" boxing extravaganza on April 18, 2025.

The whole thing kicked off during Super Bowl week when Rocker and Mahomes Sr. nearly came to blows on Bourbon Street. A video of the dustup spread like wildfire, showing Mahomes Sr. snubbing Rocker's attempt at a handshake. Things got heated real quick, with both guys jawing at each other before their crews stepped in.

Now, if you know your baseball history, you know Rocker's no stranger to controversy. The former Braves fireballer's been trying to shake off the stink from that infamous Sports Illustrated interview back in '99. He's kept a low profile since hanging up the cleats, but this scrap could be his ticket back into the limelight.

As for Mahomes Sr., he's got his own story. The journeyman pitcher, who suited up for six different MLB squads, has been making headlines lately for all the wrong reasons. Legal troubles have dogged him, including a recent DWI conviction. This bout might be just what he needs to turn the page and start a new chapter.

The build-up to the fight has been a promoter's dream. Rocker, never one to mince words, has been firing verbal jabs at Mahomes Sr. on social media. "This washed-up reliever thinks he can hang with me? I'll show him what a real closer looks like," Rocker boasted in a recent tweet.

Mahomes Sr., typically more reserved, has shown surprising fire in response. "Rocker's always been all talk. Time to shut his mouth once and for all," he fired back during a press conference.

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy is gleefully fanning the flames. "This is what Rough N' Rowdy is all about," Portnoy declared. "Two guys with history, settling scores in the ring. It's gonna be electric."

Training footage has leaked online, showing both men taking their preparation seriously. Rocker's camp emphasizes his natural power, while Mahomes Sr.'s team touts his endurance from years of long relief appearances.

The fight has sparked debate among sports fans. Some see it as a fun novelty, while others worry about the health risks for two men in their 50s stepping into the ring. Medical professionals have weighed in, urging caution and thorough pre-fight screenings.

Adding another layer to the drama is the Mahomes family angle. Patrick Mahomes II has remained tight-lipped about his father's foray into boxing, leading to speculation about family dynamics.

As fight night approaches, ticket sales are through the roof. The venue, a converted warehouse in West Virginia, is expected to be packed with a rowdy crowd eager to see how these former diamond warriors fare in the squared circle.

Love it or hate it, the Rocker vs. Mahomes Sr. bout is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about sporting events of the year. It's a reminder that in the world of sports entertainment, the unexpected is often the most captivating.

Will Rocker's brash confidence translate to boxing skill? Can Mahomes Sr. land a knockout as impressive as his son's touchdown passes? On April 18, we'll find out if these former pitchers can truly go the distance in a whole new ballgame.