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Why is Joey Essex boxing at Misfits 22 – Ring of Thrones?
Having risen to fame as the larger-than-life character on The Only Way Is Essex, Joey Essex became a household name for his antics, his catchphrases, his looks, and his undeniable charm. But a professional boxer? Not exactly the image that comes to mind.
This Saturday, August 30, 2025, at the AO Arena in Manchester, live on DAZN PPV, Essex will step into the ring at Misfits 22 – Ring of Thrones for his professional debut against Portuguese influencer Numeiro.
But why is the reality TV star entering the crossover boxing world?
“I want people to show the courage and the strength and the heart I’ve got. My life and [on-screen] career are a persona. You’re going to get the real me - the raw version of Joey Essex,” he said in an exclusive interview with DAZN.
“This is my destiny. People see this kid on TV, with white teeth from Essex, the clown, the stupid boy. I’m doing this to put a bit of respect on my name.”
For the 35-year-old, boxing is more than just the latest great cultural fascination and a way to build his already popular personal brand. It’s in his blood.
- Read more | 'The real me, the raw me!' - With boxing in his blood, Joey Essex prepares to take off the mask at Misfits 22
His father, Donald Essex, was a successful amateur boxer, while his uncle, Tony Sims, is a renowned trainer who has worked with fighters like Anthony Joshua, Conor Benn, and Joe Cordina.
“My family never really wanted me to do this [boxing]. I still don’t think they really want me to,” Essex admits, “but I want to put on a show, I want to put on a proper fight, I can’t wait. I’m excited.”
Essex has been preparing for his highly anticipated debut under his uncle’s guidance at his Romford gym, alongside his cousin Demi Sims, who is also making her boxing debut on the same card.
Misfits X Series 22 and Joey Essex vs Numeiro on Saturday only on DAZN PPV
Watch Darren Till vs. Luke Rockhold, Joey Essex vs Numeiro, Tony Ferguson vs Salt Papi and more fight only on DAZN PPV this Saturday night, August 30.
