Two footballers who once topped the English game — and both served time behind bars — are stepping into the ring together for a cause bigger than either of them. Nile Ranger and Jay Emmanuel-Thomas will headline Pro Project Promotions’ A Night to Remember III on 22nd October, in what’s being billed as one of sport’s most powerful redemption stories.
The full seven-fight card has now been confirmed, and it’s stacked with recognisable football names all trading boots for boxing gloves in aid of charity.
Table of Contents
What’s Confirmed for A Night to Remember III
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Main Event | Nile Ranger vs Jay Emmanuel-Thomas |
| Date | Thursday 22nd October 2026 |
| Venue | Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, Mayfair, London |
| Fundraising Target | £500,000 (debut year) |
| Raised So Far | Over £201,500 across first two events |
| Broadcast | Live worldwide on Sports.com |
The chief support bout is a genuine North London derby, with Arsenal’s Armand Traore facing off against Tottenham’s Sebastien Bassong — bragging rights settled the hard way, in the ring rather than on the pitch.
Battle of the Bad Boys: The Story Behind the Main Event
Both headliners have walked difficult paths back into public life. Emmanuel-Thomas served time for his role in a cannabis smuggling plot, while Ranger was jailed for online banking fraud. Pro Project Promotions founder Graham Stack explained the fight wasn’t his idea to engineer — both men specifically asked to face each other, driven by their own history and desire to prove they’ve changed.
Emmanuel-Thomas spoke about the deeper purpose behind stepping into the ring, describing it as a chance to give back to families who may not have had the same opportunities he did. There’s also a built-in incentive for both fighters: whoever loses must personally donate £500 straight to charity.
The Rest of the Card
Five further bouts round out the night, each pairing footballers with contrasting in-ring styles inspired by how they played the game — from Lee Cook’s elusive footwork against Martin Woods’ relentless pressure, to Anthony Gardner’s composed power against Matthew Briggs’ underdog heart.
For background on the sport these ex-footballers are now embracing, boxing has a long history of crossover athletes stepping into the ring for charity and redemption stories alike.
For more sports and charity event coverage, head over to TechnoSports.
FAQs
Q1. When and where is A Night to Remember III taking place?
The event takes place on Thursday 22nd October 2026 at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair, London.
Q2. How much has Pro Project Promotions raised for charity so far?
The promotion has raised over £201,500 across its first two events and is targeting £500,000 in its debut year.
