Former NFL star Adrian Peterson is making headlines again—this time for stepping out of retirement and into the boxing ring. The 40-year-old running back, who amassed over $100 million during his career, has signed a Celebrity Boxing contract to fight Joe “Baby Joe” Castaneda.
The two are set to face off after a poker game dispute escalated into a physical altercation. TMZ reports that the pair agreed to the boxing match following the incident, with fans and media eager to see the outcome.
Financial Troubles and Legal Setbacks Continue to Haunt Former NFL Star Adrian Peterson
Peterson’s transition from football to boxing comes amid a series of financial and legal issues. In September 2024, he was compelled to relinquish assets to help pay off a massive debt of approximately $12.5 million. The financial strain has been public and ongoing, casting a shadow over his post-NFL years. His situation is seen by many as a cautionary tale about managing wealth after professional sports stardom.
Adrian Peterson (NFL)Just months after his financial setback, Peterson faced another personal challenge. In April 2025, he was arrested for driving while impaired after attending the Minnesota Vikings’ 2025 NFL Draft party. He was charged with a fourth-degree DWI after blowing a .14 on a breathalyzer test, well over the legal limit of .08. This arrest only added to the growing list of troubles facing the former NFL MVP.
From Poker Scuffle to Boxing Ring, Peterson Embraces an Unexpected New Challenge
The upcoming boxing match originates from an altercation that occurred during a poker game at a Houston social club in late May. According to TMZ, the heated disagreement turned physical.
Despite the fight, Peterson later described the incident as a “brother situation,” suggesting that no serious animosity exists between him and Castaneda. Alcohol reportedly played a role in the scuffle, and Peterson has since expressed regret over the incident. No authorities were involved or contacted.
Peterson’s NFL legacy remains significant despite recent controversies. He spent 15 seasons in the league, with his most notable years as a Minnesota Viking from 2007 to 2016. He also played for six other teams, including the Saints, Cardinals, and Seahawks.
Known for his powerful running style and resilience, Peterson now faces a new challenge in the boxing ring. While the date and location for the celebrity bout have not yet been announced, fans await to see how the football legend fares in this unexpected new arena.
