Ex-Pro Footballers Step Into The Ring In Liverpool For Charity

Building on the resounding success of their inaugural event, which raised an impressive £127,500 for vital UK charities at London’s iconic Grosvenor House Hotel, Pro Project Promotions is thrilled to unveil details for A Night to Remember II. Set against the electric backdrop of Merseyside derby weekend, this unforgettable evening of boxing, entertainment, and philanthropy will take place on Friday 17 April 2026, at the prestigious Titanic Hotel in Liverpool.

Pro Project Promotions, founded by former Arsenal goalkeeper Graham Stack, aims to unite retired athletes in purpose-driven events that channel their competitive spirit towards making a positive impact. The organisation recognises the challenges of post-retirement life – from physical fitness to mental well-being – and provides ex-pros with structure, goals, and a platform to give back. As Stack emphasises, “The drive to make a difference doesn’t end when the game does.”

The first A Night to Remember in October 2025 featured high-profile bouts between ex-Premier League stars like David Bentley vs. Jody Morris, Leroy Lita vs. David Noble, and others, coached by boxing legends such as James DeGale, Darren Barker, and Enzo Maccarinelli. The event blended football rivalries with boxing intensity, drawing a celebrity crowd and generating widespread acclaim for its seamless organisation, thrilling fights, and heartfelt charity focus. Funds were distributed to organisations like the Willow Foundation, Helping Hands, Playskill, and Sport In Mind, supporting seriously ill young adults, children in cancer treatment, those with physical disabilities, and mental health initiatives.

Now, A Night to Remember II shifts the action northward, spotlighting a mix of Scouse and northern-based ex-pro footballers in a series of gripping matchups. These athletes, many stepping into the ring for the first time, are embracing the ultimate test of physical and mental resilience – all while raising funds for two Merseyside-focused charities: Children’s Charity Merseyside, which provides specialist equipment and support for children facing ill health, disability, or financial hardship; and Autism Merseyside, offering resources and family support for children with autism. The goal? To surpass £120,000 on the night, pushing toward Pro Project Promotions’ ambitious £500,000 target within a year.

Graham Stack, Founder of Pro Project Promotions, said: “The city will be bouncing during the Merseyside derby weekend, and I can’t wait to showcase 10 ex-professional footballers battling it out once again in the ring. This event will have a mixture of Scouse boxers and other northern-based fighters. We’ll have some of this country’s best ever boxers in attendance, including Tony Bellew, The Smith Brothers, David Price, and Natasha Jonas. Johnny Nelson will host a boxing Q&A and judge the bouts alongside Steve Bunce, with Ian Saint John refereeing. Plus, a football Q&A with our ambassador and Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher alongside Everton legend Francis Jeffers. We’re raising money for Children’s Charity Merseyside and Autism – our goal is to raise in excess of £120,000 and get closer to our £500,000 target!”

The event’s ambassadors and trainers include Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher, world champion boxer Natasha Jonas, and the renowned Smith Brothers, ensuring top-tier guidance for the fighters as they prepare for three rounds of intense action.

Each participant is not only testing their limits but also highlighting the transformative power of charity work. Here’s the confirmed card, focusing on regional rivalries and personal challenges:

Chris Iwelumo vs. Lee Trundle: Scottish forward Chris Iwelumo (ex-Stoke, Wolves, and Burnley) takes on Swansea City cult hero Lee Trundle, promising a clash of northern grit and Welsh flair. Chris Iwelumo said: “I feel privileged to be part of something that’s going to really have a positive impact on so many. Stacky and his team smashed the last event out of the park, so I was delighted when I got the call for this one.”

Carl Ikeme vs. Bradley Orr: Ex-Wolves goalkeeper and Nigeria international Carl Ikeme, a survivor of acute leukaemia, faces off against versatile defender Bradley Orr (ex-QPR, Blackburn, and Bristol City). Ikeme shared: “From knowing Stacky for a long time, when I got the call to be a part of the event, I didn’t take much thinking to say yes. I try to do an event for charity every year, and when I found out about the charities it was raising for, it was something I wanted to be a part of.”

Ross McCormack vs. Matthew Kilgallon: Former Leeds United, Fulham, and Aston Villa striker Ross McCormack anchors a key showdown against former Leeds and Sheffield United defender Matthew Kilgallon, a self-professed boxing fanatic. Ross McCormack said: “I am excited and delighted to be involved in this incredible event. I am looking forward to the training, getting back in a routine, having some structure back for the next 12 weeks and reconnecting with lads I played with and against. It’s also an opportunity for me to help others, get fit and experience being in the ring for what will be a once in a lifetime opportunity and something I’ve always wanted to do.” Kilgallon added: “I’m a huge boxing fan and have always had the utmost respect for boxers! To be offered the opportunity of the ultimate challenge, to push my body, feel that adrenaline I’ve missed since retiring, all while raising money for some absolutely incredible causes – was something I simply couldn’t say no to. All the best trying to find a gum shield that fits me!”

Cresswell v Dickinson: Ex-Stoke City man Carl Dickinson battles former defender Cresswell in a test of northern resilience. Dickinson said: “I’ve chosen to take part as it’s taking me out of my comfort zone and test myself physically and mentally. I’m looking forward to all of the training and meeting the rest of the lads and most importantly raising money for charity for amazing causes!”

Hammill v Jennings: A fresh matchup pitting ex-Wigan and Wolves winger Adam Hammill against opponent Jennings, adding further intrigue to the card.

These former pros are embracing the physical and mental demands of training for white-collar style bouts; rebuilding fitness, learning technique, and rediscovering the competitive edge they once thrived on – all while channeling their efforts into vital support for Children’s Charity Merseyside and autism-related causes. The event promises high-energy ring action, celebrity Q&As, entertainment, and an unforgettable atmosphere in one of Liverpool’s most stunning venues.

A Night To Remember II promises to be another unforgettable night of sport, stars, and support for worthy causes. For more information, ticket details, and the latest updates on the full card, visit www.proprojectpromotions.com

The post Ex-Pro Footballers Step Into The Ring In Liverpool For Charity appeared first on Fight News.