Former England midfielder David Bentley will face ex-Chelsea player Jody Morris in a charity boxing match in London on Saturday. The sold-out event, which also features four other fights between former footballers, has drawn attention for its unusual pairing.
Bentley, 41, has a history of audacious behaviour. During his time at Arsenal, he famously refused to vacate Patrick Vieira's seat in the canteen, leading to months of retribution in training. He also once shouted 'Postman Pat' at manager Fabio Capello while on England duty, a joke that ended his international career.
Morris, 45, and Bentley have no prior history or animosity. 'I didn't know him from Adam,' Morris said. 'He was a very good, technically gifted footballer. I'm hoping his technical ability in the ring is not the same.' The fighters appear mismatched: Morris is stocky and 5ft 5in, while Bentley is taller and leaner.
The event is not regulated by England Boxing, the sport's governing body, which said in a statement that 'white-collar boxing is typically organised by private promoters and not subject to the safety standards and oversight that govern amateur or professional boxing.' However, the fights will be officiated with medical personnel present, and each boxer has an experienced coach.
Other bouts on the undercard include Lee Trundle against Anthony Gardner, and Paddy Kenny versus Curtis Davies, though Kenny was absent from the media day due to illness. Bentley, who retired from football at 29, said he wants to show his children he can fight. 'I like to create chaos but I don't like to be surrounded by it,' he added.
