Ray Edwards is a former NFL defensive end (Minnesota Vikings/Atlanta Falcons) who transitioned into a successful professional heavyweight boxer starting in 2011. Known for his 6’5″, 250+ lb frame, Edwards trained under Jeff Warner, sparred with Deontay Wilder, and amassed a significant winning record, often citing boxing as safer than football.
Boxing Career Highlights:
- Debut: May 20, 2011, defeating Tyrone Gibson in a four-round bout at a Minnesota casino.
- Record: Built a notable record (reports cite 10-0 in 2016) with multiple knockouts.
- Style & Approach: Known as a hard worker, often training in Chanhassen, Minn.. He signed with GH3 Promotions and expressed a desire to bring more activity to the heavyweight division.
- Transition Motives: Edwards stated he loved boxing, started it as an off-season workout, and believed it offered fewer long-term injuries compared to the NFL.
NFL Background:
- Played seven seasons in the NFL as a defensive end, primarily with the Minnesota Vikings and later the Atlanta Falcons.
- Was highly regarded for his conditioning and strength during his football career