Former NFL player Chad Johnson has been one of the biggest supporters of the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
Unlike most American football players, Johnson’s favourite sport has always been soccer, having played in his youth.
The ex-Cincinnati Bengals receiver even played semi-professionally in Boca Raton and had trials with Sporting Kansas City.
Therefore, Johnson has been excited about this summer’s World Cup for a while and has already attended several matches.
The 48-year-old was in Miami for Portugal’s 0-0 draw with Colombia last weekend, where he met Cristiano Ronaldo.
Chad Johnson wears Alan Shearer jersey to Portugal World Cup game
While most celebrities enjoy the hospitality more than anything else, Johnson attended the Portugal game as a diehard soccer fan.
He arrived long before kick-off at the Miami Stadium and watched the Portugal players warm up for the match.
Johnson spoke to former Colombia and Atletico Madrid striker Radamel Falcao on the sidelines, who was working as a pundit.
He was also approached by two of Portugal’s most high-profile players: Cristiano Ronaldo and Joao Felix.
Both Portuguese stars walked over to Johnson on the sidelines to shake his hand and say a few words to the NFL legend.
Ochocinco posted clips of those interactions on social media, with many noticing his unusual choice of clothing.
Johnson was wearing a retro Newcastle jersey with the Premier League’s greatest goalscorer, Alan Shearer, named on the back.
Shearer is a household name to English football fans, but few would expect an ex-NFL star to know about him.
The Newcastle legend was clearly pleased with the recognition and replied to Johnson on X with a handful of emojis.
Read more:
