Adrian Peterson’s Poker Rival Joe Castaneda
From Poker Tables to the Boxing Ring: A Challenge Accepted!

Published June 29, 2025 12:25 AM PDT

Joe “Baby Joe” Castaneda, renowned as Adrian Peterson‘s rival in the poker world, is eager to escalate their rivalry beyond the card tables. He has expressed a keen interest in transitioning their conflict from the poker felt directly into the boxing ring. In a recent interview with TMZ Sports, Castaneda revealed his enthusiasm for potentially sparring with the NFL icon in a formal, sanctioned boxing match, indicating that he is ready to take their competition to a whole new level.

During a recent encounter last month, Castaneda and the former Minnesota Vikings running back engaged in a heated altercation over a poker game at a social club in Houston, Texas. Following that intense exchange, Castaneda has stated that if an opportunity arose through a celebrity boxing promotion to challenge Peterson in a ring, he would be more than willing to accept. The prospect of facing off against such a high-profile athlete excites him, and he views it as a chance for redemption and recognition.

Castaneda has been open about the financial aspects that would influence his decision to enter the boxing ring with Peterson. He mentioned that a reasonable monetary compensation would play a crucial role in his willingness to participate in this high-stakes showdown. If the financial terms were favorable, he would be more than ready to step into the ring and once again mix it up with Peterson, this time under the bright lights of a boxing arena, rather than the dimly lit atmosphere of a poker room.

“I wouldn’t shy away from it,” the 47-year-old professional poker player confidently stated, showcasing his readiness to embrace the challenge and excitement of a boxing match against the NFL star.

While it remains uncertain whether Peterson, who is now 40 years old, would also be interested in this boxing challenge, it is worth noting that he has dabbled in the world of celebrity boxing before.

Peterson previously faced off against ex-NFL star Le’Veon Bell, although that encounter did not conclude favorably for him. Nevertheless, his experience in the ring could provide valuable insight should he choose to accept Castaneda’s challenge.

Regardless of whether a rematch occurs, Castaneda insists that there is no animosity between him and Peterson despite their recently publicized brawl. He has made it clear that he has no intentions of involving law enforcement or pursuing any legal actions following the incident, emphasizing that their relationship remains amicable.

“We’re good,” he reassured, expressing that any past tensions have been resolved and that both parties are on good terms moving forward.