The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United took an unexpected turn when WWE superstar Sheamus, a die-hard Liverpool fan, put Manchester United legend Gary Neville in a ‘Clover Leaf’ submission hold.
The playful yet intense moment unfolded during Neville’s appearance on the “It’s Called Soccer” podcast, leaving fans of football and wrestling buzzing.
The Setup: Neville’s Reluctant Participation
The scene was set when Sheamus, known for his dominance in the WWE ring, invited Neville to the floor, stating, “I feel sorry for you… do you know how long I’ve waited to do this? Since I was probably 12 or 14 years old.” Neville, with a resigned sigh, responded, “I’m not going to enjoy this, am I?” before reluctantly complying.
The Move: Sheamus Executes the Clover Leaf
The Irish wrestling star, a former WWE Champion, effortlessly flipped Neville into his signature submission maneuver, the Clover Leaf. With a grin that reflected years of anticipation, Sheamus demanded, “Say Liverpool are going to win the league.” Neville, true to his Manchester United roots, defiantly replied, “F*** Liverpool!”
The Submission: Neville Finally Concedes
Sheamus wasn’t about to let Neville off the hook so easily. Persisting with his lighthearted taunts, he added, “Say Liverpool are number one! Say it, Gary! Say it!” Faced with no escape, Neville begrudgingly conceded, much to the delight of Liverpool fans and Sheamus himself.
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A History of Banter: Sheamus’ Liverpool Pride
This isn’t the first time Sheamus has used his platform to showcase his love for Liverpool. During WWE’s UK tour in 2018, Sheamus and his tag-team partner Cesaro riled up a Manchester crowd by dramatically revealing Liverpool jerseys underneath their trench coats. The moment was punctuated by Sheamus serenading the audience with Liverpool’s anthem, “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
Adding Insult to Injury: Sheamus’ Closing Remarks
As if the Liverpool jerseys weren’t enough to stir the Manchester crowd, Sheamus declared, “Liverpool always gets the gold,” capping off the evening with a final jab at the United faithful. The display remains a legendary moment for Liverpool fans who attended the event.
Liverpool’s Upcoming Challenge
While Sheamus continues to be a vocal supporter of the Reds, Liverpool is focused on their footballing endeavors. They face a crucial Carabao Cup semi-final clash against Tottenham Hotspur in north London. With the stakes high, Liverpool fans hope their team can channel Sheamus’ energy and come out on top.
A Crossover Moment for Fans
The interaction between Neville and Sheamus highlights the entertaining overlap between football and wrestling fandoms. For Sheamus, a proud Irishman and passionate Liverpool supporter, it was an opportunity to blend his two worlds. For Neville, it was another chapter in the storied rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United, albeit on unfamiliar turf.
I want instant entry into Liverpool’s HOF for submitting Gary Neville for crimes against The Kop… #hetappedout
— Sheamus (@WWESheamus) January 9, 2025
pic.twitter.com/UAnFpmugwy
A Viral Moment
Clips of the encounter, which show Sheamus lifting and flipping Neville with ease, have gone viral on social media. Fans from both sports have shared their amusement, with many praising Neville for being a good sport despite the humorous humiliation.
A Tale of Two Passions
For Sheamus, this was more than just a podcast appearance; it was a chance to channel his lifelong support for Liverpool in a way only a WWE superstar could. For Neville, it was a reminder of the unending banter that comes with being a representative of Manchester United.
As Liverpool continues their season and Sheamus continues to dominate the wrestling ring, fans will undoubtedly look back on this moment as a perfect blend of sportsmanship, humor, and rivalry.