Detroit Lions’ Josh Paschal, Levi Onwuzurike, and DJ Reader Suddenly Abandon Football Careers to Pursue New Passion – Competitive Axe Throwing – and Open Their Own Throwing Venue, “Motor City Axes”
In an unexpected twist that has left the sports world buzzing, three key players from the Detroit Lions—defensive linemen Josh Paschal, Levi Onwuzurike, and DJ Reader—have made the stunning decision to leave their football careers behind and dive into the world of competitive axe throwing. The trio recently announced the opening of their new business venture, “Motor City Axes,” a state-of-the-art axe throwing venue in downtown Detroit that promises to bring a thrilling new competitive sport to the city.
The Big Decision: Football to Axes
The announcement sent shockwaves through the football community. All three players—Paschal, Onwuzurike, and Reader—were considered rising stars in the NFL, known for their impressive skills on the field and their passionate commitment to the game. However, in a joint statement, the athletes explained that while their love for football remained strong, they felt an undeniable pull toward the high-energy, competitive nature of axe throwing.
“We’ve always been passionate about competing and pushing ourselves to the limit,” Paschal said in the statement. “Axe throwing is a sport that brings people together in a way that football never could. It’s challenging, exciting, and requires focus and precision—qualities that have always been central to our approach on the field. We’re ready to take on this new challenge, and we believe Detroit is the perfect place to start this journey.”
Motor City Axes: Detroit’s Newest Thrill
Motor City Axes, located in the heart of Detroit, promises to be more than just an axe throwing venue. The facility boasts multiple lanes for competitive play, league nights, and individual throwers, alongside a full-service bar and lounge area for spectators and participants to enjoy. Designed with a modern, industrial aesthetic, the venue reflects the city’s rich history and evolving culture.
“We want to create a space that’s fun, engaging, and welcoming to everyone,” said Onwuzurike. “Whether you’re an experienced axe thrower or you’ve never picked up an axe in your life, we want you to have a great time. We’re all about community here, and that’s what we’re going to bring to Detroit.”
The venue will also host weekly tournaments, where locals can test their skills against some of the best axe throwers in the area. For the Lions’ former players, this new business venture is a way to keep their competitive edge sharp while offering something unique and exciting to the Detroit community.
A New Chapter
While the decision to leave football behind was undoubtedly a difficult one, the trio expressed excitement for the future. DJ Reader, who had been a key figure in the Lions’ defensive line, shared his thoughts on the transition.
“Football has been my life, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunities the game gave me. But there comes a time when you need to follow your passions, and for me, that’s axe throwing,” Reader said. “Motor City Axes is the beginning of a new chapter. We’re ready to bring something new to Detroit, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience what we’ve built.”
The trio has also emphasized that their love for their hometown of Detroit played a major role in their decision to start the venue. As proud representatives of the city, they are committed to making Motor City Axes a staple of Detroit’s thriving cultural scene. The venue is expected to create jobs and provide a space for locals to gather and enjoy a unique form of entertainment.
What’s Next for Paschal, Onwuzurike, and Reader?
While there’s no official word on whether any of the three players will return to football in the future, the decision to open Motor City Axes marks the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of another. For now, the former Lions players are focused on building their new business and promoting the growing sport of axe throwing.
“We’re excited for what’s to come,” Paschal added. “Axe throwing may be new for us, but the drive and determination we’ve always had on the field is what’s going to make this venture a success.”
With the opening of Motor City Axes, Paschal, Onwuzurike, and Reader are proving that athletes can pursue their passions in unexpected ways. Whether they’re throwing axes or throwing down on the football field, one thing is clear: these athletes are ready to take on any challenge that comes their way.
The Grand Opening
Motor City Axes will officially open its doors to the public next month. In celebration of the launch, the venue will host a grand opening event, complete with live music, axe throwing exhibitions, and meet-and-greet opportunities with the former Lions players. Early reservations for lane bookings are already being accepted, and the buzz surrounding the opening is palpable.
As Detroit continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that Motor City Axes will be a part of the city’s exciting future. Whether you’re a lifelong Detroit Lions fan or simply someone looking for a thrilling new activity, the new axe throwing venue promises to offer an unforgettable experience.
Stay tuned for more updates on this unexpected and exciting new venture from the Lions’ very own Josh Paschal, Levi Onwuzurike, and DJ Reader!
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