In the "Remember him" series, we would like to follow the careers of past ELF stars. Today we look at Madre London, who fans of the early days will probably remember very well. But from the beginning. 

Despite his name, London was born in Little Rock, Arkansas in the USA. This is where he began his football career at Bryant High School. He won the High School Conference Championship with the Hornets in 2011. Immediately afterward, the running back transferred to St. Thomas Aquinas High School, where he graduated. 

His abilities did not go unrecognized. He went to Michigan State. He played four years for the Spartans. But an ankle injury slowed London down. He was no longer able to build on his old performances at Michigan. In 2018, he transferred to the Tennessee Volunteers.

London registered for the 2019 NFL Draft but was not selected. He went to the Spring League, an American scouting and development league. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, however, the season was canceled after two match days. After another stop in the indoor league “Fan Controlled Football”, London finally ended up in the ELF - with the Cologne Centurions.

London overran the ELF

A lucky decision for both sides. London was unstoppable and finished the 2021 season as the first ELF rushing leader. He only needed nine games for 269 rushing attempts and 2009 yards as well as 22 touchdowns. He also had 11 receptions for 71 yards and a touchdown. Statistics that deservedly made him the first ELF MVP.

Performances, which attracted the attention of clubs from abroad. The Pittsburgh Maulers contacted London, who left the ELF after just one year. He went back to his home country. The Maulers competed in the newly founded United States Football League. 

"This decision will allow me to continue in my pursuit to chase my childhood dream of playing in the NFL," London explained his move in a statement at the time. "I am forever grateful for the bond and brotherhood we built - it will last a lifetime. You guys are the real MVP!", London continued.

London continued to perform in the USFL. With 669 rushing yards, he became the rushing leader of his team, which was crowned North Division champion in the end. In 2023, the league merged with the Spring League to form the United Football League (UFL). 

London returned to Europe in May 2024. He joined the Danube Dragons in Austria for the season. Perhaps he can build on his ELF MVP form here.

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