Sports

Rio Ferdinand confirms he is to take up professional boxing

Published

5 years ago

September 19, 2017

Rio Ferdinand has confirmed he is to take up professional boxing at the age of 38.

The former England captain made the announcement on social media this morning saying: “It’s happening…can’t wait to get started.”

It’s happening… Can’t wait to get started with the team @betfair have put together, @richiewoodhall and @meldeane ? #DefenderToContender pic.twitter.com/s6AmLRo7DN

— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) September 19, 2017

Ferdinand, who is just two months away from his 39th birthday, is an avid boxing fan and has regularly posted videos on his social media accounts showing him in boxing training. He was at Wembley in April to see Anthony Joshua’s epic heavyweight contest with Wladimir Klitschko.

A new sport. A new goal. #DefenderToContender @RioFerdy5: “I’ve won titles, now I’m aiming for a belt.” pic.twitter.com/fdAjPwoSmg

— DefenderToContender (@Betfair) September 19, 2017

The centre-half won 81 caps and made over 300 appearances for Manchester United before retiring in 2015. He also played for West Ham, Leeds and Queens Park Rangers in a career spanning 19 years.

Now he is going to try and become a professional boxer but he will need to convince the British Boxing Board of Control he merits a licence.

Ferdinand would not be the first footballer to turn to a career in the ring. Former Sheffield United striker Curtis Woodhouse won the British light-welterweight title in 2012.

He has taken to social media saying: “Mt advice to Rio would be to show the game the respect it deserves. This is no joke, you can die playing boxing. I wish him well.”

My advice to Rio would be show the game the respect it deserves. This is no joke, you can die “playing” boxing. I wish him well

— Curtis Woodhouse (@curtiswoodhous8) September 19, 2017