Ex-Man Utd defender Rio Ferdinand to turn boxer

Manchester Sep 19 (IANS) Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand on Tuesday revealed that he is set to become a professional boxer.

"It s happening... Can t wait to get started with the team @betfair have put together @richiewoodhall and @meldeane ?? #DefenderToContender " Ferdinand tweeted.

The star defender made 312 appearances for Manchester United from 2002 to 2014 before heading to play for Queens Park Rangers.

The 38-year-old who is yet to get his British Boxing Board of Control licence said: "When Betfair approached me about the Defender to Contender challenge the chance to prove myself in a new sport was a real draw.

"Boxing is an amazing sport for the mind and the body. I have always had a passion for it and this challenge is the perfect opportunity to show people what s possible. It s a challenge I m not taking lightly clearly not everyone can become a professional boxer but with the team of experts Betfair are putting together and the drive I have to succeed anything is possible."

The centre-back who made 81 appearances for England won the English Premier League (EPL) title six times and Champions League once with Manchester United.

--IANS
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