After some much speculated rumors soccer player Rio Ferdinand has sensationally confirmed that he will step into a professional boxing ring.
The news has come as an eyebrow raising story to many, but in the grand scheme of so many freaks shows and events happening in boxing nowadays, is it really that much of a surprise?
Former Manchester United and England international soccer play Rio Ferdinand will compete as a professional boxer but it is unclear who will license the fight, or where, when or who it will take place against.
The BT Sports pundit confirmed the news a short time ago by saying:
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
Presented by the gambling company Betfair, it is also not clear if it is just a once off event for Ferdinand or what have you, but with former rugby player Mel Deane and former fighter Richie Woodhall also mentioned in his announcement, one suspects these two will be playing some sort of role in training Ferdinand.
Ultimately, this looks like it will draw more attention to the sport of boxing which can only be a positive thing in this writer’s opinion – but who’s going to sanction it is another question entirely.
(Image source and credit: Rio Ferdinand Twitter)
