After winning just about all there is to win during his football career, Rio Ferdinand has announced that he now plans to pursue his professional boxing licence.
The former Manchester United centre-back's journey will form part of the "Defender to Contender" challenge.
Ferdinand will train with former WBC super-middleweight champion Richie Woodhall as he attempts to earn the British Boxing Board of Control licence that will allow him to compete professionally.
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
After the news broke on Tuesday morning, one of Ferdinand's former defensive sparring partners at Old Trafford was the first to land his jab on social media.
Hey @rioferdy5 when you're boxing does Vidic come in and take the punches whilst you cover round the back with me? 😉
— Gary Neville (@GNev2) September 19, 2017
Regardless, it seems that Ferdinand is deadly keen about taking up the challenge, training hard and doing himself and his new team proud in the ring.
"Boxing is an amazing sport for the mind and the body," the 38-year-old said.
"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."