Tyson Fury has offered to be coach for Rio Ferdinand who is getting set for his first bout later in the year.
The Manchester United legend has fixed his gaze on winning a title as a professional boxer, this Fury said is possible but suggested that the former footballer should seek expert trainer as he switch to boing.
Team GB trainer, Richie Woodhall, is already on board to help train Ferdinand while the Brit’s personal trainer, Mel Deane, will continue to work with Ferdinand.
Questions have been raised about the legitimacy of the challenge and the possible safety issues with a 38-year-old becoming a pro boxer, but Ferdinand explained it was an opportunity he could not turn down.
‘When Betfair approached me about the Defender to Contender challenge, the chance to prove myself in a new sport was a real draw,’ he said.
‘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.’
Ferdinand must obtain a boxing licence before he can start competing in the pro game.
Meanwhile, Fury is currently without a boxing licence and cannot fight himself until his issues with the UK Anti-Doping Agency is resolved.
But the 29-year-old is hoping to return to boxing at some stage and believes he can help Ferdinand prepare for his professional debut.
He said: ‘Looking forward to seeing this from Football star to boxing star, if you need any tips on being a bad ass call me. Good luck.’
Ferdinand reached the height of the football world winning six Premier League titles and one Champions League with United.
The 38-year-old retired in 2015 and has often shown off his boxing skills on social media.
Ferdinand was using the sport as a way to stay fit and has been a regular at big fights ever since retiring from football.
