Rio Ferdinand Looks Incredibly Shredded Ahead Of His Professional Boxing Career

He may have retired in 2015, but Rio Ferdiand is in the shape of his life after launching a new career in professional boxing.

The former Manchester United and England defender is set to come out of retirement, though not for football as he laces up the boxing gloves.

After winning a number of Premier League titles and FA Cups, not to mention skippering United to Champions League glory in 2008, he now aims for belts inside the squared circle.

"I've won titles, now I'm aiming for a belt," Ferdinand vowed during a promotional video shoot for Betfair.

(Check out Rio's handiwork:)

The 38-year-old racked up 455 appearances during his trophy-laden career at Old Trafford, but he now sets his sight on his first fight as he ventures into the fight business.

And ahead of his debut, Ferdinand looks in supreme physical shape.

_{Images: Betfair}

Following his spell at United, he enjoyed one final season with Queens Park Rangers before calling time on his career.

Two years after retiring, he's looking in prime condition ahead of his new challenge.

"When Betfair approached me about the Defender to Contender challenge, the chance to prove myself in a new sport was a real draw," Ferdinand told Betfair.

"Boxing is an amazing sport for the mind and the body.

Ferdinand added: "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."

UFC megastar Conor McGregor recently made his boxing bow, fighting Floyd Mayweather last month.

Though Ferdinand will be hoping to emulate the success of former footballer turned boxer Curtis Woodhouse.

The ex-Sheffield United and Birmingham City midfielder successfully transitioned into boxing by claiming the coveted British title.

He dethroned champion Darren Hamilton to bag the belt, and he's wished his fellow retired footballer all the best.

Will Ferdinand be eyeing up the British heavyweight title?