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Rio Ferdinand has transformed from lean young defender to body-building boxer with huge change to physique since his early years in football

Related Topics: Rio Ferdinand, defender

Rio Ferdinand faces a huge transformation from retired footballer to professional boxer but his hulking physique should give him a head start.

The former Manchester United defender is aiming to be granted his boxing license and compete for a belt, aided by Betfair.

With the 38-year-old likely to compete at cruiserweight, his raw power and strength will no doubt come in handy when he laces up the gloves.

Rio Ferdinand was lean and wiry as a young player
As a young player Rio Ferdinand was lean and wiry but has changed a great deal physically
The ex-Manchester United man has really bulked up since hanging up his boots
The 38-year-old is taking on a new challenge to compete for a belt in the boxing ringu00a0
The 38-year-old is taking on a new challenge to compete for a belt in the boxing ring

But Ferdinand hasn't always cut the physically dominant figure he is today.