Ex-footballer Ferdinand refused pro boxing licence

LONDON: Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand said Thursday he was “disappointed” after being refused a professional licence by British boxing authorities.

Ferdinand, coached by former WBC super-middleweight champion Richie Woodhall, was being backed by betting company Betfair as part of the “Defender to Contender” challenge. “Having been training four to five times a week since announcing the aim of achieving a professional boxing licence and stepping into the ring, it is with a heavy heart that I am hanging up my gloves,” he posted on Facebook.

“Despite having never felt better physically or mentally, after notifying the British Boxing Board of Control of my intention to apply for a licence, I have received confirmation that they would not be reviewing my application at this point in time.

“To say I’m disappointed by this decision is an understatement,” said the 39-year-old, who also played for West Ham, Leeds and QPR. “Boxing is a physically tough, demanding and dangerous sport,” added the former centre back, who won six Premier League titles and the Champions League during his time at Old Trafford.