Rio Ferdinand, the former Manchester United star, has revealed that he contemplated stepping into the boxing ring against British-Nigerian champion Anthony Joshua for a staggering £100 million after retiring from football in 2015. Ferdinand disclosed that he applied for a boxing licence and trained rigorously for six months, even constructing a ring in his garden. Unfortunately, his hopes were dashed when his application was turned down, coincidentally linked to a tragic incident during that weekend.

In an interview with Men’s Health, Ferdinand recounted his dedication to boxing, detailing his extensive training sessions at a gym in Sheffield, which involved long drives and intense sparring. He expressed his remorse over not being able to pursue this boxing dream, indicating that he believed the opportunity could have led to a lucrative fight with Joshua that he references as a potential earning of £100 million. The former footballer’s comments highlight not only his passion for sports beyond football but also reflect on the unpredictability of athlete careers and their post-retirement aspirations.

Ferdinand's revelations might resonate with many former athletes who often find themselves navigating new horizons while dealing with the memories of opportunities missed. His insight into the boxing world emphasizes the stringent regulations that govern combat sports, which can thwart even dedicated talents. Ultimately, Ferdinand’s story serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly circumstances can change and the opportunities that may slip away, reinforcing the idea that timing is crucial in an athlete's career trajectory.