Rio Ferdinand's transition from the pitch to the ring is set to receive a boost.

Following news that Rio is set to become a professional boxer at the age of 38, friend and heavyweight champion of the world, Anthony Joshua, has offered to train the Manchester United legend.

Fighting at cruiserweight, the former football player revealed he's already spoken to AJ about sparring with him: "we were on a plane together and he offered to help me."

Despite being sponsored by Betfair's #DefenderToContender campaign, Rio insists his decision to enter boxing is something he's taking seriously: "I have always had a passion for it, and this challenge is the perfect opportunity to show people what’s possible."

A genuine move into another sport isn't unheard of, especially boxing, with Conor McGregor only recently making the switch, albeit from another combat sport, to fight Floyd Mayweather. However, it remains to be seen whether Rio's endeavour culminates in a fight as he's still awaiting approval of his boxing license.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nft99BbsKwU[/embed]

Could we see Rio vs AJ at Old Trafford in the future?