It’s fair to say Rio Ferdinand’s decision to become a professional boxer has divided opinion.

The former Manchester United defender may have hung up his football boots years ago but he’s looking to put on the gloves and take to the boxing ring after signing a lucrative deal with bookmakers Betfair.

Ferdinand clearly has worked hard in the gym since retiring from football and looks in incredible shape for a 35-year-old.

But with the former England international not getting any younger, he’s admitted that he’s only planning on having one fight, rather than a career in the sport.

Ferdinand on boxing

"I want to see if I can get a licence and become a professional and have one fight," said Ferdinand.

"I am not looking to have a career here. I am looking to have a professional fight and I will see where I go then. It might grab me and say 'I want to stay in here'."

"I need to get a license first. I am taking this seriously, this is not a joke, hopefully I will get a license, go on to become a professional and fight someone.

"Boxing can't be a gimmick. If I take it lightly I will get hurt."

While many will praise him for using the tragedy of the death of his wife in a positive way, some have questioned the legitimacy for his desire to succeed in the sport - especially when he only plans on fighting once.

And one of those that aren’t too happy with Ferdinand’s venture into boxing is Tony Bellew.

Bellew reacts to Ferdinand becoming a boxer

Bellew will be starting to prepare for his rematch against David Haye in December and thinks Ferdinand is just “attention seeking” by turning his hand to boxing.

"He’s making a mockery of our sport,” Bellew said to Betsafe, via the Mirror.

“This sport is not a game, it’s a serious sport and can be very dangerous.

"This is attention seeking of the highest order. I understand that he might have frustrations that he wants to get out.

“But I believe he could do that in the gym, why does he need to go in a boxing ring?

“He’s a healthy man with a beautiful family and I have huge respect for him after watching the documentary on his family.

“But this stinks of desperation and not being able to let go out of the spotlight."

Bellew vs Ferdinand anyone?