Akinfenwa opens up on wrestling debut and jokes about wearing football shorts

The ex-footballer will make his wrestling debut later in October.

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Akinfenwa was ranked the world's strongest footballer for a number of years throughout his playing career.

The 40-year-old's iconic physique and loveable personality earned him cult hero status in the game, as well as his undeniable knack for goals.

Now, Akinfenwa will join British wrestler Anthony Ogogo in the ring for his fight with Mailk at PROGRESS Wrestling on October 23.

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The former Wycombe Wanderers striker told talkSPORT: "The wrestler tag has been with me for a bit. I guess I'm built more like a wrestler than a footballer, that's what people always used to say.

"But I've always been into wrestling since I was a youngster. I'm a father now and my kids are into wrestling.

"When I say I'm going to be a wrestler, I'm going to dip my toe in the whole wrestling world."

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He added: "I know Anthony Ogogo and he's been giving me tips. It is really skilled. Don't get the game twisted. People may see it as entertainment, but the falls are real and the training is real.

"My body is aching after a couple. Anybody that has seen me fall on a football pitch, it takes a while to get up!"

Given wrestling's traditional attire, the graft is not the only element which will push Akinfenwa to his limits.

And the Englishman admits he might have to invent his own style.

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When asked whether it will be a leotard or trunks, he said: "I'm going to have to remix that. I'm going to have to remix my uniform.

"I don't really like the leotard, spandex or trunks. I may have to go with football shorts or something."

Akinfenwa's football career spanned over more than 20 years but eventually ended due to a number of knee injuries.

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And he admits retirmement has been kind to him.

When asked if he misses football, Akinfenwa said: "No, I'm not missing the day-to-day. I'm not missing the pounding.

"I'm lucky. I'm still involved in the game. Most footballers that retired, we're creatures of habit, and we struggle when we don't have a routine.

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"I'm as busy as ever. My knee did its due dilligence and now it just likes to rest."