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    Three emergency Daniel Dubois replacements lined up to face Joseph Parker after Brit falls ill days before fight

    THREE emergency replacements have been lined up to replace Daniel Dubois amid concern he could be about to pull out of his fight with Joseph Parker.Dubois’ heavyweight bout is in jeopardy after news broke that the Brit fighter is SICK and being evaluated by doctors.Daniel Dubois’ fight with Joseph Parker is in jeopardy after the brit fell sickCredit: GettyThree replacements have been touted for Joseph Parker to take onCredit: GettyAnd with organisers scrambling to ensure they still have an event to put on, reports claim that three fighters have already been eyed to step in for Dubois, should he pull out.According to Ring Magazine, Parker could face one of Lawrence Okolie, David Adeleye or Mourad Aliev instead.Okolie, 32, is set to fight Richard Riakporhe at Co-op Live in Manchester in April, but could still step into the ring in Riyadh this weekend.London-born big-hitter David Adeleye is also scheduled to fight on the Manchester card, but is still thought to be available to cover for Dubois.READ MORE IN BOXINGUndefeated Aliev, 29, last fought in December and is the only one that doesn’t have a fight already penned in his calendar.However, the Frenchman has never fought outside of Europe before.For now, it remains unconfirmed as to whether Dubois’ illness will stop the fight from going ahead.And a source close to the camp told SunSport: “Nothing is confirmed yet.Most read in BoxingParker’s potential opponentsBy Jack FiggLAWRENCE OKOLIEThe 2016 Olympian held the WBO cruiserweight title for three fights and two years before moving up in weight.Okolie then won the WBC bridgerweight belt – just below heavyweight – before joining the blue riband division.The 6ft 5in powerhouse then packed on the pounds to 18st 6lb in his heavyweight debut to announce himself to his new-found rivals.Okolie – recently signed to Frank Warren – is due to fight Richard Riakphore on April 5 and in camp training.DAVID ADALEYEThe 6ft 4in Londoner was one of the most in-demand sparring partner for the top stars – including Tyson Fury.And Fury once dubbed Adeleye the ‘future’ of the heavyweight division.Adeleye went 12 fights unbeaten before losing to Fabio Wardley in October 2023 – but he bounced back with a vicious KO of Solomon Dacres in December.He is also in training – for April 5 – to fight Jamie TKV.MOURAD ALIEVThe Frenchman is the outsider with a 13-0 record – with all but three coming by KO.As an amateur, he boxed in the Europeans and won silver before turning pro in 2021.His last fight was in December.Lawrence Okolie could replace DuboisCredit: PADavid Adeleye has also been touted to step upCredit: PAFrance’s Mourad Aliev is another optionCredit: AFPDubois vs Parker: Ring walk, TV channel and full card – everything you need to know for the massive heavyweight title fightCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”But IF Daniel cannot fight, then it will be rearranged very quickly.”Should Dubois be ruled out, that would mean no world title would be on the line for Parker who is attempting to become a two-time champion.Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis WilliamsThe New Zealander won the WBO belt almost a decade ago before losing it to Anthony Joshua in Cardiff.Dubois showed no signs of illness during his media duties in Saudi Arabia earlier in the week, and even told the press that he is “ready to go”.On Wednesday, he said: “I’m flying. I feel really confident, ready to go. The talking is done, it’s time to go to work.”I’m expecting just war. I’m ready to fight. Whatever happens, I’m ready to go through him and put him to sleep. Just go for the next one. I’m hungry.”SunSport understands that the earliest whispers of a Dubois problem arose on Thursday morning when a head cold was hinted at.The stacked card in Saudi Arabia has already seen one pull-out.Shakur Stevenson’s opponent Floyd Schofield Jr backed out of his bout earlier in the week.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe 22-year-old failed to turn up to grand arrivals and has since officially withdrawn from the fight after being hospitalised with illness.England’s part-time electrician Josh Padley has since flown in and will attempt a fairytale story as a huge underdog. More

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    Daniel Dubois vs Joseph Parker OFF just days before fight as Brit is forced to pull out and new opponent is announced

    DANIEL Dubois has withdrawn from his IBF heavyweight world title defence against Joseph Parker due to illness.Dubois was forced to pull out on Thursday – just two days before his hotly anticipated mega-fight in Saudi Arabia.Daniel Dubois has withdrawn from his heavyweight title fight against Joseph ParkerCredit: ReutersDubois was set to fight Parker on SaturdayCredit: GettyParker will now fight Congolese boxer Martin BakoleCredit: GettyThe 27-year-old was examined by doctors in Riyadh and has since been ruled out with sickness.Parker will now fight Congolese boxer Martin Bakole on Saturday, as the co-feature before Artur Beterbiev’s rematch with Dmitry Bivol.That means no world title belt will be on the line for Parker, who was attempting to become a two-time champion.Dubois was deemed medically unfit to compete by doctors and so fast-rising star Bakole will take his place in the chief support slot.READ MORE IN BOXINGThe 31-year-old took the call from his native Congo and agreed to step in for Dubois on just two days notice.The Scottish-based heavyweight has been back in his homeland on holiday – now he is packing his bags ready to fly out to Riyadh.Bakole faces a mad dash to get nearly 3,000 miles east but he will be handsomely paid for his efforts.Dubois was looking to defend his IBF title on Saturday after coming off a huge knockout win over Anthony Joshua in September.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe won the belt when Oleksandr Usyk gave it up last summer to pursue a rematch with Tyson Fury instead of a second fight with Dubois, whom he beat in 2023.Dubois’ promoter Frank Warren said: “Unfortunately Daniel is unwell and when we have more news we will update you.”Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis WilliamsDubois vs Parker: Ring walk, TV channel and full card – everything you need to know for the massive heavyweight title fightSunSport understands that the earliest whispers of a Dubois problem arose on Thursday morning when a head cold was hinted at.But – as late as 5pm UK – there was no concern or panic among organisers about the chief support.Queensberry boss and Dubois promoter Warren was seen with his phone glued to his ear today.British boxers Lawrence Okolie and David Adeleye and French star Mourad Aliev were initially said to be the frontrunners to replace Dubois.But Bakole, who is the cousin of former cruiserweight boxing world champion, Ilunga Makabu, has since been confirmed.BOXXER promoter Ben Shalom worked frantically to get his 31-year-old boogieman the gig and – now he had pulled off the coup – has to somehow get him over the Gulf of Aden – and into the ring.BOXXER promoter Ben Shalom worked frantically to get Bakole in as Dubois’ replacementShalom grinned: “We pushed so hard for Martin once we heard the bad news about Daniel Dubois, who we wish a speedy recovery.“We didn’t think that Joe Parker would take such a dangerous fight against Martin on two days’ notice, so absolutely total credit to him and his team.“We thought the hard work would be getting Martin the sort of big fight he has long deserved.“But now the real work of actually getting him here begins.”Parker won the WBO belt almost a decade ago before losing it to Joshua in Cardiff.The New Zealander said: “If he (Dubois) is unwell, I hope he gets better soon because I am looking forward to putting on a great show.”I am ready to go, I have put all the hard work in for Saturday.” SunSport has contacted Dubois’ team for comment.Who is Dubois’ replacement Martin Bakole?By Jack Figg in RiyadhWhen Joseph Parker was on the press conference stage his fight with Daniel Dubois was still on.By the time he got off, so was the fight.Dubois was pulled out with sickness so a mad scramble ensued to find a replacement – which has since been confirmed as Congolese boxer Martin Bakole.Bakole is based in Scotland with trainer Billy Nelson – having moved there from Africa.The cousin of former WBC cruiserweight champ Ilunga Makabu, Bakole made his name as Anthony Joshua’s favourite sparring partner. But he was dealt a major blow in 2018 after defeat to American Michael Hunter, forcing Bakole into a rebuild. That set up 10 wins on the bounce including impressive performances against Carlos Takam, 2016 Olympic gold medalist Tony Yoka and Yank prospect Jared Anderson. Bakoke recently called out old pal AJ to a rumble in the African jungle after toppling Anderson. The British-based brute is 20 STONE and a real handful, so no one has been queuing up to fight him. But perhaps there is no man more fearless in the heavyweight division than Parker – who has been forced to step up again. How the week unfolded in SaudiOn Monday night in Riyadh, at around 3pm UK time, Dubois sat down with the British boxing media and was in fine health and fettle.The IBF champ joked about his new passion for go karting and having to squeeze his giant frame into thr little motors.On Tuesday, he strolled on the grand arrivals stage and spoke with conviction.And even on Wednesday, at the chilly media workout, he looked perfectly fine and did a little shadowboxing.He showed no sign of illness as he said: “I’m flying. I feel really confident, ready to go. The talking is done, it’s time to go to work.”I’m expecting just war. I’m ready to fight. Whatever happens, I’m ready to go through him and put him to sleep. Just go for the next one. I’m hungry.”Dubois has fulfilled his media obligations this weekCredit: GettySunSport understands that the earliest whispers of a Dubois problem arose on Thursday morningCredit: GettyAt some stage at the start of the week, Sky Sports were welcomed down to the Mike Tyson gym, that all the fighters share, and Dubois was in phenomenal form, smashing the pads trainer Kieran Farrell held for him.There was no heavy breathing, coughs or sneezes, just the booming sound of leather on leather.But Dubois didn’t appear at Thursday evening’s final press conference.It becomes the second blow to what has been billed as ‘The Fight Card of the Century’.Floyd Schofield was forced to pull out of his clash with Shakur Stevenson, after being hospitalised with illness.READ MORE SUN STORIESEngland’s part-time electrician Josh Padley has since flown in and will attempt a fairytale story as a huge underdog.The card is still topped by what many deem is the best fight in boxing – a rematch between undisputed light-heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. 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    Eddie Hearn ready to give retired Tyson Fury ultimatum over Anthony Joshua fight as he maps out Brit’s career plans

    EDDIE HEARN is ready to hand Tyson Fury a deadline to decide if he wants to fight Anthony Joshua.The 36-year-old hung up his gloves last month following his second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk.Anthony Joshua is keen on fighting Tyson FuryCredit: ReutersTyson Fury has once again retired from boxingCredit: ReutersEddie Hearn could set the Gypsy King a date to decide whether he will fight AJ or notCredit: GettyBut there has always been belief that Fury will be back in the ring soon as he has already come out of retirement four times in his career.A blockbuster all-British bout against Joshua has been long in the making and AJ’s promoter Hearn is pushing to get the fight on.He told IFL TV about an ultimatum he has given Fury, saying: “Maybe there is a conversation in a week or two weeks or three weeks time.”We say to Fury, ‘just to let you know, you don’t wanna fight AJ, in the summer, August, September, because if you want to come out of retirement, now is the time to do it’.READ MORE IN BOXING”The only things I know are AJ wants to fight Fury and he wants to fight for the world heavyweight title, that’s it.”Hearn additionally told Sky Sports: “We will ask the question. “Frank Warren was saying, ‘Well, he’s retired’. “I know but it’s still my job to say we are going to make our decision, just double-checking there’s no chance he’s going to fight.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”It’s not ‘we will make Fury an offer to get him out of retirement’. We’ll double-check.”Daniel Dubois defends his IBF world title against Joseph Parker in Saudi Arabia on Saturday night.Deontay Wilder and huge world title bout among SIX options for Anthony Joshua’s next fight if Tyson Fury stays retired On that bout, Hearn added: “We’ll have our eyes fixed on Dubois-Parker in many ways. “That’s what AJ wants. He wants to fight for the world heavyweight title. So that’s the number one priority.”Not his first retirement…THIS isn’t the first time Tyson Fury has retired.His first came 12 YEARS ago, when in 2013 he grew frustrated when a fight with David Haye fell through.He declared at the time: “Hi everyone, I have officially retired from boxing. There’s too many bent [crooked] people in the sport. They will have to f*** someone else. Goodbye boxing.”Then, he took a three-year break from the sport between 2015 and 2018, during which many didn’t expect to see him again.In 2022 he retired TWICE.Speaking in the ring after defeating Dillian Whyte at Wembley with a sixth-round finish, he revealed he’d made a promise to wife Paris.He stated: “I’m a two-time undisputed world champion. [I have] £150million in the bank and nothing to prove to anybody.”Later in the year, he stated his plan to “100 per cent” return to the ring.But then just four days later he posted on X that he was quitting again.He posted: “Massive thanks to everyone who had an input in my career over the years & after long hard conversations I’ve finally decided to walk away & on my 34th birthday I say Bon voyage.”It means there will be serious doubts that his latest declaration truly means we’ll never see him in the ring again. More

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    Meet the Wags of the ‘Greatest Ever Fight Card’, from a Brazilian psychologist to a US rap star

    IT’S the greatest fight card in history – and it’s coming this Saturday.Boxing’s finest have descended upon Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for a series of eagerly anticipated bouts.Meet the Wags cheering on the fighters on the greatest ever fight cardBrit star Josh Padley poses with fianceé Sylvana EmilioBrazilian beauty Raissa Fox is the rumoured girlfriend of Daniel DuboisTop of the bill is Artur Beterbiev’s rematch with Dmitry Bivol.While Daniel Dubois’ heavyweight encounter with Joseph Parker promises to be equally as intriguing.Belts are on the line, including the IBF heavyweight and WBC middleweight titles.The action is sure to bring a star-studded crowd to the Middle East.Read more boxing newsThat will include the boxers’ Wags, who will be cheering on their partners in the ring.From a Brazilian psychologist to a US rapper, SunSport invites you to meet them below…Raissa FoxBrazilian stunner Raissa is the reported girlfriend of the very private Daniel Dubois.Ahead of the Anthony Joshua fight, the British heavyweight slugger shared a picture of the pair together – captioning the snap: “Brazilian queen.”Most read in BoxingHowever, he deleted it soon and has since remained coy about his relationship status.Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis WilliamsBased in London, Raissa is a trained psychologist who has over 300,000 followers on Instagram.According to reports, the brunette beauty is expecting a baby.Laine TavitaJoseph Parker and Laine have been in a long-term relationship for more than a decade.They haven’t revealed whether they are married but Parker often refers to Laine as his wife on social media.The couple have been together since they were teenagers and initially crossed paths during their high school days at Auckland Marcellin College.The pair are parents to four daughters, with their first being born in 2016.Her professional status is unknown.Laine Tavita is the longterm partner of Joseph ParkerCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresYoung LyricShakur Stevenson, in the ultimate show of love, proposed to his rapper missus Young Lyric after he defeated Oscar Valdez in 2022.Stevenson dropped to one knee in the ring before giving her a sparkler, much to the singer’s surprise.Young Lyric, real name Michelle Ragston, made her name on reality TV hit The Rap Game, which was produced by Queen Latifah and Jermaine Dupri.The pair have a daughter together called Leilani.Rapper Young Lyric, real name Michelle Ragston, earned fame from reality TV in the USShakur Stevenson and Young Lyric share a daughter togetherCredit: InstagramRomantic Stevenson dropped to one knee to propose to Young Lyric in 2022Credit: GettySylvana EmilioSylvana is very much in the Team Padley camp as the fianceé of Josh Padley.The pair got engaged last year and often share loved up snaps together.Gorgeous Brazilian Sylvana enjoys a glam lifestyle, sharing fancy holidays to Dubai and Marbella.She is usually present to cheer Josh at his fights.Sylvana Emilio shares her glam lifestyle on social media to her followersThe Brazilian beauty will be cheering Josh Padley on in RiyadhKimberly LoveIn Callum Smith’s corner is Kimberly.They are believed to have been together for over a decade.They are said to have met when they went on holiday with pals, although that has never been confirmed.Kimberly keeps her personal life private, so very little is known about her.However, they do share two children together – a daughter called Alba and boy named River.Kimberley Love, in Callum Smith’s corner, prefers to keep a low profileReports suggest Kimberly and Smith have been together for over a decadeThe one that got awayPotentially watching proceedings between Beterbiev and Bivol will be the latter’s ex-wife, Ekaterina.The pair were together for 10 years before splitting up after accusations of domestic abuse.She has since complained that Bivol is financially neglecting their kids by paying just $1,100 per month for their two boys.READ MORE SUN STORIESEkaterina stunned the boxing world last year when she took to social media to celebrate Beterbiev’s win over her ex-husband.Will history repeat itself?Dubois vs Parker: Ring walk, TV channel and full card – everything you need to know for the massive heavyweight title fightFirebrand Ekaterina is Dmitry Bivol’s ex-wifeThe pair split up after accusations of domestic abuseLast year, Ekaterina celebrated Bivol’s loss to Beterbiev More

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    ‘Two kings’ say fans as Tyson Fury links up with legendary Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson for ‘breakfast of champions’

    TYSON FURY enjoyed breakfast with Sir Alex Ferguson and fans were left in awe at the link-up.Both legends are now retired following the Gypsy King’s announcement he would hang up his gloves after his second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk.Sir Alex Ferguson and Tyson Fury enjoyed breakfast togetherCredit: instagram @tysonfurySo the boxer has plenty of time for breakfasts with his heroes – and they don’t come much bigger than Fergie for Fury who is a huge Manchester United fan.He sat down with Ferguson in the Golden Triangle in Cheshire for breakfast, and the pair appeared to be in good spirits.They posed for the camera by flashing smiles, with Fury putting his fist up.Fans loved the unexpected linkup and showed love for Fury and Ferguson.READ MORE IN SPORTOne reacted saying: “The phrase ‘breakfast of champions’ comes to mind.”Another added: “Legendary link up right here!”A third wrote: “Two absolute legends 🥊⚽️🙏”And another commented: “Two kings”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFury captioned the post: “Legends of different games! #BREAKFAST”The former boxer, 36, revealed he has a new “full-time” job after quitting boxing – as wife Paris’ personal trainer.Fans spot Sir Alex Ferguson YAWNING as he watches woeful Man Utd – but get distracted by who he’s sitting next toHe posted a picture of him and Paris on his Instagram story with the caption: “@Parisfury1 training her up now full-time”.News of Fury’s second retirement is said to have come as a “relief” to Paris, as she gets to spend more time with him.Fury’s retirement from boxing has been met with scepticism from many with some predicting he could once again make a comeback – this time to fight Anthony Joshua.Ferguson is also set to come out of retirement and will return to the dugout – for one game only.The Scot will reportedly return to the technical area on March 22 to help coach at a game in Florence.Former Italy international Giuseppe Rossi, 38, has organised a farewell match to honour his retirement next month.The ex-Fiorentina star’s “last dance” will be at the Stadio Franchi Stadium and has been dubbed ‘Pepito Day’. More

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    I was working 6am shifts as electrician before life-changing call, now I’m fighting for world title at 4 days’ notice

    JOSH PADLEY had his world switched upside down when he received a shock call to light up Anthony Joshua’s undercard in September.However, now the 29-year-old is vying to become a world champion in Saudi Arabia after being drafted in for a world title fight with just four days’ notice.Josh Padley is the electrician given billing on the Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol undercardCredit: Josh PadleyThe Doncaster star has been given permission from his bosses to pursue his big momentCredit: GettyHe achieved a stunning win over Mark Chamberlain in SeptemberCredit: GettyAnd now he has gone from working 6am shifts to fighting for a world titleCredit: AFPThe Doncaster electrician had to do the small-hall circuits at the start of his career, at places like his local Holiday Inn and, more recently, the Bradford Hotel.But on Saturday he fights against Shakur Stevenson on the Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol undisputed light-heavyweight card.He previously beat Mark Chamberlain in a huge upset on the AJ versus Daniel Dubois show at Wembley Stadium, which was beamed around the world, in front of 96,000 fans.That fight has proven to be transformative as he is now set to challenge Stevenson for the WBC lightweight title belt.READ MORE ON BOXINGUnbeaten in 15 professional fights, Padley has been drafted in to replace Floyd Schofield after he was allegedly “poisoned” ahead of this weekend’s bout.Padley spoke to SunSport back in September before his fight with Chamberlain.The boxing ace told SunSport: “My alarm was set for a 6am start until I got a call to tell me I had to be in London the next day for 3pm for the launch press conference.“The call came when I was driving from my paid job to go and work on my own house so I had a van full of rubbish ready to go to the local tip.Most read in BoxingJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”So I texted the lads I was supposed to be working with and told them, ‘I won’t be in tomorrow, you’ll have to crack on without me.’”I didn’t tell my bosses, I got messages from them saying, ‘Where are you?’ and then one saying, ‘Are you on the AJ undercard?’Electrician Josh Padley reacts to article in The Sun at the Joshua v Dubois Grand Arrivals”I had to come clean and they replied, ‘Not great for the next few jobs we had lined up – but we’re absolutely over the moon for you.'”They instantly started thinking of ways they could help and support me because they know the opportunity is massive.”I am the biggest underdog on the whole card, everyone else is a superstar or a well-supported prospect. But I am going to bring the fire.”Victory over the Portsmouth lightweight – who is the favourite fighter of Saudi boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh  – has hurled Padley into the big time.But a couple of weeks after his victory he was back at work.Speaking to talkSPORT about his prospects, he said: “It all depends on what sort of fights come through as these offers.”Obviously, if they’re the bigger fights, then I might be able to take the camp off again, with the help of my sponsors that helped me out with this camp so I can be full-time again for the next camp.”But I will go back into work, and pick my tools back up for Monday after my holiday, because like I say, I don’t know what the offers are just yet, so I’ve gotta put things in place, just in case it isn’t right.”He’s not trying to trash talk his opponent or grab the limelight, he just wants to swap his hi-vis for high-risk fights.The underdog is not even too fussed about the money for the massive fight as he reckons his missus, Sylvana, will have already spent it in Ikea.He said: “I am not here for the payday.Beterbiev vs Bivol 2: Start time, TV channel, full card – everything you need to know for MASSIVE Saudi rematch”I want what comes after the win, the next challenge or title.“And whatever money I make won’t matter because my girlfriend is doing the house up with me, so she will have spent every penny of my purse, no doubt.”There’s a lot of talk about the cash involved in these new Riyadh Season shows that are taking place in the desert, in Los Angeles and now London.But tales like Padley’s – about the brave working-class boys and girls who risk their lives for the sport they love – should remind us that increased fighter pay can only ever be a good thing.He explained: “My usual week is up at 5:50am, travel with the lads to wherever the work is, last week we were about an hour away.”I clock off and go home and at the minute I am renovating my house so I do another hour on that, go to the gym for 5pm for an hour, home, dinner, bed and repeat and repeat and repeat.”Wembley will be a big stage, I have only boxed on small-hall shows.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The press conference room at Wembley Arena was bigger than most of the places I have boxed in, so it is some step up.”But that’s what I want, I want to change my life, I don’t want to go back to building sites after September 21. So I am grabbing this with both hands.”Padley beat Chamberlain on the AJ – Dubois undercard in a huge upsetCredit: AlamyHe admitted the press conference room was bigger than most of the small halls he has boxed inCredit: AlamyPadley is 15-0 going into his title fight against Shakur StevensonCredit: Getty More

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    Anthony Joshua in huge boost to fight for world title he has NEVER won… but why it all depends on Daniel Dubois

    ANTHONY JOSHUA could finally get the chance to fight for the WBC title – but it all depends on Daniel Dubois. Joshua, 35, has twice held the unified WBA, IBF and WBO versions of the belts – but never the iconic green and gold WBC. Anthony Joshua could position himself to fight for the WBC titleCredit: ReutersThe strap is currently held by Oleksandr Usyk, 38, after he took it from Tyson Fury, 36, and then defended it in his pair of points wins last year. But he had to vacate the IBF title to proceed with his December rematch with Fury – which he won via disputed decision. Dubois, 27, was meanwhile elevated from interim champion to the full version – knocking out AJ in his first defence in September.He now puts it on the line against Joseph Parker, 33, on Saturday night in Riyadh – with Usyk in line to fight the winner. READ MORE IN BOXINGThat would make it for all four undisputed belts again.So Agit Kabayel and Zhilei Zhang contest for the interim version on the undercard. Winning that trinket title automatically puts the winner in line to challenge for the full version or be elevated in the event of the champ being stripped. And WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman is open to Joshua fighting for the WBC interim belt this year against either Zhang, 41, or Kabayel, 32. Most read in BoxingSulaiman told SunSport: “Very possibly Anthony Joshua could fight the winner and then the winner would be the interim champion. “What we’re trying to do is to give the fans the best fights possible.Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis Williams”We are administering within our rules that give us plenty of room to be ordering or managing the divisions for the benefit of the industry.”So that is a very doable thing if Anthony Joshua is to fight the winner of Kabayel-Zhang – absolutely it would be an WBC interim title fight.”Daniel Dubois defends his IBF title against Joseph ParkerCredit: GettyOleksandr Usyk could fight the winner between Dubois vs ParkerCredit: GettyZhilei Zhang and Agit Kabayel fight for the WBC interim titleCredit: PA More

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    People think Jake Paul’s a trash-talking troll who is ruining boxing – but I’ve seen the REAL man when cameras are off

    HE is the self-proclaimed Problem Child and bad boy of boxing – but away from the cameras Jake Paul is a TOTALLY different man.The YouTuber-turned-prizefighter might ruffle feathers with his outspoken persona but I’ve had a behind-the-scenes insight into the man.Jake Paul is the self-proclaimed Problem Child and bad boy of boxingCredit: GettySunSport’s Jack Figg has seen the real Jake – the humble man behind the bravadoJake is perceived as a trash-talking troll, flaunting his enormous wealthHe has made £80m from boxing alone, on top of his YouTube earningsIt’s given me a first-hand view of the REAL Jake – the secret side he’s kept hidden as he embarks on his trash-talking boxing career.Before earning £80MILLION from just 12 fights, Jake shot to fame as a controversial social media influencer and the internet’s favourite enemy.But that is not the man I’ve got to know.Admittedly, in our first interview – in May 2021 – he told me he was on track to become a BILLIONAIRE through boxing.And he had no problem bragging about being an evil troll behind his iPhone – rage-baiting fans into buying his pay-per-view fights.Jake has never been far away from controversy.He once drew widespread criticism for publicly calling Conor McGregor’s partner, Dee Devlin, a “four out of ten” in one sexist rant. But he later told us that was out of immaturity and wanting to make a name for himself.And he also announced the birth of Tommy Fury and Molly-Mae Hague’s baby before the Love Island couple even had the chance to.But, actually being around Jake in the lead up to his bouts – from America to Saudi Arabia – has allowed me to see a wildly contrasting character to that of the online villain.Jake Paul renovates boxing gym in Puerto Rico for charityOne that he probably doesn’t want the public to see, as it would ruin the bad-guy persona he’s spent years honing and made millions from.Jake knows how to control his public image, angering fans enough to pay a hefty PPV fee – in the hope he’ll be on the wrong end of a vicious knockout.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut it’s how the 28-year-old acts off-camera which stood out most.Before his February 2023 fight with Fury in Saudi, I was invited to Jake’s hotel suite at the Four Seasons for an exclusive one-on-one interview.He came in with his entourage of friends, family and team members, greeting everyone with fist bumps.I was taken aback at how calm Jake seemed – reclining comfortably on the sofa just days before his biggest and toughest fight to date.He is known for his controversial remarks and traded insults with Tommy Fury before punchesCredit: AFPThings threatened to boil over before their grudge matchCredit: ReutersTommy won the fight on points – Jake’s only professional lossCredit: GettyTruthfully, I expected to have to tip-toe through an interview with a prima donna.But he put me at ease instantly.He remembered my name, asked how I was doing, made small talk with everyone in the room – he was just a normal guy.Then, the second the cameras started rolling and the dictaphone turned on, the OTHER Jake arrived.The former TV actor jumped up, straightened his back and worked his magic.He vowed to prove his critics wrong and knock the professional boxer out.He fired a brutal dig at Tommy over his claims he’d retire if he lost.And he warned Molly-Mae to stay at home – as “nobody wants to see her cry”.Jake made controversial comments about Fury’s partner Molly-Mae Hague before the boutSunSport spoke to Jake in an exclusive sit down before his 2023 fight with Fury – and our reporter was shocked by his real-life personaAs soon as the interview stopped, so did Jake’s arrogance and bullish demeanour, as if he could stop the act at the drop of a hat.He even thanked me for MY time.Like many boxers and celebrities, you always see Jake surrounded by a large crew in public.But far from being full of security or hangers-on, Jake’s is made up of life-long friends who keep him grounded as he jets across the world.He remembered my name, asked how I was doing, made small talk with everyone in the room – he was just a normal guy. Then, the second the cameras started rolling and the dictaphone turned on, the OTHER Jake arrived.One new face in the entourage is glamorous Dutch speedskater Jutta Leerdam, who Jake has been dating since April 2023.After a few failed celeb romances – including a fake marriage to Tana Mongeau in 2017 – Jake seems totally loved-up, regularly seen cheering her on in the stands at ice rinks around the world.He is a doting uncle after brother Logan and model fiancee Nina Agdal welcomed his niece Esme into the world in September.And the former Disney star – who once only cared about fame and money – is now talking about having kids of his own.Jake is in a relationship with glamorous Dutch speedskater Jutta LeerdamCredit: InstagramThe couple are loved-up with Jake regularly supporting her in events across the worldCredit: Instagram / @juttaleerdamJake is now a doting uncle – and wants a family of his ownBrother Logan welcomed baby daughter Esme into the worldThe last time I spoke to Jake was in August of last year alongside members of the MMA media – who he is less familiar with.I watched as Jake gave more reserved answers until it got to myself and another journalist who he recognised.And then BAM.Gone were the soft-spoken replies and on the front-foot he went – insulting the likes of KSI and Fury, who had just publicly split up with Molly-Mae.He seemed far more comfortable mocking his rivals than he did talking about his charitable side – which the media by then had cottoned on to.Jake launched Boxing Bullies in 2021, a foundation encouraging kids to take up the sport.As part of that, he bought and renovated gyms in Puerto Rico – where he now lives – and once even donated his entire fight purse to charity.In January 2020, the night Jake made his pro debut, Puerto Rican women’s boxing legend Amanda Serrano was fighting on the undercard for under £5,000.Jake launched his Boxing Bullies charity in 2021Credit: Boxing BulliesThe charity aims to gets kids into boxingCredit: Boxing BulliesJake has donated millions to charity – a side of him not known to the general publicCredit: Boxing BulliesJake addresses youngsters in the gymCredit: Boxing BulliesWhen Jake caught wind of how disgracefully little the seven-division great was being paid, he signed her to his Most Valuable Promotions banner.Jake told us in 2022: “That’s why I was so baffled when I first met her about how much money she was making.“And how she was being mistreated and how she didn’t have that much of a big following online.“It didn’t make sense to me, I was like, ‘You’re one of the greatest fighters of all time, you should be getting paid millions of dollars’.”Jake is still known to splash the cash, never shy to show off his collection of Ferraris, private jet or expensive watches to his millions of followers. But he also likes to share his wealth, treating his team and even OPPONENTSSerrano is now a multi-millionaire having fought on some of boxing’s biggest cards – including a thrilling rematch against Katie Taylor as the co-main event for Jake’s infamous Netflix clash with heavyweight legend Mike Tyson.Gyms in Puerto Rico are now full of young women, inspired by Serrano’s story.Humble Jake – who is advocating for equal pay in boxing – insists that while he gave her a platform, the success is all down to Serrano.He’s on record saying: “All I did was shine a spotlight. And pretty much, Amanda Serrano did the rest.”This is a gym Jake renovated in Carolina, Puerto Rico, for champion women’s boxer Amanda SerranoCredit: Boxing BulliesHe fixed it up, adding a mural of Serrano in the gymCredit: Boxing BulliesIt was a surprise for the seven-weight world championCredit: Boxing BulliesJake was stunned at how little Serrano was earning per fight and has made it his goal to get equal pay in boxingCredit: Boxing BulliesJake is still known to splash the cash, never shy to show off his collection of Ferraris, private jet or expensive watches to his millions of followers.But he also likes to share his wealth, treating his team and even OPPONENTS.Four years ago, he beat ex-UFC champion Tyron Woodley and was due to face Love Islander Fury – brother to the legendary Tyson – in his next bout.But when Fury pulled out with a rib injury, Woodley filled in on short notice just before Christmas that year.In the festive spirit, Jake had already gifted his entire team Rolex watches worth £9,000 each – and shocked Woodley by saving one for him.But his villainous reputation preceded him to the point that Woodley took the timepiece to a jeweller to check if it was fake and if it had a TRACKER in it.Woodley revealed the watch was real and did not have a device to monitor his every move.Fury would again pull out of fighting Jake for a second time in August 2022 amid a US visa problem – and the whole event got cancelled.Jake gifted Tyron Woodley a Rolex before their December 2021 rematchA stunned Woodley had to take the watch to a jeweller to confirm it was realBut Jake paid the entire undercard half of their promised purses out of his own pocket to ensure that they were not left empty-handed.His generosity is a far-cry from the foul-mouthed punk celebrity who shot to fame on six-second social media app Vine and later YouTube.Misdemeanours and wild parties all helped Jake get sacked from his role on Disney Channel show Bizaardvark in 2017 after just two series.And the out-of-control youngster admitted to spinning down a spiral of drink and drugs while living the high life in Los Angeles.And, despite the threat of a boring cliché, Jake insists boxing really did save him from a life of degeneracy.He sold his £5m LA mansion and instead moved to Puerto Rico to focus on boxing and escape dangerous distractions.Jake bought a stunning eight-bedroom pad for £13m on the Caribbean island as well as building his own £3m two-storey gym with brother Logan.Even Jake’s biggest detractors can’t take away the commitment he has shown for boxing – spending a fortune on his training camps.Paul bought a £13m mansion in Puerto RicoCredit: Instagram @jakapaulThe vast plot contains eight bedroomsCredit: Youtube – Jake PaulJake built his own £3m gym in Puerto RicoCredit: YouTubeHe’s even got himself a private jetHe pays top-quality sparring partners so well that one told me he even bought a house with the money he made from Jake’s camp.Jake now has 11 wins and one loss on his record – with his first and so far only defeat coming against Fury.He is poised to announce his next fight and will do so after regaining his position as boxing’s most hated man.Jake had all generations of fans up in arms having brought 58-year-old great Tyson out of retirement in November.He took home £30million for 16 minutes of work and had over 100 MILLION people tuning in to watch on Netflix.But not even letting the beloved heavyweight legend see the final bell was enough to stop fans from praying for Jake’s downfall.What fans might not know is Jake invited a seven-year old cancer patient – Owen Obey – to watch the fight from ringside.Owen tragically passed the month after, but he did so after getting to watch his two heroes up close – and Jake made it happen.And while it’s clear his loyal crowd of critics won’t be going away any time soon – Jake will happily welcome them along for the ride.But he’ll do so laughing all the way to the bank – as he always does.Jake invited cancer patient Owen Obey to his fight against Mike Tyson More