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    Thierry Jacob dead at 59: Former boxing world champion dies after battle with lung cancer

    FORMER world boxing champion Thierry Jacob has died aged 59 after a battle with lung cancer. Jacob held the WBC super-bantamweight world title and fought all of his career in France. Ex-boxing champion Thierry Jacob has died aged 59 after a battle with lung cancerJacob passed away at his home in Calais after losing his battle with cancerCredit: AFPJacob held the WBC super-bantamweight world titleCredit: GettyHe passed away at his home in Calais after losing his battle with cancer. Natacha Bouchart, mayor of the northern port city, announced on Facebook: “We begin this day with sad news. Thierry Jacob died overnight, so young.” Jacob turned professional in 1984 after a good amateur career and won his first 21 bouts. He was first defeated in 1987 by Kelvin Seabrooks when challenging for the IBF bantamweight title. READ MORE IN boxing Jacob also failed in attempts to win the EBU IBF super-bantamweight belts. But he did claim victory over British legend Duke McKenzie in 1990 for the EBU bantamweight strap. He lost three world title fights – against Tracy Harris Patterson and Wilfredo Vazquez (twice) – before his retirement bout. Jacob beat Edgar Orlando Ballen before hanging up the gloves with a 39-6 career. Most read in BoxingHis brothers Bruno and Herve were also boxers and won national and European titles with a fourth brother, Jacky, coaching. Jacob later trained his sons Romain and Joffrey – who both won titles. Romain was a former European super-feather champ while Joffrey won a French title. Meet the AI boxing official who’ll be ringside for Fury v Usyk with fans convinced it ‘will eliminate judges completely’ More

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    West Ham U15s keeper Oscar Fairs dies after brave cancer battle as tributes pour in for boy who had ‘bright future’

    WEST HAM youngster Oscar Fairs has passed away aged 15.The academy goalkeeper died following a battle with cancer.Oscar Fairs has sadly passed awayCredit: West HamThe young goalkeeper bravely battled cancerCredit: SWNSHe was described as a ‘friendly, happy, well-mannered and polite young man’Credit: SWNSFairs was diagnosed with an ependymoma in August 2023.In the eight month prior, he experienced heart palpitations, right-sided weakness, headaches and sickness, but he was initially misdiagnosed with mental health problems and migraines.His condition began to deteriorate, with West Ham telling his worried parents how he was struggling in training as his “right hand and leg weren’t right”.Fairs eventually went for an MRI scan and they found a 9cm tumour on the left side of his brain, attached to his motor system, with three cysts on the outside.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFollowing several successful surgeries, his tumours had shrunk, but he could unfortunately not be saved. West Ham legend Mark Noble said in a statement: “On behalf of everyone at West Ham United, it is with deep and profound sadness that I confirm the tragic passing of our U15s Academy goalkeeper Oscar Fairs, following his brave battle with cancer.”Oscar was adored by everyone at the Academy – not only was he a great goalkeeper, he was a true Hammer and a fantastic young person, who will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure to know him.”I have wonderful memories of Oscar playing in my garden – Lenny [his son] and his team-mates all loved him. Most read in Football”He was a friendly, happy, well-mannered and polite young man, who had such a bright future ahead of him, and it is just so unimaginably devastating that he has been taken from his family and friends at this age.”As a mark of respect, all scheduled academy fixtures this weekend have been postponed, including this evening’s PL2 Under-21 match against Stoke City. “In due course, the club will also share information on our plans to pay tribute to Oscar, and we will ensure that his name is never forgotten at West Ham United.”The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at the Club are with Oscar’s parents, Natalie and Russell, and his brother Harry, and we kindly ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time.”Rest in peace, brave Oscar.”Tributes from fans also flooded in, with one reading: “Incredibly sad news, my heart goes to out his family.”Another added: “RIP Oscar you were a true fighter and a little warrior. I send all my love to your family. Rest easy little man! Xx.”A third wrote: “Life really is unfair sometimes. Rest in peace Oscar.” More

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    F1 legend Eddie Jordan, 76, reveals he is battling ‘aggressive’ cancer as he urges ‘go and get tested’

    EDDIE JORDAN has opened up on his battle with cancer after being diagnosed earlier this year.The Formula 1 legend has prostate and bladder cancer, which has spread aggressively in the past few months.Eddie Jordan spoke about his battle with cancerCredit: SplashThe former driver competed in F2 and F3Credit: GettyJordan owned an F1 team for 14 years and gave Michael Schumacher his debutCredit: GettyJordan, 76, revealed he went through some “dark days” as the cancer spread to different parts of his body.He urged people to go out and get tested and spoke about the importance of looking after one’s body.In an appearance on his Formula For Success podcast, which he hosts alongside David Coulthard, Jordan said: “We’ve kind of alluded to it David, over the shows. Way back in March and April, I was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer.”And then it spread into the spine and the pelvis, so it was quite aggressive. And we’ve all heard about our wonderful friend Sir Chris Hoy, who is an absolute megastar, and he [was] coming out and talking about illness such as like what I’ve got, but he’s a far younger man.READ MORE IN F1″But this is a little message for all the anchors and everybody listening to this: don’t wait or put it off. “Go and get tested, because in life you’ve got chances and there is so much medical advice out there and so many things that you can do to extend your lifetime. Go and do it.”Don’t be stupid, don’t be shy. It’s not a shy thing – look after your body, guys.“We’ll move on, but yes, some very dark days in there – but we pulled out of it, thankfully.”Most read in MotorsportHe has worked as a pundit in F1 since 2009Credit: GettyJordan also spoke Chris Hoy’s diagnosisCredit: GettyHoy, 48, opened up on his cancer diagnosis by revealing doctors have given him just four years to live.Like Hoy, Jordan is also a legend in his field and although he never drove in F1, he did race in F2, F3 and Formula Atlantic, as well as 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1981.Ten years later he did finally make it to F1 with his Jordan Grand Prix team, and gave Michael Schumacher his F1 debut in 1991.Lewis Hamilton in awkward car journey with George Russell and Carlos Sainz after Las Vegas GPJordan Grand Prix raced in F1 until 2005, and achieved its best ever result in 1998 when Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher finished first and second at the Belgian Grand Prix.The team was sold in 2005 and rebranded as MF1 Racing a year later before becoming Force India and later Racing Point and now Aston Martin.Jordan returned to F1 in 2009 as a pundit for BBC Sport’s Grand Prix and later joined Channel 4 in 2016.He’s also been a regular pundit on Sky Sports over the years.He was awarded an honorary OBE by Her Majesty The Queen in recognition of his services to charity and motor racing in 2012.In 2016 he joined the cast of presenters on Top Gear, who at the time included Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc.The signs of bladder cancer you should knowThere are around 10,500 new bladder cancer cases in the UK every year, according to Cancer Research.That’s 29 every day, making it the 11th most common form of cancer in the UK.Smoking is the single biggest risk factor for bladder cancer, causing 45 per cent of cases in the UK.But exposure to other chemicals, including industrial, is also known to be a cause. Sometimes the cause of bladder cancer is not known.Around six in 10 cases are in people aged 75 or over, with a steep rise in risk from age 50.The signs of bladder cancerBlood in urine: This is the most common sign. It might not be obvious and may come and go. It might look like streaks of blood, or brown urine.A need to urinate moreA burning sensation when passing urinePelvic painBone painUnintentional weight lossSwelling of the legs What are the symptoms of prostate cancer?Symptoms of prostate cancer can include:needing to pee more frequently, often during the nightneeding to rush to the toiletdifficulty in starting to pee (hesitancy)straining or taking a long time while peeingweak flowfeeling that your bladder has not emptied fullyblood in urine or blood in semenSource: NHSSpeaking in mid-October about his health, the multi-millionaire revealed that he underwent tests as part of taking part in a cycling event in South Africa earlier in the year.He said: “At 76 I did the Argus [Cape Town Cycle Tour], and then you get a bit of a bang, and then you suddenly feel that you’re not 100 per cent.READ MORE SUN STORIES“You go to the doctor, and then you get this illness. But where there’s a will, there’s a way, and I urge everybody to be able to stand the fight, because it’s worth it.“I’m coming out the other side, everyone else should come out the other side. The prognosis is absolutely fantastic. The medical awareness of what’s going on at the moment is quite simply mind-boggling – and so there should be every opportunity to avail of that medical help.” More

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    Israel Vazquez dead at 46: Three-time world champion boxer dies after cancer battle as tributes pour in

    FORMER boxing champion Israel Vazquez has tragically passed away aged 46. The former three-time super-bantamweight champion was recently diagnosed with stage four sarcoma. Israel Vazquez has tragically passed away aged 46Credit: GETTYThe former three-time super-bantamweight champion was recently diagnosed with stage four cancerCredit: GETTYThe beloved Mexican mauler has sadly lost his battle with the diseaseCredit: GETTYBut ‘El Magnifico’ has tragically lost his brief battle with the disease. His passing was announced by WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman. He wrote on X “Israel Vazquez is finally resting in peace. “May God give strength and support to his wife, Laura, their children, family, and friends during these difficult times.”READ MORE BOXING NEWSVazquez’s illness left him incredibly weak and barely able to speak. His wife Laura told the Los Angeles Times: “He can hardly speak and, when he does, he is short of breath. He is very weak.” Vazquez and his family were given a grim diagnosis after the severity of his cancer was revealed but Laura refused to give up hope. She said: “We were told he would have six months to live, but I’m not going to give up. Most read in BoxingTributes for the late Vazquez have poured in from around the worldCredit: GETTY”We’re going to get a second opinion. We know there’s still hope.”Tributes for the late Vazquez began to pour in after news of his passing spread on social media.Eddie Hearn reacts wildy in the ring as Katie Taylor beats Amanda SerranoFormer world champ Billy Dib wrote: “Heartbroken to hear about the passing of Israel Vázquez after his courageous battle with cancer.”He was not only a champion but also a true warrior in and out of the ring. “My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who admired him. May he rest in peace.”One boxing fan wrote: “Rest in peace Israel ‘Magnifico’ Vazquez a true Mexican fighter who fought with pure heart every fight.”Condolences to Israel family.”Another said: “The Mexican idol encapsulated the famous Mexican fighting spirit.”And another said: “That’s such terrible news about Israel Vazquez. “A true warrior in and out of the ring. Israel Vazquez has four fights with fellow Mexican Rafael MarquezCredit: ALAMY”He had one of the best rivalries in boxing history and the 3rd fight with Marquez is one of the best fights of this century. “And a top 10 super bantamweight ever. Rest in peace, champ.”Marquez reached the pinnacle of the sport in the 39th professional fight in March 2004, in which he stopped Jose Luis Valbuena in the 12th round to claim the vacant IBF super-bantamweight crown.He would go on to win the WBC and Ring Magazine 122lbs straps a year later with a stunning third-round stoppage of Oscar Larios. He’d defend the belts twice before losing them in the first of his four bouts with Rafael Marquez in March 2007. He’d exact his revenge four months later with a sixth-round TKO victory and defend them the following March courtesy of a hard-fought split decision. READ MORE SUN STORIESMarquez, however, would level their series two years later with a third-round knockout in May 2010. The defeat to Marquez would prove to be the final bout of a legendary career for the Mexico City mauler. More

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    Bayern Munich star diagnosed with cancer aged 23 and out for ‘indefinite period’ as club and team-mates rally around ace

    BAYERN MUNICH goalkeeper Mala Grohs has been diagnosed with cancer and says she will be out for an “indefinite period”.Team-mates and fans are rallying round the 23-year-old, while Bayern promptly extended her contract until June 2026.Maria Grohs won the hearts of fans with a video saying she had cancerCredit: AlamyGrohs revealed in a powerful video message she had the condition but added she was “generally very optimistic” ahead of treatment.The three-time Bundesliga Women-title winner explained: “I was diagnosed with a malignant tumour.”I’m in the very best hands with the doctors here.”The girls and everyone at the club are really supporting me in any way that they can.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShe continued: “The whole thing is definitely a challenge that I never thought I would have to overcome”.And after adding a little laugh at that thought, Grohs added: “But with the help of everyone here I’ll certainly beat it.”She also said: “I’m going to try to be around the team as much as I can now to absorb the energy that the girls give and to be part of things, and then we’ll surely see each other again very soon.”The club’s director of women’s football Bianca Rech stressed: “The team, the coaching and support team and we as the entire FC Bayern family are firmly on Mala’s side.Most read in FootballGrohs is in her third season as Bayern’s first-choice stopperCredit: AP”She will receive all of our support, which is one of the things we wanted to express with the contract extension. “We wish Mala a lot of strength and the best possible recovery from the bottom of our hearts.”Every Premier League club’s most famous and also most surprising fanBayern’s England Euro 2022 hero Georgia Stanway was amongst the many other well-wishers.The ex-Blackburn and Manchester City midfielder said: “We are with you!”Bayern captain Glodis Perla Viggosdottir added: “With you through it all.”The club’s Austria midfielder Sarah Zadrazil shared a post of the keeper with the words: “You got this, and we got you!” And the Bayern squad as a whole posed with her match top which had “We are with you!” printed on it.Grohs joined Bayern from VfL Bochum in 2019 as reserve stopper.She became first-choice two years ago, playing 81 senior games and also winning the German Super Cup.Grohs is confident all the support she is getting will play a part in her returning to play many more games.She said: “With the help I am now getting from all sides, I will manage it and get completely healthy again.” Messages of support flooded in from fans too.One posted: “Our angel Mala. We will win, You are not alone. We love you.”Another wrote: “I hope it is a comfort to Mala to know that even in the world of football there are players who are role models for having beaten cancer.”READ MORE SUN STORIESA third insisted: “She will be back stronger.”Bayern also won widespread praise for extending Grohs’ contract. More

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    Appeal launched for former Chelsea star’s daughter who has had leg amputated while pregnant after cancer diagnosis

    AN APPEAL has been launched for the daughter of former Chelsea star Dave Mitchell after she lost her leg to cancer.Glasgow-born Mitchell, 62, played for the Blues between 1988 and 1990, making seven appearances.An appeal has been launched to help the daughter of former Chelsea star Dave MitchellCredit: GettyJess Cook was 25 weeks pregnant when she lost her leg to cancerCredit: gofundmeThe public have shown their support for Mitchell’s daughterCredit: GettyThe 27-time Australia international also enjoyed spells in England with Newcastle, Swindon Town and Millwall.And after retiring in 1999, Mitchell entered the world of management with several sides Down Under.But the former striker was hit by tragedy when his daughter was recently diagnosed with cancer.Jess Cook was 25 weeks pregnant when doctors confirmed she had a rare soft tissue cancer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMitchell’s daughter then required urgent surgery to amputate her left leg.And now, a GoFundMe appeal has been launched by Jess’ sister Kristy to raise money and support her recovery.Looking to raise over £76,000, the funds will be used to assist Jess through her extremely difficult moment.And as of Tuesday morning, an incredible £75k has already been raised by kind-hearted donors.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe swift acts of generosity are sure to delight Mitchell in the hour of his daughter’s need.A former striker, he enjoyed a varied career that took him to numerous countries.Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca comments on Cole Palmer injury after draw with Arsenal Mitchell is a former Australia star who also played for Newcastle and MillwallCredit: GettyHe enjoyed some managerial spells Down Under after retiringCredit: GettyMitchell started in Australia with Adelaide City before securing a move to Scotland with Rangers.He then followed that with a spell in Hong Kong with Seiko before joining German side Eintracht Frankfurt.Mitchell’s next move saw him play in Holland for Feyenoord.And it was then that Chelsea came calling.But Mitchell struggled for minutes and returned to Holland with NEC before giving English football another crack with Newcastle and Swindon.Mitchell next went to Turkey with Altay Izmir and was soon back in the UK with Millwall.Mitchell’s later playing days saw him go to Malaysia with Selangor.But he then closed out his career by returning to Australia, first with Sydney Olympic and then with Sydney United.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis managerial career started while he was still starring at Olympic, becoming player-gaffer there while also taking the same role with United.He also managed Parramatta Power and Perth Glory in his homeland, while also enjoying spells at Malaysian duo Sarawak and Kedah FA.Chelsea ratings vs ArsenalRobert Sanchez – 6Still punches the ball clear when a catch would be much safer – and reassuring for the fans behind him.Malo Gusto – 6Went close with a header in the first-half. But was missing at right-back when Arsenal took the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s 59th minute goal. The problem with also playing in midfield.Wesley Fofana – 7Strong challenges and now fully back from lengthy injury. Also went close to a goal in the second half when he pumped the ball just over.Levi Colwill – 6Forging a partnership with Fofana at the heart of defence. Got caught dangerously in possession by Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard but recovered.Marc Cucurella – 7Cracking tussle with Bukayo Saka. Despite being one of only three men on the pitch wearing gloves, including the keepers, Chelsea’s left-back is a formidable defender.Moises Caicedo – 6Enjoying a run of form at the moment that includes last weekend’s volleyed equaliser at Manchester United. Strong tackler and smooth through the gears in midfield.Romeo Lavia – 6A surprise package keeping £107million Enzo Fernandez out of the team. After a terrible run of injuries is forming some consistency. But any twinge is a scare and came off in the 66th minute.Noni Madueke – 6Called up to the latest England squad and is mobile and nippy. Also seemed a bit stroppy and went straight down the tunnel when subbed in the 66th minute. Perhaps needed treatment.Cole Palmer – 6Maybe the sore knee is still troubling him. Only trained yesterday for the first time in almost a week. But it hampered his impact on a disjointed London derby.Pedro Neto – 7Starting to make his presence felt after being relegated to the Conference League matches. Stunning powerful drive for the equaliser and full of energy. Nicolas Jackson – 6Feisty and fiery but went to ground too easily to win a couple of free kicks when he could have done more damage on his feet. Gives everything though. More

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    ‘I blacked out and found myself on the kitchen floor’: Tony Mowbray plotting return to football after cancer battle

    TONY MOWBRAY has opened up about his brave battle with cancer.The 60-year-old boss was in charge of Birmingham last season before health issues forced him into resigning.Tony Mowbray has lifted the lid on his battle with bowel cancerCredit: ReutersHe replaced Wayne Rooney at St Andrews after he was sacked in January but managed just eight games due to his bowel cancer diagnosis coming a month later.Mowbray revealed his family were left fearing the worst during his worst spell in hospital.The ex-West Brom, Celtic, Middlesbrough, Blackburn and Sunderland gaffer told BBC Radio Teesside: “It’s been the toughest year of my life. “Out of the blue, my illness was diagnosed and my world came crashing down.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”When you get an illness like what I got, it’s about the family, really. “I remember sitting in a hospital bed, my kids had tears in their eyes not sure whether I was going to get through it or not.”I was very, very ill. Some days, you were feeling great and other days, I would collapse and black out and find myself on the kitchen floor.”Mowbray underwent a ten-hour operation to save his life, which proved successful.Most read in FootballAnd the EFL legend has not given up hope on one day returning to the dugout.He said: “I do want to go back to work because football is in my blood, it’s what I do.”I still have issues, at the moment not 100 per cent ready for work.”I haven’t got the energy that is required to be a football manager. But I will, I’m pretty sure.”I’m fine in myself but it’s very difficult with the condition I’m living with at the moment. “The doctors tell me it will resolve itself in time and I look forward to that day.”I’m going to take my amazing wife away on holiday in the next couple of weeks and in the new year. “I’ll see what is out there, what opportunities come and hopefully my body is tells me I’m ready to go.” More

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    Three-time boxing world champion Israel Vazquez fighting for his life after heartbreaking cancer diagnosis

    FORMER boxing champion Israel Vazquez is fighting a heartbreaking cancer diagnosis. Vazquez was a three-time super-bantamweight champ and had an iconic four-fight series with Mexican rival Rafael Marquez. Israel Vazquez is fighting a heartbreaking cancer diagnosis.Credit: GettyHe lost the opening bout, before twice beating Marquez but losing their fourth and final fight in 2010. Vazquez retired afterwards but has been confronted with a cancer battle. The WBC, whose belt he twice won, launched a GoFundMe page for the boxer.A statement read: “Our beloved champion has received a devastating cancer diagnosis. READ MORE IN BOXING”The WBC is at his side, attempting to bring in his family from Mexico and making sure he gets the care he deserves. “But he needs your love and support, too. Show this humble and courageous warrior what he means to you. “With a dollar, a prayer and a note to his family. One of the most compelling and compassionate boxers of all times needs your help. “There’s no time to waste. Stand in his corner, now!” Most read in BoxingWBC president Mauricio Sulaiman posted online: “We are extremely grateful for those who have given a donation to support Israel Vazquez. “His wife and kids are in tears to see the incredible reaction from the boxing community Thank you!”Legendary boxing writer Colin Hart remembers the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ on the 50th anniversary More