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    Boxer Jordan Gill emotionally fights back tears after revealing mental health battle before victory over Michael Conlan

    BOXER Jordan Gill emotionally opened up about his mental health battle before beating Michael Conlan. Gill moved up to super-featherweight and stopped Northern Ireland’s Conlan in round seven of their Belfast bout.
    Jordan Gill opened up about his mental health battle before beating Michael Conlan

    It was his first fight since losing the European featherweight title to Kiko Martinez in October 2022.
    That defeat sparked a battle with depression while Gill’s personal life also suffered.
    And the brave boxer revealed he contemplated suicide before being saved.
    Gill, 29, said: “Not many people know what I’ve been through this year. You know, after the Kiko loss, I sort of, lost touch with myself.
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    “I broke up with my wife. In the 30th of June, I was in a field, I drank a litre of vodka and I was gonna kill myself, and somebody saved me.
    “Somebody came and saved me that day, and you know, I went to Dave, I went to Ben Davison’s gym, I worked with Barry.
    “Barry’s put so much effort in with me. My dad’s been by my side. My friends and my family have been there supporting me.
    “All my friends, I can’t thank them enough. I’ve just changed my life. I’ve got my own gym opening next week with my friend Damian.
    Most read in BoxingHow to get help

    NHS talking therapies can help if you’re struggling to cope with feelings of anxiety or depression. 
    Your GP can refer you or, in England, you can refer yourself online via nhs.uk/talk.
    If you need help for a mental health crisis, emergency or breakdown, NHS urgent mental health helplines offer 24-hour advice and support for people of all ages. 
    Find a local NHS urgent mental health helpline via nhs.uk/urgentmentalhealth (England only). 
    The charity Mind also provides support to those that need it. Call 0300 123 3393.
    If someone’s life is at risk or they cannot be kept safe, call 999.

    “I’ve turned my life around this year in the last four months and it’s just because of that (mindset).
    “So if you’re thinking, ‘What am I doing with my life?’ You can do it, you can make a change.
    “Just get up and have that belief in yourself and just go and do it because nobody believed that I can do this. But I did and that’s all that matters.”
    Michael Conlan was knocked down by Jordan GillCredit: Getty
    Gill celebrating his victoryCredit: Sportsfile More

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    Why are Arsenal wearing black armbands against Lens tonight?

    ARSENAL fans may have spotted that Mikel Arteta’s side were wearing black armbands for their Champions League clash against Lens.But what was the reason for wearing the armbands tonight?
    Arsenal stars were seen wearing black armbands during their Champions League match with Lens tonightCredit: Reuters
    WHY ARE ARSENAL WEARING BLACK ARMBANDS AGAINST LENS?
    In their penultimate Champions League group stage game Arsenal wore the armbands to pay tribute to Megs Wilson.
    Mrs Wilson recently passed away at the age of 81.
    Arsenal paid homage to her with a touching message on social media.
    The club wrote: “Remembering Megs Wilson ❤️,” alongside a picture of their kit and a black armband.
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    She was married to former Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson.
    Wilson had starred for the Gunners between 1963 and 1974, making 308 appearances in goal for the North London side.
    WHO IS MEGS WILSON?
    Mrs Wilson was the co-founder of the Willow Foundation with her husband.
    The foundation was set up in 1999 in memory of daughter Anna, who died of cancer aged 31.
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    The Welwyn Garden City-based charity has put on more than 20,000 Special Days for seriously ill young adults aged 16 to 40.
    Mrs Wilson’s death was confirmed by her family on Tuesday evening.
    A touching tribute was paid with her family describing her as “wonderful and inspiring”.
    A statement said: “A wonderful, inspirational wife, mother, nanny and friend, she brought joy to so many people.
    “Bob, and her sons John and Robert, would like to thank all the amazing nurses from Marie Curie, Macmillan and local NHS services who have looked after Megs with such incredible care.”
    The Willow Foundation added: “We are heartbroken to announce the death of Megs Wilson, one of our beloved founders and life presidents…
    “Megs will be sadly missed by everyone at Willow.
    “She will forever shine as a beacon of hope and compassion, inspiring us to continue fulfilling her mission and ensuring that her memory lives on through the positive impact she has left on this world.
    “Our thoughts are with Bob and the Wilson family at this sad time.”
    Arsenal legend David Seaman and his wife Frankie were named honorary presidents of the Willow Foundation in September.
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    A tribute from the couple said: “We are heartbroken today at the death of our Willow Foundation co-president and founder Megs Wilson.
    “An inspiration and friend, you will be forever missed, our love goes out to our great friend Bob Wilson, who has lost the love of his life.” More

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    Fans hail Adam Smith as ‘voice of boxing’ as Sky Sports legend does live TV interview on DAZN after cancer fight

    VIEWERS were as thrilled as Adam Scott as the “voice of boxing” returned to live TV after winning a “brutal” fight with cancer.The Sky Sports legend told DAZN it was “fantastic” to be back ringside for Katie Taylor’s revenge bid against Chantelle Cameron in Dublin – after being in hospital for the first fight.

    Katie Taylor, left, and Chantelle Cameron had a gruelling Dublin re-matchCredit: PA
    And armchair sports fans were overjoyed to see Scott behind a microphone after he departed from Sky after 29 years earlier this month.
    Viewers said, “When he spoke it just felt so right” and “It’s so nice to see him back”.
    And featherweight hopeful Ellie Sctoney posted: “Adam Smith is just the voice of boxing isn’t he.”
    A fourth observer wrote: “Can’t tell you how pleased this made me. Actually… I can. I was f***ing delighted to see him back!”
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    Scott himself was also enthralled to be so close to the action again.
    He said: “It’s great to be here, it’s great to be alive. It’s fantastic, I’m cancer free, back at ringside.”
    He added: “I’m here for Katie Taylor, an old friend of ours.
    “My wife’s over there. My kids will be watching at home. We’ve gone through the whole Katie Taylor story.
    Most read in Boxing
    “She’s been the queen for Ireland, the gem here. The atmosphere is phenomenal.
    “I couldn’t make it to the first fight with Chantelle Cameron. I was still in hospital and I wanted to be here for the rematch.”
    Adam Scott said it was ‘great’ to be back ringside More

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    Vile football fan swerves jail for mocking supporters with Bradley Lowery pic for ‘banter’

    A VILE football fan has swerved jail after he used a picture of tragic Bradley Lowery to mock Sunderland supporters for “banter”.Dale Houghton was seen smiling as he held up the image of the youngster, who died from cancer aged six, during a Sheffield Wednesday vs Sunderland game.
    Dale Houghton held up the photo to mock Sunderland fans
    He pleaded guilty after his sick act drew criticism from all football fansCredit: Facebook
    Bradley tragically died from cancer aged just sixCredit: PA:Press Association
    The 31-year-old admitted causing harassment, alarm and distress after his vile act drew criticism from all football supporters.
    Houghton appeared at Sheffield Crown Court today where he avoided jail.
    He was instead handed a 12 week sentence suspended for 18 months.
    Houghton also received a five-year football banning order and must complete 200 hours of unpaid work.
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    District Judge Marcus Waite said his actions were “utterly appalling” and “disgraceful”.
    He added: “You showed callous disrespect to a brave young man who was rightly held in the highest esteem by football fans everywhere.”
    The sentence comes after Bradley’s mum Gemma previously slammed the “unforgivable” act, which took place on September 29.
    In a victim impact statement, she said: “This image made me feel so many emotions. I find it hard to put into words.
    Most read in Football
    “It is not just disrespectful to Bradley but also to other people who are going through the emotional trauma of dealing with cancer.
    “This image portrays negatively. I feel upset that these two men used this image to get a reaction from Sunderland fans. It was unforgivable.
    “I have nothing but loving memories of Bradley.”
    The court heard how Houghton’s antics had caused a “huge public revulsion”.
    Prosecutor Jade Short said the shamed football fan found it “enjoyable banter” as he was smiling throughout.
    The court was also told Houghton has lost his job as a window fitter following the sick act and is facing a ban from attending matches.
    Connie Combs, defending, said Houghton realised he was “out of line” and was “disgusted” by his actions.
    South Yorkshire Police have applied for a football banning order.
    A 27-year-old man who was also arrested has been released on bail while investigations continue.
    Brave Bradley’s battle with against rare childhood cancer neuroblastoma captured the nation’s hearts.
    He was diagnosed with the aggressive disease when he was just 18 months old, and tumours spread through his chest, lungs, lymph nodes, bone and bone marrow.
    After major surgery and gruelling chemotherapy, he pulled through and went into remission for 18 months.
    But the cancer returned in 2016, with his family dealt the crushing blow his disease was terminal.
    The footie-mad youngster had struck up a close bond with Sunderland captain Jermain Defoe, who led him out on to the pitch before several matches.
    Tragically, Bradley died in July 2017 in his devastated parents’ arms, with Defoe paying an emotional tribute to his “best pal”.
    Speaking after Houghton pleaded guilty last month, the ex-England star said he was “appalled and saddened”.
    Defoe said: “My thoughts at this time go out to Gemma and Carl [Bradley’s parents], who shouldn’t have to deal with incidents like this, but rather be praised for the amazing work they are doing with the Bradley Lowery Foundation in their son’s memory.
    “I urge the public to stand behind the family and continue support the Foundation and its projects.
    “Bradley was one of the most inspirational children this world has ever seen, and he will never stop inspiring us.
    “We love and miss you Brad. Love, your best friend forever.”
    Houghton arrives at court todayCredit: PA
    Bradley’s mum Gemma said the act was ‘unforgivable’Credit: Getty – Contributor
    Jermain Defoe, who developed a close bond with Bradley, also condemned Houghton’s actionsCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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    Jordan Sinnott: Mum of footballer who was killed on night out dies from cancer as family say ‘give Jord a big cuddle’

    THE MUM of a footballer who was killed while on a night out has died after being diagnosed with cancer.Jordan Sinnott died in January 2020 aged 25 after being attacked by three drunk and violent thugs in Retford, Nottinghamshire.
    Melanie Tait was diagnosed with a rare cancer in August 2022
    Former Huddersfield player Jordan Sinnott died after being found unconscious
    Just a week after Sinnott’s funeral, his partner Kelly found out she was 12 weeks pregnant with their daughter Maisie.
    And now in another tragedy for the family, his mum Melanie Tait has died after a battle with cancer. She was just 54.
    Melanie had spent her final years setting up a charity in honour of her son – and did a sponsored sky dive in his memory earlier this year.
    In a post on Facebook on Sunday the trust said: “It’s with the heaviest of hearts we would like to share the devastating news that yesterday after a long fight with cancer, our beautiful Melanie has gained her wings.
    “We are utterly heartbroken.
    “Give Jord a big cuddle from us Mel, we love you both unconditionally.”
    On July 31, 2020, Denovan, 22, and Matthews, 21, were jailed for 11 years and eight years and three months respectively after being convicted of manslaughter at Nottingham Crown Court.
    Jordan had proposed to Kelly at Christmas just four weeks before his death and had gone out with her and friends in the market town to celebrate.
    Most read in Football
    In his last moments with Kelly, he performed his favourite song Sweet Caroline on the karaoke.
    Jordan and two friends later went drinking in nearby pubs as Kelly went home at about midnight.
    CCTV showed Denovan and Matthews following the pals into The Vine pub at about 1.40am, with prosecutors describing them as a “pack hunting down and exacting retribution”.
    The brute told Jordan he was a “good-looking lad” and would have no trouble “pulling girls” — unlike him, who was “fat and ginger”.
    Falsely believing he was engaging in jovial banter, Jordan replied: “Yes I can see that.”
    The court heard Denovan’s comment was a “deliberate honey trap” to spark a fight.
    Denovan then “flew immediately into a rage” and punched Jordan twice in the face before Jordan and his friends managed to leave the pub.
    The thugs then followed them to a nearby takeaway and restarted their attack.
    Denovan punched Jordan again and Matthews then hit him “two or three times” causing the footballer to hit his head on the pavement as he fell backwards to the ground.
    Jordan was rushed to hospital but pronounced dead with his family at his side at around 6pm on Saturday, January 25.
    Paying tribute at the time, Jordan’s parents, former Bradford City footballer Lee Sinnott and Mel said: “We’ve lost a son, a brother, a fiancé, a grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin, a true friend to so many. 
    Read More on The Sun
    “But more heartbreaking than anything, a father to his unborn child. 
    “And what a great daddy he would have been.”
    Kai Denovan, was found guilty of manslaughter following a trial at Nottingham Crown Court
    Follow thug Cameron Matthews pleaded guilty to manslaughter for his part More

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    Sky Sports legend Adam Smith announces departure from channel after three decades as he wins brutal cancer battle

    ADAM SMITH has announced his departure from Sky Sports after overcoming his cancer battle.The Sky Sports legend revealed that he made “magical memories” while at the broadcaster.
    Adam Smith has left Sky Sports after three decadesCredit: Getty
    Smith had been working at Sky Sports since August 1994 but will now not return to the channel.
    He admitted that during his year away his battle with cancer had been “brutal”.
    But now cancer-free, he insists he “cannot wait” for his new adventure and that he is “raring to go”.
    He shared the news on Instagram, where he has over 30k followers.
    READ MORE BOXING NEWS
    Smith wrote: “Hope everyone is well… new, exciting beginnings and challenges for me after a wonderful, incredible, three-decade journey at the amazing place that is Sky Sports.
    “A brutal year away recovering from serious illness – health has given me the opportunity to think of my wider passions in sport – taking a deeper interest in the development of sportsmen and women and presenting/commentating on a broader canvas.
    “I am cancer free and raring to go.
    “Thanks to everyone at Sky – all my super-talented colleagues past and present – for the most magical memories.
    Most read in Boxing
    Smith has won multiple awards during his careerCredit: Reuters
    “Time for me to fly and I cannot wait!”
    Smith received plenty of messages wishing him luck on his next chapter.
    One fan wrote: “Amazing news, Adam! So pleased to hear this.”
    A second commented: “Welcome back Adam. Look forward to hearing you back on comms for some big fights!”
    A third said: “All the best mate. Top man.”
    Another added: “The best commentator in the game. Glad that you’re cancer free!”
    During his career, he won the Broadcast Award and RTS Award as well as being nominated for a BAFTA, SJA and The Sports Book Awards.
    He has provided the commentary for some of the most iconic fights in the past three decades, including Floyd Mayweather’s bout with Conor McGregor as well as Anthony Joshua’s clash with Vladimir Klitschko.  More

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    Brave ex-Liverpool and Leeds star opens up on having brain tumour while PLAYING and recovery from life-saving operation

    DOMINIC MATTEO has bravely opened up on the brain tumour which nearly cost him his life.The former Leeds United and Liverpool defender was diagnosed with a rare cancerous tumour in 2019 after suffering from persistent headaches.
    Former Liverpool and Leeds star Dominic Matteo was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2019Credit: REUTERS
    Matteo underwent emergency surgery to remove the tumourCredit: BBC
    Matteo has had to relearn how to read and writeCredit: BBC
    Matteo has revealed doctors told him he had the tumour during his playing daysCredit: Reuters
    Matteo was immediately referred to Leeds General Infirmary after the diagnosis, but his condition worsened.
    The former Scotland international suffered a seizure due to the immense pressure being put on his brain.
    And doctors had no choice but to perform emergency surgery to remove the tumour – from which he is still recovering.
    Now, Matteo – who hung up his boots in 2009 – has revealed doctors informed him the tumour had most likely already formed while he was still playing.
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    Recalling the ordeal to the BBC, Matteo, 49, said: “You can’t believe it, can you?
    “Obviously you get told what it is and it’s been a childhood cancer and you’ve probably played your whole career with a brain tumour in your head.”
    Now that he’s out of the woods, Matteo feels comfortable enough to crack some light-hearted jokes about the ordeal.
    He continued: “I might have been a better player mightn’t I?”
    Most read in Football
    Dominic Matteo’s head after surgeryCredit: BBC
    Matteo’s family were held together during the difficult time by wife Jessica.
    Recalling her husband’s illness, she said: “It started off with headaches and a little bit of blurred vision.
    “And within 48 hours, Dom was blind. He had a massive seizure, he was in a wheelchair and he had very little speech.”
    She told the Daily Mail last year: “Dom’s surgeon Ryan Mathew took him down to theatre at 5.15pm and told me to go home to try to get some sleep.
    “But I didn’t sleep a wink. I perched on the edge of my bed waiting for the phone call, which finally came at 3am, after Dom had been in theatre for almost 10 hours.
    “It seemed like an eternity, but it was the best phone call of my life.
    “Ryan said he’d removed 90-95 per cent of Dom’s tumour and that he was doing really well.
    “He said he was sorry that he may have lost the sight in Dom’s right eye.
    Dominic Matteo owes much of his recovery to his wife JessicaCredit: BBC
    “But I was overwhelmed with relief and gratitude that he was OK.”
    Matteo’s arduous, and still ongoing recovery, has included having to relearn how to read and write.
    He has come a long way and admits he’s still not fully processed the life-changing ordeal.
    Matteo said: “It was so surreal, really.
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    “Because, like you say, you go from working doing TV or, you know, and the next thing you know you’re fighting for your life.
    “I think when I look back and look back at the photos of the surgery you’re going through, you’re llke, ‘Wow.'” More

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    Inside Bill Kenwright’s health battle as legend who played Gordon Clegg in Corrie dies months after cancer surgery

    EVERTON chairman Bill Kenwright has died just months after having a cancerous tumour removed from his liver. The ex-Corrie star’s loved ones said he “passed away peacefully” last night. He was 78.
    Bill Kenwright tragically died last night, his family have revealedCredit: 2019 Everton FC
    The 78-year-old’s death came after a long health struggleCredit: 2018 Getty Images
    Kenwright’s heartbroken family said he died surrounded by those he loved after a “long battle with illness”.
    Just weeks ago the grandfather went under the knife after a growth was found on his liver.
    The former actor, who played Gordon Clegg in  Coronation Street, was then forced to stay in intensive care due to complications with the surgery.
    Kenwright was not released from hospital until earlier this month, but it was then he was told he could continue his treatment at home.
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    At the time a club statement read: “Everton would like to provide a short update on the health of our Chairman, Bill Kenwright.
    “Following a diagnosis at the beginning of August, Mr Kenwright underwent a major medical procedure six weeks ago to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver. 
    “The procedure was completely successful, but complications during surgery necessitated a prolonged period in an intensive care unit. 
    “Mr Kenwright is now out of intensive care and has left hospital.
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    “Right up until the day of the procedure the Chairman had continued to carry out all his club duties, working hard alongside Mr Moshiri to facilitate the proposed takeover by 777 Partners and supporting Kevin Thelwell with the Club’s summer transfer activity.”
    This saw the masses send him their well wishes, and hopes for a speedy recovery.
    Tragically, his club and family today confirmed his death.
    His partner Jenny Seagrove and daughter Lucy said they were “devastated” to share the news.
    They said it came after a long battle with illness, but did not give any further details.
    Actress Jenny also shared a photo of Kenwright on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “I lost my darling Bill last night.”
    In their own statement, Everton said the club was “in mourning” following the tragedy.
    The team added: “Everton’s longest serving chairman for more than a century, Bill Kenwright led the Club through a period of unprecedented change in English football.
    “A lifelong Evertonian, he became a board member on October 23, 1989, and then on Boxing Day 1999 his True Blue Holdings consortium acquired the Club. Initially vice-chairman, he succeeded his close friend Sir Philip Carter as Chair in 2004.
    “In his 19 seasons as Chairman, the Club secured 12 top eight finishes, including a top four finish in 2005, a run to the 2009 FA Cup final and European qualification on 6 separate occasions.
    “The club has lost a chairman, a leader, a friend, and an inspiration.
    “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Everton are with his partner Jenny Seagrove, his daughter Lucy Kenwright, grandchildren and everybody who knew and loved him.”
    He has been chairman of the Toffees since 2004 after first joining the board in 1989.
    Kenwright was also one of the UK’s most successful theatre producers.
    He was also a judge on the 2007 BBC series Any Dream Will Do.
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    The former actor, who was on Corrie in 1968, was married to theatre star Jenny.
    He was previously married to actress Anouska Hempel from 1978 to 1980 and then went on to date Virginia Stride, who he shares a daughter and two grandchildren with.
    Kenwright played Gordon Clegg in CorrieCredit: ITV More