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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

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    Adilson ‘Maguila’ Rodrigues dead at 66: Boxing world title contender who fought Evander Holyfield and Foreman dies

    BRAZILIAN boxing legend Adilson “Maguila” Rodrigues has died aged 66.The former heavyweight contender passed away in Sao Paulo after suffering from multiple health complications. Adilson Rodrigues, left, during his fight with George ForemanCredit: GettyRodrigues passed away aged 66Credit: TwitterIn 85 fights, Rodrigues won 77, lost seven, drew once and scored 61 career knockouts. He held various Brazilian and South American titles, facing some of boxing’s best during his time. In 1989, he was beaten by American great Evander Holyfield and George Foreman a year later, losing both in round two. But Rodrigues also beat former cruiserweight world champion and now Sky Sports pundit Johnny Nelson in 1995. READ MORE IN BOXINGHis last fight came in 2000, losing to countryman Daniel Frank. After retiring – 13 years later – Rodrigues was diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a neurodegenerative disease that affects many former fighters after years of head trauma. Symptoms include memory loss and confusion, which intensifies over time. Most read in BoxingWhat is CTE?By Jennifer Roback and Penelope MinCTE refers to a brain degeneration caused by frequent head traumas.Other elements may play a role, including genetics, but exact factors are yet to be discovered, as reported by the Boston University CTE Center.CTE is only diagnosed through an autopsy of the brain and is known to be a rather rare disease.It is most commonly found in athletes, including football players and boxers.Some symptoms of CTE include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and progressive dementia.These signs can begin to appear after years or even decades after the last brain trauma.In 2018, with his family’s consent, Rodrigues decided to donate his brain to scientific research after his death. It will allow researchers at the University of Sao Paulo to study the impact of repeated trauma on the brain.Rodrigues spent his last days at the Anjos de Deus Therapeutic Center in Itu receiving specialised care. Netflix unveil official promotional trailer for Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 2 More

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    She lived with us for 9 wonderful years – Luis Enrique opens up on death of his daughter in heartbreaking interview

    LUIS ENRIQUE has opened up about the heartbreaking death of his daughter Xana.The Paris Saint-Germain manager’s beloved daughter tragically passed away at the age of nine in 2019.Luis Enrique has spoken beautifully about keeping daughter Xana’s ‘memory alive’Less than a year after taking over as Spain manager, Enrique would step away from the role in June 2019 for personal reasons.Two months later, Enrique shared the news of Xana’s death after her five-month battle with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer.The former Barcelona and Real Madrid midfielder has again paid a heartfelt tribute to his youngest daughter.Enrique opened up about her passing in a profoundly moving segment in the third episode of his documentary You Haven’t Got a Clue.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHe said: “Can I consider myself fortunate or unfortunate? I consider myself fortunate, very fortunate.”My daughter Xana came to live with us for nine wonderful years. We have a thousand memories of her, videos, incredible things.”My mother couldn’t keep photos of Xana. “Until I came home and asked, ‘Why are there no photos of Xana, Mom?’ ‘I can’t, I can’t, she used to say. Most read in Football”‘Mom, you have to put up photos of Xana, Xana is alive,’ I replied.”Enrique added: “Physically, she may not be here, but spiritually she is. Barcelona legend, 32, breaks down in tears as he leaves after 18 years and 25 trophies with Spanish giants”Because every day we talk about her, we laugh, and we remember because I think Xana still sees us.”The images of Xana that accompanied his words reflect the happiness she radiated, which Enrique vowed to keep alive in his memory.The Champions League winning manager with Barca returned to his Spain job to replace interim coach Robert Moreno ahead of Euro 2020.He lost on penalties to eventual champs Italy in the semi-finals and stepped down after Spain lost another shootout to Morocco in the Round of 16 in the Qatar World Cup. Back in November 2022, after his Spain side drew 1-1 with Germany in the group stage in Qatar, Enrique paid tribute to Xana ahead of what would have been her 13th birthday.He said: “It was a special day for me and my family.”Obviously we don’t have our daughter with us physically anymore, but she is still present every day.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We remember her a lot, we laugh and think about how she would act in each situation that we experience.”Enrique also thanked the medical team who treated his daughter “for their dedication and treatment”.Xana Enrique passed away following a battle with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer in 2019 More

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    Newcastle chief Darren Eales, 52, stepping down after being diagnosed with chronic form of blood cancer

    NEWCASTLE CEO Darren Eales is set to step down from his role after being diagnosed with cancer.Eales, 52, will continue to lead the club’s executive team until a successor is appointed.Newcastle CEO Darren Eales has been diagnosed with cancerCredit: GettyNewcastle shared the update on X and said their thoughts are with Eales after he was diagnosed with a chronic form of blood cancer.Eales also released a statement which reads: “Being CEO of Newcastle United is an extraordinary privilege and I am incredibly proud to be part of the club’s exciting journey.”However, it has become apparent to me that now is the right time to make this decision so that I can prioritise my health and my family.”In the short term, it will be business as usual in terms of running the club’s day-to-day operations, and I will give my full support to a transitionary period that will enable the board to carefully assess and appoint my successor.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I want to extend my sincere thanks to the club’s supporters, ownership, players and staff. I’m proud of what we have collectively achieved and I’m excited to see what’s ahead for everyone as the club builds towards a future of sustained success.”Eales joined the Magpies in August 2022 – ten months after the Saudi owners took over.Newcastle qualified for the Champions League during his first year at the club and reached the Carabao Cup final, losing to Manchester United.He has been playing a huge role in plans for the stadium redevelopment as well as the on-field success under Eddie Howe.Most read in FootballNewcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan shared his sadness at the news and provided an update on when a new CEO could be appointed.He said: “All of us who are connected with Newcastle United are very saddened by this news. Our thoughts are with Darren and his family and we send him every good wish for a full recovery.Yasir Al-Rumayyan has sent his thought to his colleagueCredit: Getty”On a personal level, Darren has been a great partner to me and to our fans, players, ownership and staff.”On behalf of the club and its owners, I want to thank Darren for his service and dedication to Newcastle United. He has made a significant contribution to the club’s progress during his time as CEO, helping to build a strong foundation for Newcastle United’s success. We fully understand the difficult decision he has made.”We will work closely with Darren to hand over the CEO role at the appropriate moment following a carefully considered search process, and he will continue to have the full support of the board and the Newcastle United family now and in the future.”League Two side AFC Wimbledon, who received a £15,000 donation from Newcastle for their destroyed pitch, offered their well wishes.They wrote: “Everyone at the Club sends our best wishes to Darren and our friends at @NUFC 🖤🤍” More