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    Fate of West Ham chair David Gold’s nine-figure estate revealed in will – and who will inherit huge stake in club

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    FORMER West Ham chairman David Gold’s enormous will has been revealed.Probate has now been granted to his daughter Vanessa Young to administer the estate of the ex Hammers’ joint owner – which totalled more than £137million.Former West Ham co-owner David Gold died in January 2023Credit: SWNSA tribute to Mr Gold displayed at West Ham’s London StadiumCredit: GettyPallbearers carry Mr Gold’s coffin at his funeralCredit: Louis WoodMr Gold was initially thought to have died “intestate” in January 2023 with no instructions on how his fortune should be split.But fresh documents now reveal a will was actually made in August 2021 outlining his final wishes.The will includes details of how to deal with his family’s trust fund – and the right to sell his stake in West Ham United if “appropriate”.It gave a gross value of his estate in the UK as £137,241,336 – with a net value of £127,529,095.Daughter Vanessa was named as the executor and trustee.And the will also stated those in charge of his estate could “sell all or any” of its assets they deem “appropriate” – including his 25.1 per cent stake in Premier League club West Ham.In a document published last week, the grant of probate outlined: “The last will and testament of David Gold is proved and registered before the High Court of Justice.”The Administration of David Gold’s estate is granted by this court to the following Executor – Vanessa Julia Young.”Most read in FootballMr Gold’s other daughter Jacqueline Gold died in March 2023 after a seven year battle with breast cancer – leaving Vanessa as the sole administrator of his fortune.In his will, Mr Gold wrote: “I appoint my daughters JACQUELINE GOLD (Jacqueline) VANESSA JULIA YOUNG (Vanessa) to be the executors and trustees of this Will.David Gold dead at 86 West Ham pay tribute after co-chairman passes away with family by side following short illness”I give my trustees all my personal possessions with a request to distribute them according to the latest wishes I have expressed in any note left with my papers at my death.”Beneficies of the trust listed on his will included his two daughters, his two son-in-laws, a granddaughter and his partner.Mr Gold also left a series of legacies free of inheritance tax including £100,000 to his sister Marie Mould, £50,000 each to two named individuals, and £25,000 each to two others.Some of the awards were conditional on the benefactors remaining as employees at the time of his death.Mr Gold also outlined in his will that his trustees must hold his estate on trust.He added: “They may sell all or any of the assets in my estate as they consider appropriate.”Before the will was discovered, a letter of administration was granted by the High Court of Justice to Vanessa.Read More on The SunIt added that the “Ad Colligenda Bona grant” is “limited for the purposes only of collecting in and receiving the estate and doing such acts as may be necessary to preserve and protect the shareholdings of the deceased in WH Holdings Ltd, GGIH Holdings lTD and Goddington Manor Management Ltd, to include for the avoidance of doubt the right to sell the said shares and to sell (his main home) and until further representation be granted.”The application has stated the gross value of the estate in the United Kingdom amounts to £130M and the net value amounts to £125M.”Vanessa Gold, left, and Jacqueline Gold, right, with their father Mr GoldCredit: AlamyDavid Gold and his fiancee Lesley Manning at the London StadiumCredit: PA:Empics Sport More

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      England’s legendary Euro 96 coach Terry Venables leaves eye-opening sum to his wife after his death at 80

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      FORMER England boss Terry Venables left his wife a £3.3million fortune following his death at the age of 80.The charismatic Three Lions coach, who reached the semi-finals of Euro 96, died in 2023.Terry Venables and his wife YvetteCredit: RexTerry with Yvette at their Hotel La Escondida in Alicante, SpainVenables died at the age of 80His probate details were published today and showed that he left a sum of £4,765,370.But once debts and bills were accounted for the value of this estate was recalculated at £3,289,952.His will, which was written six years before his death, left the entire sum to his beloved wife Yvette.Known as ‘El Tel’, Venables’ colourful career spanned decades.Read More in FootballThe father of two had a successful playing career at Chelsea, Spurs and QPR, but it was in the dug-out where he sparkled.After successful stints as boss of Crystal Palace and QPR, he took Barcelona to the La Liga title in 1985 and a European Cup final the following year.And he guided Spurs to FA Cup victory in 1991 – a game which saw Paul Gascoigne taken off injured after just 15 minutes.But Venables’ defining moment came in 1996 when he masterminded England’s thrilling Euro campaign on home soil.Most read in FootballHis Three Lions played with a swagger – demolishing the Dutch 4-1 and giving a nation hope before bowing out on penalties to Germany, with Gareth Southgate’s now famous missed spot kick.Off the pitch, Venables was co-author of crime novels, and a businessman, TV pundit, and even pop star.Following his death, ex England boss Sir Gareth Southgate said: “Any player will have great affinity with the manager that gave them their opportunity, but it was quickly evident playing for Terry Venables that he was an outstanding coach and manager.”He was open minded, forward thinking, enjoyed life to the full and created a brilliant environment with England that allowed his players to flourish and have one of the most memorable tournaments in England history.”A brilliant man, who made people feel special, I’m very sad to hear of his passing and my thoughts are with Yvette and all of his family.”And Match of the Day host Gary Lineker said: “Devastated to hear that Terry Venables has died. The best, most innovative coach that I had the privilege and pleasure of playing for.”He was much more, though, than just a great manager, he was vibrant, he was charming, he was witty, he was a friend.”He’ll be hugely missed. Sending love and condolences to Yvette and the family. “RIP Terry.”Terry Venables’ life outside footballBy Michael HamiltonTERRY Venables was a larger-than-life footie legend — but also found time to write a TV detective series, release a board game and run a private members’ club and boutique hotel.An accomplished singer, he also made it to 23 in the charts with Elvis Presley song If I Can Dream, backed by a choir and recorded for The Sun’s World Cup advert in 2010.Terry’s agent and long-time friend Jonathan Harris said after his passing: “The song is appropriate because he always took the view that, if you had dreams, you should pursue them to the best of your ability.“He was an extraordinary man — charismatic, quick-witted, innovative and incredibly loyal.”A long illness meant that one of his last contributions to public life was penning an open letter to Gareth Southgate and his team — published in The Sun — on the eve of the Covid-delayed Euro 2020 final.He wrote: “Football is just like life. You have to give it your best shot. Take the best and survive the rest.”Terry was born in bomb-blitzed Dagenham, East London, in 1943.He was the only child of Royal Navy petty officer Fred Venables and Welsh wife Myrtle.As a child he moved in with his nearby grandparents Ossie and Milly so that his parents could run a pub in Romford.Midfielder Terry became an apprentice at Chelsea aged 15. Two years later he entered a singing contest at Butlin’s in Clacton-on-Sea, but Chelsea did not allow him to compete in the final stages.After his footballing career, Terry wrote five novels. And, with Gordon Williams, he co-wrote the popular detective novels Hazell — later turned into a successful ITV series starring Nicholas BallWheeler-dealer Terry opened a West End tailor’s shop with his then-Chelsea teammates George Graham and Ron “Chopper” Harris.He married Christine McCann in 1966 and they had two daughters before splitting.He met second wife Yvette Bazire in his father’s pub in Chingford in 1984 and she went with him when he went to manage Barcelona that year.The couple ran Scribes West private members’ club in Kensington — where Terry mixed with an array of “colourful” characters — before selling it for close to £1million in 1997.Terry and Yvette also set up a boutique hotel and restaurant La Escondida in Alicante before he retired in 2019.It has been revealed he left a fortune to herCredit: GettyVenables with Alan Sugar during his days managing TottenhamCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdVenables consoling Gareth Southgate at Euro 96Credit: Action Images More

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      ‘We are really devastated’ – Boxer tragically dies after collapsing in ring without contact as tributes paid

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      BOXER Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju has tragically passed away following a fight. The light-heavyweight from Nigeria collapsed during an eight-round bout against Jon Mbanugu.Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju has tragically passed away following a fightAccording to TMZ, Olanrewaju fell back into the ropes without any contact from his opponent.Referee Richard Amevi immediately stopped the fight and the ringside physician and EMS administered aid, including CPR.Olanrewaju is said to have been transported from the Bukom Boxing Arena to a local hospital – but sadly he died 30 minutes later.Remi Aboderin, the general secretary of the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, said: “We are really devastated.READ MORE IN BOXING”[This] is not something we envisaged. We will live up to our responsibility and make sure that we stand [by] the family.”Olanrewaju was confirmed medically fit and approved to fight Mbanugu by the NBBC before the bout. BoxRec stats show that Olanrewaju turned professional in 2019. He competed all of his bouts in Nigeria and Russia except his final which was in Ghana. Most read in BoxingOlanrewaju passed away with a record of 13 wins, eight losses and two draws. He won 12 of his 13 via knockout and formerly held the West African light-heavyweight tite.Olanrewaju’s death is the second in the sport this year after Irishman John Cooney passed in February seven days after a fight with Nathan Howells. More

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      Ex-England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson’s family make huge sum selling his memorabilia to help settle £8m debt

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      EX-England football manager Sven-Goran Eriksson’s family have made £140,000 selling off his memorabilia to help settle his debts.He died owing more than £8million, including £7million in UK tax.Sven-Goran Eriksson’s family have made £140,000 selling off his memorabilia to help settle his debtsCredit: AFPSven with the late Queen at Buckingham Palace in 2002Credit: ReutersA lunch invitation from the late Queen went for £300Among the items up for sale was Sven’s Armani suit from the 2006 World Cup – it went for £3kCredit: bna.nuweauctionsInside the suit was Sven’s hand-written team notesThe Swede’s loved ones were forced to sell hundreds of mementoes — such as his Armani suit from a 2006 World Cup match with his hand-written team notes still in the pocket.The 349 items which went under the hammer also included his BBC Coach of the Year trophy in 2001 and Premier League Manager of the Month award from his time at Manchester City.A lunch invitation from the late Queen and an Ivory Coast top signed by his ­former forward Didier Drogba were flogged too.Sven died of pancreatic cancer last year aged 76, leaving his partner Yaniseth Alcides and two adult children to deal with his debts.read more on svenHe owed the huge sum despite earning tens of millions in a 42-year managerial career at 12 clubs and four national teams, including England from 2001-2006.The Swedish auction house said: “There was huge interest mostly from England, Italy and Portugal.“It was a reflection of the love and affection that people had for Sven in countries all over the world.“We are very pleased with how both auctions have gone and there may be a third one of items of his furniture.”Most read in FootballBut the cash raised is still a drop in the ocean and Sven’s ­family are also selling his seven-bed lakeside mansion in his homeland for £1.8million.Sven’s Premier League Manager of the Month award fetched £1,700Sven earned the award during his time at Manchester CityCredit: Matthew AshtonSven’s BBC Coach of the Year trophy was auctionedThe trophy, which he won in 2001, went for £500An Ivory Coast top signed by Didier Drogba was sold for £700Sven managed the Ivory Coast in 2010Credit: Getty More

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      Maradona’s full horror list of health woes revealed as he died in 12hr agony with double-sized heart & engorged belly

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      MORBID details of Diego Maradona’s health problems have been revealed – including widespread swelling which doubled the size of his “freakishly deformed” heart.The legendary Argentina star suffered in agony for 12 hours due to brain clots and breathing difficulties, according to his shocking autopsy.Diego Maradona’s autopsy revealed his heart swelled to double its normal sizeCredit: GettyA trial over Maradona’s death involved the chief prosecutor showing the court a very graphic image of the footballerCredit: Canal CBAAutopsy expert Mauricio Cassinelli said in court that the 1986 World Cup winner had “a heart that weighed more than twice its normal size.”He said Maradona suffered bodily swelling “from head to toe,” and had “four and a half litres of water in his body”.Seven medical professionals are currently on trial for culpable homicide, which is similar to involuntary manslaughter, after the player and manager’s death in 2020. He died in a dark room aged 60, lying in agony for half a day before suffering a heart attack.READ MORE WORLD NEWSThe tragic star experienced dilated cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle that causes the heart chambers to enlarge and stretch.And he suffered from cirrhosis which damaged his liver, as well as myocarditis which occurs when the heart becomes inflamed.Local paper Clarin revealed the horrific details which emerged during the trial.Chief prosecutor Patricio Ferrari previously said the footballer died in a “house of horror”, and described his care as “reckless and deficient”.Most read in FootballCassinelli said that his torturous suffering would have been easy to spot for a number of days.The expert said: “The heart was completely covered in fat and blood clots, which indicate agony.”This is a patient who had been collecting water over the days; that’s not acute.”This was something that was foreseeable. “Any doctor examining a patient would find this.At the time of his tragic passing, Maradona was at home recovering from a brain blood clot surgery in November 2020.He died two weeks later on November 25 in Dique Lujan, Argentina.Neurologist Leopoldo Luque, who served as Diego Maradona’s doctor, stands in court on the first day of the trialCredit: APThe player and manager’s life was marred by substance and alcohol issuesCredit: GettyCassinelli added: “It was a dark, partitioned room, with a bed in the middle of the room and a portable toilet.”It didn’t seem like a suitable place for what we later learned was home hospitalisation.”Forensic doc Federico Corasaniti also backed up Cassinelli’s claim that the Argentina midfielder suffered a slow and gradual death.He said: “The difficulty he must have had breathing and exchanging gases, and the sounds in his lungs that are audible just by bringing his face close.””In my opinion as a doctor, it wasn’t a sudden event.” Diego Maradona’s legacy By Harvey GehDiego Maradona, born in 1960, was an Argentine footballer widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.He led Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986, famously scoring the “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century” against England.Maradona’s club career included stints at Barcelona and Napoli, where he became a legend, winning two Serie A titles and the UEFA Cup.His incredible dribbling, vision, and flair made him a global icon, inspiring generations of footballers, including Lionel Messi.Off the pitch, Maradona battled drug addiction and health problems, which often overshadowed his footballing brilliance.He was banned from the 1994 World Cup after testing positive for ephedrine, marking a dramatic fall from grace.Despite controversies, he remained beloved in Argentina, with Napoli even renaming their stadium in his honour after his 2020 death.Maradona had a turbulent career in management, coaching Argentina at the 2010 World Cup but failing to replicate his playing success.Following his tragic death Maradona’s legacy endures as a flawed genius whose footballing magic will never be forgotten.Maradona’s family have alleged negligence, a cover-up, and derogatory comments from the medical staff who were in charge of his care.They called the medical team and cover-up a “mafia”.The player had previously struggled with drug addiction, obesity and alcoholism for decades, and reportedly came close to death in both 2000 and 2004.But prosecutors now suspect that his death could have been avoided.Seven of the eight medical professionals who have been charged in the case include Maradona’s brain surgeon, psychiatrist and nurses.They are now standing trial for a charge similar to involuntary manslaughter.The group deny wrongdoing but could face up to 25 years in prison.1986 Football World Cup winner Diego Maradona scores goal with his Hand of God in the Quarter FinalCredit: GettyDalma Maradona (L) and Gianinna Maradona (R), daughters of the late Argentinian football legendCredit: GettyDiego Maradona’s eldest daughter Dalma shared a video containing audio clips which she says proves serious irregularities in her father’s care. She also revealed that her mother is in fear of the “mafia” who “control everything”.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe has previously said that a “mafia of assassins” caused her dad’s death, and that audio recordings prove a lack of medical attention and talks about cover-ups, according to Diario Registrado.Maradona’s cause of death was officially listed as “acute pulmonary edema secondary to exacerbated chronic heart failure”. A model of the house where the late player died was taken in for the trialCredit: AFPMaradona supporters demonstrate outside court as the trial of seven medical professionals accused of negligence in his death beginsCredit: Getty More

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      Major update in probe into death of ex-Newcastle boss Steve Bruce’s grandson as cops rule tragedy an ‘accident’

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      THE death of footie boss Steve Bruce’s grandson was a tragic accident, cops have ruled.Madison Smith was just four months old when found dead at home in October.Steve, above with his wife Janet, spoke for the first time about the heartbreaking lossCredit: Sportsfile – SubscriptionThe tot was the son of ex-Man United star Steve’s daughter Amy and her husband Matt Smith, who played for Fulham and Millwall.After Madison’s death, a woman in her 40s, who was working as a nanny, was arrested on suspicion of child neglect. But detectives have ruled it an accident and ended the investigation.Greater Manchester Police said: “While the circumstances are tragic, we don’t believe any criminality was linked to this death.”READ MORE ON STEVE BRUCEThis week, Blackpool FC manager Bruce spoke for the first time about the heartbreaking loss, saying “there’s still not a day where it doesn’t affect you”.He added: “It’s been the tragedy of all tragedies. “Anyone going through the same sort of grief, I feel for them.“It’s horrendous that a fine, young, healthy baby boy doesn’t wake up one morning. Most read in Football”We’ll never come to terms with that. It’s agony.”’I don’t do tactics’ – Former Newcastle star claims he had conversation with Steve Bruce that left him ‘in shock’The death of footie boss Steve Bruce’s grandson was a tragic accidentCredit: Getty More

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      Diego Maradona’s bodyguard who was with legend on day he died ARRESTED in ‘house of horrors’ case over star’s death

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      DIEGO Maradona’s former bodyguard has been arrested in the investigation into the player’s death.His final days have been described in court as a “House of Horrors”, and now Julio Cesar Coria — who worked closely with Diego — has been detained after a dramatic twist in the trial of seven medics accused over the star’s care.Diego Maradona’ s former bodyguard, Julio Cesar Coria (R), has been arrested on suspicion of perjuryThe Argentinian star died in November 2020Credit: GettyCoria is escorted at the San Isidro court in San Isidro, Buenos Aires provinceCredit: AFPA trial over Maradona’s death involved the chief prosecutor showing the court a very graphic image of the footballerCredit: Canal CBAProsecutor Patricio Ferrari accused Coria of lying under oath, prompting trial judges to order his immediate arrest.He had given evidence as a witness at the ongoing trial, which started on March 11 and is set to continue until the summer.Coria, 48, had worked with Maradona for five years and was with him at the house in Tigre, near Buenos Aires, where he died of heart failure on November 25, 2020.He attempted mouth-to-mouth resuscitation as the Napoli star lay unresponsive in bed.Read more on Maradona’s trialCoria had been called as a witness due to his close relationship with the star – but Ferrari told the court he falsely claimed he hadn’t spoken to Diego’s doctor, Leopoldo Duque, before the death and wasn’t a friend of his.WhatsApp messages revealed the pair had discussed Maradona’s health and even arranged a barbecue.Coria also reportedly failed to mention in his initial statement that psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov had attempted CPR — only to later claim she had on the witness stand.Judges ordered his arrest following a brief recess.Most read in FootballHe was later seen being driven away in a patrol car, handcuffed in the back seat.Luque, Cosachov, and five other health workers are on trial for homicide with possible intent, a charge carrying up to 25 years behind bars.Diego Maradona’s daughter fights back tears as she says family live in fear of mafia ahead of trial into his death They include nurses Ricardo Almiron, Nancy Forlini, and Mariano Perroni; psychologist Carlos Diaz; and doctor Pedro Di Spagno.An eighth person, nurse Gisella Dahiana Madrid, will be tried separately later this year.The case was initially treated as manslaughter, but was reclassified to homicide after a damning medical board report found Maradona’s team had acted “inadequately, deficiently and recklessly.”To convict, the court must find the medics acted in a way they knew could kill — and did nothing to stop it.Ferrari told the court at the start of their trial Diego spent the last days of his life in a ‘House of Horrors’ after he left hospital and agreed to home care.During opening arguments, Ferrari held up a photo of Maradona lying in bed with a bloated stomach under a lifted black T-shirt and told the courtroom: “This is the way he died.”Luque, who denies wrongdoing, broke down in tears days after Maradona’s shock death following a search of his home near Buenos Aires.He claimed: “If I’m responsible for anything when it comes to Diego, it was loving him, caring for him, improving his life to the end and extending it.”Doctor Leopoldo Luque (C) during the trial for the death of Diego MaradonaCredit: APPsychologist Carlos Angel Diaz (C-R) during the trial at the San Isidro courtCredit: AFPAfter his death, it emerged Maradona had been buried without his diseased heart – which, at 503 grams, weighed almost double that of a normal heart for a man his age.Doctor and journalist Nelson Castro said at the time part of the reason had been to prevent obsessed fans from stealing it.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe first court session was streamed live online but it was subsequently decided not to continue with that policy.Maradona’s daughter Jana today told the court during her evidence her sisters Dalma and Gianinna had wanted to get their dad admitted to a clinic before his death but said Leopoldo Luque had rejected the idea.Fans crowding next to the hearse carrying the late football legend Diego Armando MaradonaCredit: AFPMaradona’s daughters Dalma and Gianinna, arriving at the courthouse on March 11, 2025Credit: Getty More

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      Tragedy as promising young footballer Yvann Martins, 19, dies in horror car crash

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      FOOTBALLER Yvann Martins has tragically passed away in a car crash.The 19-year-old played for Portuguese second tier side UD Oliveirense.Yvann Martins has sadly passed awayCredit: ojogo.ptMartins was reportedly driving a BMW near the city of Porto on Friday morning when his car overturned in the Tunnel do Covelo.Emergency services rushed to the scene but the youngster lost his life before being taken to hospital.UD Oliveirense confirmed the news in a statement that read: “It is with profound sadness and immense consternation that UD Oliveirense announces the tragic passing of Yvann Martins.”A player on our Under-19 team, who was a victim of a road accident at the young age of 19.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn a touching tribute, the club continued: “Yvann was much more than a player.”He was a humble, hard-working young man, always with a smile on his face, known for his team spirit and the way he knew how to be with his team-mates – a true team-mate and friend.”Fans wrote: “Rest in peace. It is a great sadness to lose a child at such a young age. Lord, comfort this family in these painful moments.”Another added: “My condolences to the family and friends.”Most read in FootballMartins, who was a highly-rated left-winger, moved to the Portuguese club after a spell with Young Boys in Switzerland where he scored 12 goals in 39 games.His funeral is set to take place in the town of Romariz today and fans of Oliveirense were invited to pay their respects. More

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      in Boxing

      ‘He wanted to get the truth’ Tributes pour in for Sun’s Mr Boxing Colin Hart after ‘greatest’ reporter’s death

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      LEGENDARY Sun boxing writer Colin Hart was hailed as “The Greatest” yesterday following his death at the age of 89.Colin had worked for The Sun since its launch in 1969 and was still passing on his unmatched sporting knowledge to readers until a few days before his passing.Sun boxing writer Colin Hart was hailed as ‘The Greatest’ yesterday following his death at the age of 89 (pictured with Lennox Lewis)Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdBarry McGuigan said: ‘Colin was a master when it came to boxing journalism’Credit: GettyThe brilliant sports journalist covered eight Olympic Games, motor racing and even showjumping in a stellar career.But he will forever be remembered as one of the wisest and most authoritative ringside figures in the world of boxing, whose heroes led a stream of warm tributes yesterday.British great Frank Bruno called him “Mr Boxing” and told how Colin was his hero.He said: “When it comes to the kings of boxing reporters, Colin was the undisputed champion. read more on colin hart“No one else will ever lay a glove on him. RIP, my friend.”Fellow former world champion Lennox Lewis said: “He was clearly the leader of the boxing press pack. “I knew that he wanted to get to the truth and tell the truth and if he upset people along the way, so be it.”Another ex-world title holder, Ricky Hatton, added: “Colin was one of the first people to congratulate me when I was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame.Most read in Boxing“He had previously been inducted himself, and I know how proud he was of that — he will be sadly missed.”Former middleweight hero Michael Watson — whose career was ended by a near-fatal injury in his fight with Chris Eubank — called The Sun writer “a boxing man through and through”.Boxing legend Colin Hart reveals how Larry Holmes was targeted by ‘rednecks’ in build-up to Gerry Cooney fightHe added: “Colin cared about us fighters and he campaigned for us.“I felt like he was in my corner during my boxing career and definitely after it.”Former super-middleweight world champ Joe Calzaghe added: “Colin was a real giant of boxing writers and there will never be another like him.”Boxing promoter Frank Warren described him as a “dear friend” and a “superb journalist”, adding: “Colin has been there since the start of my journey in this great sport. “It simply will not be the same without him.”Ring favourite Barry McGuigan said of Colin’s death — coming soon after that of US heavyweight hero George Foreman this weekend: “Colin was a master when it came to boxing journalism. “We are losing all the good ones.”The Sun’s Editor-in-Chief ­Victoria Newton added: “Colin was a brilliant writer who was hugely admired by all of us.“It takes a special journalist to still be at the top of their game approaching the age of 90.“He was never afraid to take on the scariest of heavyweights with his sharp pen and was working in an industry he loved right until the end.Chris Eubank called Colin ‘a boxing man through and through’Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdColin speaks to Mike TysonCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd“The number of warm and heartfelt tributes which have come in say everything about how he was revered and respected around the world.“Colin was the best of The Sun — The Greatest.”Cockney Colin grew up in London’s East End during the Second World War and recalled cowering in Tube stations from the German bombs.He was a life-long supporter of West Ham but fell in love with boxing when his gran took him to see his first professional bill at a local baths when he was ten.Colin’s career in newspapers began with the East London News Agency at 17 before work as a crime reporter and news editor following his national service.But he later switched from news to sport and joined the fledgling Sun newspaper where he quickly established himself as a star.Colleagues and rivals marvelled at his ability to compute every detail from fast-moving sporting events then talk them down a phone line to go directly into print.His talent was such that he stayed at the top of his game for decades, despite shunning modern communication methods which transformed the profession.He was — almost certainly — the only journalist still working up until recently who never owned a mobile phone and still preferred to bash out his reports on a clattering, old-school typewriter. After he gave up smoking, the gruff, white-haired newspaper great was known for chewing on an ever-present toothpick in one corner of his mouth while talking out of the other.Colin never pulled his punches as he covered every epic heavyweight clash involving Muhammad Ali, George Foreman and Joe Frazier during the 1970s.He was also ringside at all the epic bouts involving British boxing greats, from Henry Cooper and Joe Bugner to Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.Colin ‘retired’ when he turned 65 in 2000 but continued to write columns for another 25 yearsCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdBut the most memorable clash of the Sun man’s career was spent in Zaire covering the incredible Rumble in the Jungle classic between Ali and Foreman in October 1974.Foreman — then a terrifying 25-year-old brute — was expected to humble ageing icon Ali but was lured into an astonishing sucker-punch knockout in round eight.Colin described covering the fight as the “most bizarre ten days” after watching locals worship Ali like a god. He added: “At 25, Foreman wasn’t the smiling carefree giant who resembled a benign Buddha that we saw in his latter year. “He was surly, bad-tempered and far from lovable — his fists were like two wrecking balls.“But I had a gut feeling Big George lacked stamina, which is why in Sun Sport I picked Ali to beat him in nine rounds.”Ali would become a personal friend of Colin in his later life and trusted him to break the news of his diagnosis with Parkinson’s.Colin “retired” when he turned 65 in 2000 but continued to write columns for another 25 years, and attend big fights.He also ran with the Olympic torch down South East London’s Old Kent Road in 2012.And he carried on passing on his knowledge to colleagues, combined with hawk-like analysis of fight game skills and weaknesses.In 2017, after Joshua had knocked out Wladimir Klitschko in an epic battle at Wembley, he said the bout ranked in the top ten he had ever witnessed. But he also said that he believed Fury — who had beaten Klitschko two years earlier — was a better fighter.Colin watched his last major heavyweight bout only last year in Riyadh where he saw Fury’s first pro defeat against Oleksandr Usyk.And yet again, he had correctly predicted the result.READ MORE SUN STORIESColin died after a short illness days short of what would have been his 90th birthday on April 6. He is survived by wife Cindy, and daughters Laura and Lisa.Colin with his family after he ran with the Olympic torch down Old Kent Road in 2012Credit: Peter Jordan – The SunColin with boxing promoter Frank Warren who described him as a ‘dear friend’Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More