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      Manfred Wolke dead at 81: Boxing world in mourning as Olympic champion and legendary trainer dies after long illness

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      THE BOXING world is mourning the death of Manfred Wolke, who has died aged 81.The former German welterweight had been battling an incurable form of dementia for several years.Manfred Wolke (right) has passed away aged 81Credit: GettyThe legendary German coach and former Olympian died late last month following a long battle with dementiaCredit: AFPWolke won Olympic gold in the 1968 GamesCredit: GettyAnd according to Die Stimme Berlins, he tragically lost his fight with the disease late last month.Tributes began to pour in for the late Wolke as news of his passing was made public.One boxing fan wrote: “The great boxing trainer Manfred Wolke has died. RIP.”Wolke reportedly spent his final days in a care facility in Frankfurt, where his wife Brigitte would regularly visit him.READ MORE IN BOXINGBut as his condition worsened, Brigitte is said to have started restricting the number of visitors he had.His protege Henry Maske, however, was allowed to visit him on his 80th birthday.Fellow coach Ulli Wegner paid tribute to his countryman upon learning of his death.He said: “Manfred has brought German professional boxing back to the top. Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe late Manfred Wolke helped guide his protege Henry Maske to the IBF heavyweight titleCredit: AFP”That is his achievement.”The late Wolke trained as a train mechanic before fully throwing himself into boxing.Tyson Fury must BANISH dad John from ringside to beat Usyk in rematch, says Sun Boxing reporterHe excelled in the sport, so much so that he was selected for East Germany’s 1968 Olympic team.Wolke would take home a gold medal in the Mexican Games thanks to a win over Cameroon’s Joseph Bessala in the final of the 147lb tournament.He’d turn his hand to training the next generation of fighters after hanging up his gloves.Wolke trained three-time IBF heavyweight title challenger Axel Schulz, who most notably shared the ring with Michael Morer, George Foreman and Wladimir Klitschko.Wolke helped guide his protege Maske to the prestigious IBF strap, which he defended ten times, in 1993.He most recently trained former unified title challenger Francesco Pianeta, who locked horns with Brit boxing icon Tyson Fury in 2018. More

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      Ian ‘Chico’ Hamilton dead at 73: Chelsea’s youngest ever player and goalscorer dies as tributes pour in

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      CHELSEA’S youngest ever player and goalscorer Ian “Chico” Hamilton has died aged 73.The football world paid tribute to the midfielder, who was given his nickname after the famous American jazz drummer.Chelsea’s youngest ever player and goalscorer Ian “Chico” Hamilton has died aged 73Credit: AlamyHamilton played for Aston Villa tooCredit: AlamyHamilton started his career with Chelsea in 1966 and became the Blues’ youngest ever player and goalscorer at 16 years, 138 days.He scored against Tottenham on his debut and earned comparisons to the legendary Jimmy Greaves.But he only played four more league games for the Blues before moving to Southend.Chico’s longest spell was with Aston Villa, for whom he played 208 games, winning the League Cup in 1975.READ MORE ON CHELSEAHe also played for Sheffield United before moving to America.In retirement, Hamilton remained in the States and spent 17 years as a coach at Thomas Worthington High School in Ohio.Hamilton’s death was confirmed by the Blades on social media.A Blades statement read: “All at Sheffield United are saddened to have been informed former player Ian ‘Chico’ Hamilton has passed away, aged 73.Most read in Football”Chico began his career at Chelsea under Tommy Docherty and became their youngest League player and goalscorer when he netted on debut aged just 16 years and 138 days against Tottenham.”After just four appearances for the Stamford Bridge club, he moved to Southend United but Docherty, now manager at Aston Villa, came calling again and signed him in 1969.Best ten new Premier League kits for next season”At Villa, Chico won a Third Division title in 1972 and played in two League Cup finals in 1971 and 1975. In the ’71 final, Villa lost 2-0 to Spurs but in ’75 they tasted success after defeating Norwich 1-0.”After playing over 200 games for Villa in seven seasons, he joined the Blades in 1976, signed by then boss Jimmy Sirrel. “He played 73 times for United in all competitions, scoring 15 goals, but played during a period of turbulence both on and off the pitch at Bramall Lane.”He departed in 1978 and spent five seasons in the North American Soccer League playing for the likes of Minnesota Kicks and San Jose Earthquakes.”After his retirement, he did return to the Sheffield area for a time and worked for Rotherham United in a community role.”The thoughts of all at Bramall Lane go out to his family and friends at this sad time.” More

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      Man Utd legend Roy Keane heartbroken after death of beloved dog Jet as he posts emotional goodbye message

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      ROY KEANE posted an emotional goodbye message after his pet dog Jet passed away.The Manchester United legend is a huge dog lover and shares his walks on Instagram.Roy Keane posted an emotional goodbye message to his pet dog Jet who sadly passed awayCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16The Manchester United legend is a huge dog loverCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16Keane shared pictures of his dog onlineCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16Keane had feared for the health of his petCredit: Instagram / @officialkeane16But Keane took to the social media app to reveal the tragic news of Jet’s death with a series of snaps. He posted: “Thanks Jet for being so beautiful and loyal to our family. We will miss you.” Keane opened up on his love for his pets on an episode of The Overlap but also revealed his fear for their health.He said: “You have a routine and you have to look after them. Walk them. I went out this morning before I came here. READ MORE ON MAN UTD”You have a routine with your dogs. I’ve always had dogs, going back when I was growing up in Ireland we always had dogs in the house. “It gives you good security. It’s good for a bit of exercise. Love them to bits. I’ve got two dogs. “But mine are getting a bit old now and a bit frail and that’s always the worry that something will happen to them.” Arsenal icon Ian Wright also revealed he is a cat lover.Most read in FootballWright said: “Cats are amazing. I love them. I’m so deep into them now.” And Keane said: “I’m not anti-cats. I just prefer dogs. I’m not anti-cats.”‘Don’t get all excited’ – Roy Keane and Ian Wright in heated F-word bust-up as co-star forced to play peacemaker More

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      Heartbreaking pictures show boxer Sherif Lawal making ‘last preparations’ hours before dying in first professional fight

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      THESE are the heartbreaking pictures showing boxer Sherif Lawal as he makes his “last preparations” just hours before he died in his first professional bout.Images posted on Instagram show the 29-year-old boxer working out with his trainer with the post captioned “last preparations done!”Sherif Lawal is seen working out in a series of pictures posted on InstagramCredit: InstagramThe middleweight fighter is shown making his ‘last preparations’ before his first professional fightCredit: InstagramLawal limbers up with his coachCredit: InstagramThe photos show the middleweight fighter looking focused as he gears up to take on Portuguese opponent Malam Varela at Harrow Leisure Centre in London yesterday.The first few pictures show Lawal in blue shorts and a matching waterproof jacket as he appears to be warming up.Later images in the series show him sparring with his coach while wearing multicoloured gloves and shorts along with a grey hoodie.Fans have been flocking to the sportsman’s social media page to leave tributes.Read More on BoxingOne said: “Rest in peace big man. Thinking of you and all your family.”A second wrote: “Rest in peace brother.”While a third added: “An amazing boxer. Never forgotten.”Lawal lost consciousness during the fight after he was struck on the temple.Most read in BoxingReferee Lee Every began the knockout count but immediately called time after realising the extent of the 28-year-old’s condition on the canvas.Lawal, of Islington, was treated in the ring by doctors before being rushed to nearby Northwick Park Hospital.Mike Tyson looks ferocious on pads as boxing legend gears up for Jake Paul showdown But he was tragically later pronounced dead despite the efforts of medics.A witness said: “It’s unbelievably sad. This was his pro debut – he has died while chasing his dream.”His fight was first on the card, but the event was cancelled and the remaining three fights scrapped after Sherif was taken to hospital. That tells you how serious it was.”He was hurt at the end of round three. He then came out for the fourth and final round with his guard up, and took a right to the temple.”He dropped to his haunches and the referee started a count to ten – but then stopped and waved it off because he could see Sherif was in a bad way.”Doctors arrived and worked on him in the ring for about 20 minutes, including CPR and the use of a defibrillator.”This was in front of a packed house, and everyone was in total shock.”Sherif was then taken away on a stretcher before news came through later that he had passed away.Rest in peace big man. Thinking of you and all your familyA fan’s tribute to Sherif Lawal left on the boxer’s Instagram page”This is very rare. All care is taken to ensure the safety of fighters but in a sport like boxing these things occasionally happen. However, that doesn’t make it any less devastating.”Costakis Evangelou, the promoter behind the Clash of the Titans event, told The Sun: “This was a tragic incident and my profound sympathies go out to Sherif’s family.“It’s a difficult time for everyone involved in the boxing fraternity and we’re trying to absorb what’s happened. No one wants to see something like this in any sport.“Sherif was a great boxer and man. It’s now in the hands of the Board and they’re going to assess the incident.”Lawal had been boxing since 2018. He wrapped up his amateur career and announced he was turning professional earlier this year.READ MORE SUN STORIESAt the time, coach CJ Hussein, who also trained Tyson Fury’s 2009 opponent John McDermott, said: “I think the pro game will suit Sherif down to a tee, he’s got all the talent to become a great middleweight.“He’s a real inspiration to all the younger boxers at the gym.”Fans took to Lawal’s social media page to honour the 29-year-oldCredit: InstagramThe photos show Lawal preparing for his first professional boutCredit: InstagramHe gears up with his trainer to take on Portuguese opponent Malam Varela later that dayCredit: Instagram More

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      Tyson Fury pays tribute to tragic Sherif Lawal after boxer dies in first professional fight aged just 29

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      TYSON FURY has paid tribute to British boxer Sherif Lawal after he tragically died following his defeat on his professional boxing debut on Sunday night.The 29-year-old middleweight was knocked down by Malam Varela in round four of their six-round bout, and before referee Lee Every finished the count, he saw the fighter was in a serious condition and called for medics.Sherif Lawal tragically died following his defeat on his professional boxing debut on Sunday nightCredit: Philip SharkeySherif in the ring moments before the punch that killed himThe poster advertising Sunday’s boutTyson Fury has paid tribute to Sherif LawalCredit: GettyThe boxer died after his professional debutCredit: InstagramCPR was administered for up to 15 minutes and he was taken to Northwick Park Hospital where was pronounced dead and the remainder of the show was cancelled.Fury paid tribute to Lawal from Riyadh, saying: “God rest his soul, poor old fella.”You know getting into this sport that it’s a dangerous sport.”You go in there and get paid danger money, you’re getting your brains knocked out.READ MORE IN BOXING”You’re not there to tickle each other to death, we’re there to inflict damage on each other by punching each other to the head and body.”Unfortunately, things like this happen now and again. We all know what we’re getting in for.”It’s like people who do parachute jumping, now and again the parachute doesn’t open and they hit the floor.”It doesn’t stop everyone from parachute jumping.Most read in Boxing”I’ve known the risks my whole life, it is what it is. If it’s my time and it’s God’s will then I’ll die, if not I’ll live. “I can’t tempt fate.Oleksandr Usyk on incredible sacrifices made for postponed Tyson Fury undisputed fight”In Terminator, Sarah Connor wrote something like don’t tempt fate.”I can’t decide what happens in the future or worry about it either.”The British Boxing Board of Control added: “The British Boxing Board of Control sends their condolences to the family of Sherifdeen Lawal following his tragic passing after his Boxing contest on Sunday, 12th May 2024.”The thoughts of all those involved in Boxing in Great Britain are with them at this difficult time.”Inside the Gypsy King’s royal courtTYSON FURY is one of the biggest characters in sport. More

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      Former World Cup and Ajax star survives horror car crash in which his footballer brother tragically dies

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      A NIGERIAN World Cup star has survived a horrific car crash – although his footballer brother tragically died in the accident.Tijani Babangida, 50, shot to fame as a winger in the 1990s.Former Nigerian footy star Ibrahim Babangida has died after a road accidentCredit: GettyHis older brother, an ex-Nigeria international Tijani, was in the car but survived the crashCredit: AFPHe won Olympic gold with Nigeria in 1996 and was part of his country’s squad for the World Cup in France two years later.Babangida’s club career was spent mostly in Holland, where he started out at Roda.But his form earned him a move to Ajax in 1996 where he won the league and cup, during his seven years there.He also played for VVV-Venlo and Vitesse in the Netherlands but also had stints in Turkey with Genclerbirligi and Saudi Arabia at Al-Ittahad.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBabangida finished his career in China with Changchun Yatai before hanging up his boots in 2004.He became a football agent after retirement and has led the Professional Football’s Association of Nigeria, where he served as president. Meanwhile, his younger brother Ibrahim also played professionally during the 90s and won the U17 World Cup with his nation.He had spells domestically at Bank of the North, Stationery Stores and Katsina United before moving to the Netherlands himself in 1997.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIbrahim signed for Volendam and he played on the right wing for them for five years before hanging up his boots in 2002.Now a host of tributes have poured in after the sad news of his death was announced.Inside the ten stunning Euro 2024 stadiums including historic final venueTijani’s old team-mate Emmanuel Babayaro, the general secretary of PFAN, announced the tragedy on social media.He reported that the accident happened on Thursday and left Rijani receiving treatment in a Zaria hospital while Ibrahim was killed instantly in the crash.The pair were said to have been involved in a traffic collision on the Zaria-Kaduna Road.Rijani is believed to be in a serious but stable condition in the medical facility alongside his wife, son, and a family employee. Ibrahim was buried on Friday in his hometown of Kaduna. Babayaro’s statement read: “Comrades! Let us pray for our president, Tijani Babangida, who has just been involved in a terrible car accident on the Kaduna-Zaria Eoad road.“Ibrahim Babangida, his younger brother, died on the spot from the accident while Mr President and his family were taken to hospital. “May the soul of Ibrahim Babangida rest in peace with God, amen.“The accident happened on Thursday afternoon, and (Tijani’s) wife was also involved in it.“He is currently admitted at Shika hospital in Zaria, where he is receiving treatment.“To the glory of God, he is conscious.”Garba Lawal, who was part of the ‘96 gold medal-winning Nigeria squad, paid tribute to both men.He told Punch: “Ibrahim Babangida and his brother Tijani Bagabgida are like my brothers.“We played at club and national team levels together for years, especially, Ibrahim, we played together at the same club before he moved to Stationery Stores while I joined Julius Berger.“I called some members of their family, no one among their sisters can say anything because of how sad it is. Our prayer is just that God should grant him eternal rest. “We are also praying for Tijani’s wife, who is in critical condition, to get well soon and I think Tijani is getting better already because I spoke with him.”Meanwhile, their younger brother, the 41-year-old Haruna, also enjoyed an impressive footy career.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was second-youngest player to appear for Barcelona when he made his debut during a friendly against AGOVV Apeldoorn in 1998 at the age of 15. He later went on to play for his country and the likes of Olympiacos, Mainz 05, Vitesse, and Apollon Limassol before retiring in 2015. More

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      Former World Cup star cheats death in horrific car smash that claimed the life of his footballer brother

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      FORMER World Cup star Tijani Babangida has cheated death in a horrific car smash – that claimed the life of his footballer brother.Ex-Ajax winger Babangida won gold with Nigeria at the 1996 Olympics.Nigeria icon Tijani Babangida has survived a horror car crashCredit: GettyThe player, whose brother died in the accident, starred at the World Cup in 1998Credit: ReutersHe then played four times for the Super Eagles at the 1998 World Cup finals, scoring against Denmark.Babangida, 50, won the Eredivisie title and two Dutch FA Cups during seven years at Ajax.The Kaduna-born star also played for their league rivals Roda JC, VVV Venlo and Vitesse Arnhem as well as clubs in Turkey, Saudi Arabia and China.Capped 36 times, he is now president of the Nigerian players’ union PFAN.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut tragedy struck on Thursday as he was travelling from Kaduna to Zaria in central Nigeria.His vehicle was in collision with a trailer, and his brother Ibrahim died at the scene.Babangida, his wife and other family members are reportedly in serious conditions but stable in a Zaria hospital.Winger Ibrahim, 47, formerly played 51 times for Eredivisie club Volendam.Most read in FootballPFAN general secretary Emmanuel Babayaro announced: “Comrades! Let us be in prayers for our president Tijani Babangida, who just had a ghastly motor accident along the Kaduna-Zaria road.”Ibrahim Babangida, his younger brother, died on the spot from the accident while Mr President and his family were taken to hospital.Footballers you didn’t know were related from Premier League icons to Lionel Messi”May the soul of Ibrahim Babangida rest in peace with God, amen.”The accident happened on Thursday afternoon, and [Tijani’s] wife was also involved in it.”He is currently admitted at Shika hospital in Zaria, where he is receiving treatment. To the glory of God, he is conscious.” More

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      Viv Busby dead aged 74: Tributes pour in for Fulham Hall of Famer who starred in FA Cup final alongside Bobby Moore

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      FULHAM icon Viv Busby has passed away at the age of 74.The former striker played 143 times for the Cottagers during a glittering career, scoring 37 goals in the process.Fulham icon Viv Busby has died at the age of 74Credit: GettyBusby became a cult hero during his time at Craven CottageCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdBusby played in the 1975 FA Cup final alongside England World Cup captain Bobby MooreCredit: RexAnd he shared the spotlight with World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore in Fulham’s 1975 FA Cup final defeat to West Ham.The Cottagers revealed the sad news on Wednesday afternoon as they paid tribute to one of their greats, who previously battled leukaemia for six months in 2001.A statement read: “The Club is saddened to learn of the death of former player Viv Busby.”Signed by Alec Stock ahead of the 1973/74 season, it was the following campaign that fans will best remember Busby’s exploits for Fulham, playing a key role in our run to the FA Cup Final.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Busby started all 12 of our FA Cup fixtures that year and scored six goals, including his famous brace at Goodison Park to defeat Everton – Division One leaders at the time – in the Fifth Round.”He departed the Club early in 1976/77, with a record of 37 goals in 143 appearances.”That was not the last we saw of Busby at the Cottage, though, as he returned as a coach under Paul Bracewell in 1999.”Busby is also a Forever Fulham recipient, having been inducted in October 2022.Most read in Football”Everyone at the Club would like to offer our condolences to Viv’s wife Barbara, and all his family and friends at this sad time.”Fulham fans quickly paid tribute to one of their own.Chris Coleman was left stunned by Michael Jackson’s feet when the King of Pop entered Fulham’s dressing room A supporter said: “Rip to a great legend.”Another declared: “That’s really such sad news, nearly made it into one of Revie’s England squad, I absolutely loved watching him.”One noted: “Sad news, best wishes to Viv’s family.”Another added: “RIP Viv, he was always enjoyable to watch.”Busby started his pro career with Wycombe Wanderers in 1966 and scored 19 goals in 50 games during a four-year spell.He then moved to Luton Town for three years, netting 16 goals in 77 games to help the Hatters earn promotion in 1970 to the Second Division.After a brief loan at Newcastle, Busby ended up at Fulham and quickly became a fan favourite.Busby enjoyed a brief spell in managementCredit: PA:Press AssociationHe was inducted into Fulham’s Hall of Fame 18 months agoCredit: RexHe scored 37 goals in 143 appearances and played a key role in the Cottagers’ run to the 1975 FA Cup final, where they lost 2-0 to West Ham.Busby played alongside England legend and World Cup-winning captain Moore, as well as former Three Lions defender Alan Mullery.After leaving Fulham in 1976, Busby spent time at Norwich, Stoke and Sheffield United.He then had a brief spell in the USA with the Tulsa Roughnecks between 1980 and 1981 before returning to England.Busby played for Blackburn Rovers before ending his career at York City in 1983.He remained at the club as a coach until 1987 and went on to become Hartlepool boss in 1993.Busby lasted nine months in the job before returning to coaching.But he was struck down with leukaemia in 2001 while working as a youth coach with Swindon Town, forcing him to take six months out to recover.READ MORE SUN STORIESBusby later made a return to York in 2004 as assistant boss and even briefly took over as caretaker before leaving soon after.He also worked at Gretna and Workington before moving to Spain in 2011.Viv Busby’s career statsPlayer career:

      Wycombe Wanderers, 1966-1970: 50 games, 19 goals

      Luton Town, 1969-1973: 86 games, 16 goals

      Newcastle (loan), 1971-1972: 5 games, 2 goals

      Fulham, 1973-1976: 143 games, 37 goals

      Norwich, 1976-1977: 26 games, 11 goals

      Stoke, 1977-1980: 60 games, 12 goals

      Sheffield Utd (loan), 1979-1980: 3 games, 1 goal

      Tulsa Roughnecks, 1980: 19 games, 1 goal

      Blackburn Rovers, 1980-1981: 8 games, 1 goal

      York City, 1982-1984: 21 games, 4 goals

      Managerial career

      Hartlepool United, Feb-Nov 1993: P40 W9 D9 L22

      York City (caretaker), 2004-2005: P14 W4 D2 L8 More