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

    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

    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

    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

    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

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    Paul Holmes dead aged 56: Tributes pour in for former Premier League star after passing away

    FORMER Everton star Paul Holmes has died at the age of 56.The right-back passed away peacefully after a battle with cancer and leaves behind his wife Kate.Paul Holmes has passed awayCredit: RexHe spent three years at EvertonCredit: AlamyHe left the Toffees for West Brom in 1996Credit: AlamyHolmes joined the Toffees in 1993 from Birmingham City and played 28 times for the club.His best moment at Everton came as he helped the team to a 2-0 Merseyside derby win over Liverpool in September 1993.That day Everton came out on top thanks to goals from Mark Ward and Tony Cottee.His final game for the club came against Feyenoord in the European Cup Winners’ Cup in October 1995, which they drew 0-0.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe left Goodison Park in 1996 as he moved to West Brom.He stayed with the Baggies until 1999 and joined Torquay United, where he would finally retire in 2003.Tributes have poured in for the former footballer on social media.One fan posted: “RIP Paul. Deepest sympathy to your family and friends.”Most read in FootballA second wrote: “Very sad news, RIP Paul.”A third commented: “Very sad to hear this news. Paul was a fine player.”MOTD commentator shares ‘scariest position in football’ as he takes fans inside Premier League stadiumA fourth said: “Terrible news RIP Paul.”Another added: “Awful news, thoughts go out to his family.”Former Everton team-mate Ian Snodin has also paid tribute to Holmes.He said: “I knew Paul was unwell, but I am deeply shocked by his passing.”He was a fine player and a lovely guy to share a dressing room with.”He got on well with all the lads and he was unfortunate not to play more games.”The club added in a statement: “Everyone at Everton Football Club is deeply saddened by the death of our former defender Paul Holmes.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Paul was just 56 years of age and passed away after a brave battle with cancer. RIP, Paul.”Holmes had football in his family as his dad, Albert Holmes, was a legend for Chesterfield having played for the club between 1960–1976. More

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    Cesar Lusi Menotti dies aged 85: Ex-Barcelona & Argentina manager who led his country to World Cup win in 1978 has died

    LEGENDARY former Argentina and Barcelona manager Cesar Luis Menotti has died aged 85.The iconic gaffer, who led his country to their first ever World Cup win in 1978, had been in hospital for a month with severe anemia.Cesar Luis Menotti blended tactics, philosophy and politics to lead Argentina to the World Cup in 1978Credit: PA:Empics SportFormer Argentina football team coach Cesar Luis Menotti in 2019Credit: AFPMenotti, who would smoke throughout matches, chats to Argentina captain Daniel Passarella in 1980Credit: GettyThe former world champion coach speaking with Argentina legend Lionel Messi (right) in 2019Credit: GettyThe Rosario-born tactician guided Argentina to a 3-1 victory over the Netherlands, as extra-time goals from tournament top scorer Mario Kempes and team-mate Daniel Bertoni sealed the win 46 years ago.The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed his death today in a statement.It read: “The Argentine Football Association regrets to report with great sadness the death of Cesar Luis Menotti, current Director of National Teams and former World Champion coach of Argentina.”Last month, Menotti was admitted to hospital with severe anemia and underwent surgery for phlebitis. Read More in FootballMenotti was the mastermind behind Argentina’s first ever global triumph as they got their hands on the the most iconic trophy in football.As the manager of La Albiceleste, he took a team that had limped out of the 1974 World Cup in Germany and turned them into world beaters.Tributes have since poured in for the World Cup winning coach.President of the AFA, Chiqui Tapia, posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Dear Flaco, it is an immense pain to have to say goodbye to you. You left us a lot during your time in the national team and in football.Most read in Football”Without a doubt, your passage to immortality will be with the best memories of all of us who love the round. “I send a warm hug on behalf of myself and all of Argentine Football to all of Cesar’s family at this moment. See you always dear friend!”Argentina’s current president, Javier Milei, also said: “RIP. Deep pain for the departure of the leader of a group that has given one of the greatest joys to the country. “Although I adhere to another school, it would be foolish to deny the contribution of César Luis Menotti. Goodbye Flaco.”There was also a tribute to Menotti during Sunday’s League Cup final in Argentina by Velez Sarsfield and Estudiantes. A minute’s silence was held at half-time, with all invovled paying their respects.A tall, slender figure on the sidelines Menotti would famously smoke throughout matches.The talented manager also enjoyed spells as the coach of Barcelona, Boca Juniors, Independiente, River Plate and Atletico Madrid to name but a few.Menotti took charge of the Mexican national team in the early 1990s, rebuilding the side after their disqualification from the 1990 World CupA striker in his playing days, Menotti played in Argentina with Rosario Central, Racing Club, Boca Juniors. He later joined the New York Generals before playing for Santos and Juventus in Brazil.Argentina have won the prestigious World Cup trophy twice since Menotti managed them to success in 1978.They triumphed again in 1986 in Mexico with the iconic Diego Maradona playing a starring role in the tournament.In 2022, footballing legend Lionel Messi inspired Argentina to lift the most prestigious trophy of all for a third time.READ MORE SUN STORIESLa Albiceleste defeated France in one of the greatest World Cup finals of all time.Argentina has also been runner-up three times: in 1930, 1990 and 2014.Menotti, in charge of a match at the Nou Camp while at Barcelona in 1984 More

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    Terry Medwin dead at 91: Tottenham legend who won the Double and back-to-back FA Cups dies as tributes pour in

    TOTTENHAM double-winning legend Terry Medwin has died aged 91.The former Welsh international winger arrived at the North London club in 1956 from Swansea City.Tottenham legend Terry Medwin has passed away aged 91Credit: GettyThe former winger was part of Spurs’ 1961 double-winning squadCredit: PA:Press AssociationHe achieved icon status during the next seven years at Tottenham with the highlight being the First Division and FA Cup double under Bill Nicholson in 1961.Spurs broke the sad news of his death on social media today.A statement said: “The Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player, Terry Medwin.“Terry was part of our double-winning side in 1961 and made 215 appearances in all competitions, scoring 72 goals.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“Our thoughts are with Terry’s family and friends at this impossibly sad time.”Medwin made his debut for hometown club Swansea in the 1951/52 season.He went on to play almost 150 times in the Football League for them before Spurs paid £25,000 for him in 1956.The attacker got off to a dream start by scoring twice on his debut in a 4-1 win over Preston.Most read in FootballHe played a huge role in the double-winning side five years later and even more success was to follow.Medwin lifted the Charity Shield that same year before Spurs retained the FA Cup.Tottenham 2-3 Arsenal, manager Ange Postecoglou gives his thoughts on the loss at the post-match press conferenceAnother Charity Shield followed in 1962 before Nicholson led Tottenham to Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup joy in 1963.Medwin remained a regular until he suffered a broken leg that forced his retirement that same year.He also enjoyed an impressive career on the international stage.Medwin represented Wales at the 1958 World Cup, where he scored the winner in the first round play-off that sent them into the quarter-finals.He also enjoyed an impressive career on the international stage.TERRY MEDWINThe former Wales and Swansea City winger enjoyed great success at Spurs:
    Football League First Division: (1961)
    FA Cup: (1961, 1962)
    Charity Shield: (1961, 1962)
    Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup: (1963)
    International career:
    Wales (30 caps, 6 goals)

    Medwin represented Wales at the 1958 World Cup, where he scored the winner in the first round play-off that sent them into the quarter-finals.He remained the last player to score for the Dragons at a major tournament until Gareth Bale at Euro 2016.He earned 30 caps and scored six times for his country.READ MORE SUN STORIESAfter hanging up his boots, Medwin managed in non-league at Cheshunt.He then coached at Cardiff City, Fulham, Norwich City before becoming assistant manager to John Toshack at Swansea. More

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    Ian Mellor dead at 74: Former Man City star passes away as Sky Sports reporter son pays heartfelt tribute

    FORMER Manchester City star Ian Mellor has died at the age of 74.The ex-winger passed away this morning after a battle with illness.Former Man City star Ian Mellor has died at the age of 74 after a long battle with illnessCredit: GettyMellor also starred for teams including Norwich and BrightonCredit: EmpicsThe news was announced by his son Neil, who works for Sky Sports after playing for LiverpoolCredit: Instagram nmellor33The news was announced by his son Neil, who now works for Sky Sports as a pundit after playing spells with Liverpool and West Ham.He revealed his father had been battling amyloidosis, a rare disease which affects organs and is not curable.Neil posted on Twitter: “My Dad, My Hero, I love you.”Thank you for everything. 19/02/1950 – 01/05/2024.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We are all absolutely devastated to have lost my Dad. “Big thanks to St Ann’s Hospice and all their brilliant staff who helped during those last days as he battled so hard against amyloidosis.”Neil’s former Liverpool teammate and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher paid tribute with a heart emoji.Meanwhile, a fan said: “Sincere condolences Neil.”Most read in FootballAnother declared: “Your dad was a great footballer and a true gentleman.”One noted: “He was a true legend.”Footballers you didn’t know were related from Premier League icons to Lionel MessiNeil’s playing career also saw him star at West Ham and PrestonCredit: ReutersHe is now a pundit for Sky SportsCredit: Instagram nmellor33Another added: “He was a great footballer, one of my favourites.”Mellor started his career with City in 1970, scoring seven goals in 40 appearances and winning the FA Charity Shield before leaving in 1973.He then moved to Norwich and scored twice in 29 games before departing a year later for Brighton,He became a fan favourite in four years on the south coast with 31 goals in 122 games.Between 1978 and 1984, Mellor then moved around Chester City, Sheffield Wednesday and Bradford City.His final playing days saw him spend time at Workshop Town and Hong Kong outfit Tung Sing. As for son Neil, he began his career at Liverpool and scored six times in 22 games – including a last-gasp 30-yard winner against Arsenal at Anfield in 2004.After loans at West Ham and Wigan, he eventually left for Preston in 2006 and scored 43 goals in 150 games.READ MORE SUN STORIESNeil, who went on loan to Sheffield Wednesday during his time there, retired in 2012 aged 30 after a knee injury.And he now works as a pundit for broadcaster Sky Sports, appearing regularly on shows including Soccer Saturday.What is amyloidosis?Amyloidosis is a group of rare conditions where a protein called amyloid builds up in your body.
    It can affect organs such as your heart, kidneys, liver, nerves or digestive system.
    It cannot be cured, but there are treatments that may help with symptoms.
    Common symptoms of amyloidosis include:

    feeling very tired or weak
    losing weight without trying to
    shortness of breath
    swollen feet or legs
    bruising around your eyes More