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    Ireland great Shay Given suffers devastating double family heartbreak as brother and uncle tragically die over Christmas

    SHAY GIVEN has suffered a devastating double bereavement following the deaths of his uncle and brother.The former Republic of Ireland and Newcastle United goalkeeper lost both of his loved ones over Christmas.
    Shay Given is in mourning following the deaths of his brother and uncle
    His brother, Kieran – pictured with Shay and their father Seamus – died on December 23, while his uncle Ambrose died on Christmas DayCredit: RIP.ie
    The 47-year-old’s brother, Kieran, died at his home in Germany on December 23 at the age of 52.
    He is survived by his devoted wife Doris and his two sons Joshua and Joel and will be sadly missed by his father Seamus, stepmother Margaret, brothers, Liam, Marcus, Shay, and Paul, and sisters, Michelle, Sinéad and Jacqueline.
    A talented singer-songwriter and artist from Lifford in Donegal, he was laid to rest in his adopted home of Altensteig on December 30.
    League of Ireland side Finn Harps, whom Kieran represented at underage level, said: “All at Finn Park are sad to hear of the passing of our friend Kieran Given.

    “Before moving abroad Kieran was recognised by all in footballing circles as a talented young footballer & represented Harps at underage & USL level.
    “Kierans passion for people and life will be greatly missed.”
    Shay’s uncle, Ambrose, died following an illness on Christmas Day, and was laid to rest on December 28.
    He will be missed by wife Sheila, kids Patricia, Marion, Helena, Clare, and Catherine, grandkids Ciara, Luke, Ríannagh, Caitlin, Rory and Síofra, wider family and friends.
    Most read in Football
    A beloved figure around his local area of Convoy, Donegal, he was a devoted member of St Mary’s GAA.
    The club paid emotional tribute to him on Thursday, saying: “Our thoughts and prayers are with your family today as you make your finally journey
    “Thank you for everything you’ve done for the wee club
    “The pitch and grounds would not be there without your efforts and our other stalwarts who work tirelessly in the background” More

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    Premier League star Mario Lemina heartbroken after death of his dad as Wolves team-mates honour him in Everton game

    WOLVES paid tribute to Mario Lemina’s dad following the announcement of his tragic death this afternoon.The club broke the heartbreaking news on social media today.
    Wolves players held up Mario Lemina’s shirt during their match against EvertonCredit: Reuters
    The midfielder paid tribute to his dad on SundayCredit: Getty
    A statement read: “Our hearts go out to Mario Lemina after the passing of his father yesterday morning.
    “The whole pack send their love and sympathy to Mario and his family.
    “Mario’s teammates will wear black armbands today in honour of his father’s memory.”
    Wolves faced Everton in the Premier League this afternoon and paid tribute to Lemina’s dad by wearing black armbands and holding up the midfielder’s shirt during the game.
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    In response to the news, a tweet from the Toffees read: “Incredibly sad news. Our thoughts are with Mario and his family during this time.”
    Lemina dedicated his goal and man-of-the-match performance against Chelsea to his dad on Christmas Eve.
    In a post-match interview, the midfielder revealed that his father was in hospital surrounded by family.
    He told Sky Sports: “By the way I wanted to pass a message to my dad. He is in hospital, for two months now.
    Most read in Football
    “He is struggling a lot and my family are around him now. I wanted to be with him, but I need to do my work. Dad – Keep pushing! We are all together.”
    Lemina travelled to France after Sunday’s game to be with his dad over the Christmas period.
    Wolves boss Gary O’Neil revealed on Friday that he was attending a “family issue”.
    O’Neil said: “Mario has gone back to France to attend a family issue, I don’t want to speak about it too much as it’s not my place.
    “Mario didn’t train today and that’s all I can say on it.
    “Around tomorrow it’s too early to say, my only thoughts are with Mario and what he needs at this moment.
    “Some things are more important than football matches.”
    Wolves currently sit 11th in the Premier League table with 25 points from 19 games. More

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    Cem Kilic dead at 29: Top boxer who fought on Tyson Fury undercard dies as tributes pour in

    BOXING star Cem Kilic has died aged 29.A host of tributes have poured in for the Turkish star, who had appeared on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s victory over Tom Schwarz back in June 2019.
    Boxing star Cem Kilic has died at the age of 29Credit: Instagram @kilicboxing
    He fought on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s win over Tom Schwarz in 2019Credit: Getty
    Eyup Gozgec, president of the Turkish Boxing Federation, announced on Friday: “We have learned the news of the death of one of our former national boxers.
    “We wish patience to the grieving relatives. Rest in peace.”
    Kilic’s former manager, Shane Shapiro, added: “Never thought I would be writing something like this right now.
    “I am in shock. RIP Cem Kilic, the first fighter that took a chance on me, someone who moved from Germany to Los Angeles, lived with me 7 years and was part of my family. Those who know, know.
    READ MORE IN BOXING
    “Me and Cem were always side by side… we had so many highs and lows, and didn’t always see eye to eye, but the memories we made together will never fade.
    “You will always be remembered… RIP ‘Champ’ Cem Kilic. We went to war together.”
    Kilic was born on June 6, 1994 in Neustadt, Germany but relocated to America at the age of 19 to train in LA.
    He made his pro debut in 2014 and he produced an eighth-round stoppage of Martez McGregor at that Fury vs Schwarz event.
    Most read in Boxing
    However, he suffered his lone loss came in his next fight, which was an eighth-round stoppage to Terence Crawford’s stablemate Steven Nelson in January 2020.
    Kilic bounced back with three successive victories and ended his career with a 17-1 (11KOs) record.
    A host of tributes have poured in after the shock news of his death was announcedCredit: Instagram @kilicboxing More

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    Don Schumacher dead at 79: NHRA drag racer and team owner dies after ‘illness-related complications’

    MOTORSPORTS legend Don Schumacher has died at 79 following a battle with lung cancer.His racing team, NHRA, announced his death on Thursday citing illness related complications.
    Don Schumacher has died at the age of 79Credit: Getty
    Schumacher’s cars won 19 NHRA world championshipsCredit: Getty
    Schumacher was a successful drag racer and was part of the founding of the Funny Car class. He won around 70 percent of the 560 races he entered.
    His legend grew exponentially when he became a car owner. His team collected 19 NHRA world championships and 362 Wally trophies.
    He built one of the most impressive resumes in racing history, but took time off in the 1970s to develop his family’s electric company into a successful global business.
    He returned to racing in 1998 as a car owner with his son Tony as his primary driver. Tony won 86 events for his father.

    Outside of his success on the race track, he also made the sport much safer.
    Among his safety breakthroughs were a roof-mounted escape hatch which made it easier for drivers to escape a fire.
    He also created a fire-suppression system that allowed drivers to extinguish a fire without removing their hand from the steering wheel.
    Schumacher had a battle with cancer in 2015, but was able to return to the track which thrilled drivers.
    Most read in Motorsport
    “This is the best therapy,” Antron Brown, one of Schumacher’s’ drivers said.
    “You can see the smile on his face and the joy in his heart for being part of this sport of NHRA drag racing.”
    Schumacher shared how much drag racing meant to him after returning from his first cancer battle.
    “I love what I do, and I will continue to do what I do,” Schumacher said after his return.
    “I’m a businessman, and that’s what I do. I love racing. I love the sport of NHRA. I love my businesses. I love my family. I love what I do in life.”
    NHRA announcer Alan Reinhart shared how much of a legend Schumacher was on Twitter.
    “Even though he has scaled back his personal involvement the last few years, this is a tremendous blow,” Reinhart wrote.
    “His influence will be felt for generations to come. And the company he built will continue to supply the sport.”
    More to follow… For the latest news on this story, keep checking back at The U.S. Sun online. The-Sun.com is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, sports news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures, and must-see videos. Like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/TheSunUS and follow us on X (formerly Twitter) at @TheUSSun.
    Schumacher’s cars won 362 Wally trophiesCredit: Getty More

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    Coleen Rooney joins Tony Bellew and football legends at memorial service for late Everton chairman Bill Kenwright

    TONY BELLEW and Frank Lampard led sporting icons in paying respects to late Everton chairman Bill Kenwright.In October it was announced that former Coronation Street star Kenwright had tragically died at the age of 78.
    Boxing icon Tony Bellew led the sporting icons in attendance at Bill Kenwright’s memorial service todayCredit: PA
    Former Toffees manager Frank Lampard was pictured at the serviceCredit: PA
    Current boss Sean Dyche led his players at the serviceCredit: PA
    Veteran Seamus Coleman attended the service at Liverpool CathedralCredit: PA
    Goalkeeper and England international Jordan Pickford was seen paying his respectsCredit: PA
    James Tarkowski, left, led a host of players as they arrived at the cathedralCredit: PA
    Dominic Calvert-Lewin was also seen in attendanceCredit: PA
    It came after he was discharged from hospital following a battle with cancer.
    His “devastated” family announced he had passed away “peacefully” surrounded by his loved ones following a “long battle with illness”.
    The lifelong Evertonian had been a board member of the club since 1989, before becoming vice-chairman and later chairman when he succeeded Sir Phillip Carter in 2004.
    His time at the helm of the Toffees saw him become the club’s longest-serving chairman for more than a century.
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    And today Everton held a memorial service for him at Liverpool Cathedral to celebrate his life.
    Attendees included members of the senior men’s team, staff, supporters and a number of former players and employees.
    Boxing legend and I’m A Celeb runner-up Bellew was among those in attendance at the memorial.
    Chelsea icon and former manager Lampard was spotted there too, with present boss Sean Dyche seen as well.
    Most read in Football
    Everton U18 coach and former star Leighton Baines, right, cameCredit: PA
    Other former stars included Phil JagielkaCredit: PA
    Duncan Ferguson also attended the serviceCredit: PA
    Former stars Duncan Ferguson, Leighton Baines and Phil Jagielka were joined by the likes of Seamus Coleman and Jordan Pickford from the current squad.
    Ex-Everton stars Peter Reid, brother Shaun Reid and one-time England international Brian Marwood were also seen in attendance.
    Dominic Calvert-Lewin, James Tarkowski, James Garner, Ashley Young, Jack Harrison and Andre Gomes attended too.
    Liverpool icons Kenny Dalglish and Ian Rush were seen arriving at the Cathedral to pay their respects.
    Chernobyl star Con O’Neill, actor Nick Moran and Wayne Rooney’s wife Coleen Rooney were also among those to attend the service.
    In a statement, Everton said: “The service is a closed event due to the venue’s logistical constraints, however a full video of proceedings will be available on evertonfc.com later in the day.”
    Everton player Peter Reid ,left, brother Shaun Reid and Brian Marwood were among the ex-pros presentCredit: PA
    Liverpool icons Kenny Dalglish, left, and Ian Rush paid their respectsCredit: PA
    Wayne Rooney’s wife Coleen Rooney attended the service as wellCredit: PA
    Actors Con O’Neill, left, and Nick Moran turned out at the closed ceremonyCredit: PA More

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    Tragedy as teen boxer, 14, dies after collapsing during fight when referee ‘failed to stop bout in time’

    A TEENAGE boxer has died after collapsing during a fight when the referee “failed to stop” the match in time.Shocking footage shows young boxing star Timofey Shadrin, 14, lose consciousness during the finals of a competition in Russia.
    Timofey Shadrin, a gifted teenage boxer, died during a match after collapsing in the ringCredit: East2West
    He had been hit by his rival before staggering back towards the edge of the ring
    Timofey (right) was a gifted young boxer who had made it to the finals of a junior competition
    The youngster died soon afterwards as he was rushed to hospital in Pervouralsk, in the Sverdlovsk region.
    He had appeared to hold his own in the fight but when the pair were separated by the referee, he backed slowly towards the ropes, and fell. 
    “When the boy became ill, the referee did not immediately stop the fight,” said an eyewitness. 
    “That’s why he missed some blows.
    READ MORE BOXING
    “Plus, his opponent was shorter, and at that moment, he hit him in the liver.”
    It was only when Timofey retreated into the corner and collapsed in the ring that the fight was stopped, said those watching. 
    The other boy initially celebrated but then realised Timofey was in trouble and went to try and help. 
    Coaches and medics also rushed into the ring as the tragedy unfolded. 
    Most read in Boxing
    Sports journalist Alexander Lyutikov said: “A 14-year-old boxer lost consciousness during the final of the city championship. 
    “He died in the ambulance.
    “I’m watching this video and cannot imagine how the deceased’s rival feels now.”
    A police probe has begun into the teenager’s tragic death. 
    Children from the tournament rushed without coats in the minus 14C cold to demand the opening of a barrier at the hotel where the contest was held,  after an ambulance sent to help the wounded boxer was not allowed in.
    The ambulance could not initially get past a barrier into the hotel where the fight was being held.
    Children watching the tournament rushed, without coats on in -14C temperatures, to demand it be given access.
    “Shame on the hotel,” said a local.
    “Children ran outside without coats  in a panic so the ambulance could reach him.
    “A man forcibly raised the barrier.”
    The boy was described as an accomplished young boxer and had won all his rounds at the contest.
    “He has been boxing for about six full years,” said an acquaintance. 
    “He led an absolutely healthy lifestyle. He didn’t drink any energy drinks. 
    “He was positive, kind and helpful. He never insulted anyone. 
    “And he always came to the rescue when anyone needed help.”
    He was from a loving family and had two sisters, aged 15 and four. 
    “His father works at a local factory, his mother is self-employed,” said police spokesman Valery Gorelykh.
    The boy received a blow to his liver, he said. 
    “A few moments later, he fell in the ring. 
    “Detailed and exact circumstances are now being clarified by police officers and  colleagues from the regional Investigative Committee.”
    Read more on The Sun
    Natalya Krylova, mother of another boxer at the context, said: 
    “My brain refuses to imagine me in the place of Timofey’s parents.”
    Someone forcibly held up a barrier at the hotel where the competition was held to let an ambulance in
    Timofey was described as ‘positive, kind and helpful’ More

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    LaLiga clash between Granada vs Athletic Bilbao postponed after fan dies of cardiorespiratory arrest

    GRANADA’S clash with Athletic Bilbao was called off after a fan tragically died in the stands.The supporter suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest at Los Carmenes and the LaLiga clash came to a sudden halt.
    A fan sadly died during the match between Granada and Athletic BilbaoCredit: AFP
    The LaLiga clash between Granada and Athletic Bilbao has been called offCredit: Getty
    Bilbao led 1-0 after Inaki Williams opened the scoring after just six minutes.
    But then the visitors’ goalkeeper Unai Simon alerted the referee just nine minutes later.
    That was after home fans told Simon about one of their fellow supporters going into what looked like cardiac arrest.
    Team doctors from both sides immediately left their benches to try to help the patient.
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    The match continued while the medical personnel tried to treat the fan.
    But the fixture was ultimately halted in the 18th minute with both sets of players staying on the pitch for about 22 minutes.
    The referee eventually called off the match and LaLiga confirmed the supporter’s death.
    The league didn’t share any details regarding the supporter’s identity.
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    Granada fans went on to chant Bilbao star Simon’s name after his classy gesture.
    That was what led the medical staff from both teams going up the stands to offer their assistance.
    The date and time for the game’s resumption will be announced soon. More

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    Football star killed in horror car crash moments after ‘video showed driver pal doing 80mph and dancing at wheel’

    A BRAZILIAN footballer has died after a crashing into a pole moments after the driver was apparently filmed doing more than 80mph.Adriano Bololo, 25, a star in X1 Brazil, a style of football similar to futsal, died in the crash.
    Adriano Bolalo was killed in a car accidentCredit: CEN
    His friend had appeared to have been doing a dance in the car prior to the crashCredit: CEN
    They were driving at 129kmh, or 80mph, according to this videoCredit: CEN
    The car was completely destroyedCredit: CEN
    His friends were left with injuries that saw them rushed to hospital.
    Bololo had just won his fourth consecutive game against Laboba at X1 Brazil on 28th November before joining his four friends, Raul Xavier, Caio, Joao Paulo, and Da Lua.
    The friends were going to watch a match in the city of Mossoro, in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, in Brazil.
    He died in the city of Fortim while returning to Fortaleza after the match on 30th November.

    In the footage, Paulo can apparently be seen dancing around while driving at a speed of 129 kph (80.15 mph), well above the maximum speed of 60 kph (37.28 mph), according to reports.
    They later reportedly collided with a signpost on the motorway after Paulo lost control of the car.
    Images show the white car completely destroyed after the accident.
    Bololo died at the scene, while the remaining four players were rushed to hospital.
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    Paulo and Da Lua have reportedly been discharged, while the health status of Raul and Caio is still unknown at the time of writing.
    The Secretariat of Public Security and Social Defence said: “A team from the Forensic Expertise of the State of Ceara attended the scene of the incident, where evidence was collected that will support police work.”
    Bololo featured for the Brazilian national team, the National League, League of the Americas disputes, and several teams in Ceara, reportedly leaving behind a daughter.
    Many of the teams Bololo had played for shared their condolences. More