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    ‘No way I could say it on TV’ – Man Utd icon Paul Scholes reveals emotional reason he didn’t answer question on Overlap

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    PAUL SCHOLES has opened up on the challenges of having a child with “severe special needs”.The Manchester United legend’s son Aiden, 20, was diagnosed with autism as a child and is non-verbal.Paul Scholes’ son Aiden, pictured in his arms, has severe autismCredit: GettyAiden is now 20-years-old and non-verbalCredit: instagramDuring today’s episode of The Overlap, Scholes was asked what has had the “biggest impact” on his life.In the show, which is yet to air, the former England star did not answer.But Scholes, 42, subsequently posted on Instagram to clarify his true feelings.The TNT Sports pundit wrote on his Story: “Just filmed an Overlap and we were asked the question. What has had the biggest impact on our lives, to which I couldn’t answer even though I knew…READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Without question having a boy with severe special needs, wishing he was normal every single day and then realising how lucky I am when I see another family that are worse off than we are.”The undoubted impact it has on his brother and sister kills me every single day…”No way I could that say that in front of people or on Telly…”Bye.”Most read in FootballScholes, 42, opened up on his Instagram StoryScholes has three children with wife Claire; Arron, 25, Alicia, 23, and Aiden.In 2021, the former midfielder opened up on the challenges of having an autistic son during a BBC documentary hosted by Paddy McGuinness.Man Utd star rang Paul Scholes and tried to confront him on training ground over pundit’s criticism Speaking to McGuinness, who has three autistic children, Scholes said: “For those first few years of being diagnosed you think he’s just delayed, eventually he’ll start talking.”When you get to 12, 13, 14… now he’s 16 it’s never going to happen. He’s never going to be neurotypical, but he’s great and you have to accept it.”Scholes went on to add: “I’ve never said this before. I’m looking at him thinking he might have to go into care. I just don’t know how you handle that.”During the chat, Scholes also revealed that Aiden’s initial diagnosis affected his performances on the pitch.The Man Utd legend said: “We got the diagnosis. We were playing Derby away. I was terrible, absolutely shocking.”I didn’t want to be there. Head was gone. I was worrying about autism, reading, trying to find out anything I could.”Key characteristics of autismThese are some features of autism that many people with it experience. Autism is a spectrum, so everyone shows symptoms differently.Sensitive to sensesAutistic people can be much more or less sensitive than non-autistic people to the five main senses (sight, sound, touch, taste and smell).This also extends to senses for balance, movement, spatial awareness and awareness of internal states, such as hunger and temperature.Social differencesPeople with autism may find social interactions harder because they have difficulty; interpratiting social cues; facial expressions; maintaining eye contact; recognising sarcasm.They may find tehy prefer to spend time alone because social interactions can be confusing. Autism can be verbal (someone who uses communication) or non-verbal (they use other means to communicate). People can flit between the two.Repetitive behaviours‘Restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests’ is often listed as a trait of autism, but the National Autistic Society says many people with the condition actually find these behaviours as positive and helpful.It is also sometimes referred to as stimming or self-regulatory behaviour.Examples include having a strong passion or interest in a hobby, repeated behaviours like hair twirling or rocking, and preference for routine or rules to be followed. Emotional dysregulationPeople with autism may struggle to manage feelings such as frustration, anxiety, or sadness, which could lead to a ‘meltdown’ (extreme or intense outburst of emotions) or ‘shutdown’ (withdrawal).Source: National Autistic Society More

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      Marc Cucurella wipes away tears as Chelsea star and Wag Claudia Rodriguez reveal emotional strain of son Mateo’s autism

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      MARC CUCURELLA wiped away tears as he revealed the emotional strain of his son’s autism.Cucurella and partner Claudia Rodriguez opened up in series two of Amazon Prime’s Married To The Game.Marc Cucurella broke down in tears discussing his son’s autismCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosportCucurella and partner Claudia Rodriguez spoke on Married To The GameCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosportThe Chelsea left-back, 26, has three children with his long-term girlfriend – Mateo, Rio and Claudia. Mateo was diagnosed with autism soon after Cucurella completed his £65million transfer from Brighton to Stamford Bridge in 2022. Now the Spanish couple have bravely shared how their son’s neurodevelopmental condition impacts family life. Autism – especially in children – can make it difficult to process emotions and deal with changes, often prompting inconsolable tears.READ MORE ON CHELSEAThe spectrum of symptoms also includes being over- or under-sensitive to senses, having repetitive behaviours or struggling socially. Rodriguez said: “We saw that some things were different from the other kids. “We didn’t find too much help from the school and we had our worst months.”Every day we went together to drop Mateo off – I was pregnant with Rio as well – and we went back home every day crying.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAs she said that, Cucurella broke down in tears.Cucurella said: “Okay, your kid is autistic, but the parents are not ready with this so we need to learn a lot. ‘I played five minutes and it was my fault’ – Chelsea star opens up on horror season after big money transfer What is autism?Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an incurable, lifelong developmental condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others.It affects around one in 100 people in the UK and is three to four times more common in boys than in girls.Many people with ASD find it hard to understand other people’s feelings and emotions, and they may have difficulty holding conversations.When they are young, their language development may take longer and they can struggle to use facial expressions, using gestures to communicate instead.They may also find it hard to connect with other people and to hold eye contact with unfamiliar individuals.Many children with ASD like to follow a routine, and changes to this can cause distress.High functioning autism is an informal term some people use to describe those on the autism spectrum disorder.”When we speak about Mateo we always…” before choking up and added: “Ask Claudia now, I will come back soon.”Rodriguez encouraged her boyfriend as “really sensitive” about the whole situation. Speaking on holiday, Rodriguez explained: “It’s a lot of changes in the same week.”It’s difficult to be in other places, on another timetable, eating other food, on other plans with no school and no therapy. It’s hard for him.”You have to think about Mateo all the time. Sometimes you want to do some things but we can’t because it’s not good for Mateo.”Holidays is always difficult.”Key characteristics of autismThese are some features of autism that many people with it experience. Autism is a spectrum, so everyone shows symptoms differently.Sensitive to sensesAutistic people can be much more or less sensitive than non-autistic people to the five main senses (sight, sound, touch, taste and smell).This also extends to senses for balance, movement, spatial awareness and awareness of internal states, such as hunger and temperature.Social differencesPeople with autism may find social interactions harder because they have difficulty; interpratiting social cues; facial expressions; maintaining eye contact; recognising sarcasm.They may find tehy prefer to spend time alone because social interactions can be confusing. Autism can be verbal (someone who uses communication) or non-verbal (they use other means to communicate). People can flit between the two.Repetitive behaviours‘Restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests’ is often listed as a trait of autism, but the National Autistic Society says many people with the condition actually find these behaviours as positive and helpful.It is also sometimes referred to as stimming or self-regulatory behaviour.Examples include having a strong passion or interest in a hobby, repeated behaviours like hair twirling or rocking, and preference for routine or rules to be followed. Emotional dysregulationPeople with autism may struggle to manage feelings such as frustration, anxiety, or sadness, which could lead to a ‘meltdown’ (extreme or intense outburst of emotions) or ‘shutdown’ (withdrawal).Source: National Autistic SocietyThe emotional video ends with Rodriguez consoling and hugging Cururella as he continues to cry while holding her hand. The video – shared by Amazon Prime Video Sport – prompted a wave of classy replies from fans.One said: “This was so beautiful to watch, Cucurella and his partner Claudia are great parents.”Another wrote: “Cucu is a strong man!”A third added: “Mad respect man, love him even more now.”A fourth typed: “Respect. You’re a truly extraordinary father. You’ re doing great.”And a final user commented: “I hope football fans are more empathetic to footballers going forward when they have a bad form. They are human beings too and they could be going through personal challenges at home.”Read More on The SunCucurella has enjoyed a superb season under Enzo Maresca for Chelsea.After helping Spain win Euro 2024, he has proven himself to be a brilliant inverted full-back – chipping in with six goals and four assists. Mateo can struggle with changes which makes holidays trickyCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosportThe couple have three children togetherCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosportClaudia comforted Cucurella as the emotions poured outCredit: X formerly Twitter / @primevideosport More

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      ‘Hearts fuller than ever’ – Max Verstappen & Kelly Piquet reveal birth of 1st baby with sweet pics hours before Miami GP

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      MAX VERSTAPPEN has become a dad for the first time after girlfriend Kelly Piquet gave birth to a baby girl.The four-time world champion has announced the arrival of little Lily hours before practice begins at the Miami Grand Prix.Max Verstappen has become a dad for the first time after Kelly gave birthCredit: @MAXVERSTAPPEN1Lily Verstappen was born this weekCredit: @MAXVERSTAPPEN1Piquet was due to give birth on her May 6 due date – two days after the Miami GPVerstappen and Piquet shared a picture of tot gripping onto a finger with the words: “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily 🌸.”Our hearts are fuller than ever – you are our greatest gift. We love you so much.”The happy news led to lots of well-wishes from fans and family, with Verstappen’s sister Victoria writing: “Can’t wait to meet her!”Lily was born on Thursday and Verstappen later flew out to Florida on the same day.READ MORE F1 NEWSThe Dutchman had delayed his flight to be at home with Kelly in Monaco.That meant the new dad, 27, missed Thursday’s usual media briefing, as he was in the air in his private jet after leaving an airport in Nice.Despite the news coming hours before practice begins in Florida, title-challenging Verstappen is expected to race for Red Bull this weekend.A statement from the team said: “Please note that Max will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“All is well and he will attend track tomorrow for the race weekend.“We will not be offering any further comment at this time in respect towards the privacy of Max and his family.”Verstappen’s excruciating reaction to Jack Whitehall gag at F1 new season launch event Practice 1 takes place on Friday lunchtime Miami time – six hours behind the time zone in Monaco – with sprint qualifying later at 9:30pm GST. There is then the sprint race at 12pm on Saturday plus qualifying for the Grand Prix at 4pm.Lights out on race day is 24 hours later at 4pm on Sunday.Verstappen – who picked up his only weekend win in Japan this season – will try and cut the gap on Oscar Piastri.The Australian sits top of the drivers’ standings on 99 points, ten clear of McLaren team-mate Lando Norris – with Verstappen third on 87.Brazilian model Piquet, 36, is the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet and has a five-year-old daughter, Penelope, with ex-F1 driver Daniil Kvyat.Read More on The SunVerstappen and Piquet started dating in 2020 – four years after meeting at a dinner – after her relationship with Kvyat ended.The Dutchman revealed that hates being famous and wants to spend more time with his family in a new Viaplay documentary this week.Verstappen is set to race in Miami this weekend after his baby’s arrivalDutch champion Verstappen and Piquet have been together for five yearsVerstappen celebrates his first world championship title with Piquet in 2021 More

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      in Boxing

      Ryan Garcia feared losing his kids at height of mental health battle but returns to boxing with chance of redemption

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      RYAN GARCIA feared losing his kids at the height of his public mental health breakdown – but returning to boxing is his chance of redemption.The American superstar has spoken honestly in the past about struggling with depression at times in his career. Ryan Garcia drinks from a beer bottle before his fight with Devin HaneyCredit: AlamyGarcia shares daughter Bela and son Henry with ex-wife Andrea CelinaCredit: INSTAGRAMGarcia with his first-born daughter RylieCredit: INSTAGRAMAfter beating Luke Campbell in 2021, Garcia took 15 months out of the ring to deal with personal problems behind the scenes. But his fight outside the ring threatened to derail his career before facing Devin Haney in New York last year. Garcia was openly drinking and admitting to smoking cannabis in the build-up to the bout, partying throughout his training camp. Mixed in with worrying social media outbursts and conspiracies, fans and even his loved ones grew concerned for Garcia. READ MORE IN boxingAmazingly, the troubled boxer made it to the ring and beat Haney in a shock upset, only for the result to be overturned after a failed drug test. Now Garcia is back after accepting a one-year suspension – but thankfully turned his life around during the 12 months out.He told SunSport: “That route I was on is not sustainable as a professional athlete. “You can’t be going about things in that manner as a professional and just changing my whole mindset, making sure that I get back to being the best fighter I can be and the best athlete I can be and that was the switch that I made.” Most read in BoxingGarcia revealed he hit his lowest point last June after trashing a Los Angeles hotel room – causing £11,000 worth of damage. He was arrested and charged with one misdemeanour count of vandalism – and feared he would lose his three children in the process. Ryan Garcia says his one-year-old son is already a champion in the making… and has his famous left hookGarcia, who went to counselling, revealed: “I mean, as a father you’ve always got to be thinking about what examples you’re giving to your children.”And I think as a mature man, you have to realise your mistakes and make changes, no matter how they come about.”And I think that’s important. I love my kids and I love my family and making sure that I’m a great example for them is a huge priority for me.”So, I cannot be making those type of mistakes and I take responsibility and I’m ready to show them how great their daddy really is.”Garcia shares his eldest daughter Rylie with ex-girlfriend Catherine Gamez and has Bela with his former wife Andrea Celina.And in December 2023, he welcomed son Henry into the world with Andrea, who he remains close with as they parent together.The Garcia clan rolled into New York ahead of his return fight against Rolando Romero tonight – with boxing allowing him a second chance. Garcia with his son HenryCredit: INSTAGRAMGarcia feared losing his kids in the height of his mental health battleCredit: INSTAGRAMGarcia with his eldest RylieCredit: INSTAGRAMGarcia said: “It’s everything, that’s my career. This is my livelihood, this is how I support my family.”And obviously it’s really important for me to be the best I could possibly be if I’m not that, then it’ll be hard to do anything else.”Garcia – who claimed he was drinking on the week of his fight with Haney – has cut out and traded any damaging vices. He said: “I’m just playing chess. Playing video games, playing golf, honestly.”A clip of Garcia’s woeful driving on the golf course emerged on social media and he laughed: “Yeah, that was bad, right? “But I gotta find some type of hobby, so it is what it is, just enjoying my time with the people around me and that’s it, living the life.”Garcia, 26, dropped Haney, also 26, three times in Brooklyn last April on the way to a surprise points win off the back of his turbulent prepration. Garcia says he was partying in the days before fighting HaneyCredit: FightHype Haney was dropped three times but Garcia’s win was overturned amid the failed testCredit: GettyBut the result was chalked off after Garcia tested positive for ostarine – known to boost muscle growth. He had returned clean tests with VADA in the build-up to the bout and his team blamed contaminated supplements for the positive result.But the positive tests were taken on the day of and 24 hours before the bout at the Barclays Center.Garcia, who was also fined nearly £1million, said: “At the end of the day, I know I didn’t cheat.”I’ll take the ban for a year and that keeps it moving fast. Everybody knows that I didn’t take it.”I know my team, we know we didn’t take anything, so honestly it doesn’t really matter to me at the end of the day.”People are gonna believe whatever they want to believe, they’re gonna believe I’m innocent, the large majority do believe that, so who cares?”Garcia is back in boxing after serving a drugs ban and turning around his mental healthCredit: GettyGarcia says he is better ‘mentally and physically’Credit: RexGarcia returns to top a stunning three-fight card in Times Square against former sparring rival Romero, 29. Haney features in his comeback bout against Jose Ramirez, 32, as a rematch with Garcia is targeted for October. Garcia said: “I think that he has a great chance to beat Ramirez. Ramirez is a little past his prime. So I expect both of us to win, for sure.” Despite his failed drug test and subsequent no-contest the beatdown of Haney has left question marks of the former champion’s confidence. And Garcia goaded: “I have no idea how he’s gonna go about himself. I just know that I was in his head the first time.”It’s hard to look past getting dropped three times, I mean, you have to address that within yourself. So I don’t know how he’s gonna handle that.” Garcia steps up to the 147lb welterweight division to face Romero and said: “I’m just ready to go.”I may have been acting crazy last time around but I was still feeling pretty good physically, but for me this time around I feel good both, mentally and physically.Read More on The Sun”So, you know, I’ve done this before. I’ve fought many fights in my life and I’m ready, I’m in shape, ready to go 12 rounds and ready to do my job.”Watch the full episode of The Sun’s Split Decision featuring exclusive interviews with Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney.Garcia returns against Rolando RomeroCredit: RexHaney faces Jose RamirezCredit: Alamy More

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      in Boxing

      ‘They get a little bit nervous’ – Canelo Alvarez reveals promise he makes to his daughter before every fight

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      CANELO ALVAREZ revealed his kids are his biggest and most nervous fans – until he reassures them with a simple promise.Canelo has two daughters, Emily and Maria and a son named Saul Adiel – with different women.Canelo Alvarez with his youngest daughter Maria and wife FernandaCanelo makes a special promise to Maria before every fightCredit: fernandagmtzCanelo stands next to eldest daughter Emily, left, with son Saul Adiel next to MariaCredit: @canelo All three of the Mexican superstar’s children are regulars at ringside for his fights – but he has to first put them at ease. Canelo, 34, told SunSport: “They get a little bit nervous, but they like it. They scream, they support me with all they have.”I think Maria is the one with more nervous on herself because she says that she don’t want somebody to hurt me or something like that.”And I say, ‘Don’t worry, that’s why I’m here training and do my doing my best here in training camp so that doesn’t happen.'”READ MORE IN BOXINGCanelo had his eldest Emily when he was just 16 with Karen Beltran – and they remain on good terms parenting together.Canelo had son Saul Adiel, six, with Nadia Sepulveda in 2019 and shares Maria, seven, with his current wife Fernanda. The boxing great has dated Fernanda on and off – welcoming their daughter in 2017 – before marrying in 2021.His two youngest are always in the gym with their super-dad – but it is eldest Maria who only truly understands his superstardom.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSCanelo said: “I think they realise a little bit, but not the magnitude of what I do or what I am in boxing.”Maybe my older daughter, obviously she’s 17, so she already realised how big I am. But my other kids Adel and Maria, maybe they realise a little bit.”Canelo Alvarez warns he’s ready to bash more Brit rivals with boxing icon ‘dreaming’ of UK debut Canelo is believed to have met his wife Fernanda over ten years ago before they started dating around the time Maria was born. They broke up but later reconciled before marrying and Canelo – who hopes to retire at 37 – revealed Fernanda wants to add to the Alvarez clan.He said: “My wife wants me to retire at 40! Imagine that, and I say ‘No, I don’t, I don’t think so.’ She likes to see me fighting and all that kind of stuff.”And obviously she wants to have more kids and she wants the other kids to see me in training and seeing what I do in the training camps and this and that.”But I say to her, you know, they’re gonna see me in another areas of my life, in my business and that kind of stuff, but we’ll see.”Canelo returns in an undisputed super-middleweight title decider against William Scull in Riyadh – his first bout outside of North America. A super-fight against Terence Crawford, 37, is also expected to follow in September in Las Vegas as part of a four-bout deal with Saudi’s Turki Alalshikh. Canelo’s eldest Emily, far right, with his son Adel and youngest daughter MariaCredit: GettyThe boxing legend with his eldest daughter EmilyCredit: @caneloSaul Adiel and Maria in the gym with CaneloCredit: @canelo Canelo only penned the bumper contract after walking away from a shock fight with 28-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in May. Talks were advanced for a May 3 bout in Vegas – with news even getting back to Canelo’s youngest daughter Maria. He said: “Maybe her friends told her about the fight.”Because the fathers of her friends told them and everything talking about it – because they don’t know anything about boxing.”That kind of people don’t know anything about boxing and they think Jake Paul is really good fighter. Which he is a fighter, but it’s levels in boxing. “And that’s why my daughter told me, ‘You’re gonna fight with Jake Paul?’ And I said, ‘He’s not on my level my love, don’t worry!'”I think it’s for that fact that people don’t how boxing works.” Canelo still leaves the door open to the spectacle bout – but reveals he is glad the fiasco is now put behind him. Read More on The SunHe said: “I’m very happy. Things happen for a reason and I’m happy with this and I’m gonna enjoy it as much as I can.”Watch the full episode of The Sun’s Split Decision featuring exclusive interviews with Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney.Canelo fights William Scull in RiyadhCredit: GettyTerence Crawford is set to fight Canelo in SeptemberCredit: Getty Images – GettyCanelo had to walk away from fighting Jake PaulCredit: Rex More

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      in Boxing

      Teofimo Lopez ready to follow in his dad’s footsteps by one day training his son… despite their ‘rough’ experiences

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      TEOFIMO LOPEZ is ready to one day coach his son to become a boxer – despite the sport taking a toll on the relationship with his own dad. Lopez has been coached by his father Teofimo Sr throughout his amateur and professional career.Teofimo Lopez with his dadCredit: GettyTeofimo Sr has always coached his boyLopez and his son JuniorAnd while the two are inseparable, boxing has caused the lines to be blurred between father and son and trainer and fighter. But even so, if Lopez’s three-year-old son Junior wanted to enter the family business, the world champion could not bare pass his boy over. He told SunSport: “I would train my son and I would coach him.”I think that he’ll be in the best hands with me. I’ll definitely be there watching him, step by step. READ MORE IN BOXING”I’ll definitely have other trainers or other mentors that have paved the way for myself to watch him as well, to make sure that my son is in the great hands along the journey of boxing because this road is rugged, it’s rough.”Many bumps and you gotta be a strong, you gotta be strong willed, to be able to conquer all of them.”Lopez will be the first to admit his volatile dad is often a coach first and father second – with boxing always coming first. He said: “Boxing all the time. I mean, it’s not too hard though.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”It’s good to sometimes feel like you have many more things outside of boxing but everything always involves in boxing. “This is what I know, this is my world and I love it. And I think that was the thing about my whole situation was the key of trying to find out what was my purpose what is it that I need to do?”Why Devin Haney was ‘smiling ear to ear’ and Teofimo Lopez ‘loved’ Chris Eubank Jr’s emotional reunion with his dadLopez, 27, returns on Friday night in a historic three-fight card staged in New York’s famous Times Square. He defends his WBO super-lightweight title against rival Arnold Barboza Jr, 33, amid inconsistent performances in the ring. Lopez has excellent wins over Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor – but escaped with controversial decisions against Jamaine Ortiz and Sandor Martin.Also in action on the night is Ryan Garcia against Rolando Romero and Devin Haney returning to face Jose Ramirez. Lopez especially has history with Garcia, Haney, both 26, and Romero, 29, dating back to their days boxing in amateur competitions. He said: “We all know each other from like the amateurs. That’s what it feels like right now.Read More on The Sun”It feels like we’re in a national tournament. Only thing is that the stage got bigger. “The people know us a bit more and what else can I say? It’s a historic event. But other than that, it’s, no pressure, no rivalry, just entertainment.” Lopez returns to fight Arnold Barboza JrCredit: GettyDevin Haney fights Jose RamirezCredit: GettyRyan Garcia headlines against Rolando RomeroCredit: Rex More

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      in Boxing

      Ryan Garcia says his one-year-old son is already a champion in the making… and has his famous left hook

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      RYAN GARCIA says his one-year-old son is already a boxing champion in the making – having inherited his famous left hook. The father-of-three has two daughters, sharing Rylie with ex-girlfriend Catherine Gamez and Bela with his former wife Andrea Celina. Ryan Garcia with his son HenryCredit: InstagramGarcia, famed for his left hook, says his son is a naturalCredit: GettyAnd in December 2023, he welcomed his son Henry into the world with Andrea, who he remains close with as they parent together.The American superstar named his youngest after his dad – who introduced Garcia and brother Sean to boxing aged just seven.Henry still helps train and corner his sons – and Garcia will be there for his boy should he choose to enter the family business. He told SunSport: “If I see him really wanting it, I’ll have no other choice but to support him like my dad supported me, so I can’t take that away from him.READ MORE IN BOXING”If that’s in his heart, like it was in my heart, I gotta be like what my dad did for me. “I have a great example of what it means to believe in your son, so I think that I’m gonna just carry that forward to my son.”If he believes in himself, truly, I believe in him and I know all the ins and outs of of the game now, so it could be that much easier for him.”Despite baby Henry not turning two for another six months, he is already practising his boxing skills with his famous fighting father.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSGarcia revealed: “He already has the left hook though, which is crazy.”I’m not kidding. I do mitts and I didn’t even teach him that, I guess it’s in his blood.”Ryan Garcia opens up on failed drug test after having Devin Haney win stripped away from himGarcia, 26, returns to the ring on Friday night against former sparring rival Rolando Romero, 29, to headline an historic card in Times Square.It comes having served a 12-month ban for testing positive for ostarine – known to boost muscle growth – after fighting Devin Haney. Garcia had dropped Haney three times before winning a shock decision – only to have the victory overturned to a no-contest. He had returned clean tests with VADA in the build-up to the bout and his team blamed contemplated supplements for the positive result.But the positive tests were taken on the day of and 24 hours before the bout at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.Garcia, who was also fined nearly £1million, said: “At the end of the day, I know I didn’t cheat.”I’ll take the ban for a year and that keeps it moving fast. Everybody knows that I didn’t take it.”I know my team, we know we didn’t take anything, so honestly it doesn’t really matter to me at the end of the day.”People are gonna believe whatever they want to believe, they’re gonna believe I’m innocent, the large majority do believe that, so who cares?”I cannot be making those type of mistakes and I take responsibility and I’m ready to show them how great their daddy really is.Ryan Garcia Garcia suffered a public mental health breakdown both before and after his fight with Haney.He was even arrested last June and charged with one misdemeanour count of vandalism after causing £11,000 worth of damage in an LA hotel room.But thankfully, Garcia turned it around and has got back on track both mentally and physically after fearing he could lose his children. He said: “I mean, as a father you’ve always got to be thinking about what examples you’re giving to your children.”And I think as a mature man, you have to realise your mistakes and make changes, no matter how they come about.”And I think that’s important. I love my kids and I love my family and making sure that I’m a great example for them is a huge priority for me.”So, I cannot be making those type of mistakes and I take responsibility and I’m ready to show them how great their daddy really is.”Garcia tops the stunning three-fight card outside New York’s famous Times Square. Rival Haney, 26, also returns after a year lay-off to face Jose Ramriez, 32, with a rematch against Garcia planned for later this year. Both have to first win and rejuvenated Garcia added: “I’m feeling good. I mean, I’m just ready to go.Read More on The Sun”I may have been acting crazy last time around but I was still feeling good physically, but for me this time around I feel good both, mentally and physically.”So, you know, I’ve done this before. I’ve fought many fights in my life and I’m ready, I’m in shape, ready to go 12 rounds and ready to do my job.”Garcia’s son Henry was born in December 2023Credit: INSTAGRAMGarcia shares daughter Bela and son Henry with ex Andrea CelinaCredit: INSTAGRAMGarcia returns against Rolando RomeroCredit: Rex More

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      Canelo Alvarez, 34, reveals why his own WIFE is trying to wreck his boxing retirement plans

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      CANELO ALVAREZ is no closer to retiring from boxing – if his wife Fernanda gets her way.The Mexican icon turned professional aged just 15 and now prepares for his 67th bout against William Scull on the weekend. Canelo Alvarez with wife FernandaCredit: instagram @fernandagmtzCanelo revealed Fernanda is trying to wreck his retirement plansCredit: GettyFernanda married Canelo in 2021Credit: Social Media – Refer to SourceCanelo has always maintained he will look to hang up his legendary gloves at 37 – vowing not to fight on for too long. But boxing fans could get the all-time great for a further three years – thanks to his model partner Fernanda. Canelo, 34, told SunSport: “Actually, my wife wants me to retire at 40! “Imagine that, and I say ‘No, I don’t, I don’t think so.’ She likes to see me fighting and all that kind of stuff. READ MORE IN BOXING”And obviously she wants to have more kids and she wants the other kids to see me in training and seeing what I do in the training camps and this and that.”But I say to her, you know, they’re gonna see me in another areas of my life, in my business and that kind of stuff, but we’ll see.”Canelo married Fernanda in 2021 but they met almost ten years beforehand – dating on and off until they fully reconciled and wed.The boxing champion has two daughters, Emily and Maria and a son named Saul Adiel – all with different women. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe shares youngest Maria with Fernanda and had his eldest Emily when he was just 16-years-old himself. Canelo’s kids are his biggest fans and watch every one of his fights from ringside – but only after being reassured by their super-dad.Canelo Alvarez warns he’s ready to bash more Brit rivals with boxing icon ‘dreaming’ of UK debut He said: “They get a little bit nervous, you know, they get a little bit nervous but they like it. They scream, they support me with all they have.”I think Maria is the one with more nervous on herself because she says that she don’t want somebody to hurt me or something like that.”And I say, ‘Don’t worry, that’s why I’m here training for and doing my best here in training camp so that doesn’t happen.'”Eldest Emily is the only of his children to truly understand Canelo’s superstardom. He said: “I think they realise a little bit, but not the magnitude of what I do or what I am in boxing.”Maybe my older daughter, obviously she’s 17, so she already realised how big I am. But my other kids Adel and Maria, maybe they realise a little bit.”The couple first started dating in 2016Credit: Instagram / @fernandagmtzThe couple share a luxurious lifeCredit: instagram @fernandagmtzFernanda is a model herselfCredit: instagram @fernandagmtzShe has 1.5m followers on InstagramCredit: instagram @fernandagmtzCanelo returns in an undisputed super-middleweight title decider against Scull in Riyadh – airing on DAZN in the early hours of Sunday morning.It marks his first ever fight outside of North America – with Canelo in love with boxing as much now as he was for his pro debut 20 YEARS ago.He said: “I enjoy it a lot. Believe me, it’s not that I don’t be here anymore. “So I still enjoy this kind of thing, I’m gonna fight outside of United States and Mexico.”So for me, it’s something I really want in my career for many years. So that motivates myself a lot.”Canelo also has the chance to regain the IBF title he had to vacate last July – with Scull inheriting the belt to set up the unification. A super-fight against Terence Crawford, 37, is also expected to follow in September in Las Vegas as part of a four-bout deal with Saudi’s Turki Alalshikh. Canelo’s eldest Emily, far right, with his son Adel and youngest daughter MariaCredit: GettyCanelo with his wife Fernanda and daughter MariaCredit: @fernandagmtzCanelo in the gym with his sonCredit: @caneloCanelo with his eldest EmilyCredit: @emilyc.alvarezCanelo only penned the bumper contract after walking away from a shock fight with 28-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in May. Talks were advanced for a May 3 bout in Vegas – with news even getting back to Canelo’s youngest daughter Maria. He said: “Maybe her friends told her about the fight.”Because the fathers of her friends told them and everything talking about it – because they don’t know anything about boxing.”That kind of people don’t know anything about boxing and they think Jake Paul is really good fighter. Which he is a fighter, but it’s levels in boxing. “And that’s why my daughter told me, ‘You’re gonna fight with Jake Paul?’ And I said, ‘He’s not on my level my love, don’t worry!'”I think it’s for that fact that people don’t how boxing works.” Read More on The SunCanelo still leaves the door open to the spectacle bout – but reveals he is glad the fiasco is now put behind him. He said: “I’m very happy. Things happen for a reason and I’m happy with this and I’m gonna enjoy it as much as I can.”Canelo fights William Scull in RiyadhCredit: GettyTerence Crawford is set to fight Canelo in SeptemberCredit: Getty Images – GettyCanelo had to walk away from fighting Jake PaulCredit: Rex More

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      ‘There was blood everywhere’ – Nigel Benn reveals ‘brutal’ fist fight with son Conor ahead of Chris Eubank Jr showdown

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      NIGEL BENN will lead son Conor into battle against Chris Eubank Jr – but they were not always in the same corner. Conor and Eubank Jr clash in a middleweight grudge match on Saturday at Tottenham’s stadium. Nigel Benn with his son ConorCredit: GettyThe two are now inseparable – but it wasn’t always that wayCredit: GettyNigel is always in his son’s cornerCredit: PAIt comes 35 years after their dads’ brutal yet epic first fight, which ended with a Eubank Sr stoppage victory. They controversially drew three years later and in 1996 Nigel retired from boxing as a two-weight world champion. But after walking away from the sport, his life spiralled out of control and into a battle with drink and drugs. Nigel’s partying also saw him become unfaithful to his wife Caroline – Conor’s mum – causing friction between the two. READ MORE IN boxing The British boxing legend – living in Majorca – split with Caroline and spent a year living with a pastor as a born-again-Christian. Conor attended the school attached to the church as one of just 30 students who followed a Bible-based curriculum. He did not see his dad for those 12 months, sparking a resentment for his old man by the time Nigel returned. Conor, now 28, told The Times: “There was a lot of hate, for sure. I was at a sensitive age where I was becoming a man. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”How could you come back and try to discipline me after you’d been gone for a whole year?”Nigel, 61, said: “He couldn’t stand me. He thought I didn’t like him, but it wasn’t that. Conor Benn’s brother Harley opens door to fighting Chris Eubank Jr’s cousin Harlem after chance meeting in Marbella”I didn’t know any other way. I just didn’t want him to be like me. I wanted him to be different.”Conor was sent to live in the UK – first in Blackpool and then Birmingham – due to his increasingly problematic behaviour. Then, the family all moved together to Australia after Nigel reconciled with his wife. It is there that Conor began boxing as an amateur – and where he first challenged his dad to a sparring session. Nigel recalled: “I had a boot on because I damaged my achilles, so I said to him, ‘Let’s just use the jab.’ “He said, ‘No, I’m going to throw the right hand’. In the heat of the moment, I chipped his tooth. There was blood everywhere.”Conor would amass a 20-2 amateur record while living in Sydney – and continued to call out his dad for a scrap. Nigel said: “It was only me and him in the gym and we just knew we were going to have a spar. Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor BennTHE countdown is ON to one of the biggest boxing events of the 21st CenturyFamilial tension and a rivalry that has been brewing for years will finally be resolved when Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn meet at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday night.There has been huge drama in the build-up with the pair engaged in a war of words and multiple clashes in person.SunSport will have full coverage of the blockbuster clash all week and LIVE round-by-round coverage of every fight on a stacked undercard.Latest NewsAll the info“You’ve got to understand, I was looking to absolutely knock him spark out, and he was thinking the same. “We were throwing punches and didn’t care where they came from as long as they connected.”Conor added: “You can’t understand the full brutality of it. There were no head guards, nothing. “It was emotional because that was the last time I spent with my dad. We thought it was best that I leave Australia because of the trouble I was in. “I flew to England on my own the next day and tried to take boxing more seriously. I went and stayed with Ricky Hatton for four months.”Conor decided to turn professional after touching down in England, eventually settling in Essex under esteemed coach Tony Sims. You can’t understand the full brutality of it. There were no head guards, nothing. Conor Benn on sparring dad Nigel Debuting as the son-of-a-legend, all eyes were on Conor as he went from bungling novice to genuine world level contender over the years. Conor improved to 21-0 by the time he first signed to fight Eubank Jr in a 157lb catchweight contest in 2022. But the bout was axed with just days to go when it emerged the unbeaten welterweight failed two Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency tests. Conor returned an adverse finding for clomifene – a banned substance known to boost testosterone. The Brit spent two years fighting and protesting his innocence after his British Boxing Board of Control licence was removed. Conor had two fights in America – beating Rodolfo Orozco and Peter Dobson up at light-middleweight – as his UK Anti-Doping case dragged on. But eventually, the case against Conor was dropped after the NAPD were “not comfortably satisfied” that UKAD had proved Benn had committed a doping offence. It cleared Conor to fight on home soil again – but still the court of public opinion is out against the boxer. And Conor said: “I’ve struggled with the fact there’ll always be that cloud of, ‘Did he or did he not?’ “It was hard to accept that people will never 100 per cent believe you, but I ain’t done it and I’ve spent over a million quid proving it, so who cares? Say what you want.”Conor nows steps up to the 160lb middleweight limit to fight 35-year-old Eubank. And he predicted: “It could be a really brutal, gory, messy fight. Read More on The Sun”I know it could be, but ultimately I’m not too concerned. I think I will go in there and terrorise him. “Either I’m delusional or hundreds of thousands of people don’t believe in me, but my dad will be proud of me regardless.”Eubank facing off with BennCredit: GETTY More