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      Ex-Man City star Robinho WILL be jailed over gang rape of Albanian woman in Italy, Brazil’s Supreme Court rules

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      FORMER Man City star Robinho will finally serve his nine-year jail sentence for a gang-rape committed in Italy, Brazil’s Supreme Court has ruled.Italy issued an international arrest warrant for Robinho, but the former Premier League star has dodged jail for seven years while living in Sao Paulo.Robinho was convicted of a 2013 gang-rape in 2017 and has been free ever sinceCredit: AFPThe former Premier League footballer is set to serve his sentence in BrazilCredit: GettyThe ex-Brazil ace played for AC Milan at the time of the rapeCredit: AP:Associated PressConvicted in 2017, he will now serve his sentence in Brazil at the request of Italian authorities in an unprecedented move.The former Santos star says he is innocent.But today Brazil’s Superior Court of Justice (STJ) has taken a fresh look at Italy’s request.Nine of the 15 ministers voted in favour of the player serving his sentence in his home country – forming a simple majority and sealing the footballer’s fate.Read more on footballThey did not judge whether the player is guilty or innocent, but whether he should serve the sentence in Brazil or not. Robinho is now set to be incarcerated immediately, Globo reports.Convicted in ItalyRobinho was one of a group of six men convicted of sexually assaulting an Albanian woman in a club on January 22, 2013 during his stint for AC Milan.He was found guilty in November 2017 in an Italian court and has made several failed attempts over the years to appeal.Most read in FootballUnder Italian law, his sentence will not begin until the appeal processes have been completed.The Brazilian constitution doesn’t typically allow for the extradition of its citizens who’ve been sentenced abroad.Meaning that until today, the 40-year-old would have only faced actual arrest if he travelled abroad.In November last year Italian prosecutors said they felt Robinho should serve his time in Brazil.Former Man City star Robinho rejoins boyhood club Santos on just £200 a month Robinho’s Rape Case: a TimelineThe rape case involving Brazilian footballer Robinho spans several years. Here’s a brief timeline:

      2014: Brazilian media reported on the allegations against Robinho, but no formal charges were filed at that time.

      2017: Robinho was found guilty of sexual assault by an Italian court and sentenced to nine years in prison. However, he denied the charges and appealed the verdict.

      2020: After the appeal process, Robinho’s sentence was upheld by the Italian court. But due to the statute of limitations in Italy, he was not extradited to serve his sentence.

      2022: Robinho’s prison sentence is ratified.

      March 2023: Robinho surrendered his passport to authorities

      November 2023: Italian prosecutors said they felt Robinho should serve his time in Brazil.

      March 20, 2024: Brazil’s Superior Court formed a simple majority and voted for Robinho to serve the sentence in his home country.

      Brazil previously argued that he should serve his time in Italy, arguing that it would represent joint efforts to combat crime and judicial cooperation.Robinho, full name Robson de Souza, currently lives in Sao Paulo and surrendered his passport to authorities in March 2023 after his prison sentence was ratified in 2022.Jailed back homeCarlos Nicodemos, lawyer for the Brazilian Union of Women (UBM), was the first to take the floor at the STJ this afternoon.Speaking on behalf of UBM, he advocated that Robinho serve his sentence in Brazil.Nicodemos mentioned the high number of rape cases in Brazil to position himself in favour of serving the sentence in the country and cited the Spanish court’s decision to allow Daniel Alves, who was convicted of rape in Spain, to be released after paying a bail of €1m (£853,000).“We are not talking about something new, we are talking about something that applies in Brazilian jurisdiction,” he said.”From the place I occupy, as a lawyer for the friend of the court, it is necessary to understand that the procedure for ratifying a foreign decision is the recognition of premises of the civilising state.”I conclude by considering the need to understand that all individual guarantees have been given and that these are women’s human rights, in a context that normalises and trivialises rape and violence against them.”There is a need for the State to provide answers, and I know we will find that answer here”.José Eduardo Rangel De Alckmin, Robinho’s lawyer, opened his argument by citing the Constitution and arguing that Robinho should be tried in Brazil.“It is in Brazil that the process must take place”, stated Alckmin.“I insist that this does not represent, in any way, impunity. He will have the right to be sued in Brazil and respond here for the acts attributed to him. It is a right of every Brazilian citizen.”Alckmin recalled the ban on extradition of Brazilian citizens as an argument that prevents the execution of a foreign sentence in the country.”It is expressed in the treaty, it excludes the possibility of executing sentences”, he said. “It’s an irrefutable argument.”The athlete’s defence also said that the exact understanding of the process in Italy “was a little truncated”.“The idea that the accused group induced the victim to drink to take advantage of her. But in sentencing another fact is mentioned, embarrassment, when the person is unable to react. “The fact changes. I’m not going to say that there was a loss due to the entire process not being present, but there is this information recorded in the sentence,” he said.These are women’s human rights, in a context that normalises and trivialises rape and violence against them.Carlos NicodemosThe Federal Public Ministry (MPF), represented by Hindemburgo Chateaubriand Pereira Diniz Filho, was the last party to speak.The MPF, which had already presented an opinion defending the approval of the sentence, reinforced its position by saying that all legal requirements were met for Robinho’s criminal execution to be transferred to Brazil and rejected the arguments of Robinho’s defence.“There is no evidence whatsoever that the sentence handed down by the Italian court disrespected the rights of the convicted person or that due legal process was not respected”, he said.“I remember that, in this context, the rules of the foreign country do not have to be the same as those of the country in which the decision is carried out. It is an elementary rule of international cooperation.”Claims of innocenceRobinho, who has claimed he is innocent, accused the Italian justice system of “racism” and said the encounter in 2013 was “consensual”. He told a Brazilian network TV Record on Sunday: “I hope that here in Brazil I can have the voice that I didn’t have there.””I never denied it (the encounter). I could have denied it because my DNA was not there, but I’m not a liar.”I played for four years in Italy and I got tired of seeing stories about racism. The same people who do nothing about racism, which I repudiate, are the ones who condemned me.”A Brazilian news outlet previously published audio recordings obtained by Italian authorities which included Robinho discussing the case with friends.In one clip he says: “We will punch her in her face. You will punch her in the face and say; ‘What did I do to you?'”And in another: “That is why I am laughing, I don’t care at all.”The girl was extremely drunk, she doesn’t even know who I am.”A further leaked conversation shows him saying: “If this comes out in the press, it will screw me.”I hope that here in Brazil I can have the voice that I didn’t have there [in Italy]RobinhoRobinho played for clubs including Real Madrid, Manchester City and AC Milan, and signed a contract in 2020 to return to his first club in Brazil, Santos.However, the deal almost immediately fell apart after sponsors reportedly threatened to cut ties with the club for signing a player convicted of rape.Speaking after the Santos announcement, the striker took to Instagram to admit: “Guys, this is Robinho.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Of course, with a lot of sadness in my heart, I’m here to tell you that I made the decision with the club president to suspend my contract at this troubled time in my life.“My goal has always been to help Santos Football Club and if in any way I’m getting in the way, it’s best I leave and focus on my personal things.”The Brazilian is set to be jailed immediatelyCredit: AFP or licensorsRobinho pictured in 2012 during his time at AC MilanCredit: Reuters More

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      Dani Alves ‘got cash from Neymar’s dad’ for €1m bail to free him after WEEKS…as victim’s lawyer slams ‘justice for rich’

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      EX-BRAZIL star Dani Alves is set to walk out of prison today after allegedly getting Neymar’s dad to pay his €1million (£850,000) bail.Alves, 40, won his fight to appeal his four-and-a-half year jail sentence from the comfort of his own home – which the lawyer of his victim branded “justice for the rich”.The disgraced footballer pictured as he was sentenced on February 22 for rapeCredit: AFPHe had only served one month in jail since his four-and-a-half sentenceCredit: PAAlves with his model wife Joana Sanz who filed for divorce last yearAlves has allegedly turned to pal Neymar’s father to make the million euro bailCredit: ReutersThe Barcelona court’s ruling came a day after his lawyer requested the disgraced footballer’s release on grounds he had already served a quarter of his sentence in pre-trial detention following his arrest in January 2023.The decision, which was not unanimous due to one dissenting judge on the panel of three, can be appealed.But the court’s ruling drew a furious response from the lawyer of the young woman, 23, who was raped by Alves at a Barcelona nightclub in December 2022.Her lawyer Ester Garcia blasted the decision as “scandalous”.She fumed on RAC1 radio: “I’m very surprised and totally outraged… because it’s like this is justice for the rich.”Garcia added: “It is scandalous that they can free a person who they know can get hold of a million euros in a heartbeat.”Sources close to Alves were saying today they were confident the bail cash the footballer has to hand over could be raised today. But Alves has allegedly turned to his pal Neymar’s dad to front the money, LaVanguardia reports.Most read in FootballAccording to sources close to the player, this is allegedly the same route he used to pay for the €150,000 (£128,000) compensation given to his victim.Neymar Santos Sr reportedly made himself available to Alves after his assets were frozen under a Brazilian court order related to his ex-wife, Dinorah Santana.The conditions for Alves’ release include relinquishing both his Brazilian and Spanish passports so he cannot flee Spain as well as an obligation to appear before the court on a weekly basis.The court also imposed a restraining order, barring the shamed star from coming within 1km of his victim.Public prosecutors had opposed his request, arguing he posed a high flight risk.Alves, one of the world’s most decorated footballers who played for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, was sentenced on February 22 after being convicted of raping a woman at a Barcelona nightclub in the early hours of December 31, 2022.His lawyers swiftly appealed the conviction.Dani Alves guilty of raping woman in nightclub bathroom with ex-Barcelona star jailed for more than 4 yearsAlves said via video link in a behind-closed-doors court hearing yesterday morning: “I am not going to flee, I believe in justice.”The star protested his innocence on February 7 after taking the stand on the last day of his three-day trial, saying the sex he had with his 23-year-old female accuser was consensual and insisting he would never hurt anyone.The victim, who testified behind a screen to protect her identity, said Alves had violently forced her to have sex in a private bathroom of the nightclub despite begging him to let her go, causing her “anguish and terror”, prosecutors said.Alves’ lawyers had argued the victim had been “glued” to the player while dancing at the nightclub, saying there was “sexual tension” between them.But the court said in its 61-page decision that this did not mean “that she consented to anything that might have subsequently happened”.What happened?BRAZILIAN international footballer Dani Alves was accused of raping a woman in a nightclub in Barcelona on December 30, 2022.
      In a trial held in Barcelona in February 2024, the footballer denied the allegations and said the encounter had been consensual. 
      Held at Barcelona’s Audiencia Provincial Court, the trial lasted three days and saw the victim, witnesses, and experts testify.
      His accuser told the prosecution that she had willingly entered the bathroom with him, but that he forced her to stay after she wanted to leave.
      In court she claimed that he was aggressive with her, slapping her and insulting her, and then forced her to have sex with him.
      Following the trial, Alves was found guilty of raping the woman.
      He was convicted on February 22 and sentenced to four-and-a-half years.
      The court also ordered Alves to pay £130K (150,000 euros) in compensation to the victim.
      The court said in a statement: “The sentence considers that it has been proven that the victim did not consent and that there is evidence, in addition to the testimony of the plaintiff, to consider the rape proven.”
      He had previously been held in pre-trial detention since his arrest on January 20, 2023.
      Alves’ lawyers immediately appealed his sentence.
      On March 20, 2024 – a Barcelona court released Alves on a bail of one million euros (££850,000) pending an appeal on his conviction.
      His defense is seeking his acquittal while the prosecutor wants his prison sentence increased to nine years.
      There is no date yet for the new trial at a higher court in Barcelona. It can then go to the Supreme Court in Madrid.

      It was not immediately clear where Alves could spend his first night of freedom since January 20, 2023, when he was arrested.His properties include a mansion in Esplugues de LLobregat, a 25-minute drive west of Barcelona’s city centre.The home was built in 2010 when he was still married to his ex-wife Dinorah Santana, before he met and married Tenerife-born model Joana Sanz.Sanz revealed last year she had demanded a divorce after Alves admitted for the first time he had sex with the woman he was found guilty of raping.The 31-year-old brunette later said the divorce had been put on hold and she gave evidence on Alves’ behalf at his trial which lasted from February 5 to 7.The footballer made several attempts to get bail before his conviction, but they were turned down partly on the basis he was a flight risk.Prosecutors feared that he may attempt to flee Spain and make it to Brazil as the country does not extradite its citizens sentenced abroad.The jail sentence he received, considered lenient by some critics, was far less than the nine years public prosecutors demanded and the 12 years Alves’ female accuser wanted.Part of his lawyer’s arguments at today’s hearing at Barcelona’s Audiencia Provincial Court involved downplaying the idea he was now a flight risk.His lawyer also argued that he had already served a quarter of his sentence in pre-trial detention which should be taken into account.The public prosecutor and his victim’s lawyer are also appealing the sentence and want him to receive a stiffer punishment.Alves only served less than a month in prison after he was sentencedCredit: APJoana Sanz ditched Alves after he was arrested – but their divorce is now on holdIn a bombshell move, Joana gave evidence on his behalf at his February trialTHE TRIALAlves, who became the oldest player to represent Brazil at the World Cup in December 2022 in Qatar, was ordered to stand trial last November.Initially it was reported he had been accused of putting his hands down a woman’s underwear before it emerged his victim was saying she had been raped.He was sacked by Mexican side UNAM Pumas following his arrest in Barcelona at the start of last year after he flew back to the Catalan capital to attend his mother-in-law’s funeral.Judges turned down his previous bail requests and stated that his victim’s version of events was coherent.They argued that Alves had changed his story several times as the evidence authorities had built up against him emerged.The disgraced footballer claimed before his arrest he had never met his female accuser but ended up backtracking after being held.In an interview from prison last June with Spanish TV, he claimed: “The only person I have to ask for forgiveness is my wife.”Joana Sanz gave evidence on his behalf and said he arrived home “very drunk”. His alcohol consumption that night was not taken into account as a mitigating factor.Alves said in a letter, published by Joana but quickly removed: “I pray every day that the day comes when I can see you wake up.”As well as two spells at Barcelona, Alves has played for Seville, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Sao Paulo.He is widely considered as one of the greatest full-backs of all time.At the start of the year ahead of his conviction, his mum Lucia Alves caused controversy and left herself open to future prosecution by naming and picturing her son’s victim in a social media post she later removed.She attended his trial along with Alves’ brothers.Spain’s second deputy PM Yolanda Diaz said after he was convicted: “I hope this prison sentence serves as an exemplary measure for all the sexist behaviour women suffer in all areas.”Earlier this month, Dani Alves’ brother Ney blasted an internet prankster whose fake claims the footballer had killed himself in prison went viral.Today, Catalonia’s High Court of Justice said in a statement: “The 21st section of the Barcelona Audiencia Provincial Court has agreed by a majority and with one dissenting vote to agree to the conditional release of Daniel Alves da Silva, with the payment of a bail bond of one million euros.READ MORE SUN STORIES“In the event that payment is made and his provisional release is agreed, his Spanish and Brazilian passports will be withdrawn, he will be banned from leaving Spain and he will have to sign on at the court on a weekly basis and appear in court whenever he is ordered to do so.“Daniel Alves da Silva is also banned from going within 1,000 metres of the complainant’s home, place of work or any other place frequented by her…. until a final judgement is handed down after the appeals against his sentence have been concluded.”Joana is pictured leaving court after testifying at Alves’ trial last monthAlves is widely considered as one of the greatest full-backs of all timeCredit: AFPAlves’ wedding to Sanz in 2017 More

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      Ex-Celtic star Anthony Stokes JAILED for ‘chilling’ behaviour that left ex-partner fearing for her safety

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      FUGITIVE footballer Anthony Stokes has been jailed for five months after breaching strict court orders against contacting his ex-girlfriend and her family.The ex-Celtic and Hibs striker, 35, repeatedly messaged Eilidh Scott and her parents in defiance of a ban.Anthony Stokes has been jailed for five monthsCredit: Les GallagherStokes starred for Celtic between 2010 and 2016Credit: Kenneth Ramsay (Photography) Limited,Trochrague,78 Newark Street,Greenock PA16 7TFEilidh Scott was hounded via email and text by StokesCredit: Instagram/@eilidhscottStokes appeared from custody in handcuffs at Hamilton Sheriff Court after causing repeated delays to the case.Sheriff Colin Dunipace ordered Stokes, of Dublin, to be locked up and blasted him for his conduct towards his former partner.He was also banned from contacting Scott for five years and her parents for a year.Stokes flew from Dublin to Scotland last month and handed himself into Motherwell police station.He claimed he had failed to return to Scotland to face sentencing after becoming ‘distracted’ by court proceedings against him in the Republic of Ireland.Depute fiscal Fergus Warner told the court: “The accused sent numerous emails, 14 in total, to the complainer Eilidh Scott accusing her of being unfaithful and questioning her ability as a mother.”The accused also posted statuses on his social media profiles referencing her cheating on him.”Jim O’Dowd, defending, said: “Since he has been remanded there has been quite a sea change in his attitude towards the offences.Most read in Football”He clearly now realises the difficulty and upset that has behaviour has caused his victims.Ex-Celtic star Anthony Stokes living it up on holiday with glamorous Wag while on the run from Scottish police”He has been in Addiewell since last month and it has been a particularly unpleasant experience for him because people know who he is and he has had quite a hard time.”He was kept behind his door for 23 hours per day and this has led to him now understanding how serious these matters are.”He advises me he would comply with any community order but knows custody will be uppermost in the court’s mind.”Sheriff Dunipace said: “It is extremely disappointing for this court to see someone like you, who is clearly a man of some talent and ability, who has so much to give and who has no doubt brought joy to many, to now find yourself in this situation and I find it extremely tragic.”It is apparent that your former partner fears for her safety and the statements offered by her to this court are little short of chilling.”You should be under no illusion that the duty of this court is to protect women from this sort of behaviour.”You were advised when you were sentenced to a community payback order that it was a direct alternative to custody and yet you have failed to comply.”I can have no confidence that you would abide by the terms of a further community order.”In 2019, Stokes admitted bombarding Scott with a string of abusive messages on WhatsApp and email.He labelled her a ‘s**t’, a ‘s**’ and a ‘w***e’, turned up at her home in Shotts, Lanarkshire, late at night and demanded to know her whereabouts.The campaign of abuse lasted between July 2018 and February 2019.Stokes was handed a four-year non-harassment order against Scott and her parents in September 2019 and later placed on an anti-domestic abuse programme.An arrest warrant was first taken for him in 2021 after he failed to appear to be sentenced over the charges.Hours after it was taken, the brazen striker posted a selfie on social media with the caption: “Any bad news?”In July 2022, he was arrested in Northern Ireland and appeared in court via video link.He was granted bail but again failed to appear and another warrant was issued before a third was taken in October last year.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt has been revealed that Stokes was locked up in his cell for 23 hours a day over fears for his safety.The Irishman also played for Hibs, Falkirk and SunderlandCredit: Keith Campbell – The Sun GlasgowKeep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page  More

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      Football fan, 43, denies headbutting Roy Keane during ‘brawl’ at Arsenal vs Man Utd match

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      A FOOTBALL fan has denied headbutting Roy Keane after the Man Utd hardman was allegedly attacked at a match.Scott Law is accused of lashing out at Keane when he cheered a goal from his former club against Arsenal at the Emirates.Micah Richards was seen pinning a man against a wall with Keane nearbyScott Law appeared in court today charged with common assaultCredit: PAThe 43-year-old appeared at Highbury Magistrates’ Court today where he denied a charge of common assault.He was released on unconditional bail ahead of a two-day trial set for May 29 at the same court.Law, who is married with children, allegedly went for Keane on September 3 last year.The Utd legend and his fellow Sky Sports pundit Micah Richards were waiting by a lift at the stadium when the incident unfolded.Read more ON ROY KEANEHe had celebrated a last-minute goal from Alejandro Garnacho, which was later ruled off-side, when the alleged brawl erupted.Video showed Micah pinning a man against a wall following the confrontation.Both pundits were reportedly left shaken following the alleged attack.Witnesses also claimed blood was left splattered on the ground of the West Stand of the Gunners’ home-ground.Most read in FootballThe pair were eventually escorted down to the pitch, where they gave their thoughts post-match with ex-Arsenal winger Theo Walcott and presenter Dave Jones.An Arsenal spokesperson said at the time: “We are aware of an incident that took place during our match against Manchester United on Sunday.”The Metropolitan Police is conducting an investigation into the matter and we are fully cooperating with their enquiries.”Keane, pictured today, was reportedly left shaken by the alleged attackCredit: ZenpixHe later gave his thoughts on the match More

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      Football fans face 10 YEARS in prison & unlimited fines if they’re caught using ‘dodgy box’ fire sticks to stream sport

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      FOOTIE fans face ten YEARS in prison and unlimited fines if they’re busted using “dodgy” Amazon Fire Sticks to stream sports, a lawyer has warned.The remotes offer users instant access to TV shows on streaming apps like Prime Video, Netflix and Disney+.Football fans face ten YEARS in prison and unlimited fines if they’re busted using ‘dodgy’ Amazon Fire Sticks to stream sports, a lawyer has warnedCredit: GettyBut many Brits illegally adapt the control so they can stream unofficial apps like sports streams that aren’t found on Amazon’s store.This is done by ‘jailbreaking’ a remote, a process that’s not just illegal but one that can permanently damage your Amazon device.But barrister Lynette Calder has warned Brits face serious consequences if they jailbreak a Fire Stick, stressing: “Why take the risk?”The lawyer, of 5 Pump Court, said charges depend on the severity of your crime but a magistrate could issue you with an unlimited fine.Read More football storyMore serious cases of Brits owning a jailbroken fire stick could leave you with a prison sentence of up to 12 months.She added: “For more serious and organised offending that went to the crown Court you are talking a maximum of up to 10 years in prison if the charge is under section 7 or 5 years for section 6 and 11.”Why take the risk? If you can’t afford the streaming service for Premier League then why not find yourself a pub that can. “That way the added bonus is a pint, not a £2500 fine.”Most read in FootballIn October, a Prem streaming “mastermind” was jailed for two-and-a-half years for selling illegal Fire Sticks to a reported 30,000 subscribers.Steven Mills, 58, from Shrewsbury, Shrops, netted more than £1m over five years through the operation, a court heard.Amazon shoppers spot ‘absolute bargain’ as budget Android phone drops below £100 & it’s got a bigger-battery than iPhoneIn May last year, five fraudsters were jailed for a total of 30 years and seven months for their role in three illegal Premier streaming services.Trading under the names Flawless, Shared VPS and Optimal (also known as Cosmic), the group made over £7 million in five years and boasted more than 50,000 customers.It undercut the likes of Sky Sports by bypassing a Uefa-imposed “blackout” that stops the broadcast of most 3pm kick-offs on Saturdays, which encourages fans to go to games.The group’s “prime mover” Mark Gould alone pocketed a staggering £1.7 million from the operation.At Derby Crown Court, Gould, then 36, was jailed for 11 years following a rare private prosecution by the Premier League. More

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      Wolves ace Matheus Cunha faces trial after being ‘caught speeding in £174k rented Mercedes G-Class’

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      WOLVES ace Matheus Cunha is facing trial accused of speeding in his £174,000 Mercedes.The forward, 24, was allegedly clocked driving at 29mph in a 20mph zone in London.Matheus Cunha is facing trial after he was allegedly caught speedingCredit: GettyCunha was written to by the Met Police but he is accused of not responding for four months, the Evening Standard reports.As a result, the Brazilian is now facing a criminal trial for allegedly failing to provide information about the July 2021 incident.Cunha claims he did reply and offered the name of another person who was driving the rented Mercedes G-Class at the time.He is now due to stand trial on April 5 at Willesden Magistrates Court accused of committing a criminal offence by not replying sooner to the police request for information.Read more newsThe publication reports police first went to the hire car company, who provided the footballer’s name.Officers sent a letter to his home in Wolverhampton giving him 28 days to respond.A final reminder was then sent out that gave Cunha an extra week to reply – with the star allegedly missing both deadlines.Cunha started his career as a youth player for Swiss club FC Sion before joining RB Leipzig in 2018.Most read in FootballHe impressed at the club and was snapped up two years later by Hertha BSC for £15.4million.Cunha then moved Atlético Madrid in 2021 for £25.6million – scoring six goals in 40 games for the Spanish team.Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino APOLOGISES to fuming fans after watching his side thumped by WolvesHe joined Wolves on loan in the 2022-23 season after the club beat off competition from Arsenal and Man Utd.Cunha has impressed with a string of goals – including a hat-trick against Chelsea last month.The Brazilian international is currently out with a hamstring injury but manager Gary O’Neil has hinted he could return soon.The star, pictured with partner Gabriela, is facing trial in AprilCredit: InstagramHe has impressed at Wolves so farCredit: Getty More

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      From sex abuse scandals to dodgy pasts, why fight rivals Jake Paul & Mike Tyson have more in common than you might think

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      IT’S being billed as the most bizarre fight of the century.In the red corner is the former world undisputed heavyweight champ “Iron” Mike Tyson, 57, who was using a walking stick in footage from 2022 unearthed this week.Boxing champ ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson will fight internet star Jake PaulCredit: Instagram / @jakepaulThe fight is expected to generate £234millionCredit: Instagram/jakepaulTyson is the former world undisputed heavyweight champCredit: GettyThe ferocious former “Baddest Man On The Planet”, who retired in 2005, has released his first clip of training footage, leading fans to fear he is in trouble.In the blue corner will be internet star Jake Paul, 27, whose fighting career includes bouts with other YouTubers, and MMA fighters. He was beaten last year by boxer and former Love Islander Tommy Fury, younger brother of reigning WBC champion Tyson.The fight is expected to generate £234million but has been criticised by UFC president Dana White and fighter Conor McGregor.Read More on SportThe clash, which will be aired on Netflix in July, is being billed as a battle between boxing’s old guard and a new breed.But the two boxers have more in common than than you might think – as Grace Macaskill reveals.SEX ABUSE SCANDALSTYSON served three years in jail for the rape of Desiree Washington when she was 18.The victim, who was Miss Black Rhode Island at the time, said he assaulted her in an Indiana hotel room in 1991.Most read in BoxingTyson’s police mugshot in 1995Credit: Rex FeaturesTyson served three years in jail for the rape of Desiree Washington when she was 18Credit: RexPaul is worth an estimated £31millionCredit: Instagram/jakepaulPaul stands in the ring during the fifth round of his fight against Nate Diaz in 2023Credit: GettyAn A&E doctor who examined her confirmed her injuries were consistent with being raped.Tyson is a registered sex offender under federal law for life.How Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson can bring boxing back to viewing figures of Muhammad Ali with 260MILLION expected to watchJake Paul faced abuse allegations from two women in 2021, although no charges have been brought.TikToker Justine Paradise, 30, released a 20 minute YouTube video claiming he forced her to perform oral sex in his bedroom in July 2019. She alleged they danced and kissed consensually at first but then he got physical with her.Paul denied the allegation on Twitter, calling it “manufactured” and denied he ever had a sexual relationship with Justine.Actress and model Railey Lollie came forward shortly after Justine’s allegations. She accused Paul of groping her without consent in 2017, according to the New York Times.The 24-year-old alleges that when she was 17, he would call her “jailbait”.COMEBACKSTHERE will be a lot at stake for both men when they square up.Ageing Tyson is attempting to show the world he still has what it takes to win, while Paul wants to come back from his defeat to Tommy Fury in February.Jake Paul fought Tommy Fury in Saudi ArabiaCredit: ReutersTyson leaves the ring after receiving a split draw against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020Credit: GettyIn 1986, age 20, Iron Mike became the youngest man ever to win a world heavyweight title — but his career spiralled out of control due to sex, drink and drugs.He hasn’t boxed since an exhibition against Roy Jones Jr in November 2020, which ended in a draw, and his last professional bout was 15 years earlier when he was beaten by Kevin McBride.Two years ago, Tyson was pictured using a walking stick, and this week he released a training video which one fan reckoned showed he had “weak jabs”.When Paul took on Tommy Fury in Saudi Arabia, it was one of the most anticipated-ever boxing contests between two novices.Despite the former Love Island star being knocked down by the YouTuber in the eighth round, Tommy won on a split decision.Paul later said: “Tommy didn’t win the fight — I lost it. I was not good, I was not on my A-game.“I didn’t implement my game plan. My legs were weak going into the fight — but I don’t want to sit here and make excuses.”LOVE LIVESFROM fake weddings to a wife who cheated with Brad Pitt, the course of true love hasn’t run smooth for either man.Iron Mike has been married three times, while Paul has staged two marriage ceremonies for his 60million-plus social media followers.Tyson’s first marriage, to actress Robin Givens in 1988, lasted just a yearCredit: Time & Life Pictures – GettyTyson was married to paediatrician Monica Turner from 1997 to 2003Credit: Las Vegas SunTyson is currently married to Lakiha SpicerCredit: GettyPaul faked his first wedding to fellow internet star Erika Costell in June 2017Credit: GettyIn 2019 Paul announced his engagement to YouTuber Tana Mongeau and they married a month later in Las VegasCredit: The Mega AgencyTyson’s first marriage, to actress Robin Givens in 1988, lasted just a year.According to the heavyweight boxer, they quickly tied the knot when Givens told him she was pregnant.He gave her and her mum £3million to buy a New Jersey estate and put £6.5million in her bank account.But Tyson claims Robin told him she had miscarried shortly after the money was exchanged.They filed for divorce but carried on seeing each other — until he walked in on her having sex with Brad Pitt.Tyson later claimed Pitt begged him not to hit him.He said: “You had to see the look on his face. He looked like he was ready to receive his last rites.”Givens, who admits to dating Brad, says the story is untrue.From 1997 to 2003, Tyson was married to paediatrician Monica Turner after meeting her at a party thrown by comedian Eddie Murphy.She visited him in prison after he was convicted of raping 18-year-old Desiree Washington — and when he was released in 1992 the pair set up home in Maryland.Turner filed for divorce four years later, claiming adultery.Tyson is currently married to Lakiha Spicer, 47, better known as Kiki, who met him aged 18 when they were introduced by boxing promoter Don King.They started dating in the early noughties and married in 2009. They exchanged vows in 2009, two weeks after the dad-of-seven’s daughter Exodus, four, choked to death in a freak accident.Despite being obviously in love, Tyson recently admitted he has only been faithful to Kiki for the past two years of their marriage.His wife has also had problems with the law. You had to see the look on his [Brad Pitt’s] face. He looked like he was ready to receive his last ritesIn 2008 she was given six months in federal jail for defrauding £60,000 from a company owned by her dad.Paul faked his first wedding to fellow internet star Erika Costell in June 2017, before the pair released a song together. Three months later he admitted the ceremony wasn’t real and they weren’t even dating. But the next year their relationship went from staged to reality when they were filmed shopping and holding hands in his documentary The Secrets Of Jake Paul.In 2019 Paul announced his engagement to YouTuber Tana Mongeau and they married a month later in Las Vegas. Then they admitted that they weren’t officially married either and it was all a show.”Paul and 28-year-old brother Logan have a fierce rivalry now the latter has also taken up boxing.According to Jake, Logan slept with his ex-girlfriend Alissa Violet before the older sibling boasted on a music video: “She used to be your chick, now she’s on my team.”Alissa and Paul met in 2017, when she was a singer in his manufactured band Team 10.Both accused each other of cheating, while Alissa claimed Jake had physically and mentally abused her, which he denied.In a now-deleted tweet, Jake accused Alissa of sleeping with Logan, writing: “Alissa f***ed my brother . . . that’s why I kicked her out. Oopsie — I just told them the truth.”Logan then added fuel to the first in a diss track called The Fall Of Jake Paul.DODGY PASTSTYSON has had his fair share of drama in the ring — and outside it.In his 2013 autobiography, Undisputed Truth, he admitted he was high on drugs during some of his fights.One of Tyson’s lowest points came when he bit off part of opponent Evander Holyfield’s ear during a bout in 1997Credit: SkyPaul claimed Covid was a ‘hoax’ and threw a huge party during the pandemicCredit: youtube/Logan PaulHe said he had taken cocaine and cannabis before a fight against Lou Savarese in Glasgow in 2000, but avoided being caught by using a “fake penis where you put in someone’s clean urine to pass your drug test.”His lowest points came when he bit off part of opponent Evander Holyfield’s ear during a bout in 1997 and being knocked out by underdog Buster Douglas in 1990.Tyson blew his £401million fortune on luxury cars — including a Cadillac and Lamborghini — £1.75million on a sold gold bathtub and paying a trainer £80,000 a year to look after his two pet Bengal tigers.While Tyson can’t seem to leave his boxing career behind, Jake Paul has also been desperate for the limelight.Paul — nicknamed “The Problem Child” — was filmed rapping the N-word to a song in 2018.Two years later he was allegedly seen with vandals and looters during the Arizona protests against George Floyd’s death at the hands of a cop in Minnesota, although he insists he was only there to film.The FBI raided his home in California in 2020 in relation to the incident but no charges were brought.My life was pretty much ruined. YouTube demonetised me, every brand dropped meJake PaulPaul, who is worth £31million, claimed Covid was a “hoax” and threw a huge party during the pandemic.His brother Logan, also a social media star, was forced to deny accusations he scammed fans with his cryptocurrency game project Cryptozoo.Jake also got flak after Logan posted an insensitive video depicting the body of a man who had hanged himself in Japan’s Aokigahara “suicide” forest.After advertisers wanted nothing to do with either brother due to the shocking footage, Jake revealed he thought about suicide.He said: “My life was pretty much ruined. YouTube demonetised me, every brand dropped me.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’m sitting there at 21, I lost basically all my income because of something my brother did, I’m blacklisted.“Everything in my life was falling apart. Dark thoughts come into your head of like, ‘I don’t wanna be her on earth anymore’.” More

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      Dani Alves’ brother slams prankster’s fake claims ex-Barcelona star took own life in prison after being jailed for rape

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      THE brother of Brazilian former footballer Dani Alves has blasted an internet prankster for falsely claiming the disgraced star had taken his own life in prison.The ex-Barcelona star’s press adviser, Acaz Felleger, said they were considering legal action against Rio de Janeiro-based Paulo Albuquerque over his viral social media post.Dani Alves remains alive and well despite claims he had committed suicideCredit: PAThe former Barcelona man has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in prison after being convicted of raping a woman in the restroom of a Barcelona nightclubCredit: AFPHis ex-wife Joana Sanz accidentally shared his bizarre letter to her pleading for forgivenessCredit: InstagramAlbuquerque, who describes himself on X (formerly Twitter) as a lover of football, beer and a beautiful woman, wrote last night: “The information I’m receiving is that Daniel Alves has killed himself.”He added in a second post eight hours later, after his initial message had gone viral on social media: “People, for the love of God, what sort of repercussion is this?“I was referring to my cousin Danielzinho from the city of Nova Iguacu who had disappeared, but has now been found alive.”Alves’ brother, Ney, who travelled to Barcelona last month to see the footballer tried for rape ahead of his conviction and four-and-a-half year jail sentence, took to Instagram Live to issue a furious response.Read more in Football“How cruel human beings can be!” he said. “He’s already been convicted on the word of a woman who entered a men’s toilet to do what only he and her know.“He’s already been convicted. Is that not enough?“Now the madness is people want him dead. They want to see my brother dead. How cruel is that!“My dad is more than 70 years old and my mum is more than 60.Most read in Football“Do people like this not have family?”The former players’ family still believe he is innocent despite three judges finding him guilty of forcing himself on a 23-year-old woman in a toilet at upmarket Barcelona nightclub Sutton in the early hours of December 30 2022.Dani Alves’ model ex Joana Sanz arrives at court to reveal what ‘drunk’ ex-Barcelona star told her moments after ‘rape’Journalist Mr Felleger, who represents Alves, also denied the fake claims his client had committed suicide.Speaking to a Brazilian radio station, Felleger said legal action was being considered against the person who sparked the viral rumour.“The information was posted on X without any basis whatsoever,” he said.”I spoke with Dani’s lawyer and this irresponsible person should be sued.”Alves’ model wife Joana Sanz has yet to comment.The 31-year-old Tenerife-born beauty treated her 950,000 Instagram followers overnight to a photo of her training in the gym.Last year, she admitted she was seeking a divorce from the former footballer, which has subsequently been put on hold. Father-of-two Alves, 40, was handed his prison sentence on February 22 after being driven to the Barcelona court where he was tried over three days at the start of last month.He had been held in Brians 2 Prison near the Catalan capital for more than a year on remand before his trial.Alves protested his innocence on February 7 after taking the stand on the last day of his three-day trial at Barcelona’s Audiencia Provincial court.He claimed he had consensual sex with his 23-year-old female accuser and had not made her do anything.The woman he was found guilty of raping insisted the footballer had forced himself on her after hitting her when she gave her evidence in court behind a screen.State prosecutors confirmed at his trial they wanted him jailed for nine years on conviction and a lawyer acting for his victim demanded a 12-year sentence.They are also set to appeal in the hope higher court judges will hand Alves a stiffer punishment.Alves’ lawyer has already confirmed she will appeal his rape conviction and sentence.Last month, Alves’ ex-wife Joana Sanz accidentally shared a bizarre letter the disgraced rapist wrote to her from prison.He pleaded for forgiveness and thanked the model for being a strong woman as she went through “such a difficult time”, Vogue reports.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt came after Alves’ statue in his hometown was wrapped in duct tape and bin bags following his rape conviction.The statue is located in the central region of Juazeiro in Brazil and displays a life-size Alves wearing the national team shirt and a football at his feet.Joana Sanz previously admitted she was seeking a divorce from the former footballer, before it was subsequently been put on holdCredit: instagram/@joanasanzA Dani Alves statue wrapped in duct tape and bin bags after furious locals demanded it to be removed following the Brazilian’s convictionCredit: X/@MCITY_8Alves’ lawyer has already confirmed she will appeal his rape conviction and sentenceCredit: EPA More