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    Shamed Prem ref David Coote filmed delivering Evri packages after cocaine video & Klopp rant destroyed career

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    SACKED Premier League referee David Coote is now delivering packages for Evri — and says: “I’m just ­trying to make an honest living.”A couple were stunned to see the 42-year-old on their Ring doorbell, below, dropping off a parcel.Sacked Premier League referee is now delivering parcels for Evri as he attempts to ‘make an honest living’ after his drugs shame got him banned from footballCoote is currently serving a 16-month UEFA ban, but pals say he could return to the game eventuallyCredit: PABanned ref David Coote was caught snorting cocaine in a video clipCoote is serving a 16-month UEFA ban after video emerged of him savaging former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, and a Sun clip showed him taking cocaine.He works for the courier firm near his home in Newark, Notts, and said: “I want to get on with my life.Have YOU got a story or an amazing picture or video? Email exclusive@the-sun.co.uk and you could even get PAID”I’m trying to move forwards and regain a sense of responsibility and purpose.READ MORE ON DAVID COOTE”The job is keeping me busy and occupied, it’s not a new long-term career.”The Sun told in November how Coote had called Klopp a “German c***” in a leaked video.We then revealed a film of him doing cocaine at last summer’s Euros.The homeowner at the address he delivered to said: “My husband’s a Liverpool fan and what David said didn’t go down well.Most read in Football”My husband had ordered a part for a vehicle he’s working on and recognised David.”He said, ‘He’s delivering packages now’. I was like ‘Oh my gosh, is he really?’”It’s his own downfall, at the end of the day. David got himself into this mess.Scandal-hit Premier League ref David Coote SACKED after videos emerged of anti-Klopp rant and snorting white powder”He lives up the road. I see him around town a lot.”Coote was fired by referee governing body PGMOL in December and is banned by UEFA till next June.He said: “The drugs happened on an entirely ad-hoc basis.”It fills me with a huge sense of shame to sit here and to say that I took that route.”Last month he ran the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon to raise money for his uncle Mick who has motor neurone disease.Coote said: “I’m doing what I want to do, focusing on what’s important like spending more time with friends and family.”Friends backed him. A source said: “David’s a great lad who lost his career through stupidity, as he fully acknowledges.”There might be a return for him to the game at some point, and football definitely needs experts like him.Read More on The Sun”Until then he obviously has to pay the bills.”Evri did not comment.He works for the courier firm near his home in Newark, NottsCredit: GettyThe former referee is concentrating on ‘spending more time with friends and family’Credit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      in Boxing

      ‘I was there to lose’ – Confessions of journeyman boxer who LOST 96 fights but has WON battles with cocaine and booze

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      JOURNEYMAN boxer Johnny Greaves battled drugs, booze, depression and abuse throughout his 100-fight pro career.The 46-year-old East Londoner admits he was “no better than useless” as he lost 96 TIMES.Johnny Greaves is one of Britain’s most celebrated journeyman boxersCredit: RexGreaves had 100 fights, winning his finalCredit: GettyHe would take some fights at the last minute, entering the ring on a stomach of lager, while also battling a debilitating cocaine habit and praying he would LOSE to guarantee further pay-days.Fans would SPIT on him as he walked into the ring and Greaves admitted that, at times, he was treated “no better than a dog.”But, no matter how big a beating he took, he never missed a day working as a self-employed painter-decorator to put food on the table for his missus Vicky, daughter Ruby and son Teddy.When Greaves turned pro in 2007, aged 30, he’d already fought 50 unlicensed and 30 amateur bouts.READ MORE IN BOXINGBut after being told he would earn just £800 a fight as a new pro, building up his name and needing to sell tickets, he swapped to the away corner.Knowing he could make almost £2,000 a pop as an opponent for up-and-coming stars, he forfeited his desire to be a champ.Greaves has relived his astonishing career for a new book called Bright Lights and Dark CornersAnd in an exclusive SunSport interview, Greaves revealed: “At the time I was skint. I didn’t have a lot of work on.Most read in Sport“Vicky and I had just moved into a place, Teddy had just been born with severe clubfoot, so he was in and out of hospitals every other day.“I was struggling badly.”However, his decision kick-started one of the most celebrated journeyman boxing careers in Britain, with Greaves fighting up to 20 TIMES a year.Britain’s next Tyson Fury set for world title & Taylor urged to fight on | Split DecisionRecalling his 2008 points loss to Ryan Walsh, Greaves revealed: “I’d just opened my third can of Fosters when my phone rang at 4.30pm on the Saturday.“I took the fight, agreed the money and was in the ring boxing at the Excel Arena at about ten past six.”On another occasion in 2012, Greaves, who also has a coaching licence, was set to act as a cornerman for Jody Meikle at York Hall – only to fight opponent Eren Arif himself.Greaves added: “I remember the promoter running out asking, ‘What do you weigh?’ I replied, ‘10st 6?’“He continued, ‘Do you want a fight?’ I said, ‘F***, what are you paying?’“So we discussed the money, then I phoned the missus to meet me at the station with a bag, my shorts, boots and a gum shield.“She passed the bag over the counter, I rushed back to York Hall and I was fighting about half an hour after that.”Greaves is very honest about the fight game, insisting money came first for him and winning could have affected his chances of earning.It’s not what a lot of people think, how the boxing game works. But let’s have it right – it’s a business, it’s not sport.Johnny Greaves He said: “I don’t wanna make it look like it’s bent, but, look, I boxed nine world champions, I boxed over 20 British champions.“I boxed the best fighters in the world – Anthony Crolla, Jamie Cox, Johan Perez.“Or, you’re boxing against young lads that look, let’s have it right, if you win these fights, you’re gonna lose work for yourself, you then become a risk, so you play the game.“You don’t let your hands go against these kids, you play through, get through nice and safe, get paid, lose on points, hopefully.”And then you fight again the week after.”But while he was boxing, Greaves harboured a secret not even his family knew.He was battling a cocaine addiction so fierce he would even take it on fight nights.He confessed: “I’m disgusted about the way I went through things with the drugs through my career. ‘Things were pretty crazy’“Recreational drugs, nothing performance enhancing. If anything it’s performance debilitating, to be honest.“Getting through packets of cocaine, just just to control my nerves, control my moods. I had a habit and I’m really disgusted about it.”Johnny Greaves in action against Dan Stewart in 2009Credit: PA:Press AssociationJohnny Greaves with a swollen eye against Bradley Skeete in 2011Credit: GettyIn 2009, Greaves fought Oisin Fagan in Dublin on the back of a massive booze bender.Greaves recalled: “I was on my own in a hotel room and up all hours of the night doing what I was doing.“I got in and boxed the top Irish lad the next day. Things were pretty crazy then.”Greaves has now overcome his cocaine habit and has been working painting The Shard at London Bridge Station.He added: “My family were always well provided for. My whole life has been about providing for my kids.“But my release, getting away and forgetting about my life as a loser, would be to go and get smashed and forget about it.”The toughest part of my boxing career was dealing with the abuse that I was getting.Johnny Greaves He has also beaten his booze demons.But still suffers from depression, still bears the mental scars of fighting against vulgar, hostile crowds.And he said: “I’ve always been weak mentally, suffered a hell of a lot with depression and suicidal thoughts, very low self-esteem.“And look, when you’re in front of crowds of 900 people all screaming and shouting and slagging you off and laughing at your record, it was emotionally tough.“The toughest part of my boxing career was dealing with the abuse I was getting.“Why would I want my son coming to watch me get beaten and suffer dogs’ abuse from the crowd?“I’ve had people spit on me when walking into the ring, it’s a nasty game. I was treated no better than a dog at times.”I had 100 professional fights, I won just four. To anyone who doesn’t understand the game, you’re no better than useless.You’re Not AloneEVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicideIt doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:“People just don’t understand the game and the business model of how boxing actually works.“So dealing with things mentally and emotionally was tough.”Greaves had just one rule when he fought – his friends and family were banned from attending.He explained: “Look, I’m there to lose. I don’t want my wife and kids seeing that.”However, he made an exception for his final fight in 2013 when he BEAT Dan Carr at York Hall to bow out with a victory in front of 500 of his fans.Greaves beamed: “I fought my heart out and trained like a beast. I would have boxed anyone in my last fight and been confident enough to win it.“I would have boxed King Kong that last time and I’m pretty sure I would have at put up a good fight.”Greaves opens up on his astonishing career in his biography, Bright Lights and Dark Corners, which is on sale now.Detailing his boxing life in black and white helped him KO the demons that plagued his years in the ring.Read More on The SunHe said: “This book has been a therapy session for me, it’s about getting a lot off my chest.”Bright Lights & Dark Corners by Johnny Greaves is available to buy now at greavesbook.comYou can buy Johnny’s book, Bright Lights & Dark Corners, now More

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      in Soccer

      Top flight star, 26, banned for two years after testing positive for ECSTASY as he’s released by club

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      FRENCH top-flight star Ibrahima Niane has landed a two-year ban from football after testing positive for ecstasy.The striker has scored three goals in 27 games this season to help minnows Angers keep their place in Ligue 1.Angers ace Ibrahima Niane landed a two-year ban from football after testing positive for ecstasyAngers banished Niane after he injured a teammate in a training-ground clashBut France’s anti-doping agency AFLD has now banned Niane, 26, until April 2027 after drug tests found he had taken ecstasy and MDMA.Angers had already banished him from their first-team squad after he injured a team-mate in a training-ground clash in early April.He has since become one of seven first-teamers released by the western club, who finished 14th in France’s 18-team top flight.Senegal-born Niane’s contract with the Loire-region club is due to expire this summer.  Read More on FootballHe recently returned to his West African home country to consider his options.The AFLD said Niane may not “participate in any form of professional competition”.That includes “any form of activity, training camps or friendly matches.”Angers announced: “Initially signed on loan from Metz on 31 January 2023, Ibrahima Niane joined Angers SCO on a permanent contract the following summer.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”The Senegalese striker scored six goals and supplied three assists in 76 games in all competitions”Former Senegal Under-20 international Niane helped Metz win promotion to Ligue 1 before moving to Angers.Niane amassed a total of six goals and three assists in 76 appearances during his two-year stint at Angers. More

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      in Athletics

      Swimmer becomes millionaire within 21 seconds after shattering world record while juiced on performance-enhancing drugs

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      THE first edition of the Enhanced Games will be staged in Las Vegas in May 2026.The controversial sporting event – which is backed by businessman Donald Trump Jr., the son of the US President – will encourage its athletes to take performance-enhancing drugs to break existing world records on the track, in the pool and in the gym.Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev claims to have broken the 50m freestyle world recordCredit: X @enhanced_gamesGkolomeev was awarded $1million after taking performance enhancing drugsCredit: X @enhanced_gamesIt will be held annually and will initially consist of three sports – short-distance swimming, sprinting and weightlifting.Competitors will be permitted to use substances that are banned from elite sport – and there are significant cash bonuses available for those who produce “truly superhuman performance”.Organisers say the Enhanced Games will “move humanity forward” and “to redefine what mankind can be with audacity” – and to create “the next era of human potential”.They claim that Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev, who was fifth at the Paris 2024 Olympics, swam 20.89 seconds in a 50 metres freestyle time trial in the US in February.READ MORE ON SPORTThis is 0.02 seconds quicker than the world record set by Brazilian Cesar Cielo in 2009.Separately, the Bulgarian-born star swam 21.03 seconds “in jammers”, which was 0.01 seconds faster than American Caeleb Dressel’s 2019 mark.For “breaking two world records” and becoming the “fastest swimmer in history” he has received a £1million bonus but World Aquatics, the sport’s governing body, will not recognise his achievements.Their big goal is to find someone who can run faster than Jamaican sprinting sensation Usain Bolt, whose 100 metres world record time of 9.58 seconds, set in Berlin in 2009, stands as the benchmark of athletic endeavour.Most read in AthleticsBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIf that happens, then the individual runner will earn $1million.At a glitzy launch in Las Vegas on Wednesday evening, president of the Enhanced Games Dr Aron D’Souza – an Australian entrepreneur and lawyer – said: “The world is hungry for something new.Fury after three-time Olympic swimming medallist is offered $1m to break records while ‘juiced to the gills’“A new vision of sport, of science and of human potential.“We are not just organising competition, we are in the business of unlocking human potential.“The idea came to life in 2022 during a moment of reflection where I found myself asking: ‘Why are athletes still bound by outdated rules that ignore everything we know about science?’“I imagined a new kind of competition where science, sport and society could evolve together. Where we stop apologising for progress, and start to embrace it.“A platform that celebrates human innovation, rewards excellence and explores enhancements openly, responsibly and ethically.“Make no mistake, in 50 years we’ll look back and realise that biology was never the ceiling.This is definitely not a free-for-all. It’s controlled, safe and athletes’ first.Maximilian Martin, Deputy president of the Enhanced Games“We will be faster, stronger, younger for longer and wonder why it took so long for society to catch up with science. The old rules didn’t just hold back athletes – they held back humanity.“We are the vanguard of super-humanity. This is disruption by design.”D’Souza says there will be a “performance enhancement protocol” where all athletes are enhanced “ethnically, safefully and above all, with great safety and effectiveness”.Two commissions – “one medical, one scientific” – will be established to assist coaches and athletes, whilst also developing and marketing “new drug compounds” for the American public to purchase.Las Vegas will stage the first Games on the Memorial Weekend of May 24-26, 2026 at Resorts World.Maximilian Martin, deputy president of the Enhanced Games, expects about 100 athletes to join next year, including finalists at the Paris Games and world-record holders.He said: “Our medical framework is built to the highest standards in sport.“The main difference to traditional testing is that we don’t make a decision for athletes which substances they can or cannot take – as long as it is inherent with the law.“We care about athletes’ safety and health while being at the peak level of athletic performance. This is definitely not a free-for-all. It’s controlled, safe and athletes’ first.”The idea behind the Enhanced Games has received widespread criticism for potentially endangering athletes’ health and undermining fair play.Anyone that signs up for the unprecedented concept will find that they cannot compete at the LA 2028 Olympics for their country or at the world championships in their respective sports.Speaking in Glasgow in February 2024, World Athletics chief Seb Coe – a two-time Olympic 1500 metres champion – said: “Well, it’s b******s isn’t it? I can’t really get excited about it.Read More on The Sun“There’s only one message, and that is if anybody is moronic enough to officially take part in it and they are in the traditional part of our sport, they’ll get banned for a long time.“But I really don’t get sleepless nights about it. It’s not going to be a page turner.” More

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      in Soccer

      Ex-Arsenal star, 34, admits role in £600k Stansted Airport drug smuggling plot

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      A PROFESSIONAL footballer has admitted that he was involved in a drug smuggling plot worth £600,000.The celebrity was arrested at his home on September 18, after 60kg of cannabis was found in suitcases linked to him two weeks earlier.Jay Emmanuel-Thomas was arrested after 60kg of cannabis was discovered in his suitcasesCredit: GettyThe drugs arrived in the UK via Stansted AirportCredit: National Crime AgencyThe footballer pleaded guilty to the drug charge in MayCredit: PAJay Emmanuel-Thomas, 34, was found to have brought 60kg of cannabis into the UK from Thailand.According to Met police, the drugs had travelled via Dubai before arriving at Stansted Airport on September 2.Cops now believe that the celebrity might have been the intermediary between drug pushers in the UK and suppliers in Thailand.Now, he will be sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court in Essex at a later date.Read More on Sport NewsHe pleaded guilty to the offence earlier in May, but reporting restrictions on the case have only just been lifted.Initially, the footballer known as “JET” denied the charges when appearing in court in October 2024.Two other people were arrested in connection with the case, but an investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA) have led to the charges being dropped.The two women were arrested with the drugs from Thailand on September 2, after making the journey for Emmanuel Thomas – in exchange for £2,500.Most read in FootballHowever, the Crown had offered no evidence against the two women, allowing them to go free.Rosie Rowland, 28, and Yasmin Piotrowska, 33, were said to have sobbed as they were allowed to leave the dock.They had previously denied importing cannabis between July 1 and September 2.According to Prosecutor David Josse KC, the two women thought they were “importing gold, not cannabis”.As he was taken into custody, Emmanuel-Thomas said: “I just feel sorry for the girls.”NCA senior investigating officer, David Philips, revealed how criminal groups try to profit from drugs. He said: “Organised crime groups make significant profits by trafficking and selling perceived high-quality cannabis legally grown in the US, Canada and Thailand illegally in the UK.“Organised criminals like Thomas can be very persuasive and offer payment to couriers. But the risk of getting caught is very high and it simply isn’t worth it.”In Britain, the maximum sentence for smuggling cannabis – a class B drug – is a 14-year-stretch behind bars. Emmanuel-Thomas was a fan-favourite footballer who had played for Arsenal, Bristol City, Queens Park Rangers, MK Dons and PTT Rayong.He was axed from his most recent team, Greenock Morton, after appearing in court for the crime. A spokesperson for Greenock Morton released a short statement on social media after the sacking. Read More on The SunThe statement read: “Greenock Morton FC can confirm that the contract of Jay Emmanuel-Thomas has been terminated with immediate effect.”The club will be making no further comment on the matter.”More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun OnlineThesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun.The star admitted to his crime in courtCredit: PA More

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      in Soccer

      Ex-Man United player, 19, was found dead in bedroom weeks after quitting football – as family pay tribute

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      HEARTFELT tributes have poured in for an ex-Manchester United star who was found dead in his bedroom just weeks after quitting football.Vinicius de Oliveira Cabral de Souza, known to loved ones as Vini, tragically died aged 19 three months ago, an inquest heard.Popular footballer Vini de Souza passed away aged 19Credit: Instagram/@warringtontownfcThe young star was once on the books at Manchester UnitedCredit: JustGivingHe was found dead in his bedroom at his family home in Walkden on February 20, the court heard.Vini was born in Brazil and grew up in Portugal before moving to the UK.The young talent played for the Manchester United youth team at one point but was dropped by the Prem big shots when he was 14-years-old.Despite this setback, Vini continued playing football for the next five years and was on the books at Warrington Town FC before his death.Read More in FootballHowever, it was revealed that the teenager had quit football a few months prior to the tragedy, Bolton Coroner’s Court heard.Vini’s sister, Mayara De Souza, said that she had noticed his mood change and tried to help.She said: “He stopped doing the things that he liked to do such as football, going to the gym and seeing friends.”He started apologising about the way he treated us and we didn’t understand what he meant.Most read in Football”His best friend as well, he said the same to him and he said he doesn’t know why.”The teen’s self-esteem had also taken a hit when his acne returned after the steroid cream he had been prescribed had run out.When doctors would not prescribe more of the steroid cream, Vini bought some online from India but his sister told him not to use it.Remembering Gadi Kinda: A Football Star’s Legacy and Untimely PassingVini had booked tickets to travel to Brazil in April, the inquest heard, and was due to return on May 12 before his tragic death.Cops concluded that Vini died as a result of “self-inflicted means by hanging” after finding him dead back in February.The inquest heard that Vini stopped going out with his friends after telling his mum that he had taken drugs at a nightclub on one occasion a few months before his death. A toxicologist’s report found no trace of drugs or alcohol in Vini’s system when he died.However, Vini said that all of his friends used drugs which led to him feeling more “isolated” in the last few months of his life.Sharing the news of Vini’s death in February, Warrington Town FC said: “Scorer of the most spectacular goals, Vini was a well respected, much-loved member of the club, and his ability earned him a place training with the first team despite his young age.”He played for the first team last season in the Cheshire Senior Cup against Cheadle Town, and trained regularly with the first team, appearing in numerous pre-season friendlies over the past couple of seasons.”Assistant coroner Stephen Teesdale said he was satisfied that Vini caused his own death and recorded a conclusion of “suicide”.Addressing Vini’s sister and father at the inquest, Mr Teesdale said: “There’s nothing more you could have done. You did everything.Read More on The Sun”You spotted the problem – depression. You made a plan, you sought professional assistance from a psychotherapist.”You had a plan to take him to Brazil. There’s nothing more you could have done. He had an entirely supportive family. It was to do with how he saw the world.”You’re Not AloneEVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicideIt doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support: More

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      in Boxing

      Jake Paul’s send offer to fight KSI on CHRISTMAS EVE and reveals terms including PPV and drug testing

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      JAKE PAUL has a fight with KSI on his Christmas list after sending his bitter rival an offer to fight on December 24.The bitter YouTube enemies are yet to settle their score in the ring – despite recent attempts to strike a deal behind the scenes.KSI facing off with Jake Paul in 2020Credit: Getty Images – GettyNakisa Bidarian – co-founder of Most Valuable Promoters alongside Paul – revealed an offer to fight on Christmas Eve was sent to KSI. Bidarian said KSI and Wasserman – who promote Misfits Boxing bouts – have had the contract for 15 days. A bout over ten rounds, at 192.5lb, in an 18x18ft ring with VADA testing to be promoted by MVP and Wasserman was tabled. He added that the offer included a 50/50 deal PPV share other than the UK which is 60/40 in KSI’s favour and 60/40 to Paul in the US. READ MORE IN BOXINGA fan probed Bidarian over why the fight would be staged on Christmas Eve.He responded: “What are you watching Christmas Eve? Nothing. Jake and KSI will have the entire world’s attention.” Mams Taylor – KSI’s manager and co-founder of Misfits which homes to celebrity-style crossover bouts – hit back. Taylor said: “Hey man, we sent you an offer too and you insisted we redline yours. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Yours is one sided. Ours is fair and clearly a real attempt to make the fight actually happen.”Taylor said they countered with a fight in the US, with a coin toss to decide who walks out second. Jake Paul reveals stunning behind-the-scenes talks to fight Oleksandr Usyk after teasing shock world title shotIt would include full drug testing, at 190lb over eight rounds in a 20x 20ft ring, co-promoted down the middle with both to mutually approve all costs.Taylor added: “Your contract had MVP as lead promoter in charge of everything and you put Wasserman boxing USA as side promoter. “(FYI Wasserman boxing USA does not exist). You purposely omitted Misfits as an ego based mind game tactic. “C’mon man. Let’s give the people what they want and not let ego’s get in the way. “We have a duty to our clients and respect due to the fans that made them!!”KSI, 31, is yet to fought since losing a controversial decision to Tommy Fury, 26, in October 2023.He was due to return last August but pulled out with a hand injury before illness saw him withdraw from facing MMA star Dillon Danis, 31, in March.KSI is now due to have surgery on his busted hand with his boxing career up in the air.Meanwhile, Paul, 28, returns against ex-middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, 39, on June 28 in a cruiserweight clash.It comes after he fought at heavyweight in November to beat Mike Tyson, who controversially came out of retirement aged 58.Paul now drops back down to the 200lb limit of 14st 4lb while KSI lost to Fury a stone lighter at 183lb. Their weight disagreement has been the biggest factor standing in the way of the grudge bout. And Bidarian said: “Not engaging in a back and forth.”We proposed our terms to Wasserman on April 4 and the offer that followed was those exact terms. Jake Paul wants to fight KSI.Read More on The Sun”He does not need to fight KSI. Jake has campaigned at 200+ since December of 2023 and plans to continue at that weight with the intention to contest for a world championship by the end of 2026.” Jake Paul returns on June 28 against Julio Cesar Chavez JrCredit: The Mega Agency 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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      ‘I know I didn’t cheat’ – Ryan Garcia opens up on failed drug test after having Devin Haney win stripped away from him

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      RYAN GARCIA has opened up on his failed drug test to insist: “I know I didn’t cheat.” The American star dropped Devin Haney three times on the way to a shock decision victory in April 2024.Devin Haney had his loss taken away after Ryan Garcia’s failed drug testCredit: GettyBut the result was soon overturned when it emerged Garcia tested positive for ostarine – a banned substance known to boost muscle growth. Garcia protested his innocence but accepted a one-year ban – opposed to fighting it like Britain’s Conor Benn. Benn tested positive for clomiphene – which can boost testosterone – and refused a suspension and instead battled the case. Eventually, UK Anti-Doping dropped the case against him – allowing him to fight on home soil again in defeat to Chris Eubank Jr. READ MORE IN BOXINGBut Garcia told SunSport: “What did he get out of that? People still think he cheated, so 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?”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBenn, 28, never shared the evidence that got his case dropped against him, opting to instead keep it confidential. And Garcia – whose team blamed contaminated supplements for his failed test – has not explained why ostarine was in his system. Ryan Garcia ready to fight Conor Benn and settle feud after rival’s ‘war’ with Chris Eubank JrHe added: “What we did find out is that it was at the lowest amount you could possibly find trace amount.”So again, it’s proven that there was such low dosage in my system that has no effect on my body, so that’s just the truth. It is what it is.”Garcia returned clean Voluntary Anti-Doping Association tests in the build-up to his bout with Haney. And the positive tests for ostarine were taken from tests on the day of and 24 hours following the fight at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.Garcia suffered a public mental health breakdown 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.The boxer now returns against former sparring partner Rolando Romero, 29, on Friday night in a historic event staged outside in Times Square.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.Ryan Garcia on his failed drug test Haney, 26, is also on the same card against Jose Ramirez, 32, with a rematch planned if both are victorious. 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 Haney regaining his unbeaten record in the aftermath of Garcia’s doping scandal – the beatdown still sticks in the memory of fans. 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 decided against heading into an immediate rematch with Haney after his lay-off. He learned the hard way for mistakes made before his 2023 loss to Gervonta Davis, 30, which came off the back of a nine-month absence. Garcia said: “I learned my lesson with the Tank fight on not taking a tune-up. You gotta be active. Read More on The Sun”I don’t think taking a year off and going straight into the Haney fight makes sense for either one of us. A year off is a long time.”You need to get your timing back, everything back, real fights are much different than sparring, so it’s good that we both took a fight, I think.”Garcia returns against Rolando RomeroCredit: GettyHaney facing off with Jose RamirezCredit: Getty More