More stories

  • in

    Who is British freestyle football world champion Liv Cooke and is the world record holder married?

    LIV Cooke is one of football’s brightest stars, having broken numerous Guinness World records and won multiple awards for her dazzling skills.In October 2024, the freestyle ace swapped her millionaire’s lifestyle to slum it in one of Britain’s poorest households on Channel 5’s Rich House, Poor House.Liv Cooke is a football freestyler turned entrepreneurCredit: Instagram/@livcookefsWho is Liv Cooke?Liv Cooke was born in Lancashire on Monday, April 19, 1999.At just 25 years old, she has already achieved a remarkable level of success.She is renowned for her incredible football freestyle tricks, which have earned her a dedicated following on social media.She is a BBC sports presenter and Uefa ambassador who has previously been awarded the Parliamentary Rising Star and Woman of the Future awards.read more on liv cookeLiv’s talent and hard work have brought her not only fame but also fortune — she has established herself as a successful entrepreneur.Career highlightsLiv’s journey to becoming a freestyle football champion began at a young age.She first discovered freestyle football by watching online videos and became a professional freestyler at the age of 16.Her ability to perform complex tricks with a football has captivated audiences worldwide and inspired many aspiring freestylers.Most read in FootballIn addition to her sporting achievements, Liv has engaged in various entrepreneurial ventures and built a business empire.These include founding W1NFLUENCE Ltd — a talent agency representing nearly 100 freestylers — and Liv Cooke Properties Ltd.WATCH freestyle superstar Liv Cooke smash Guinness World Record for keepy uppys WHILE skipping on International Women’s Day Achievements and world recordsLiv’s exceptional skills have earned her numerous accolades and world records.She is currently a seven-time world champion and recently achieved her seventh Guinness World Record.Liv landed 76 alternating crossovers while seated, breaking the record for the “most sit-down alternating football crossovers in 30 seconds (female)”.She set it aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas cruise ship in Barcelona, adding a unique backdrop to her impressive feat.Do you know what going into [Rich House, Poor House] I thought, it’s TV, it’ll be staged… Was I wrong? Oh, my God, I was so wrong!MarriageLiv is married to a woman named Gal, who is from Los Angeles.She had previously been very private about her relationship status, until she publicly addressed the subject in April 2023.Along with a picture of herself and Gal embracing, Liv wrote on X/Twitter: “Yes I’m dating a girl, so what?”The couple splits their time between England and Los Angeles, balancing their personal and professional lives across two continents.Liv Cooke and her wife Gal on Rich House, Poor HouseCredit: Channel 5Rich House, Poor HouseIn October 2024, Liv participated in Channel 5 TV show Rich House Poor House, where she and her wife Gal swapped their luxurious lifestyle with that of the Wing family.Speaking exclusively to The Sun, Liv said she was shocked to find out the show was entirely real as she was forced to walk in the poor family’s shoes day and night for the full week.She said: “Do you know what going into it I thought, it’s TV, it’ll be staged.Liv was surprised to find that life on the show wasn’t stagedCredit: Instagram/@livcookefs”They’ll be sneaking in extra food. We’ll know where we’re going and we’ll sign off on the family that we’re swapping with.”Was I wrong? Oh, my God, I was so wrong!”I didn’t have a clue. It’s all real. You actually do experience their life. There’s ups and downs. It’s an emotional roller coaster, for sure.”Some days I was laughing. Some days I loved it. Other days I was crying.”She added: “I understood how much cash they actually had every week.READ MORE SUN STORIES”To see somebody live off that… I couldn’t comprehend it and I couldn’t do it.”I tried to do it but ended up with burgers with no bread and everything — I was a mess.” More

  • in

    Who is Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s wife Leontien Slaats?

    LEONTIEN Slaats is the wife of former Man United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.Here’s what we know about Leontien and her relationship with Ruud, who has stepped into the Red Devils’ hot-seat following the sacking of former manager Erik ten Hag.Ruud Van Nistelrooy is married to Leontien SlaatsCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdLeontien Slaats was born in the Netherlands.Meeting Ruud van NistelrooyShe and Ruud van Nistelrooy reportedly got together in 2002.They dated for two years before getting married.WeddingRuud and Leontien tied the knot on July 10, 2004.more on Ruud Van NistelrooyAt the time, van Nistelrooy was at the height of his career, playing for Manchester United in the Premier League.Ruud married Leontien in a private service near his hometown of Oss, North Brabant.The couple were pronounced man and wife at around noon at the Heesch town hall.A small group of friends and family then attended the ceremony in a Catholic church.Most read in FootballCrowds of fans cheered as the couple arrived at the Maria Magdalena Church in the village of Geffen, about 100 kilometers (60 miles) southeast of Amsterdam.Erik ten Hag and Ruud van Nistelrooy caught in heated conversation during Man Utd’s draw at Villa Leontien wore a white dress, while Ruud, who had turned 28 earlier the same week, wore a beige suit.The couple refused to allow a webcam or any media in the church during the ceremony.The same year the Dutchman finished among the top three scorers at Euro 2004 in Portugal, with four goals for the Netherlands.KidsThe couple has two children together.Ruud van Nistelrooy of the Netherlands kissing his wife Leontien Slaats after their wedding ceremonyCredit: AP:Associated PressTheir daughter Moa Annette was born in September 2006.They also have a son named Liam, who was born in March 2008.Charity workOne area where Leontien has made a public impact is through her charitable work.READ MORE SUN STORIESTogether with her husband, she has been involved with SOS Children’s Villages, an international organisation dedicated to protecting the rights of children.Ruud was officially appointed as a FIFA for SOS Children’s Villages Ambassador in the Netherlands on September 1, 2001. More

  • in

    England Womens’ team backroom staff: Lionesses’ goalkeeping coach, head of medical & sports psychologist revealed

    England Women’s national football team has a dedicated backroom staff that plays a crucial role in supporting the team’s success.Here’s everything you need to know about the team behind the team — the Lionesses go head-to-head with their vanquished foes Germany in a friendly on October 25, 2024.England are hoping to register a third match win against Germany under head coach Sarina WiegmanCredit: GettyThe backroom team represents a blend of experience and expertise across various aspects of football.They all work in collaboration to support the Lionesses’ success on the international stage.Arjan Veurink — Assistant CoachLionesses manager Sarina Wiegman with Arjan VeurinkCredit: GettyArjan Veurink serves as Serena Wiegman’s right-hand man.He joined the England setup alongside Wiegman, having previously worked with her at the Netherlands national team.More on the LionessesVeurink’s experience and tactical knowledge complement Wiegman’s leadership, forming a strong coaching partnership.He plays a key role in deciding tactics and was responsible for the Lionesses switching to a 3-4-1-2 formation during the Euro 2022 group stage.Geraint Twose — Assistant CoachEngland coach Geraint Twose pictured during a training session at The Lensbury Resort, Teddington on July 19, 2022Credit: PAGeraint Twose works alongside Weigman and Veurink as an assistant coach.His role involves working on specific aspects of players’ technical skills and contributing to overall tactical strategies.Most read in FootballHe worked with the England Men’s U15 side before taking the position with the Lionesses, having previously worked with the Cardiff City academy for 17 years.Darren Ward — Goalkeeping CoachDarren Ward with England’s Demi StokesCredit: GettyDarren Ward is the goalkeeping coach for the Lionesses.A former professional goalkeeper himself, Ward has an extensive background in developing goalkeeping talent.He was appointed when Wiegman took over as head coach in 2021. His experience includes working with elite players like Dean Henderson during his time at Sheffield United.Ward’s role focuses on enhancing the skills of goalkeepers including Mary Earps and Ellie Roebuck.He ensures they are match-ready and capable of performing under pressure.Ritan Mehta — Lead Team DoctorEngland Doctor Ritan Mehta looks on during a training session on October 8, 2022Credit: GettyDr Ritan Mehta serves as the lead team doctor for the Lionesses.He joined the FA in 2014 and has focused worked in football for the past 15 years altogether.His responsibilities include overseeing player health and managing injuries.Dr Metha ensures the overall medical well-being of the squad.Kate Hays — Lead PsychologistKate Hays helps the team with their stress, focus and mental resilienceCredit: X/DrKateHaysKate Hays is the lead psychologist for the England women’s team.Her role focuses on enhancing players’ mental resilience and performance under pressure.Hays employs various psychological techniques to help the team manage stress, build confidence and improve focus during matches.Anja van Ginhoven — General ManagerPrince William speaking with Sarina Wiegman and Anja Van Ginhoven (right) on June 15, 2022Credit: AFPWiegman regarded Anja Van Ginhoven as an essential addition to her staff when she moved from the Netherlands to England.Van Ginhoven previously served as a media officer for the Dutch Football Association.She played a significant role in selecting England’s base camp in Terrigal for the 2023 World Cup, ensuring that the team had access to top-notch facilities and an optimal location to compete effectively at the World Cup.Kay Cossington — Head of Women’s FootballLucy Bronze celebrating her 100th England appearance alongside Kay Cossington (left) and Sarina Wiegman on February 16, 2023Credit: GettyKay Cossington is the Head of Women’s Football at The FA and has been pivotal in shaping women’s football in England.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe joined The FA in 2005 and has been instrumental in implementing initiatives to revamp the girls’ talent pathway, making football more accessible while increasing participation rates among young female players.Cossington’s contributions have been recognised with an MBE for her services to association football in 2024, highlighting her significant impact on women’s football development in England. More

  • in

    Who is Regis Prograis’ wife Raquel and how many kids does she have with the light welterweight boxer?

    REGIS Prograis came to the attention of British fight fans when he travelled to London in 2019 to take on Josh Taylor in the final of the World Boxing Super Series.He’s facing off against England’s Jack Catterall on October 26, 2024 — here we get to know the American boxer’s wife Raquel.Regis Prograis has been married to Raquel for over a decadeCredit: Instagram / raquelprograisRegis Prograis is an accomplished American southpaw best known for his achievements in the light welterweight division.The professional boxer chose his own nickname, “Rougarou” — Louisiana French for ‘werewolf’ — to pay homage to his grandfather, who is of Native American descent.He is married to Raquel Prograis.Who is Raquel Prograis?Very little has been reported about Raquel, so a full biography of her life, or a complete timeline of her relationship with Reigs, is currently unavailable.read more on regis prograisThe couple prefers to keep their private information out of the public domain.Their meeting was reportedly serendipitous, having first crossed paths through a mutual client.Who that client was or what business they had with either of the pair was not disclosed.Despite initial language barriers — Regis didn’t speak Portuguese and Raquel was not fluent in English — their connection proved strong enough to lead to marriage.Most read in BoxingMarriageRegis and Raquel tied the knot in December 2012, but details of their big day have not been reported.On top of being the partner of a professional boxer, Raquel has carved out her own identity as a YouTuber with over 1,000 subscribers.Marcus Rashford meets welterweight boxing star Regis Prograis in DubaiHer channel is called Raquel’s Mini Luxury and the content she posts is centred on fashion, shopping and lifestyle.She writes: “Hey my name is Raquel I’m Luxury addicted, in love with everything Lux.”I upload videos with unboxing, reviews and more, twice a week, with one bonus.”Family lifeRegis and Raquel have three children together — two daughters and a son.Their son Ray was born on October 20, 2013, with daughter Khalessi following on August 10, 2016.The couple share three kids together — two girls and a boyCredit: Instagram / raquelprograisIn November 2020, the boxer shared a video of Raquel giving birth to their third child, a girl, in a pool — but her name is yet to be reported.Support systemRaquel has been a constant source of support for Regis throughout his boxing career.Her presence ringside and her role in managing family life while Regis trains and competes demonstrates the strong partnership they share.This was particularly evident in November 2020 when Regis was preparing to fight Juan Heraldez, while Raquel was due to give birth to their second daughter.Family valuesDespite being married to a public figure, Raquel seems to prioritise her family’s privacy — especially when it comes to their children.READ MORE SUN STORIESHer role in maintaining family stability no doubt contributes significantly to Regis’ career and his ability to focus on boxing.While much of her life remains private, her presence and support have undoubtedly been significant factors in Regis’ success. More

  • in

    Who is Jack Catterall’s wife Lauren and when did the English boxer marry her?

    JACK Catterall kissed his fiancée Lauren in the ring after his grudge-match revenge victory over Josh Taylor in May 2024.El Gatto is going to-to-toe with Regis Prograis on October 26 — here we get to know Lauren, who is now the boxer’s wife.Jack, Lauren and their daughter Riley pictured on the couple’s wedding dayCredit: Instagram / @laurencatterall.xWho is Jack Catterall’s wife Lauren?Lauren Catterall, born Lauren Adele Finch, is the wife of English professional boxer Jack Catterall.While they have been together for some time, details about Lauren’s personal life and the couple’s relationship are somewhat limited.Here’s everything we can put together from the bits and pieces they have shared about their lives together.MarriageThe exact date Jack and Lauren got married has not been reported.read more on jack catterallWhile we know they got engaged sometime in 2022, details of when they tied the knot are yet to be revealed.On May 7, 2024, Lauren posted an Instagram video of herself wearing a full white outfit with a veil on her head, which had “Soon to be Mrs Catterall” written on it.Following the robbery of the undisputed light-welterweight world titles in 2022, Jack earned sweet revenge by beating Taylor in Leeds on May 25, 2024.Following the fight, he and his then-fiancée were pictured kissing in the ring.Most read in BoxingMatchroom Boxing shared the clip of the couple smooching at the First Direct Arena, captioning the post: “A few bruises for the wedding photos in 10 days… But a great day and night to be had 🥰”To the future Mr and Mrs Catterall 🥂👏”Josh Taylor offers ‘ungrateful’ Jack Catterall cheeky present in another fiery press conference ahead of grudge fightThis would mean their big day was on June 4, 2024.Less than a fortnight later, Lauren posted a wedding day pic of her family on Instagram.The caption read: “Happy Father’s Day to the best Daddy in the whole wide world.”I couldn’t ask for a better life partner, and someone to raise a beautiful family with. You really are Riley’s hero.That decision was an absolute embarrassment to boxing. I love you so muchLauren Catterall”Thank you for always putting us first and forever making us happy. We love you JC.”Daughter RileyTheir daughter Riley Rae Catterall was born on February 8, 2021.Her parents often share moments from their family life on social media.That said, they prefer to keep their child’s personal information out of the public domain.Jack Catterall celebrating victory with Lauren, promotor Eddie Hearn (right) and his team after beating Josh TaylorCredit: PASupport systemLauren plays a crucial role in supporting Jack’s boxing career.Her presence at his matches is evident and she is often seen in photographs where Jack Catterall celebrates with Lauren and members of his team and family after victories.After Jack was robbed in his first dust-up with Josh Taylor in February 2022, Lauren took to social media to vent.She wrote: “Absolutely no words, heart-broken for you @jackcatt1 .Lauren is a director of Jack Catterall Boxing LtdCredit: Instagram lfinchx”A true f***ing champ, you showed the world you are another level.”That decision was an absolute embarrassment to boxing. I love you so much.”Professional InvolvementLauren is not just a supportive spouse but also has a professional involvement in Jack’s career.READ MORE SUN STORIESOn December 15, 2022, she was appointed as a director of Jack Catterall Boxing Ltd.The appointment suggests Lauren is not only a fan of her husband’s pugilistic endeavours, but she also takes an active role in the business side of his boxing career. More

  • in

    What we know about boxer Dan Azeez’s mum Kike?

    KIKE Azeez moved from Nigeria to the UK for her future children.Here is everything we know about Dan Azeez’s mother and her support of his boxing career.Kike Azeez migrated to the UK with her husbandCredit: Dan AzeezKike Azeez is a self-employed carer.She is from Nigeria, and she and her husband decided to move to the UK in pursuit of a brighter future for their children.Their goal was to provide them with greater opportunities and a chance to thrive.She has six children, four sons and two daughters, and she raised them as a single mother in a council house in Lewisham, London. Read more on Dan AzeezFighting Covid-19In April 2020 she caught COVID-19.Her condition rapidly got worse and she needed to be admitted to the University Hospital Lewisham in London, where she spent four weeks in intensive care. During this time, her son boxer Dan Azeez was unable to visit her due to hospital restrictions.They cared for me like I was their own mother.Kike AzeezEastLondonLinesHe said to EastLondonLines about the NHS staff helping his mother: “I cannot thank you all enough for saving my mother’s life. Most read in Boxing”Before being admitted to hospital my mum was in a real bad way – she was struggling to breathe, could not speak or move. “We all feared the worse, but even when times got tough, you never gave up on her.”Dan also told Unknown Boxers about his mother’s Covid-19 illness: “They weren’t sure if she was going to make it and it didn’t look good.“As the weeks went on she’s got better and has come out of the ICU, but is still under their care so it’s been tough.”I actually thought I would lose my mum.“I’ve never been in that predictament before, I’ve had friends that have lost their lives, but for it to be your mum.”It’s very difficult, but thankfully she’s getting better.”Supporting her sonDan Azeez has had the support of his mother since the start of his boxing careerCredit: GettyFor Dan Azeez, who held the British light-heavyweight champion title until October 19, 2024, his mother has been a guiding force in his life, offering unwavering support throughout his boxing career.”She has been an important figure in my life, especially helping me build my boxing career. “I attribute a lot of my success to her support – that is why I am saying thank you.”  Dan shared.READ MORE SUN STORIESKike always supported her son and encouraged him.In a recent interview, he shared that his mother played a significant role in his career development by reminding him of his potential, especially during moments of self-doubt when he struggled with confidence. More

  • in

    Inside the life of Frank Warren’s wife Susan – what we know about the former Vogue model

    SUSAN Warren is the wife of boxing promoter Frank – but she has been a star in her own right.Once a celebrated Vogue model, Susan met Frank in the early 1970s.Susan was a model before meeting FrankCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSusan and legendary boxing promoter Frank have been married for over 40 yearsCredit: Enterprise News and PicturesAt the time Frank was beginning to make waves in the boxing world.They have now been married for over 40 years.During that time Frank has become a household name by promoting some of the biggest British fighters in recent history including Frank Bruno, Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank, Joe Calzaghe, Prince Naseem Hamed, Amir Khan and Tyson Fury.Susan prefers to stay away from the limelight, focusing on their family and personal life.read more on frank warrenFamily lifeSusan and Frank have two sons, George and Francis.George is involved in the family business, Queensberry Promotions, where he works as a boxing promoter and manager. He has been increasingly visible in the fight game and is following in his father’s footsteps, helping to manage boxers and promote events.Like his brother George, Francis had been working for Queensberry.Most read in BoxingHe left the company in 2022 to focus on starting his own company, Champion Sports Management.My dad was questioned over Frank Warren’s assassination attempt… now we’ve joined forces to make boxing’s best fightsFrank said in an interview with Seconds Out about his son leaving: “I’m pleased for him, he has got a fantastic roster of fighters that he is managing and looking after.“So he, quite rightly said, ‘Look Dad, I don’t think that I can do it justice and I want to focus on my management company’.”So, God bless him and good luck to him, and that’s what he is doing. We’ve got quite a few of his fighters on our roster and we continue to promote them and work very closely with them, he’s doing his own thing and that, for me as a Dad, is a real joy.” More

  • in

    Artur Beterbiev family: What we know about ‘The Rabbit’s’ mum plus dad Gasan’s fatal accident

    ARTUR Beterbiev has a compelling family story that has shaped his journey to the top of the game.He’s going toe-to-toe with Dmitry Bivol on October 12, 2024 — with the winner crowned undisputed light-heavyweight champion of the world.Artur Beterbiev with his motherEarly life and family backgroundArtur Beterbiev was born on January 21, 1985, in Khasavyurt, Dagestan, Russia.He grew up in a large family as the youngest of five brothers.The Beterbievs lived through tumultuous times, surviving three wars following the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991.These experiences undoubtedly contributed to Artur’s resilience and determination throughout his boxing career.read more on Artur BeterbievDad — Gasan BeterbievArtur’s father, Gasan Beterbiev, worked as a bus driver to support his large family.He was the primary breadwinner for the household, ensuring that his children had all the necessities despite the challenging circumstances. Gasan was initially against Artur pursuing boxing, but his other sons supported their youngest brother’s passion.Tragically, Gasan lost his life in a car accident in 2001.Most read in BoxingThis devastating event occurred when Artur was only 16 years old, leaving a profound impact on the young boxer and his family.The loss of their father, who was the sole source of income, forced Artur’s older siblings to abandon their own pursuits and start working to support the family.MotherWhile Artur’s mother’s name has not been reported, a lot of interesting information about her role in the family has. She worked as a nurse and after her husband’s death became a single parent to six children in a war-torn region, facing immense challenges.Despite these difficulties, she played a crucial role in shaping Artur’s future.Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev weighing in ahead of their undisputed light-heavyweight Fight on October 12, 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaCredit: GettyWhen he received an invitation to attend an Olympic boxing college in Moscow a year after his father’s passing, it was his mother who insisted he go.She recognised the opportunity over 1200 miles away from home could provide her son with a sense of direction and purpose during a difficult time.Throughout Artur’s amateur career, his mother supported him by preparing strict diets during his training camps and ensuring he maintained optimal physical condition.SiblingsArtur has four older brothers.The eldest Abdul-Beter was also involved in combat sports, though details about his specific achievements are not widely known.After their father’s death, Artur’s brothers took on the responsibility of supporting the family financially.They also played a significant role in encouraging Artur’s boxing career, helping him avoid the dangers of the streets and focus on his passion.Beterbiev last fought in January 2024, knocking out top contender Callum SmithCredit: GettyMarriage and childrenArtur is married to Medina, who is also from Russia.The couple currently resides in Montreal, Canada, where Beterbiev relocated in 2013 to pursue his professional boxing career.They have four children together — two boys and two girls.Beterbiev is known to be a devoted family man, often sharing photos of his children on social media, though he tends to keep details about his wife private.Profound impactThe loss of his father at a young age had a profound impact on Artur Beterbiev.For nearly a year after the tragedy, he continued boxing but lacked clear direction.It was the opportunity to attend the Olympic boxing college in Moscow, encouraged by his mother, that reignited his focus and determination.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhen Beterbiev turned professional in 2013, he made the difficult decision to leave his family and friends behind, moving to Montreal to chase his goal of becoming a world champion. The rest is history — Beterbiev has become one of the most feared punchers in boxing, holding multiple world titles in the light-heavyweight division. More