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      in Soccer

      How Erling Haaland is morphing into Cristiano Ronaldo – including £2k PJs, bizarre pre-match habit and £50K home gadget

      by

      THEY are two of the biggest names in world football with millions of adoring fans across the globe. But scoring a tonne of goals isn’t the only thing Erling Haaland and Cristiano Ronaldo have in common. 
      In recent months, Haaland and Ronaldo have shown some striking similaritiesCredit: Instagram / @erling.haaland
      The pair’s common interests seem to go beyond the pitchCredit: Instagram / @cristiano
      From their love of designer £2,000 pyjamas to lookalike girlfriends and quirky match rituals, all signs show that the pair are truly twinning. 
      Here, we look at seven signs that prove that Manchester City’s title winner is slowly but surely becoming the Premier League’s next Cristiano Ronaldo. 
      Matching fashion 
      The two men are known for their love of fashion and luxury designer brands. 
      Haaland, 22, has been spotted in pricey designer gear from fashion houses such as Dolce and Gabbana and Burberry, while Ronaldo, 38, enjoys the designs of Gucci and Jacob & Co. 
      READ MORE FOOTBALL FEATURES
      Cristiano Ronaldo was spotted in a pair of pricey Louis Vuitton PJs in 2020Credit: Instagram
      Haaland’s love for the fashion trend has been well documentedCredit: INSTAGRAM
      The Norwegian wore PJs to celebrate Manchester City’s EPL victoryCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      The pair have also made headlines for wearing luxury pyjamas out and about.
      This week, Haaland celebrated Manchester City’s win by wearing light blue PJs. 
      He owns a vast collection including a Mojolica print that set him back over £2,400 and a Burberry set that costs £1,680. 
      Ronaldo has also dabbled in the pyjama fashion craze – he was spotted on a luxury yacht in a £1,800 Louis Vuitton set in 2020. 
      Most read in Football
      Ice breakers
      Ronaldo is known for his rock-hard abs which he maintains with cryotherapyCredit: https://www.instagram.com/cristiano/
      Haaland also splashed £50,000 on a cryotherapy chamber to stay in perfect conditionCredit: INSTAGRAM/ERLING HAALAND
      The key to their perfectly toned bodies appears to be their shared love for hi-tech ice chambers. 
      In 2021, it was reported that Ronaldo had a £50,000 cryotherapy chamber shipped from Turin to Manchester to help keep him in shape. 
      He reportedly likes to spend three minutes in the chamber at a temperature of -160C. 
      Last year, it was claimed that Haaland had also splashed the same amount on a cryotherapy chamber to help stay in top condition. 
      Cristiano Ronaldo enjoyed a cryotherapy session in his pantsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/cristiano/
      He is said to have ordered the walk-in ice pod to his home in Cheshire. 
      Cryotherapy has been noted to have a number of benefits including pain relief, muscle healing, aiding weight loss and reducing inflammation.
      Copycat diet
      Haaland copied Ronaldo’s diet
      Haaland follows a strict diet and does not drink alcohol or go to nightclubs, although he had admitted that he enjoys a glass of pina colada. 
      His diet changed when he was playing for Red Bill Salzburg and consists of mostly fish. Apparently, he was convinced after hearing it was one of the factors keeping Ronaldo in perfect physical condition in his mid-30s. 
      Dad Alf-Inge Haaland said: “He was told a story by Patrice Evra about a lunch he had with Ronaldo and Cristiano had fish, nothing else.
      “Erling now tries to do the same things because Ronaldo is still at the top of the game, so it shows the value of doing the right things.”
      Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo likes to keep himself disciplined with customised meal plans recommended by a personal dietician. 
      His diet typically consists of “six high-protein, high-grain, low-fat mini-meals a day.”
      He is also a big fan of cheese, ham and low-fat yoghurt for breakfast, with a preference for fish and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. 
      Ronaldo also stays away from alcohol and sugary drinks and snacks and only drinks alcohol.
      Lookalike girlfriends 
      Georgina Rodriguez has been dating Ronaldo since 2017Credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/CfOydu7sJaK/
      Haaland’s girlfriend, Isabel Johansen is also a football player
      Both Ronaldo and Haaland have glamorous, lookalike girlfriends who seem to have set themselves apart from the average WAG. 
      Georgina Rodriguez, 29, has managed to establish herself as a businesswoman and socialite and has her own Netflix reality show. 
      With close to 50million people following her, she is the most followed WAG on Instagram.
      The former Gucci ship worker, who has been dating Ronaldo since 2017, has now become a model and a brand ambassador in her own right. 
      Isabel, 19, is Haaland’s girlfriend who left her home country of Norway to live with him.
      But she’s not just the girlfriend of one of the best players in the world – she’s also a footballer herself, with the couple said to have met through the sport.
      When Erling made the move to City, student Isabel – who has played for local Norwegian club Bryne – was granted permission to study remotely so she could be with him.
      Pre-match habit 
      Fans spotted Haaland standing on his tiptoes
      Fans have previously pointed out that Ronaldo has done it throughout his career
      This month, eagle-eyed fans were sent into overdrive when they concluded that Haaland and Ronaldo appear to have one odd pre-match habit in common. 
      When Haaland posed for pictures alongside his teammates before their semi-final clash with Real Madrid, many fans saw that he was standing on his tiptoes. 
      The pose has been a favourite of Ronaldo’s for years, especially when posing with a group of people. 
      A fan pointing it out on Instagram made the comment: “You’re already the tallest in the team”.
      One fan replied: “Bros trying to be like his idol Cristiano”.
      Another added: “He is copying Ronaldo in every single thing”.
      Record setters 
      Ronaldo has had two stints at Manchester UnitedCredit: AFP
      Haaland joined Manchester City in the summer of 2002Credit: Rex
      There’s no denying that Haaland and Ronaldo are two of the best players – they have both played for Manchester-based clubs and have impressive track records to show for it. 
      Ronaldo spent six seasons at Manchester United between 2003 and 2009 before returning in 2021, while Haaland joined Manchester City in the summer of 2022.
      Ronaldo holds the record for most international goals, according to UEFA, having scored 122 times for Portugal since making his debut in 2003. 
      He also holds the record for the most appearances in the Champions League, having played in the tournament 183 times. 
      Meanwhile, Haaland has been busy building his own impressive legacy – the Norwegian this year broke the record for the most goals in a Premier League season. 
      After scoring his 35th goal against West Ham, he moved past Alan Shearer and Andrew Cole, who have 34 goals between them. 
      Many have pointed to Haaland being one of the few players to break the records set by Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. 
      Last year, Haaland’s Manchester City teammate, Bernardo Silva, who has had the chance to play with both spoke about how they stack up against each other. 
      He said: “I was speaking with a few friends the other day and I said [Haaland] is the only player who gets close to Cristiano in terms of knowing where the ball will land inside the box.” 
      Read More on The Sun
      And this year, he said: “[Haaland] has definitely got the same mentality as Cristiano, always wanting to be in the box, always wanting to score. 
      “He doesn’t care if he touches the ball one or two times, when he touches he scores. He’s just a proper striker.”  More

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      in Soccer

      I live at entrance to major football stadium – fans queue up outside my front door but not for the reason you’d expect

      by

      WANDERING along Ellerslie Road, the attractive Victorian terrace homes are typical for this affluent area of west London.But halfway down the street, sandwiched between grand entrances to end-of-terrace properties, lies the entrance to Championship side Queens Park Rangers’ football ground.
      The stadium is sat behind a row of Victorian terrace houses in West LondonCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Donna’s dog Misty is loved by fans who like to stop and take pictures of her on match dayCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The bright blue gates provide access to the Stanley Bowles Stand within the Loftus Road Stadium, with a huge sign reading “Welcome to the Loft”.
      While it might be a football fan’s dream to live a stone’s throw from a major ground, locals have mixed feelings about the 18,000 fans who descend on their street every week.
      But one resident who loves match days is two-year-old German Shepherd Misty – who has become the club’s unofficial mascot.
      Owner Donna Fitzgerald, whose garden backs onto the stadium, says her pooch enjoys watching the crowds of fans from the window or the front garden.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL STADIUMS

      She tells us when we visit: “Everybody stops to say hello to Misty. She loves a match day.
      “She’s famous among the fans, they all stop to take photographs of her in the doorway.”
      There is one issue that drives residents who live next door to the football ground mad – literally.
      “It’s s*** living here sometimes,” Donna admits. “I often can’t take my car out on match days, which is a joke because I pay for a parking permit and council tax, so I should be able to come and go as I please.
      Most read in Football
      Houses on the street can sell for up to £1millionCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The main entrance to the Loftus Road stadiumCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      “The fans can be awful. I’ve had fellas wee outside my door, and they all drop rubbish.
      “That said, I’m a Chelsea supporter, so I’m not QPR’s biggest fan.”
      The parking issue is a gripe shared by many Ellerslie Road residents – especially given they have to fork out £119 a year to park their car on the road. If they have two vehicles, that shoots up to £497.
      Council tax for the properties starts from £870 and can go up to £2,612 according to the Hammersmith and Fulham local authority’s website.
      On match days the road is closed to traffic to allow fans to be corralled into the stadium – which holds up to 18,439 supporters – by police.
      Residents at one end are not allowed to leave their cars on the road outside their homes, as it’s needed for a control marquee to manage fans.
      Fines
      Greg has been fined several times for leaving his car on the road by his houseCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Greg lives close to one of the stadium entrances which fans use to access the standCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      It’s left a sour taste in local resident Greg’s mouth, as he has been hit with fines for not moving his motor.
      The 41-year-old, who did not wish to give his surname, said: “The stadium is not fit for purpose any more, and [the council] know that.
      “If I leave my car outside my house on match day, I get fined up to £130 a time.
      “I pay council tax and for my permit, so I don’t see why I have to move it. It’s ridiculous.
      If I leave my car outside my house on match day, I get fined up to £130 a time. I pay council tax and for my permit, so I don’t see why I have to move it. It’s ridiculousGreg, Ellerslie Road resident
      “They set up a chicken coop style thing in the bays outside my house to control the fans, but I don’t think they do it that well.
      “Once upon a time we used to get a free ticket through the letterbox to a game, but that’s not happened in years. It would be nice to get it back.”
      The stadium was built in 1904 and later The Stanley Bowles stand, accessed from Ellerslie Road, was opened in 1972 to replace the old tin-roof grandstand.
      It is said to be the loudest stand, as it has 237 rail seats that allow club supporters to stand up during the game.
      ‘Nice atmosphere’
      Not all residents resent the football ground; Judith, who has lived on the street for 40 years, likes the bustling atmosphere it creates.
      She says: “I think the club manage it all pretty well. They clean the street after any home games, and I’ve never had a problem with any of the fans wandering down the road.
      “It’s quite a nice atmosphere, and I don’t mind hearing them shout when their team score.”
      It’s quite a nice atmosphere, and I don’t mind hearing them shout when their team scoreJudith, Ellerslie Road resident
      Houses on the normally quiet road sell for upwards of £1million and flats regularly go for £500,000 – despite being next to the roaring stadium.
      New homeowner Cleo admitted the stadium was a concern for her and her boyfriend when they purchased their, flat but say they’ve not had many issues.
      The social worker, 31, says: “We’ve been here for eight months and have never really had an issue living next to the stadium.
      “We did have reservations about buying the flat knowing where it was, but the flat is just so lovely.
      “It’s a bit annoying that we have to move the car sometimes, but when we’ve left it on the street there hasn’t been any damage done to it or anything.
      “We’ve also been very kindly let out the barrier on match day by the police, which was really nice of them.”
      Cleo adds that when the trees are bare in winter, they can see a section of the pitch, but not enough to watch a full game.
      ‘Bring back free tickets’
      Anin is a big fan of football and wishes the club would start giving out free tickets againCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The stadium is surrounded by houses in West LondonCredit: Google Earth
      At the other end of the road Anin, 72, is a big fan of living by the stadium.
      He says: “Parking used to be a problem, but now they’ve put in restrictions it isn’t.
      “We used to get free tickets, but they stopped about 15 years ago, which is a shame. I’d like them to start again.
      “The fans are alright, and it’s only about two and a half hours, and then it’s quiet again.
      “It’s a really nice family friendly atmosphere around a home match.”
      Another fan of the stadium being just behind their home is student Fahim, 26.
      He and his flatmates live on the end of a row, right next to an entrance for the stand.
      He says: “My flatmates and I try to support QPR, as they’re right behind us.
      Read More on The Sun
      “Living next to the stadium, it doesn’t really make that much of a difference to us generally.
      “The road gets closed twice a week during the season, but it doesn’t bother me much as I don’t drive, and we can get in and out on foot.”
      Fahim tries to support his local teamCredit: JOHN McLELLAN More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Man City WAGs’ glamorous lives as Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne’s partners steal show at title celebrations

      by

      THEY say that behind every successful man there stands a woman. It certainly appears to be the case with the Manchester City team, who were crowned Premier League champions after a win over Chelsea over the weekend.
      Ilkay Gundogan is married to model Sara Arfaoui, one of the most popular WAGSCredit: Instagram @sarabenamira
      Most of their WAGS joined them on a night out to celebrate winning the prestigious trophy for an incredible three consecutive seasons – and stole the show in the process.
      Here, we take a look at the luxurious lives of some of the other halves of the Manchester City squad.
      Sasha Attwood
      Sasha Attwood has been dating Jack Grealish since they were 16Credit: Instagram @sasha__rebecca
      Their relationship has been highly scrutinised due to his bad boy reputationCredit: sasha_rebecca/Instagram
      Thanks to her relationship with winger Jack Grealish, Sasha Attwood has become one of Britain’s most talked about WAGS.
      They are childhood sweethearts and have been together since they were 16.
      READ MORE SPORTS FEATURES
      Keen to build a legacy of her own, she has forged a career in the modelling industry and has been scooped up by beauty giant L’Oreal.
      Sasha has starred in social media campaigns for the brand, thanks to her 173,000 followers on Instagram.
      On her social media pages, Sasha often posts about her holidays to places such as Mykonos, Santorini, Dubai, and California.
      Her relationship with Jack, 27, has come under scrutiny in the past due to his bad boy reputation, but they appear to be stronger than ever these days. 
      Most read in Football
      Isabel Haugseng Johansen
      Isabel Haugseng Johansen hilariously dressed in boyfriend Erling Haaland’s trademark PJs as they celebrated at a nightclub this weekCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      She is said to have moved away from Norway to be with himCredit: Getty
      Isabel, 19, is the girlfriend of Norwegian striker Erling Haaland and left her home country of Norway to live with him.
      But she’s not just the girlfriend of one of the best players in the world – she’s also a footballer herself, with the couple said to have met through the sport.
      When Erling, 22, made the move to City, student Isabel – who has played for local Norwegian club Bryne – was granted permission to study remotely so she could be with him.
      He is said to be totally “smitten” with Isabel and the pair have enjoyed many luxurious holidays, including a vacation to a villa in Marbella last year.
      During City’s title win party, the love birds were snapped celebrating by wearing matching silk blue pyjamas.
      Michele Lacroix
      Michele turned heads when she showed up to Manchester City’s celebrations in a see-through topCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      She has been married to Kevin De Bruyne since 2017Credit: .instagram/lacroixmichele
      Michele Lacroix, 29, and Belgian star Kevin De Bruyne have been married since June 2017 after meeting when he was playing for Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga.
      The couple share three children – sons Mason Milian, Rome, and Suri, who was born in September last year.
      Michele regularly shares steamy bikini pics of herself and has amassed a following of 383,000 on Instagram.
      Although she’s not a regular at his games, they have been spotted enjoying some quality time together at holiday destinations such as the Maldives.
      Glamorous Michele made headlines this week when she went braless in a see-through top as the WAGs joined their partners to celebrate.
      Taylor Ward
      Taylor is the daughter of reality TV star Dawn Ward and ex-footballer Ashley Ward
      She married Riyad Mahrez in a secret Islamic law ceremony in 2021
      Model and socialite Taylor, 24, is the wife of winger Riyad Mahrez.
      She’s one of the most popular WAGS on social media and has a staggering 2.5million followers on Instagram. Her mother is Dawn, the reality star who is married to football star Ashley Ward.
      After months of speculation, they confirmed their relationship on social media in October 2020 and tied the knot in a secret ceremony in 2021.
      They have confirmed that they are planning another wedding in the UK so their union can be legally recognised as the first one was under Islamic law.
      In July last year, Taylor and Riyad confirmed that they have welcomed their first child together.
      The blonde beauty certainly has a taste for the finer things in life and has been spotted holidaying at destinations such as the Bahamas, Maldives, Dubai, and Lake Como.
      She also decks herself in pricey designers such as Dior, LV, and Chanel. 
      Sara Arfaoui
      Sara is a model and TV personality who has fronted several reality showsCredit: Instagram / @sarabenamira
      She’s been married to Ilkay Gundogan since 2022Credit: Instagram / @sarabenamira
      Sara Arfaoui, 28, has been married to German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, 32, since last year.
      They tied the knot at a registry office in Denmark before holding a lavish ceremony at Lake Como.
      She was born in France but moved to Italy at a young age and has carved out a successful career as a model and television personality and has hosted several reality shows.
      Like many of her fellow WAGS, she enjoys the highlife and has been spotted holidaying at exotic locations.
      Unfortunately, she hasn’t taken too well with British cuisine since moving from Italy and has written about the “horrible food” on her Instagram page.
      The couple welcomed their first child in March this year, a day after City’s Champions League win over RB Leipzig.
      Olivia Naylor
      John Stones is said to have left his childhood sweetheart when he met Olivia NaylorCredit: Instagram @olivianaylor
      The pair welcomed a son in January this yearCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      John Stones met his girlfriend, former beautician Olivia Naylor, at a nightclub.
      The self-professed “brows, lash line, lip blush and microblading” expert is a mother of two – one from a previous relationship – while John also has a daughter with ex Millie.
      In January this year, the couple welcomed a son, their first child together.
      Olivia, 33, has a successful beauty career and owns her own salon near her home in Cheshire.
      She recently showed off helped to shed light on the condition of a two-year-old boy living with leukaemia.
      Rebecca Cooke
      Rebecca is extremely private and likes to keep away from the limelightCredit: Getty
      She has two kids with midfielder Phil FodenCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      Rebecca is the long-term partner of midfielder Phil Foden, 22 and the pair are said to live together in a £3.2million mansion.
      She became a mother at 18 when she gave birth to their son, Ronnie.
      Reflecting on his birth, Phil said: “I was there for the birth. I walked out of the room, gave it a little tear and then went back in like nothing happened.
      “I’m not one for crying in front of people. I like to be on my own, but I was there in the room, watched it happen and it was a special moment. Your life changes.”
      They welcomed a daughter in 2021 but her name has not been made public.
      Ines Tomaz
      Ines Tomaz and Bernando Silva announced their engagement in 2022
      She’s environmentally conscious and likes to support brands with the same ideology
      Lisbon-born Ines, 24, has been with Bernardo Silva since 2020 and announced their engagement in 2022.
      She often posts herself in swimwear on Instagram where she has over 100,000 followers and promotes brands that support the environment.
      The pair met shortly before the Covid lockdowns and stayed with friends in a large house not far from Lisbon.
      They moved to a new house in Manchester last year and recently announced they’re expecting their first child together.
      Lais Morares
      Lais Morares has been married to goalkeeper Ederson since 2014Credit: Instagram @ederson93
      She’s been seen cheering her husband on in the stands at the EtihadCredit: Getty
      Lais has been married to goalie Ederson, considered to be one of the best goalkeepers in the world, since 2014.

      She keeps her life extremely private but is said to be a hands-on mum to the couple’s three children.
      Lais has been seen cheering on her husband from the stands at the club’s Etihad Stadium. More

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      in Soccer

      From Arsene Wenger to Jose Mourinho, the world’s sexiest football manager has been crowned – do you agree?

      by

      MANCHESTER United may have fallen short of winning the league – but their manager Erik ten Hag has still trounced all rivals.The 53-year-old boss has been ranked the hottest manager of all time in a new survey, backed by science.
      Wag Nicola McClean gives her verdict on each fellaCredit: Getty
      Sports boffins at ticket site SeatPick used the geometric “golden ratio” theory of attractiveness to come up with their Sexiest Footie Bosses league table, with experts using AI to analyse their faces for sexiness.
      Their ratings also take into account managers’ net worth, as well as their height and the number of tweets referring to them as “sexy”.
      Dutchman ten Hag topped the table, scoring 7.78 out of ten in the sexiness stakes, with Arsenal gaffer Mikel Arteta, 41, bagging second place with a score of 7.35.
      Man City’s Pep Guardiola, 52 — who turned heads this week when his team demolished Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final — shares third place with Chelsea’s former “Special One” Jose Mourinho, 60.
      Read More on Football
      Perhaps more surprising additions include ex-Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, 73, and former Newcastle United manager and mullet fan Kevin Keegan, 72, who beat heart-throb Frank Lampard, 44, and Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp, 55, to make it into the top ten.
      Here we list the top ten and their golden ratio score.
      And Wag Nicola McClean, wife of former footballer Tom Williams, gives her verdict on each fella.
      1. Erik ten Hag Man Utd, 7.78
      THE Red Devils leader is the full package – handsome, looks good in a suit and his managerial skills make him attractive.
      Most read in Football
      I can see why he topped the chart.
      Man Utd’s Erik ten Hag topped the chart with 7.78Credit: Getty
      I prefer men with hair but I get why women think he’s fit.
      He looks domineering, which is appealing too.
      2. Mikel Arteta Arsenal, 7.35
      I CAN’T say anything nice about Arsenal, they’re my least favourite team.
      But Mikel is the best looking manager.
      Mikel Arteta is the best looking managerCredit: Getty
      He is my type – dark and handsome.
      And it looks like he joined me in Turkey for those teeth. A great smile.
      3  . Pep Guardiola Man City, 7.07
      A MAN who makes ladies swoon, class Pep has it all – and I like his facial hair.
      Fans’ eyes will be glued to the pitch when his lads play the Champions League final, but I’m sure the ladies won’t be able to take theirs off him.
      The ladies won’t be able to take their eyes off Pep GuardiolaCredit: Getty
      3 . Jose Mourinho Roma, 7.07
      THE Special One is like Marmite but I love an arrogant, confident man.
      I could listen to his voice all day.
      Jose Mourinho is an arrogant, confident manCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      He’s the most intriguing of them all – and he’s my number one.
      5. Carlo Ancelotti Real Madrid, 7.02
      JUST no. Unless you want a rich sugar daddy, I have no idea how any woman could choose him.
      What is he even doing here?
      Carlo Ancelotti looks like a rich sugar daddyCredit: Kenny Ramsay
      He makes Keegan look like David Gandy.
      6. Steven Gerrard ex-Aston Villa, 6.77
      I LOVE Gerrard. His wife Alex is one of the best Wags ever too.
      Any bloke whose wife loves dancing on tables must have good banter, which is also very attractive.
      Steven Gerrard has good banter which is attractiveCredit: Getty
      7. Arsene Wenger ex-Arsenal, 6.76
      I DON’T like Arsenal and I don’t like Arsene. He’s grumpy, which is unattractive.
      The stress of managing Arsenal has aged him.
      The stress of managing Arsenal has aged Arsene WengerCredit: PA:Press Association
      A bit of Botox wouldn’t go amiss, either.
      8. David Moyes West Ham, 6.46
      HE manages my team and when we go to matches he is very entertaining.
      He is passionate on the sidelines and not afraid to question the referees.
      David Moyes is passionate on the sidelines and not afraid to question the refereesCredit: Getty
      Is he good looking? No.
      But he has a lot going for him and is one of my favourites.
      9. Rafael Benitez ex-Everton, 6.24
      HOW on earth has this guy made it?
      There is nothing attractive about the ex-Everton and Liverpool boss. I’m speechless.
      There is nothing attractive about Rafael BenitezCredit: Getty
      It really shows that beauty is in the eye of the beholder if Rafael is in the top ten and Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp isn’t.

      10. Kevin Keegan ex-Newcastle, 5.60
      I AM seriously shocked – but he did make the hideous mullet famous back in the day so he deserves a medal for that.
      I’d give him an eight out of ten for nostalgia, and in my fantasy fitties league he’s above Wenger and Benitez.
      Kevin Keegan made the hideous mullet famous back in the dayCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      in Soccer

      Inside the football clubs making sure EVERY child can play as Harry Maguire and Phil Foden back our grassroots scheme

      by

      AFTER years of desperately wanting to be picked first for the football team, Eddie finally found somewhere that let him play every match.The nine-year-old, who is affected by autism and skull birth defect craniosynostosis, has found confidence with a group of friends.
      Ashford United’s under-11 disability team offers a way into football for youngsters and transforms their lives for the betterCredit: Louis Wood
      And it’s all thanks to Ashford United –– one of the football clubs that The Sun wants to benefit from our Footie For All campaign to help grassroots sport.
      Eddie’s grandmother, Linda Burrows, credits the Kent club’s under-11 disability team, run by Dan Ambler, with giving her grandson new confidence.
      She said: “When Eddie first went along he was hiding behind his mum, but now he is straight out of the car and playing with the other kids.
      “It’s amazing what it has done for his confidence. He believes in himself now.
      “He’s always smiling when he’s playing — even if he doesn’t always get a chance to touch the ball.
      “It’s really nice seeing Eddie do ­normal things that he wasn’t comfortable doing just a few months ago.
      “Dan and the team have made a world of difference. Eddie was never going to be able to play in a traditional team, but this club has made sure he doesn’t miss out.”
      Figures show the cost-of-living crisis is forcing kids away from football, with 94 per cent of grassroots clubs voicing concern about the impact of soaring prices on their membership, according to the charity Sported.
      Most read in Football
      Clubs across the country have told The Sun how parents are struggling to afford to keep their children playing sports as the cost of everyday essentials continues to spiral.
      England stars John Stones, ­Raheem Sterling, Jarrod Bowen and Eric Dier, who all started out in local football, have already lent their support to our campaign.
      Ashford United ace Dan, 37, set up the disability team when he realised his autistic son Jack could not keep up when playing alongside mainstream kids.
      He said: “I saw him being left out, and I wanted to do something about it. I thought other parents might see their children in the same position so I asked around — and within a few days I had 17 other parents whose kids wanted to play.
      “It’s been amazing seeing the kids coming out of their shells. They’ve formed close friendships and the confidence they’ve developed is incredible.
      “Eddie went from being very shy to doing the “worm” celebration in front of everyone at our last match.
      “It’s incredible. It doesn’t matter if you have the skills of Ronaldo or can’t kick a ball — all are welcome.”
      Kids who play on one of the two Ashford under-11 teams have a mix of disabilities, from neurodivergent conditions to physical disabilities such as a missing limb.
      Ashford Town United has been heavily involved in keeping the team going and it provides a lot of ­support to Dan, a podiatrist by day, to get everything right.
      But he has to raise around £800 to keep things afloat, on top of the £25-a-month payment from parents.
      Thanks to huge interest, he is opening up three new teams for this season, bringing the total to six, all of which will need sponsorship.Dan added: “I never turn anyone away.
      “They are welcome whatever disability they have, and I don’t want that to change.
      “It’s going to be quite a challenge, but I’m always up for it and we are used to overcoming difficulties. Hopefully, we’ll make it all work.”
      Today, England footballers Harry Maguire and Phil Foden back our campaign to keep kids playing.
      Two teams also reveal how they are dedicated to making sure all children have access to the sport amid the cost-of-living crisis.
      Phil Foden
      Premier League winner Phil Foden started out with Reddish VulcansCredit: PROVIDED
      Phil Foden now stars for Manchester City and EnglandCredit: Getty
      GRASSROOTS football is where it began for all of us. Whether you play in the Premier League, for your country or on your local park, we all started out playing for our grassroot teams.
      For those of us lucky enough, it goes on to become our jobs. But the grassroots game is for everyone, and it’s important that we continue to support it so that boys and girls across the country can benefit from everything it has to offer.
      For me, playing for my local team gave me the chance to make new friends and learn new skills.
      I loved football then as much as I love football now.
      Knowing you could go and train with your mates during the week and play at the weekend was such an important part of growing up.
      It brings happiness for so many people across the country and it’s so important nothing gets in the way of everyone having that opportunity.
      Harry Maguire
      World Cup ace Harry Maguire began his career with Brunsmeer AthleticCredit: PROVIDED
      He has gone onto play for Sheffield United, Hull City, Leicester City and Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty
      I SPENT my childhood with a football at my feet whenever I had the chance.
      My first memory is having a kickabout with my brother.
      Playing in youth teams for Brunsmeer Athletic, then later Barnsley and ­Sheffield United, gave me a chance to make football into a career, not just a ­passion.
      Kids these days should have that same option, no matter what else is going on around them.
      There is nothing better than playing with a team, winning and learning how to lose.
      It also gives them an outlet and a chance to learn discipline, teamwork and friendship with people they might otherwise not have met.
      I loved my time in grassroots football. Those memories never leave you.
      Beacons FC, Kidbrooke, South East London
      Beacons FC are trying to help make football more afforable for parents and have launched a boots swap schemeCredit: Olivia West
      BEACONS FC has recently launched a boot swap shop to help families keep their kids in footie ­footwear without breaking the bank.
      Club secretary Adam Gillham said: “They are a necessary item parents have to shell out for each season but they can be so ­expensive – especially when kids outgrow them so quickly.
      “At the swap shop, they can donate a pair of boots their child has outgrown and swap them for a pair that fits. Anything we can do to help them save a few quid helps.”
      The club started in Kidbrooke, South East London, in 2001, and now fields eight teams of boys aged seven to 17.
      To play for the season, each player pays a one-off £50 registration fee and £245 in subs which parents are able to pay off in monthly instalments.
      Praising the Sun’s Footie For All drive, Adam said: “We are well aware of the impact of the cost of living on our players’ families in the past year, so any campaign like this will certainly help the grass- roots game.
      “We deliberately kept the fees as low as we could this season, for that reason.
      “We have not increased them since before the pandemic because we know times are hard for so many families – even though we have seen our own costs going up year on year. Football should be for all – not just for those who can afford it.
      “As a club, we do everything we can to help mums and dads who may be struggling financially.
      “If a parent comes to us and says they cannot afford the subs any longer, then of course we would not stop their child playing.
      “Each child deserves a chance to play football – no matter their ability or background. It’s the people’s game.
      “I would like to see more money filter down from the Premier League to real grassroots football – youth football in parks and recreation grounds around the UK – where it is truly needed.”
      Blackburn Eagles FC, Lancs
      Blackburn Eagles vow never to turn away anybody despite parent money strugglesCredit: BLACKBURN EAGLES
      BLACKBURN Eagles has seen more kids struggling to afford to play – but it never turns anyone away.
      The Lancashire academy’s vice chairman Chris Hughes says prices haven’t been raised in around eight years, in a bid to maintain access for all children.
      Kids as young as two take part in the Little Eagles under-six mini-kicker sessions, which cost £15 a month for weekly training.
      As the kids progress through to teams, parents pay £25 a month for a one-weekend game, and £30 a month if kids play Saturdays and Sundays every weekend.
      The club’s team keeps on growing and now has 650 players on its books, making it the biggest in the area.
      Chris, 39, said: “We don’t turn anyone away. We just take on more children, create new groups, create new training sessions and create new teams.”
      The Eagles has a hardship fund to help out families who start to struggle with the costs of subs and kits.
      The club has also recently taken teams out of the Junior Premier League due to the cost of the regular four-hour round trips to play against other teams across the North West.
      Chris said: “There have been conversations about the cost of living and cost of petrol.
      “Stuff is getting expensive, so we’ve brought some of our teams back a little bit more local to help with that.”
      To give even more kids the opportunity to play, Blackburn Eagles is currently looking to link up with local schools and charities to potentially start providing free after-school sessions in poorer communities and deprived areas.
      And Chris believes every child should have the opportunity to play football, due to its benefits for physical and mental wellbeing.
      He added: “It gives kids a good focus and we find that football can be a ­massive part of certain children’s lives.
      Read More on The Sun
      “That might be the one thing they’ll look forward to all week, and sometimes it gets them out of situations where they don’t want to be at home all the time.”

      The Sun’s Footie For All campaign aims to support families through the cost of living crisis More

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      Seven signs Erling Haaland is football’s wackiest star – from awkward workouts with ‘world’s sexiest athlete’ to £2k PJs

      by

      HE’S the unstoppable goal machine who’s often compared to The Terminator.But in real life, Erling Haaland is far from a robot, with a quirky, larger-than-life personality that has frequently left fans in stitches.
      Erling Haaland is easily one of football’s wackiest starsCredit: INSTAGRAM/ERLING HAALAND
      Not only does the Manchester City striker, 22, have 35 goals to his name this season, but he also has a bizarre ‘cannibal’ diet and an astonishing wardrobe of luxury pyjamas.
      Mix that in with hilarious interviews, questionable ‘dark art’ tactics during matches and some very awkward run-ins with influencer supermodels and you have the makings of a truly once-in-a-generation striker.
      Here, we reveal seven ways City’s target man has made his mark – on and off the pitch.
      ‘Dark arts’ tactics
      Haaland is considered among the world’s greatest footballers – as highlighted when he became the Premier League’s highest goal-scorer with five games to go.
      READ MORE FEATURES
      But it seems he’s not always gentlemanly about his tactics, which have amused some fans and left others slamming his “childish mind games”.
      The striker reportedly yelled ‘hit me in my balls’ before this free kickCredit: Twitter
      Haaland appeared to mock Everton’s Ben Godfrey in one matchCredit: BBC
      Earlier this month, the star was branded a “madman” after making a rather unusual shout to his opponent.
      During his team’s 3-0 victory against West Ham, viewers were stunned as he appeared to yell “hit me in my balls” while standing in the wall for a free kick.
      “This man is a different bread I swear,” declared another tweeter.
      Most read in Football
      While another said: “Just when I thought I couldn’t love Haaland anymore…”
      Last year, he also appeared to mock Everton defender Ben Godfrey by pulling a funny face in a video which quickly went viral.
      He was attempting to mimic the player’s complaints to the referee and fans found it hilarious.
      One wrote: “Football is so much better when players have a personality, these were at it all game and made for a great watch.”
      Haaland was accused of ‘farting’ on players during a match against Bayern MunichCredit: Tiktok
      In another bizarre moment, Haaland was accused of having “no respect” by Bayern Munich’s Leon Goretzka after apparently farting throughout their Champion’s League clash.
      Hilarious footage emerged of the defender, 28, pinching his nose while his rival grinned broadly.
      Later, Goretzka told international newspapers that Haaland “farted every time we approached him”.
      The revelation, which fans joked could explain his whopping score sheet, led some to rebrand the star “Erling Fartland”.
      One amusingly quipped: “Extra propulsion for additional speed.”
      Squad banter
      Haaland’s reputation for being a jokester led to him being cast in a Sky Sports video, where he explained what he was doing while his Man City teammates were at the World Cup.
      In the video, he was seen driving a lawn mower, dressing up like the club’s mascot and pretending to talk with teammates’ football shirts.
      Haaland released an amusing video about what he did to keep occupied while Man City’s England players were at the World CupCredit: instagram.com/skysports
      He even dressed up in the Man City mascot’s headCredit: instagram.com/skysports
      He said: “I have been working hard while the guys are away. Sometimes it’s a bit boring but time is flying.
      “I do miss all the banter, I’m not going to deny… celebrating goals alone it’s not the same.”
      In another video back in March, Haaland and Jack Grealish handed out an Oscar-style award to the team’s “biggest fraud”.
      They announced the gong would go to Ruben Dias and the England ace said he was “in the gym four times a day” but they “never see anything”.
      Haaland added: “Yeah, I mean, he’s all the time in the gym and the results… where is the results?!”
      Odd diet
      In his doc, Haaland revealed he ate hearts and liversCredit: Haaland: The Big Decision.
      Haaland’s complicated water filtration systemCredit: Haaland: The Big Decision.
      Haaland’s stomach issues may come as no surprise considering his, erm, unique diet.
      The star has revealed he eats huge chunks of freshly-butchered heart and liver, which he says maintains his peak performance on the pitch.
      His unusual intake led him to be compared to the fictional cannibal Hannibal Lecter, originally seen in the film Silence Of The Lambs.
      In the 2022 documentary Haaland: The Big Decision, he said: “You (referring to other people) don’t eat this but I am concerned with taking care of my body.
      “I think eating quality food that is as local as possible is the most important.”
      Haaland consumes a whopping 6,000 calories a day – more the double the recommended amount for men – and often requests cheese and ham omelettes from Man City chefs.
      His odd consumption habits don’t stop there as it was also revealed he only drinks water from a complicated filter system that has multiple tubes and cords.
      He starts the day by getting “some sunlight in my eyes”, which he said was “good for cardiac rhythm”, before having his pimped-up H2O.
      “I have also started to filtrate my water a bit. I think it can have great benefits for my body,” Haaland said. 
      The star, who regularly takes ice baths, drinks the fluid from glasses that filter out blue light and claims it helps to improve his sleep. 
      Quirky posts
      Haaland’s quirky personality extends to his social media accounts too.
      In an April Instagram post, he revealed he drinks a “magic potion” – aka goats milk – and share some snaps of him at a farm.
      The striker claimed a ‘magic potion’ – goats milk – was behind his high score tallyCredit: instagram.com/erling.haaland
      The footballer also has shared a number of snaps of himself in animated scenes, including one showing him as a Viking.
      In one post depicting him with a zombified face, he wished fans “HAPPY HAALANDWEEN!!”.
      On another occasion in March, the star shared a touching post to mark International Women’s Day – but it didn’t go exactly to plan.
      He posted a word search but referred to it as a “crossword puzzle”, leading to mockery from fans.
      One wrote: “What makes it even better is that isn’t a crossword puzzle.”
      Another, making light of the situation, quipped: “Babe, are you feeling okay? You didn’t even finish your Official Erling Haaland International Women’s Day Crossword puzzle…”
      Hilarious interviews
      Haaland gave ‘hilarious’ responses to one interviewer earlier on in his careerCredit: YouTube
      In comparison to most media-trained footballers, Haaland’s post-match interviews are a breath of fresh air.
      Back in 2019, he revealed that he sleeps with up to five footballs in his bed and branded them his “girlfriends”.
      Haaland told Dagbladet: “They lie in bed and I sleep well with them… I look at them every day. The best thing is to score goals.”
      “In Salzburg, I have five,” he added. “They are my girlfriends.”
      And it seems the tradition has continued since joining Man City, as part of a £51.2million five-year deal in 2022.
      When quizzed about the odd antics in February, he replied: “It’s true. I love when I score a hat-trick to just feel the ball a bit more.”
      But when he’s not talking about his ‘girlfriends’, unlucky reporters can occasionally draw the short straw with some very awkward responses.
      In September 2019, after netting three goals to help his side Red Bull Salzburg win against Belgian team Genk, his very half-hearted post-match interview left fans praising his “dry wit”.
      The reporter asked: “You made history scoring your first-half hat-trick, how are you feeling right now?
      Haaland replied, “I feel good”, before being pushed to elaborate.
      He added: “You asked how I feel. I answered.”
      Next Haaland was quizzed about his “secret” behind scoring 17 goals in just nine games, only for him to give the answer: “To work hard.”
      The exasperated reporter then asked: “You go to Liverpool in two weeks’ time. Your father [Alfe-Inge Haaland] scored at Anfield in 1997, are you hoping to follow suit?”
      The star said: “I hope so.”
      Sometimes with Haaland, it appears the less said, the better!
      Pyjama obsession 
      Haaland splashes out on pyjamas worth up to £2,400Credit: Social Media
      He even wears them to high-end restaurants and teammates ‘giggle’ at his dress sense
      Footballers are renowned for their expensive tastes in clothing – but the Man City ace appears to have focused on a very specific type of outfit.
      It seems that Haaland has a penchant for expensive pyjamas as he’s got a wardrobe full of pieces costing up to £2,450 a set.
      In April, he was snapped in red, white and black Dolce & Gabbana PJs that cost £1,000 while flying to the Monaco Grand Prix.
      Haaland’s also dined out in his nightwear too – including at high-end Manchester restaurant Rosso, when he wore a powder blue silk shirt that cost £1,100.
      Last December, he shared a snap of himself in £2,450 Dolce & Gabbana pyjamas while wishing fans a Happy Christmas.
      The footballer’s teammates reportedly “have a giggle” at his odd dress sense.
      One source told the Daily Mail: “He has so much money but look what he wears!”
      Haaland also got a bit of flack for a GQ photoshoot in January when he let down his flowing blond locks.
      Racy workouts
      Haaland recorded a workout video with fitness guru Pamela ReifCredit: YouTube
      Borussia Dortmund hired the ‘world’s sexiest athlete’ Alica Schmidt to train its playersCredit: instagram.com/alicasmd
      Keeping in peak physical condition is a must for any sportsperson, yet it seemed Borussia Dortmund took an unorthodox approach to fitness while Haaland was there.
      In 2021, they hired Olympic hopeful Alica Schmidt, who was branded the “Sexiest Athlete in the World” by Australian magazine Busted Coverage.
      After spotting photos of the 24-year-old stunner, one fan quipped: “That’s why players stay in Dortmund.”
      Another described it as “the greatest strategy of any club to keep their best players” and a third added: “I bet this is why Haaland didn’t wanna leave.”
      A year later, Haaland recorded an exercise video with fitness guru Pamela Reif, who has nine million followers, to help Dortmund fans exercise at home.
      And the pair appeared to hit it off during their nine-minute video, especially when the football found some stretches too hard to complete.
      Read More on The Sun
      After the hilarious and awkward video was posted, one fan wrote: “I like Dortmund’s strategy of keeping Haaland at the club.”
      Sadly for supporters of the German football team, Haaland left the club later that year to join Man City. More

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      in Soccer

      Peter Crouch and Abbey Clancy’s sauciest bedroom confessions – post-Strictly sex marathon to racy role play & emoji code

      by

      THEY’VE never been shy, retiring types – but Peter Crouch and Abbey Clancy have been extremely candid about their sex life. Since starting their Therapy Crouch podcast this year Abbey, 37, and Peter, 42, have become even more open about what they get up to in the bedroom. 
      Peter Crouch and Abbey Clancy have never shied away from PDAsCredit: Instagram
      The couple have been extremely candid about their sex life on podcast The Therapy CrouchCredit: Instagram
      Peter was once asked what he’d be if not a footballer and famously quipped: “A virgin”.
      And now the couple’s recent revelation over Peter’s use of sexy emojis left some fans in hysterics. 
      It’s not the only saucy confession they’ve made in their 18-year relationship.
      From role play to Strictly sex marathons, we reveal the Crouches’ sauciest ever sex stories.
      READ MORE ON ABBEY CLANCY
      ‘Freak in the bed’ 
      On their podcast Pete joked he had never scored until he met Abbey in a Liverpool nightclub in 2005.
      He had netted two goals in a match against Wigan the night they met – and referred to Abbey as his “hat trick”.
      But model Abbey insisted she made him wait for nookie because she isn’t a “complete ho” – but described her bedroom style as “Lady on the street, freak in bed”.
      Peter joked back while referring to Ludacris’s song Nasty Girl: “Clean in the workplace, dirty in the sheets.”
      Most read in Football
      Nordic and naughty
      Abbey admitted she’s a ‘freak in the bed’Credit: Instagram
      Abbey confessed she’d love to dress Peter as a sexy Viking to spice things up after watching a show about the Nordic pillagers. 
      She said: “I would love you to get jealous. The only time you got jealous was when I was watching that Viking thing. 
      “There’s this show, The Vikings and they are all unreal. Vikings is a thing.”
      She added: “When I watched that show. They’re just cool. Even the girls are as hard as nails. But hot as anything.”
      Peter protested he would look more like Rodney Trotter – getting Vikings confused with Gladiators. 
      He joked to his wife: “You started going to me, ‘Why don’t you be like a Viking?’
      “Have you seen Only Fools And Horses, have you seen when Rodney dresses up as a Gladiator? 
      Emoji code 
      Glamourous Abbey told how she has to “trick” Pete into keeping his hands off herCredit: Instagram
      Abbey branded Peter “vile” for the emoji code he sends her when he’s in the mood. 
      The couple – who have four children together, two boys and two girls called Sophia, Liberty, Jack and Johnny – say they get frisky when the kids are at school. 
      But Abbey claims Peter ruins the mood with his grotesque texts. 
      She said: “I just don’t know how long I can go on with these sexual emojis that you keep sending me.
      “If the kids go to school and he hears me like, put the key in the door, I’m in and no one’s in the house, I just get a beaver and an aubergine emoji text. 
      “I’m not even gonna say the last one but you can imagine what it is.” 
      Peter confirmed: “There’s three emojis.” 
      Abbey described the third emoji: “I’ve got a bit of hydration in there. How vile is that? Am I supposed to go, ‘Oh yeah, now I’m bang up for it’.”
      She added: “Do you think you’re going to get lucky with those messages?”
      Crouch replied: “I’m just letting you know, I’m just putting my cards on the table.”
      Post Strictly sex marathon
      Abbey put Peter on a sex ban while she competed on StrictlyCredit: PA:Press Association
      While competing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2013, Abbey placed Peter on a football-style sex ban. 
      But after 13 weeks in the wilderness, Abbey went on to win the series – which was no doubt a relief to Peter who then played for Stoke City. 
      Abbey told the Daily Star: “Let’s just say Peter is looking forward to having me back. 
      “He just kissed me and twirled me around when I won. I need to spend some quality time with him.”
      Pussy galore
      Abbey revealed she had to buy an XXL bed to accommodate 6ft 7 PeterCredit: BBC
      Abbey has told how the only thing that can put her off sex with Pete is having their beloved pet cat in the room. 
      Peter said the cats had become a bone of contention – especially when he could hear them doing their business in their litter boxes. 
      He said: “So you know whatever happens in our bedroom, you know if I’m relaxing, in the bath, sleeping… There might be the odd occasion where you know things may progress…”
      Peter continued: “Well it always seems to be like when you’re doing any of those things, I hear the rustling of stones.”
      Abbey replied: “I would never have sex in front of our cat. Let’s just put that out there.”
      Peter then added: “Honestly, every time you hear the rustling of stones and you just think to yourself, cat’s having a s***.”
      Quality not quantity
      Abbey says Peter is lucky to get sex once every two weeksCredit: Instagram
      Abbey revealed how with four kids the duo are “lucky” to get down to business once every fortnight. 
      The pair laughed after a listener claimed his sex life had dwindled to only once every two weeks. 
      The fan wrote in: “Naturally as the years have gone by things have started to slow down a bit. This has gotten worse over the past six months and we are lucky if we get it on once every couple of weeks.”
      Abbey responded: “That sounds bloody fine. I think he’s lucky, him.” 
      Peter chipped in: “Peter, 42, from Surrey is that.”
      Abbey continued: “I think he should grow up, once every two weeks, what’s he complaining about?”
      Hair dryer treatment
      Abbey revealed she uses a trick to confuse her frisky husband while drying her hair.
      She said Peter used to always try it on while she used the hairdryer in the nude so she banned him from the bedroom. 
      But after he ignored the ban she devised a double knotting system for her dressing gown to slow him down. 
      She said: “It drives me insane. I’ve come up with a new tactic with the dressing gown.
      “Instead of tying the belt at the front, I tie it at the back. It’s like ‘how do I untie this thing?’ It works a treat.”
      Asked by Peter why she would not want him admiring her, she replied: “I do.”
      Playing footsy
      Abbey once revealed how she had to get a custom bed made to accommodate Peter’s 6ft 7 frame.
      Read More on The Sun
      As a young couple, they made the purchase after Pete’s feet stuck out the end of a regular sized bed which usually measures 6ft 5. 
      She told This Morning in 2008: “It’ll be the first time Pete’s feet are not going to stick out the end.” More

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      in Boxing

      Ultimate boxing rich list including star worth $400m thanks to a strip club and Brit paid $76m for one fight alone

      by

      BOXING pros might take a few knocks in the ring but there’s one area in their life which never takes a blow – their finances. With some commanding a $76million pay packet for just one bout, boxing can be a lucrative profession. 
      Retiree Floyd Mayweather Jr. has made a mint from his Las Vegas strip clubCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Anthony Joshua has become one of the highest paid Brit boxers of all timeCredit: Getty
      And that’s not factoring in the countless sponsorship and endorsement deals each fighter can snag outside the ring. 
      From seven-figure streaming deals to strip clubs and documentaries, we reveal the deals behind top earners’ estimated net worths. 
      Deontay Wilder, $30m
      Deontay Wilder made $20million for defeating Luiz Ortiz in a 2020 rematchCredit: AP:Associated Press
      As one of the top heavyweights in the world, Wilder’s purses are in the millions. 
      He was paid $28million for his Tyson Fury rematch, and $20million for his Luiz Ortiz rematch in 2020.
      READ MORE BOXING
      But the boxer is no stranger to an endorsement deal – it is thought he had made $500,000 from brand work.
      He’s put his name to Everlast Boxing, fast food restaurant Raising Cane’s and PureKana CBD. 
      Gennady Golovkin, $35m 
      Gennady Golovkin could be in for earning megabucks after a $100m streaming dealCredit: Getty
      The Kazakh star may not be a big personality but he’s certainly unleashed his earning potential. 
      Last year, Golovkin was thought to pocket $20million from his bout with Mexican fighter Canelo Alvarez. 
      Most read in Boxing
      And he could rival Alvarez’s earning potential too – he signed a three-year six-fight agreement for $100million with streaming site DAZN. 
      He has also had sponsorship deals with Nike, Hublot watches and Tecate beer during his career.

      Amir Khan, $40m 
      Bolton’s Amir Khan isn’t afraid to show off his $40m fortune on reality TVCredit: AFP
      The catchweight was handed a two-year ban for unintentionally doping but is in no danger of going broke. 
      Khan reckons he’s made over $80million over the course of his boxing career. 
      But in his reality show Meet the Khans, his wife Faryal Makhdoom took control of his finances after Khan admitted he had “no idea” where $6.25million of his own cash had gone. 
      He and his wife have been building a luxury wedding venue in his hometown Bolton. 
      Oleksandr Usyk, $56m 
      Ukranian Usyk has made over £1million of his fortune from endorsement dealsCredit: EPA
      Before his two fights with Anthony Joshua in the last two years, the Ukrainian had only received two purses over £1million. 
      Without the two Joshua fights, Usyk’s career earnings would be around an estimated £6million but the profile boost has landed him in good stead.
      The low key fighter’s endorsement deals are thought to be worth around $1.2million with clothing maker Jaxet, BoxRaw and WePlay Esports.
      Wladimir Klitschko, $90m
      Klitschko could bolster his fortune with a promised upcoming bout against Tyson FuryCredit: Rex Features
      For Klitschko’s last two fights he earned a staggering $36million in total, sweetening his defeats against Fury and Joshua. 
      Although he retired in 2017, he earned an estimated pre-tax $200million during the entirety of his boxing career. 
      Hunky Klitschko – who once dated actress Hayden Panettiere – also earned a fair whack from sponsorship deals with Hugo Boss, gym McFit and Mercedes Benz. 
      Last year, he joined the Ukrainian Territorial Defence Brigade in the war against Russia but has been plotting a return to the ring to fight Fury. 
      Canelo Alvarez, $180m  
      Canelo is on a path to become one of the richest sportsmenCredit: Reuters
      The Mexican super middleweight signed a $365million fight contract with Oscar De La Hoya’s promotion company and DAZN. 
      The deal has set Canelo on a path to become one of the richest sportsmen. 
      Between June 2018 and June 2019, Canelo earned $95million from his fights and deals, according to Marca.
      He’s sponsored by Mexican beer company Tecate, cognac Hennessy and Cleto Reyes boxing gloves. 
      Tyson Fury, $162m 
      Tyson Fury has earned his millions both in and out of the ring with a Netflix series and book dealsCredit: Reuters
      The Gypsy King signed a $99million contract for five fights from ESPN in 2021. 
      Fury picked up $27.5million for his third fight with Deontay Wilder, $31million against Dillian Whyte and $26million in his most recent clash with Derek Chisora. 
      And the Morecambe-based boxer’s cheeky personality leaves him in demand for personal appearances too. 
      He was paid $15million for a single appearance at WWE’s Crown Jewel pay-per-view in Saudi Arabia where he wrestled Braun Strowman. 
      His Netflix 10-part docuseries and his four autobiographies will no doubt have paid a pretty penny too. 
      Anthony Joshua, $211m 
      Anthony Joshua’s endorsement deal with Under Armour has put the sports brand on the mapCredit: @anthonyjoshua
      The Watford-born powerhouse reportedly earned a staggering $76million for his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk last year.
      Recently he left Sky Sports to sign an exclusive contract with DAZN that will see him rake in another $125million in exchange for two fights every 12 months until he retires.
      But outside the ring Joshua is expected to have raked in at least $122million through coveted sponsorship deals.  
      Sports clothing Under Armour, Hugo Boss, Land Rover and Jaguar are all worth millions to Joshua and saw him earn a total of $11million in 2021.
      Manny Pacquiao, $220m 
      Manny Pacquiao was the second richest athlete in the world in 2015Credit: AFP – Getty
      During his career, Pac-man has earned at least $500million from fights and endorsements including a $35million from a fight against Miguel Cotto.
      In 2015, Forbes named the Filipino the second richest athlete in the world. 
      He retired from his fighting career in 2021 and has since had cameos in mainly Filipino movies.
      He also served as a senator in the Philippine government from 2016 to 2022 and was a presidential candidate in the 2022 elections.
      But he’s put his good fortune to use too – in 2015 he built 1,000 homes for the poor in the Philippines. 
      Floyd Mayweather Jr, $450m 
      Floyd Mayweather Jr. has been plotting a return to the ring against mafia grandson John Gotti IIICredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The exhibition fighter has made his millions through his pay-per-view bouts – with him featuring in four of the most watched fights. 
      He’s also invested in some savvy business ideas in his downtime. 
      He runs his own promotions company who represent 12 boxers and will take a cut from their earnings.
      Read More on The Sun
      Watch company Hublot, Burger King and gambling company Fanduel all reportedly have paid Mayweather to be the face of their brands.
      He also owns Vegas strip club Girl Collection which has takings of up to $250,000 on fight nights.  More