More stories

  • in

    Geordie Shore star Aaron Chalmers in ‘violent’ career switch after announcing retirement from boxing and MMA

    AARON CHALMERS is returning to the ring – and this time the fighting will be more violent than ever.The reality TV star left the Geordie Shore house in 2017 to become a professional MMA fighter – where he amassed a 5-2 record. Aaron Chalmers is coming out of combat retirementCredit: Instagram @aaroncgshoreThe Geordie Shore star has signed for BKFCChalmers then focussed on boxing and had five bouts mixed from pro fights and crossover-style exhibitions including a contest with legend Floyd Mayweather.But after a lack of offers, combined with a personal life stresses, the 37-year-old hung up his gloves. That was until Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship – co-owned by UFC legend Conor McGregor and David Feldman – came knocking. Chalmers told SunSport: “I just gave up and then BKFC reached out, and I knew it was going to take something big to bring us back.READ MORE IN BOXING”I spoke to David a couple of times on the phone, and I was just like, ‘Ah, this is this definitely is right up my street.'”Obviously got a multi-fight contract and yeah, I think he’s got some big plans for us. So I’m excited.”It’s another one. I’ve done MMA, I’ve done boxing, I’ve done influencer boxing now into the bare-knuckle. “So I’ve kind of ticked off most of the top combat sports I could probably tick off.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSChalmers shelved a £12,000 nose job to continue his combat career. But after taking a step back from TV work, he does not have to worry about protecting the money maker so much. Sickening moment fighter snaps ankle mid-fight before slipping it back into place as if nothing happenedHe said: “Is this any more brutal than getting elbowed in the face in MMA? “Is it more brutal than getting kicked in the face in MMA or kneed in the face? I don’t know.”I mean, there’s only one way to find out. It’s just pure violence, really, isn’t it?”I need to learn to hit and not get hit. So there’s gonna be a lot more movement than just standing there like I do in the boxing and trying to have a scrap.”My coach, he’s like, ‘I want you to be in and out.’ So that’s all well and good doing that for eight weeks in training but as soon as you get in there, it’s a totally different story.”Like I say, listen, I’m older now and they came in with a great offer that I couldn’t turn down. So I’m not really too bothered about the face.”I’m getting on now. It’s not like I’m on TV in front of all these people, so yeah, I’m just excited.”American TikToker Bryce Hall, 25, won his BKFC debut last year while YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, 27, is also a target for Chalmers. He said: “Bryce Hall, that would be a great fight for me. Obviously, I want to get me feet in, I wanna get my toes wet in there, see what it’s like.”Maybe have one or two, and then we can start looking at people like that. “I mean, I still think if I make a big enough splash in BKFC, the fight with Jake Paul can be there.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We’ve got to make a big splash. Basically, we need to get back to back to the Bellator days, the Bamma days, where I was knocking people out cold.”That’s that’s what gets the interest. So that’s what we’re going back to.”Chalmers even faced boxing great Floyd MayweatherCredit: PAChalmers’ record was 5-2 in MMACredit: Getty Images – Getty More

  • in

    Luke Littler puts brave face on after Man Utd hammering as darts star brutally trolls Liverpool legend

    LUKE LITTLER put on a brave face as he trolled a Liverpool legend just minutes after they beat his beloved Manchester United.Arne Slot’s lot ran rampant against their bitter rivals on Sunday, registering an emphatic 3-0 win at Old Trafford.Manchester United suffered an embarrassing 3-0 defeat to Liverpool at the weekendCredit: PAUnited superfan Luke Littler caught the score before his German Darts Masters clash with Peter WrightCredit: INSTAGRAM/MANCHESTER UNITEDLittler decided to take aim at Kop icon Steven Gerrard after the matchAnd rather than take to social media to show his disappointment, darts sensation Littler took to his Instagram to troll Reds legend Steven Gerrard.The 17-year-old – who was filmed playing darts as a toddler while wearing an England shirt with Gerrard’s name on it – posted a side-by-side picture of himself holding his Premier League Darts trophy and the Kop icon looking dejected to his story.And he emblazoned a 1-0 scoreline across the snap in a blunt reference to Gerrard’s failure to win the English top fight.Gerard has yet to respond to Littler’s dig, which came after the teen lost the Geman Darts Masters final to Peter Wright.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLittler was beaten by Peter ‘Snakebite’ Wright 8-5 in a sensational final in Hildesheim.Littler was overcome with emotion after losing the match, in which he sarcastically applauded fans.And he later revealed he broke down as one of his best friends is currently mourning the loss of his father.He wrote on his Instagram story: “Not looking for sympathy or anything I was just trying to say how my best mate has lost his dad at such a young age.Most read in DartsLuke Littler lost the German Darts Masters final to Peter Wright on SundayCredit: PDC Europe”I’ve known Ellis since we both was 3,4 and it’s been on my mind all week the strongest lad I know.”And just couldn’t get the job done as I would of liked.”Luke Littler in shock split from girlfriend Eloise Milburn with darts star, 17, heartbroken after 10 months of datingFan favourite Wright received a roaring reception after winning the tournament and was also overcome with emotion.Choking back tears, an emotional Wright said: “I’m on the way back.” More

  • in

    Footballer attacked at home by thugs after appearing in Bayern Munich shirt as police launch probe

    POLICE are investigating an attack on Nurnberg footballer Niklas-Wilson Sommer.The right-back was attacked in his home and shared images of his wounds on social media.Niklas-Wilson Sommer was attacked in his homeCredit: https://www.instagram.com/niklas.wilson/The attack is thought to be because he wore a Bayern Munich shirtCredit: https://www.instagram.com/niklas.wilson/The incident took place after he shared a picture of himself wearing a Bayern Munich shirt.The image had been deleted from social media and Sommer had already apologised for it.The 26-year-old has been supported by the club, which has condemned the attack.A club statement read: “During the night from Saturday to Sunday, there was a physical attack on one of our U23 players.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”By lying in wait on the doorstep in the early evening and then physically attacking him a few hours later in the night, these people crossed all boundaries.”The act is apparently a reaction to the player appearing in a Bayern jersey on social media three days earlier.”The photo was deleted shortly after publication and the player also publicly apologized.”The club will never accept players being physically attacked.Most read in Football”That is exactly what happened last night through the actions of individuals.”The club condemns this behaviour in the strongest possible terms. It is absolutely incompatible with the values ​​of FCN.Sommer currently plays for Nunrberg IICredit: GettyHe has also played for Mannheim and DAC Dunajská StredaCredit: Getty”The police investigation into the incident began last night.”If there are any convictions in this connection, the club will of course react accordingly.”Former Premier League star John Paintsil rushed to hospital after terrifying car crashSommer was targeted by a crowd protest during the 4-0 defeat at home to Magdeburg on Saturday.One banner read: “Club pride instead of hipster posing. Niklas Wilson, you’re s**t, like FCB.”Another stated: “Wilson, p**s off, you Bayern pig.”Sommer shared images of the wounds he suffered after the attack on social media.The pictures showed red marks and swelling across his face.Sommer posted his injuries on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/niklas.wilson/Swelling could be seen around his faceCredit: https://www.instagram.com/niklas.wilson/Who are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    ‘Absolute poet’ Peter Drury leaves fans divided with ‘unnecessary’ pun live on Sky Sports after Man Utd vs Liverpool

    SKY SPORTS commentator Peter Drury took social media by storm with a comical pun after the Premier League derby between Liverpool and Manchester United.Drury, 56, covered the Reds’ 3-0 victory over United at Old Trafford.Sky Sports commentator Peter Drury went viral with a comical punCredit: AlamyDrury made a pun about Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s successful startThe Merseysiders’ winning streak under new manager Arne Slot was extended to three games, while goalkeeper Alisson kept a third clean sheet in a row.Drury appeared to get a little carried away amid Liverpool’s stunning start to the campaign as he went on to praise Slot.And the journalist decided to have a little fun with the use of an innocent pun.Drury said: “The Slot machine has paid out its first big jackpot.”Read More on FootballThat pun left fans divided as they stormed social media immediately after.One fan tweeted: “Peter Drury man. That’s unnecessary.”Another commented: “Even by Peter Drury’s own standards he needs locking up for that pun.”A third wrote: “Peter Drury you beauty.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThis fan said: “Where does Peter Drury drag these out from. Unreal.”And that one posted: “Peter Drury is an absolute poet.”Sky Sports News interrupt Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher’s spa day live on TV to get Man Utd vs Liverpool predictionsLiverpool are second in the Premier League table with the exact same points as leaders Manchester City who are ahead on goals scored. More

  • in

    Former Premier League star’s son labelled ‘cheat code’ as he scores just 22 minutes into debut for new club

    THE son of a former Premier League star has been labelled a “cheat code” after scoring just 22 minutes into his debut.Leo Castledine, the son of ex-Premier League star Stewart, sealed a loan transfer to League One outfit Shrewsbury from Chelsea last week.Leo Castledine scored just 22 minutes into his Shrewsbury debutCredit: X @shrewsburytownThe 19-year-old joined the League One side from Chelsea on loanCredit: RexThe highly-rated 19-year-old made his debut for the Blues in their Carabao Cup clash against Middlesbrough last season.However, he was sent on his first senior loan move to continue his development. And the attacking midfielder wasted no time in showing what he can do after netting Shrewsbury’s opener in their 3-0 win over Leyton Orient on Saturday.Castledine made a smart run into the right channel before he was slipped into the penalty with a deft pass from Tommi O’Reilly, who is on loan from Aston Villa.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe teen then made no mistake when he was presented with the chance in front of goal, managing to squeeze a first-time shot into Zach Hemming’s near post.Taking to Instagram after the game, Castledine shared a video of the goal and captioned his post: “3 points and a goal on my league debut, what a feeling! Looking forward to next week @shrewsburytown 💙🧡.”Reacting to his debut on social media, one fan said: “Leo Castledine and Tommi O’Reilly is a f***ing cheat code. Wow.”A second said: “Leo Castledine looks a player. Makes you wonder how Shrewsbury managed to see him and get him on loan from Chelsea and we didn’t.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA third added: “Chelsea’s Leo Castledine, on league debut, picked out by Villa’s Tommi O’Reilly. Can already tell these two loanees are gonna be fun at.”Tom Bloxham came off the bench to round out the result for the Shrews as he netted a brace with goals in the 82nd and 95th minute of play.Chelsea fans can’t name their OWN PLAYERS after another wild transfer window under owner Todd BoehlyThe result was the first win of the season for Paul Hurst’s side and shot them out of the relegation zone.Meanwhile, it left Orient still looking for their first win of the campaign with four defeats on the bounce to start the season leaving them rock-bottom of League One.Can you name the famous fathers? More

  • in

    Football world pays emotional tribute to Sol Bamba with ex-teammate shaken ‘to my core’ by news of tragic death at 39

    SOL BAMBA’S untimely death aged just 39 has seen an outpouring of emotion from the football world.The Ivory Coast international passed away after falling ill while working in Turkey on Friday following a battle with cancer.Neil Warnock shared a close bond with Sol BambaCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe former Cardiff defender tragically passed away this weekCredit: GettySol Bamba was a popular figure in English footballCredit: RexBamba, who leaves behind wife Chloe and their three children, was a hugely popular figure within the game.And the esteem with which he was held had been reflected by the messages shared on social media in the wake of his tragic passing.Neil Warnock, who signed Bamba before leading Cardiff to the Premier League, paid a glowing tribute.He wrote on X: “I can’t believe I won’t see that beaming smile again.READ MORE ON BAMBA”I’m so happy that Sol was part of my life and we had such brilliant memories together.”I’m heartbroken for Chloe and the family and all my thoughts are with them.”Sol was a ray of sunshine and I’ll miss him so much.”Former Cardiff defender Lee Peltier wrote on X: “Love you brother. Rest easy my big brother – always there for me, will never forget.”Most read in FootballEx-Bluebirds defender and manager Mark Hudson said: “Never had the chance to witness what a truly great man and leader you were.”We have shared stories and I loved our chats, however brief. My heart goes out to Sol’s family. I am devastated for you.”Junior Hoilett, who won promotion with Cardiff alongside Bamba, said: “RIP Big Bro. Love Always.”Ipswich’s Sam Morsy, who was with Bamba at Middlesbrough, wrote: “Ahhh man big Sol .. incredible human one of the best I’ve shared a dressing room with, at the start of his coaching career.”Writing in Arabic, Morsy added: “We belong to Allah and to him we shall return.”Former Middlesbrough defender Cyrus Christie said: “This news has shook me to my core. Only the other day we spoke as you started your managerial career.”Fly high brother, may your soul rest in peace. One of the nicest and most humble guys to grace this game. Thoughts and prayers go out to your family.”Sol Bamba poses with wife ChloeCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoThey had three children togetherCredit: Instagram @cebambaSol Bamba enjoyed a long careerCredit: RexCurrent Cardiff left-back Callum O’Dowda said: “Heartbroken. Despite everything you went through, you epitomised the most positive outlook on life. A lesson I will hold forever. My thoughts are with your family.”Bluebirds goalkeeper Jak Alnwick wrote: “Rest in peace Sol, one of the nicest guys I’ve ever come across in football.”And Neil Etheridge, a team-mate of Bamba’s at Cardiff, said: “One of the nicest guys I have met off the field and on it.”Always smiling, always so happy, always seeing the brighter side of life.”When I joined the club, before he knew me, Sol treated me as a brother. When we got to know each other we became family. Rest in peace Sol.”Ex-Cardiff winger Nathaniel Mendez-Laing wrote: “My guy always looked out for me. Love you brother.”Cardiff, where Bamba made 118 appearances, said the centre-back was a “hero” and described his impact at the club as “immeasurable”.Bamba’s health battlesSol Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma on Christmas Eve 2020 before undergoing four months of chemo.He told Mail Sport in 2022: “After the first chemo I was down for four days.”I could not get out of bed. I lost weight. After that, I told my missus, ‘I’m not going for the second round’. The way I was, in that moment, it was awful.” But the defender quickly rose to the occasion and was lauded for raising awareness of the disease as he battled it head on.Speaking to the Guardian in November last year he said: “The way I went about it, people gave me praise … it was too much.”That’s just what I’m like. I understand some people prefer to shy away from it, but I’m different. I’m just being myself.“Even clubs now are being careful now when they do medical checks, all the way from Premier League to League Two, which is massive. In our game we talk about injuries but you never think about cancer.”Bamba was given the all-clear in May 2021, but said he still had to be “careful”, paying regular visits to the doctor.“Unfortunately when you’ve had cancer once, you always have to double check and make sure it doesn’t come back,” he continued. “Is it behind me 100%? Well, I wish but you never know.”Incredibly, he returned to playing football just five months after his diagnosis.At the time of his comeback, he said: “When I was going through chemo, I never thought for one minute I would come back and play. And I never thought about scoring penalties at Old Trafford – nights like that seemed a million miles away.”The club wrote: “As a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our football club was immeasurable. He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman.”Leeds – another former club – said in a post on X: “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away.”Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts.”Middlesbrough said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39.”Our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends at this time.”A Football Association of Wales statement read: “The FAW is devastated to hear the sad news of Sol Bamba’s passing.”Sol obtained his coaching badges with the FAW and was currently studying for his Uefa pro licence, where everyone he worked with admired his positivity and his love for the game.”Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Sol’s family, friends and everyone that knew him during this difficult time.”Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff but managed to return to the field for the Bluebirds after being declared cancer-free following chemotherapy.Wife’s statementHe had three children – Roonea, Lily and Amy.Bamba’s wife Chloe paid tribute to the gentle giant in a heartbreaking statement.She wrote: “For the last few years I have watched Sol fight his cancer head on with an astounding mental and physical strength and stoicism.”Unfortunately, it was never a fair fight and just when things were looking up he took a downturn and finally succumbed on 31 August.”These years have been indescribably difficult but we still managed to find joy and laughter in it. I’ve experienced my worst days but also some of my best.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Sol accepted his fate as God’s will and left this earth knowing, without a shadow of a doubt, that he was loved wholeheartedly. I made sure of that.”It was an honour to have loved and been loved by Sol. I learnt so much from him. He is my hero. My heart is breaking. What a gift, what a gift, what a gift to have been loved by him.” More

  • in

    Sol Bamba’s touching final tweet as former Leicester and Cardiff star tragically dies at 39 after health battle

    SOL BAMBA’S final tweet was a heartfelt tribute to former manager Sven Goran Eriksson.The retired defender tragically passed away aged 39 after falling ill on Friday following a brave fight with cancer.Sol Bamba passed away this week after a brave fight against cancerCredit: Instagram @solbambaThe defender played for Leicester from 2011-2012Credit: GettyHe paid tribute to former Foxes boss Sven-Goran Eriksson in his final post on XCredit: GettySol Bamba had three children with wife ChloeCredit: Instagram @solbambaTributes have flooded in from former clubs, as well as Bamba’s heartbroken wife Chloe.Eriksson’s tragic death aged 76 after his own battle with cancer was confirmed by his family on Monday.Bamba played under the Swede with Leicester and the Ivory Coast and paid a moving tribute to the manager.He wrote: “Deeply devastated by the news of Sven’s passing today.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He was not just an exquisite person, but he was also the best coach I’ve ever had, inspiring my journey as a player but also as a manager.”My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Sven.”A fan later replied under the post: “Quite fitting your own final message was one of such respect and sincerity. Incredibly sad news. RIP Sol.”Bamba was working as a technical director for Turkish club Adanaspor when he was taken ill before a game against Manisa BBSK on Friday.Most read in FootballA statement from Adanaspor posted on Saturday night read: “Our Technical Director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the Manisa Football Club match played yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there. Our condolences to his family and our community.”Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff but managed to return to the field for the Bluebirds after being declared cancer-free following chemotherapy.Sol Bamba is a Cardiff legend after helping the Bluebirds to promotionCredit: Instagram @solbambaHe will be sorely missed by many fansCredit: Instagram @solbambaHe had three children – Roonea, Lily and Amy – with wife Chloe, who paid tribute to the popular former defender.She wrote: “For the last few years I have watched Sol fight his cancer head on with an astounding mental and physical strength and stoicism.”Unfortunately, it was never a fair fight and just when things were looking up he took a downturn and finally succumbed on 31st August.”These years have been indescribably difficult but we still managed to find joy and laughter in it.”I’ve experienced my worst days but also some of my best.”Sol accepted his fate as God’s will and left this earth knowing, without a shadow of a doubt, that he was loved wholeheartedly. I made sure of that.”It was an honour to have loved and been loved by Sol. I learnt so much from him. He is my hero. My heart is breaking.”What a gift, what a gift, what a gift to have been loved by him.”BAMBA’S HEALTH BATTLESSol Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma on Christmas Eve 2020 before undergoing four months of chemo.He told Mail Sport in 2022: “After the first chemo I was down for four days.”I could not get out of bed. I lost weight. After that, I told my missus, ‘I’m not going for the second round’. The way I was, in that moment, it was awful.” But the defender quickly rose to the occasion and was lauded for raising awareness of the disease as he battled it head on.Speaking to the Guardian in November last year he said: “The way I went about it, people gave me praise … it was too much.”That’s just what I’m like. I understand some people prefer to shy away from it, but I’m different. I’m just being myself.“Even clubs now are being careful now when they do medical checks, all the way from Premier League to League Two, which is massive. In our game we talk about injuries but you never think about cancer.”Bamba was given the all-clear in May 2021, but said he still had to be “careful”, paying regular visits to the doctor.“Unfortunately when you’ve had cancer once, you always have to double check and make sure it doesn’t come back,” he continued. “Is it behind me 100%? Well, I wish but you never know.”Incredibly, he returned to playing football just five months after his diagnosis.At the time of his comeback, he said: “When I was going through chemo, I never thought for one minute I would come back and play. And I never thought about scoring penalties at Old Trafford – nights like that seemed a million miles away.”Cardiff said Bamba was a “club legend” and his death brought them the “deepest sadness”.The club wrote: “As a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our football club was immeasurable. He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman.”Leeds said in a post on X: “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away.”Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMiddlesbrough said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39.”Our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends at this time.” More

  • in

    Federico Chiesa’s stunning WAG Lucia Bramani wows in white bikini as she prepares to move to Liverpool

    MODEL Lucia Bramani looks in a different league as she prepares for a new life in England.The Italian, 23, whose new hubby Federico Chiesa has signed for Liverpool from Juventus, posed in a white bikini for Pain-de-Sucre.Lucia Bramani stunned as she modelled a white bikiniCredit: Capture Media AgencyLucia’s husband Federico Chiesa has signed for Liverpool from JuventusCredit: GettyShe tied the knot with the 26-year-old forward last month. Lucia posted on Instagram: “New chapter for you, for me, for us. Always by your side.”Chiesa’s signing means the Premier League will be graced by a Wag already described as the ‘most beautiful girl fans have ever seen’.She is the amazing Lucia Bramani, and SunSport invites you to find out more about the stunner below.Read more on Lucia BramaniOnly last month, Chiesa and Lucia, 23, walked down the aisle in an incredible Tuscany wedding.They said their ‘I do’s’ at the Cathedral of Grosseto in front of friends and family, including Manuel Locatelli’s wife Thessa Lacovich, and Michela Persico, the Wag of Daniele Rugani.After the ceremony, the couple were whisked away in a Ferrari to a party at the Castello di Vicarello.He cut a dapper figure in an elegant dark grey suit, while the bride opted for a simple, elegant dress.Most read in FootballJuventus star Federico Chiesa leaves Turnin on private flight for transfer deal with Liverpool More