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      Afcon 2023 semi-finals LIVE SCORES: Latest updates, Nigeria vs South Africa before Ivory Coast vs DR Congo TONIGHT

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      NIGERIA will face South Africa this evening in the first Afcon semi-final of the day.The Super Eagles are eying their first Nations Cup triumph since 2013 when they beat Burkina Faso 1-0 in the final.
      Later tonight, Ivory Coast will take on DR Congo after Oumar Diakite’s 122nd-minute match-winner against Mali booked the host’s spot in the final four.

      Nigeria vs South Africa kick off time: 5pm GMT
      Ivory Coast vs DR Congo kick off time: 8pm GMT
      TV channel: BBC Two/Three
      FREE live stream: BBC iPlayer

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      Team news
      Starting with Nigeria, who will be thrilled to have Victor Osimhen fit for this one.
      He gets the nod in a stellar attacking line-up filled with Premier League stars, past and present.
      Fulham’s Calvin Bassey also takes his place in defence.
      NIGERIA XI: Nwabali, Aina, Ekong, Ajayi, Bassey, Osay-Samuel, Onyeka, Iwobi, Lookman, Simon, Osimhen
      Copy linkCopiedTop hosts
      Ivory Coast and DR Congo meet in the other semi final later tonight.
      The host nation are just favourites in the betting to reach the final – after a hugely dramatic campaign to date.
      They sacked head coach Jean-Louis Gasset after a hugely disappointing group stage campaign – which they ended up QUALIFYING from to reach the last 16.
      A penalty shoot out win over Senegal followed, with them needing extra time to beat Mali in the quarter finals.
      Who could begrudge them a final on home turf?
      Copy linkCopiedNigeria record at this stage…
      Incredibly, this is Nigeria’s record 15th appearance in the semi finals of this competition.
      But it’s been a stage they’ve stuttered at recently.
      In fact, they’ve only reached the final once from their last six games in the AFCON semis.
      Though the one time they did progress to the final in that time – in 2013 – they went on to claim the trophy.
      The hosts that year? South Africa.
      Copy linkCopiedNeed to create
      Nigeria boss Jose Peseiro has lauded his side’s defensive displays after four consecutive clean sheets to reach the final four.
      But he’s pleaded with his side to create more scoring chances tonight.
      He reckons a more prolific display in the final third will be necessary to reach the final.
      He said: “The team could have created more opportunities. 
      “We are a quality team Angola was very good, but we had more luck. I remain satisfied with my players but want us to be more efficient.
      “We’re missing key creators like Iheanacho and Aribo, so it’s been hard. But others must now step up.”

      Copy linkCopiedFears over
      Victor Osimhen’s participation tonight looked in serious jeopardy when Jose Peseiro refused to give an update on his fitness.
      The Napoli superstar’s abdominal discomfort forced him not to travel to Bouake.
      But the Super Eagles’ X account calmed fears yesterday, revealing he will be fit this evening.
      The statement read: “Victor Osimhen has been declared fit and available for selection in the semi-final clash against South Africa on Wednesday,’ the statement read.
      “He has joined the team in Bouaké and has trained with the squad today.”
      Copy linkCopiedWelcome!
      A very good evening and welcome to tonight’s first African Cup of Nations semi final between Nigeria and South Africa.
      Nigeria secured their passage to this stage with a 1-0 win over Angola in the quarters.
      Former Everton and Fulham winger Ademola Lookman with the only goal in the game in the first half.
      That was their third 1-0 victory of the competition.
      South Africa’s quarter final was an even tenser affair, relying on a penalty shoot out to prevail beyond Cape Verde.
      Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was the hero on the night saving FOUR penalties in that shoot out.
      That’s led both sides to tonight….
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      Brentford vs Man City LIVE SCORE: Latest Premier League updates as Pep’s side look to close gap on table toppers

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      MANCHESTER CITY travel to West London to take on Brentford on Monday Night Football.Pep Guardiola’s side will be hoping to close the gap on Premier League table toppers Liverpool after the Reds lost 3-1 at Arsenal on Sunday.
      Brentford have taken just three points from their last seven games and have slipped down the table since December.

      Kick off time: 8pm GMT
      TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event
      Live stream: NOW/ Sky Sports app

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      Arsenal vs Liverpool LIVE SCORE: Havertz STARTS as Gunners take on Reds in Premier League – latest updates from Emirates

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      ARSENAL host Premier League leaders Liverpool in a mouth-watering top-of-the-table clash on Super Sunday.The Gunners are in need of a huge win to boost their title hopes while an away victory for the Reds may catapult them into favourites to lift the trophy and give Jurgen Klopp his dream farewell.
      Arsenal go into the game 3rd in the Premier League table five points behind Liverpool in 1st.
      Fans can expect goals this afternoon as top-flight meetings between the two teams have produced a record 186 goals.

      Kick off time: 4.30pm GMT
      TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event
      Live stream: NOW/Sky Sports app
      Arsenal team: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Jorginho, Odegaard; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli
      Liverpool team: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Jones; Gakpo, Diaz, Jota

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      Huge opportunity for Jurgen’s Reds
      Sitting five points clear of Arsenal at the top of the table, albeit a difficult trip this afternoon, it presents a huge chance.
      Victory today would see Liverpool move eight points clear of both Arsenal and Man City.
      It would be a big statement by Klopp’s side, even more so if done in convincing fashion.
      Copy linkCopiedArsenal’s starboy
      Arsenal star Bukayo Saka is often the man to break down stubborn defences.
      With Andrew Robertson fit again, the two could have a brilliant battle down the Gunners’ right flank.

      Copy linkCopiedLiverpool team news
      Elsewhere, Jurgen Klopp would have been delighted to come out of the Chelsea win with no fresh injury concerns.
      But Joel Matip (knee), Stefan Bajcetic (calf), Thiago (hip) and Kostas Tsmimikas (broken collarbone) all remain unavailable.
      While talisman Mohamed Salah continues to nurse his hamstring strain.

      Copy linkCopiedViews from SunSport’s Jordan Davies at the Emirates
      Arsenal face their biggest test of the season, a defining one that could make or break their title charge, and Gabriel Jesus is NOT in the squad.
      The Brazilian played through a knee injury at the City Ground, scoring the opener as the Gunners beat Nottingham Forest 2-1, but it has come at a cost.
      Mikel Arteta revealed post-match that Jesus had some fluid on his knee two days before the Forest clash yet the medics were fine to see him start and play for 78 minutes.
      It means Kai Havertz leads the line for Arsenal for the first time in the Premier League and the third time this season in all competitions – the other occasions coming in the FA Cup defeat to Liverpool on January 7 and the Community Shield in August.
      Eddie Nketiah is on the bench – a decision that will leave the young Englishman questioning his own future in North London. If he does not get a start now, then when?
      Elsewhere, Jorginho is in midfield to bring some control to proceedings, while Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko start at full-back having had their spat on the pitch at Forest.
      Copy linkCopiedSubs

      Arsenal – Ramsdale, Cedric, Walters, Kiwior, Elneny, Smith Rowe, Nelson, Trossard, Nketiah
      Liverpool – Adrian, Kelleher, Thiago, Nunez, Elliott, Robertson, Clark, McConnell, Quansah

      Copy linkCopiedLiverpool XI to play Arsenal
      And Darwin Nunez ISN’T in the squad for Jurgen Klopp’s team.

      Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Gomez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Jones; Gakpo, Diaz, Jota

      Copy linkCopiedArsenal XI to play Liverpool
      Big news from the Emirates as Jesus is NOT in the squad and Havertz starts.

      Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Jorginho, Odegaard; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli

      Copy linkCopiedLiverpool team news
      Elsewhere, Jurgen Klopp would have been delighted to come out of the Chelsea win with no fresh injury concerns.
      But Joel Matip (knee), Stefan Bajcetic (calf), Thiago (hip) and Kostas Tsmimikas (broken collarbone) all remain unavailable.
      While talisman Mohamed Salah continues to nurse his hamstring strain.

      Copy linkCopiedArsenal team news
      Mikel Arteta will be hoping that he can finally reintroduce Thomas Partey to the squad after the midfielder returned to full training last week.
      But the Arsenal boss is expected to continue without Jurrien Timber (knee), Fabio Vieira (groin) and Takehiro Tomiyasu (Asian Cup).

      Copy linkCopiedGunners’ bogey team come to town
      Arsenal have only won two of the last seventeen games against Liverpool.
      Both of these wins came at The Emirates in July 2020 and October 2022.
      The Gunners have not kept a clean sheet in any of the previous 16 top-flight meetings, conceding 44 goals in the process.
      Copy linkCopiedChance for Liverpool to make statement
      After their midweek mauling of Chelsea, Jurgen Klopp’s side could make it a London double in the space of seven days.
      Coming away from North London with three points would put some clear daylight between the sides, opening up an eight point gap.
      It would be a severe blow to Arsenal’s hopes of being in a title race this season.
      Credit: Alamy
      Copy linkCopiedGunners still not finding clinical edge
      A constant issue for Mikel Arteta’s side has been dominating games, in terms of possession, but not being able to create clear-cut goalscoring chances.
      It was very much the case when Liverpool won here recently in the FA Cup.
      With the visitors thriving playing counter-attacking football, they offer a very tricky proposition for Arsenal this afternoon.
      Copy linkCopiedWelcome to Arsenal vs Liverpool
      Arsenal welcome Liverpool to The Emirates this afternoon as the two sides go head-to-head for the third time in a matter of months.
      Prior to their last game, Thomas Partey made a return to full training after three months on the sidelines with a thigh problem, however he will not be available this weekend after suffering a fresh setback.
      The Gunners will be without Fabio Viera and Jurrien Timber due to injury, while Takehiro Tomiyasu is returning from the Asian Cup after Japan were eliminated from the tournament.
      Mohamed Elneny is also returning to domestic duty after Egypt were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations.
      A lingering knee problem for Jesus is being carefully managed by Mikel Arteta, it is rumoured that the Brazilian is not going to be fit enough to start against Liverpool today.
      Jurgen Klopp has an embarrassment of riches at the moment as many of his big names return from injury but he has players already performing well in those positions.
      Liverpool will be without Waturo Endo, Mohamed Salah, Kostas Tsimikas, Stefan Bajcetic, Ben Doak or Joel Matip for today’s game.
      Thiago Alcantara is finally back in training for The Reds and Jurgen Klopp is optimistic about the fitness of Alexis Mac Allister who took a knock to the knee in the closing stages of the win over Chelsea.
      Rumours are circulating that Darwin Nunez is a fresh doubt after sustaining a foot injury in the midweek encounter and Dominik Szoboszlai was not seen with the squad.
      If this is true, Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch could be given the nod as replacements.
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      Man Utd 3-0 West Ham LIVE RESULT: United win comfortably thanks to Garnacho brace but Martinez INJURED again

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      MANCHESTER UNITED picked up another win in the Premier League after beating West Ham 3-0. Rasmus Hojlund opened the scoring and Alejandro Garnacho grabbed a brace but the afternoon had a dampener put on it after Lisandro Martinez hobbled off with another knee injury.

      TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event
      Live stream: NOW/Sky Sports app
      Man Utd team: Onana, Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw, Casemiro, Mainoo, Fernandes, Garnacho, Hojlund, Rashford
      West Ham team: Areola; Coufal, Johnson, Zouma, Aguerd, Emerson; Soucek, Ward-Prowse, Alvarez; Kudus, Bowen

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      Victory elevates Red Devils up table
      Man Utd move to sixth in the table after today’s win, at the expense of David Moyes’ West Ham.
      Fifth place Tottenham remain six points clear of Erik ten Hag’s side.
      One thing is for sure, if Man Utd have any hope of pushing for Champions League places this season, they will need to go on a significant run to catch the chasing pack.
      Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 3-0 West Ham
      A convincing victory for the Red Devils but as the stats show, it could been very different.
      The visitors were very wasteful in the final third this afternoon.
      David Moyes will feel they could and probably should have got something out of this game.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Man Utd 3-0 West Ham
      The referee brings the game to a close at Old Trafford.
      Goals from Hojlund and Garnacho win the game.
      West Ham will need to play much better than this if they hope to finish in the European places this season.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-0 West Ham
      90+6. This has been a convincing win for United, by scoreline at least.
      Once they scored the second they have really dominated the game.
      Up until that point, it was a very even game, with West Ham creating far more chances.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-0 West Ham
      90+4. West Ham come forward on a rare attack.
      Kudus gets to the edge of the box but drags it wide also.
      What a different game it could have been if Emerson had taken that huge chance presented to him by Maguire.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-0 West Ham
      90+2. The game has begun all a little bit scrappy now.
      And that is not just down to the first touch of Antony.
      Rahsford works the ball to McTominay but he drags his shot wide of the goal.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-0 West Ham
      90. West Ham just want the final whistle now.
      They know this has been a bad day at the office.
      Garnacho is fouled in a wide position.
      We are going to have six additional minutes.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-0 West Ham
      88. Lindelof is penalised for a foul on Zouma.
      Man Utd are just looking to knock the ball around now.
      This game is done and dusted.
      Credit: AP
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-0 West Ham
      86. This win will take Man Utd above West Ham in the league now.
      Lindelof and Antony come on for Shaw and Hojlund.
      There is no way back into this game for the visitors now.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-0 West Ham
      84. McTominay plays the ball into the back post to find Garnacho.
      He only has one thing on his mind as he slots the ball into the far corner.
      Fabianski is rooted to the spot and can only watch the ball go in.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Alejandro Garnacho (Man Utd)
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      82. What a chance for Man Utd.
      As the ball is lifted into the box, Maguire’s header drops straight to the feet of Fernandes five yards out.
      He does not react quickly enough and Zouma clears it behind for a corner.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      80. Kalvin Phillips tries his luck from outside the box.
      It is high, wide and not very handsome.
      At some point you have to wonder whether the player at Leeds is still in there.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      78. Man Utd come forward on the counter attack.
      Garnacho looks to lift a ball into the box but it seems too deep.
      Rashford looks to recycle it at the back post but West Ham clear their lines.
      Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn at Old Trafford
      That last ditch tackle from Dalot on Bowen was as crucial as it was outstanding.
      The Hammers ace looked a certain to score as he raced clear but the Portuguese threw himself full length to block his shot.
      In the aftermath though, Martinez signalled he could play no further part was a big worry – this was only the key defender’s fourth game back after four months out injured.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      76. Kudus wins a corner for the visitors.
      It has all gone a bit quiet at Old Trafford now.
      Not sure why, they are two-nil up, it seems more like a library at the moment.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      74. West Ham are trying to ramp up the pressure now.
      Try as they might, they are still not working Onana.
      It was the one thing you kind of expected them to address in the transfer window, they are still lacking a centre forward.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      72. Kalvin Phillips and Maxwel Cornet both come on for the visitors.
      Coufal and Soucek make way for the substitutes.
      West Ham are now desperate for a goal to make a game of this in the final stages.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      70. Martinez has come off for Varane.
      West Ham a free kick in a wide position, swung in by Ward Prowse.
      Varane gets his head to it and puts it behind for a corner.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      68. This has been quite a comfortable game for Erik ten Hag’s side.
      As the scoreline would suggest also.
      Bowen it finally put through on goal but just as he is about to pull the trigger, Dalot slides in to block the shot.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      66. Martinez has a coming together with Coufal.
      The United defender motions to the bench immediately like he has done something serious.
      Minutes later he is back up and moving with no problem.
      They obviously don’t make big, tough South American defenders like they used to.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      64. West Ham try to find a way back into this game.
      The delivery into the box has been poor this afternoon.
      Bowen has barely been in the game, which is a huge problem for the visitors.
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      62. David Moyes will not be pleased with what he is seeing from his side this afternoon at Old Trafford.
      As the stats show, they have done more than enough to be in this game.
      The fact that they find themselves two goals behind will infuriate the West Ham manager.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Martin Blackburn at Old Trafford
      What a huge minute that could prove to be – just after the re-start. Maguire’s mistake presented Emerson with a golden chance to equalise but he couldn’t make the most of it.
      Then at the other end Garnacho’s shot takes a horrible deflection off Aguerd and the Red Devils have breathing space.
      The Hammers do not deserve to be two goals down on the balance of play but the home side have been clinical.  
      Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-0 West Ham
      58. Garnacho is sent down the wing by a brilliant pass from Casemiro.
      He spots Fernandes in space and feeds it neatly into his path.
      The Man Utd captain pulls the trigger immediately but it is well blocked.
      It breaks to Rashford on the edge of the box, who has a swing at it, but sends it high into the stands.
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      Chelsea vs Wolves LIVE SCORE: Latest Premier League updates as Blues look to bounce back from midweek thumping

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      CHELSEA host Wolves in a huge Super Sunday Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.The Blues were thumped 4-1 at Liverpool in midweek, while Wolves were on the end of a narrow 4-3 defeat to Manchester United on Thursday night.

      Kick off time: 2pm GMT
      TV/stream: Not available in the UK.

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      Bournemouth vs Nottingham Forest LIVE SCORE: Latest updates as Cherries host Premier League strugglers – stream, TV

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      BOURNEMOUTH host Premier League strugglers Nottingham Forest in a huge clash at the Vitality Stadium TODAY.The Cherries were unlucky not to take all three points against West Ham in midweek after a second-half James Ward-Prowse’s penalty cancelled out Dominic Solanke’s opener.
      Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest have taken just six points from their last five games as they slip towards the relegation zone.

      Kick off time: 2pm GMT
      TV/stream: Not available in the UK.

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      Joshua Buatsi vs Dan Azeez LIVE RESULT: Azeez DOWN twice late on tight Wembley Arena clash – latest

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      JOSHUA BUATSI and Dan Azeez are fighting RIGHT NOW in a huge lightweight clash at Wembley Arena!Both Buatsi (17-0) and Super Dan (20-0) go into the fight with flawless records, but tonight that could all change for one of the British superstars.
      On what was a thrilling undercard, Adam Azim, Ben Whittaker and Caroline Dubois all picked up big wins.

      Main event start time: 10.20pm
      TV channel: Sky Sports Arena
      Live stream: NOW/Sky Sports app

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      Buatsi vs Azeez – R11
      Azeez down TWICE in round 11, but both looked like he may have had issues with his feet slipping on the canvas.
      The referee has given both knockdowns and that is a 10-7 round for Buatsi.
      It is simple now – Azeez has to win by knockout in the last round!
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez -R10
      Buatsi is ahead here, but he can’t rest on his laurels.
      Azeez continuing to put on the pressure but Buatsi holding on.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R9
      Great round in the bank for Azeez there, upping the pressure on Buatsi.
      Is Buatsi tiring?
      Intriguing clash cotinues here.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R8
      Buatsi starting to pull away here.
      Azeez needs to pick up a few more rounds as we head into the final straight.
      Buatsi getting the better of the trades so far.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R7
      Good round for Buatsi there landing a couple of solid combos.
      Azeez’s cornerman Buddy McGirt demanding more jabs and to up the tempo.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R6
      Huge right landed by Azeez in round six.
      Absolutely nothing between both men still in the first half of the fight.
      Buatsi may have shaded a couple of rounds but everything to play for here.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R5
      BOTH men land left hooks at the same time in the middle of the ring in a blockbuster of a round.
      As we head into the second half of the fight this one is opening up.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R4
      Very, very tight here. Neither man giving an inch.
      Buatsi with the shot of the round with a strong left hook but Azeez shakes it off.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R3
      This fight is catching fire now!
      Both men throwing big shots in the middle of the ring and the crowd getting wild.
      Here we go!
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R2
      Buatsi just shading it so far but this is very close indeed.
      The former Olympian catching Azeez with a cracking body shot but the champ Azeez replies with a stunning overhead right.
      Not much between both men in the first two rounds.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi vs Azeez – R1
      As expected a cagey opener there, with both men sitting behind the jab.
      Buddy McGirt in Azeez’s corner call for more body work and to use his double jab.
      Copy linkCopiedThe champ Azeez out next
      Dan Azeez is now making is ring walk down the Wembley ramp. Both men greeted with big cheers.
      Both Buatsi (17-0) and Super Dan (20-0) go into the fight with flawless records, but that could all change for one of the British superstars.
      Copy linkCopiedBuatsi ring walk
      Here comes the challenger Joshua Buatsi first up.
      He prays in the corner just before walking down the ramp.
      Copy linkCopiedMain event time up next
      Joshua Buatsi vs Dan Azeez is just minutes away!
      The bout will be contested over 12 rounds for Azeez’s British, Commonwealth and European titles at 175lbs.
      And also for the chance to become the number one contender for Dmitry Bivol’s light-heavyweight title.
      Credit: Rex
      Copy linkCopiedHeavyweight news!
      British champion Fabio Wardley will defend his Lonsdale belt against Frazer Clarke on March 31.
      The pair have had a nice rivalry bubbling for a while and now the clash will happen at the O2 over the bank holiday.
      Ipswich banger Wardley fancies his chances against West Brom’s former Team GB giant.
      Copy linkCopiedAzim wins TKO -R5
      Poulsen ducks a right and lands a left hook but Azim shows a solid set of young whiskers.
      But his arm suddenly pops out of his shoulder socket and he drops to the floor in pain.
      He cannot get up before the count and the fight is stopped.
      Poulsen sits down in his corner for medical attention while Azim celebrates tamely.
      Copy linkCopiedR4
      Poulsen complains of a low blow and Azim gets a friendly verbal warning from the ref.
      Azim’s hopes of highlight-reel KO is slipping away as Poulsen is resilient.
      But he has banked every round so far and chipped away at Poulsen who might become more vulnerable if he gets more aggressive.
      Copy linkCopiedR3
      Poulsen has taken a handful of whacks from Azim and smiled, he doesn’t fear what’s in front of him.
      The challenger is rugged and wil not outpoint the champ with boxing skills.
      But if he can make the fight close-range and physical, he could take Azim somewhere he has never been and doesn’t like.
      Copy linkCopiedR2
      Azim’s first really tasty right hand rocks Poulsen’s head backwards.
      The Dane’s chin is getting tested every time Azim stops bouncing for a split second and flashes in a powerful shot.
      Not much jabbing from the young Brit, he wants to win with something sensational.
      Copy linkCopiedR1
      Poulsen does his best to land jabs while Azim tries lead left hooks whipped up from his waist.
      Poulsen ships a couple of digs and doesn’t wilt or seem to worry, this will be a test for Azim.
      Just before the bell, both men plant their feet and trade, this will be a good test for the Slough starlet.
      Copy linkCopiedAzim vs Poulsen R1
      European super-light ace Adam Azim defends his title against Denmark-based Angolan Enoch Poulsen now, in the chief support.
      The Shane McGuigan-trained prospect is racing rapidly toward a world title challenge.
      But his brother Hassan – also a boxer – is wearing sunglasses in the ring now, which should mean an immediate point deduction for Adam.
      Copy linkCopiedR5 – Whittaker wins TKO
      Graidia is still trying but Whittaker is so fast and skillful he makes him look slow and wild.
      Graidia’s face is starting to deform under the constant pressure.
      And one final volley of blows forces Graidia down onto his haunches and the towel to fly in just as the ref rightly waves the one-sided pasting off.
      Copy linkCopiedR4
      Another warning for Whittaker who celebrates his excellent defensive work with a little dance and shuffle.
      The ref hates the showboating and he gets another verbal order.
      The crowd hate the interference and boo as Whittaker pleads his innocence with a shrug.
      Copy linkCopiedR4
      Graidia has a painful welt swelling up on the corner of his left eye.
      Whittaker lands a handful of brilliant power punches but then showboats with a palm slap and gets a warning from the ref which the crowd boos.
      Graidia then fires back and The Surgeon shows off silky defensive skills.
      Copy linkCopiedR4
      Just as the third ends, Whittaker unleashes a three-punch combination.
      The last blow definitely lands after the bell and his trainer again jumps in the ring to berate the ref.
      Whittaker resumes the assault…
      Copy linkCopied More

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      Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk off LIVE: New date CONFIRMED for May, Fury breaks silence in Ariel Helwani interview

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      TYSON FURY’S big fight against Oleksandr Usyk has been given a new date for this summer.Fury suffered a cut on his eye sparring on Friday afternoon, and will not be fighting on February 17.
      Mutiple sources have confirmed to SunSport that Croatian heavyweight Agron Smakici was the sparring partner who cut Fury.
      And now the heavyweight pair will instead do battle in May.
      Follow our live blog below…
      Fury’s ready
      Tyson Fury has taken to X to promote the new date for his fight with Oleksandr Usyk.
      He’s even had a dig at his rival – calling him a “rabbit”.

      Copy linkCopiedFury and Usyk agree wager
      Tyson Fury and Oleksandry Usyk have agreed to a HUGE wager if either fighter pulls out of their bout in Saudi Arabia.
      Both fighters have agreed to a bizarre wager should they pull out of facing each other for good.
      While announcing the new date on a YouTube broadcast, Saudi adviser Turki Alalshikh claimed that any fighter who cancels will have to pay up £10MILLION.
      He said: “I have delayed it for May 18, I guarantee for both of the fighters £10million if someone escapes from the fight.
      “We will make the people around the world know if someone is scared.”
      Copy linkCopiedFury’s got 17 days to prepare
      Tyson Fury could only have 17 days to prepare for the rearranged fight with Oleksandr Usyk.
      The heavyweight undisputed fight between the two has been pushed back to May 18 following Fury’s horror injury in sparring.
      The boxers had been set to fight on February 17 but it was called off following the injury.
      However, the new date could leave Fury with less than three weeks to get fully prepared.
      This is according to Fury’s former cutman Jorge Capetillo.
      He was in Fury’s corner for the fight against Otto Wallin when he suffered a cut that needed 47 stitches.
      Capetillo told Betway: “I would say it will take 90 days at least to recover from a cut in sparring.
      “Hopefully the fight can happen in the summer because it’s such unfortunate news.
      “The cut needs to heal really good and then Tyson can get back in action, back in training and get back in camp so it will be at least a few months for sure.
      “Accidents can happen in sparring, and this is what has happened with Tyson so he will need time to heal.”
      Copy linkCopiedFury storms out of interview
      Tyson Fury stormed out his interview after a comment was made about his wife Paris.
      The Gypsy King was speaking to Ariel Helwani after withdrawing from his clash against Oleksandr Usyk due to a cut on his eye.
      A new date of May 18 has been set for the highly-anticipated heavyweight bout.
      An angry Fury reacted after Uysk’s manager Egis Klimas called him a “coward” for dodging the original March 18 agreement.
      Fury shouted: “Never call me a coward again.
      “I have had 35 professional fights in my life, I have been boxing 18 years, I’ve climbed off the canvas ten times against the biggest punchers in history to win.
      “Never a coward, never backed down from any man in my life.
      “If anyone calls my wife a b****, I’ll take their f****ing teeth out.”
      Kilmas was mocking Fury by pointing at the camera while he was ranting.
      He then bluntly responded: “I didn’t call your wife a b****.”
      Copy linkCopiedFury v Usyk is back on
      Thankfully, the fight has been rescheduled.
      Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will go head-to-head in Saudi Arabia on May 18.
      Read our full report.

      Copy linkCopiedNew date scheduled
      We have a new date for Oleksandr Usyk vs Tyson Fury.
      It was announced on Saturday evening that the heavyweight pair will lock horns on May 18.
      That should give the Gypsy King enough time to heal from the nasty eye gash suffered during a sparring session.
      Fight fans who were left disappointed by the postponement of their February 17 bout can now dream that the fight of the year is back on.
      Copy linkCopiedAJ throws his hat into the ring
      Anthony Joshua has thrown his hat into the ring to replace Tyson Fury, after his fight with Oleksandr Usyk was postponed.
      Read Wally Downes Jr’s exclusive.

      Copy linkCopiedUsyk’s promoter used Fury’s own words against him
      Oleksandr Usyk’s promoter Alex Krassyuk went live on Instagram to answer questions about the proponenment of the Fury vs Usyk fight.
      During his 40-minute stream, Krassyuk read out an old tweet that Fury sent in 2013 after David Haye pulled out of the fight due to a cut.
      Fury did not take the news well in 2013 and suggested Haye deliberately took a blow.
      Krassyuk repeated the tweet which said: “The cut is genuine. Correct. You can’t box with the cut. Correct.
      “Has to be cancelled. That’s why he’s cut so he can pull out. S***house.”

      Copy linkCopiedUpdate on Usyk’s new opponent
      Oleksandr Usyk is still eager to fight despite the postponement of his clash with Tyson Fury according to his promoter Alex Krassyuk. 
      In an interview with Boxing News Krassyuk is confident a fight with, Filip Hrgovic will happen after one thing has been overcome.
      He said: “His people reached out saying that Filip Hrgovic is in camp, he was getting prepared for March 8.
      “He’s under contract with the Saudi people and he gave an interview to ESPN saying that he’s ready to take the challenge and fight Usyk on February 17 which is good.
      “The only thing to satisfy is Hrgovic’s financial demands and the fight is on.”
      Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Copy linkCopiedUsyk’s team looking for new opponent
      Oleksandr Usyk could still fight on February 17 despite his showdown with Tyson Fury being called off.
      Usyk’s promoter Alex Krassyuk confirmed on Saturday morning during an Instagram live that he is working on finding the Ukrainian a new opponent.
      And Croatian boxer Filip Hrgovic is lined up as the next challenger.
      He said: “Will Usyk be fighting on the 17th? We are working on that and in the next couple of days, a final decision will be taken.
      “There is only one option because the IBF has sanctioned the undisputed fight on the condition that after this fight the champion has to fight the mandatory, which is Hrgovic.
      “That means if the champion fights someone else, he will be stripped of his belt by the IBF.”
      Credit: epa
      Copy linkCopiedHearns gives ‘devasting’ response to Fury vs Usyk
      Eddie Hearn gave a “devasting” response after hearing the news that Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk had been called off.
      The Essex boxing promoter said he heard the news before it was announced publically as he has two fighters in the undercard – cruiserweight Jai Opetaia and super-featherweight Joe Cordina.
      Hearn told IFL TV: “I just can’t believe it really, it’s not our show but we have some fighters on the show.
      “I know, I’ve been there before when this kind of thing happens 10 days out or two weeks out.
      It’s just devastating for all the work that’s gone in but it’s also boxing.Eddie HearnIFL TV
      “Anything is possible, but speaking just with my view, I expect it just to be rescheduled, whether it’s April, May – something like that.
      Copy linkCopiedDavid Haye’s wish has come true
      David Haye has revealed he wished Tyson Fury would sustain a fight-postponing cut after he trolled him for pulling out of their 2013 showdown.
      Fury was relentless in his abuse of Haye and even suggested his rival deliberately got cut so he could pull out of the fight.
      This has irked Haye so much that he spoke out after he heard the news of Fury suffering a nasty cut.
      The Haymaker said: “I, myself, suffered a cut a week before the fight and did I not hear the end of it from him?”
      “Even to this day, I still hear, ‘He only got cut because he just didn’t wanna fight him, you’re scared.’
      “I actually remember, at the time, thinking, ‘One day before one of his big fights, he has to suffer this.
      “‘Since he’s been that much of a d*** about it.’ And here we are.”
      Copy linkCopiedNgannou reacts to Fury vs Usyk postponement
      Francis Ngannou wants a shot to get all the belts right away now that Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk has been postponed.
      It is understood Usyk’s camp are looking for a new opponent for February 17.
      But the news has ramifications for ex-UFC champ Ngannou who is set to fight Anthony Joshua on March 8.
      Reacting to the postponement of Fury vs Usyk, Ngannou tweeted a viral meme of a man standing awkwardly with his hands in his pockets and wrote: “So me and Joshua for the undisputed title March 8?”
      The victor of the Fury vs Usyk bout would take on the winner of Ngannou vs Joshua later this year.
      Joshua, meanwhile, has remained silent on the postponement of Fury vs Usyk.

      Copy linkCopiedMan who cut Tyson Fury ‘doesn’t feel bad’ 
      The sparring partner who cut Tyson Fury and delayed his undisputed showdown with Oleksandr Usyk has broken his silence.
      Multiple sources have confirmed to SunSport that Croatian heavyweight Agron Smakici was the sparring partner who hit Fury.
      Smakici said on the incident: “It was a clear punch so I don’t feel bad.”
      The 6’6 giant – who is also a mixed martial artist – was a recent addition to Fury’s team of sparring partners.
      His joining the camp wasn’t a surprise given his experience sparring with top heavyweights, including Fury’s Brit rival Anthony Joshua.
      Smakici was recently drafted in by Team AJ to help the former two-time unified heavyweight champion prepare for his ‘Day of Reckoning’ clash with Wallin.
      Credit: Instagram @agron_smakici
      Copy linkCopiedFury will need to fight to be best WBA heavyweight
      Adam Catterall insists Tyon Fury will have to fight if he wants to be the best WBA heavyweight in the world.
      He said on talkSPORT: “If you want to be the best heavyweight, you have to have that fight!”
      “If you don’t, you leave the door open for other people to take that mantle.”
      Fury suffered a nasty cut during sparring which has ruled him out of his fight against Oleksandr Usyk later this month.
      The cut required significant stitching, so much so that Fury won’t be able to face Usyk until the “summer” at the earliest.
      Copy linkCopiedFury was struggling in training
      Fury’s blow did not come as a surprise to British boxing media the SunSport can reveal.
      Rumours of Fury struggling in sparring with cruiserweight King Jai Opetaia and teenage sensation Moses Itauma were rife.
      It seemed unlikely that the Gypsy King would risk upsetting Turki Alalshikh and the Saudi Spots Federation. 
      But now the disaster has officially hit with his horrific cut that could take atleast 90 days to recover.
      Copy linkCopiedFury’s statement in full
      Tyson Fury has apologised to boxing fans after suffering a horrific cut to his eye in training.
      Fury said: “I am absolutely devastated after preparing for this fight for so long and being in such superb condition.
      “I feel bad for everyone involved in this huge event and I will work diligently towards the rescheduled date once the eye has healed.
      “I can only apologise to everyone affected including my own team, Team Usyk, the undercard fighters, partners, and fans as well as our hosts and my friends in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
      He also posted on instagram, with the caption: “Can’t help getting injured in sparring but what I can say was Usyk was in trouble.
      “I am in fantastic shape. I will resheduel (sic) soon as i can. 2024 a massive year for team GK #undisputed #wbcking”
      Credit: QUEENSBERRY PROMOTIONS
      Copy linkCopiedFury’s former cutman reveals potential new date
      Jorge Capetillo worked in Fury’s corner when the Gyspy King had to overcome a cut he received in his bout against Otto Wallin in September 2019.
      Speaking to Betway, Capetillo said: “I would say it will take 90 days at least to recover from a cut in sparring.
      “Hopefully, the fight can happen in the summer because it’s such unfortunate news.
      “The cut needs to heal really good and then Tyson can get back in action, back in training and get back in camp so it will be at least a few months for sure.
      “Accidents can happen in sparring, and this is what has happened with Tyson so he will need time to heal.
      “It will now reopen during the fight if they continued into the fight so now he needs time out to make sure it doesn’t open up with a first punch from Oleksandr Usyk.”
      Copy linkCopiedUsyk to still fight
      Reports have suggested that Oleksandr Usyk will STILL fight on February 17 with Filip Hrgovic in the running to replace Tyson Fury.
      Usyk’s team think Fury will be out for “several months”.
      Credit: x
      Copy linkCopiedFury out for several months
      Tyson Fury could be out for months after suffering a cut during a sparring session yesterday.
      A fight between Usyk and Filip Hrgovic is now reportedly being explored for February 17.
      The Ukrainian’s representatives have been told that it may be “several months” until Fury is ready to compete.
      Copy linkCopiedFury could retire?
      Ade Oladipo has suggested that Tyson Fury could end up retiring following his injury in sparring.
      The Gypsy King has pulled out of the heavyweight fight against Oleksandr Usyk after getting cut in training.
      Oladipo told talkSPORT: “It wouldn’t shock me if Fury comes out and says, ‘I’ve had enough’!”

      Copy linkCopiedWarren confirms rescheduling
      Tyson Fury’s promoter Frank Warren has confirmed that the fight against Oleksandr Usyk will be rescheduled, and new data will be announced.
      He told talkSPORT: “The biggest blow is to Tyson, he had been training very hard for this fight.
      “Unfortunately, he sustained a terrible cut today.
      “So it is off, and I am sure a new date will be announced.”
      “It was this morning, and his eye was caught by an elbow.
      “I feel for Tyson and I feel for Usyk as he has also been training for the fight.”
      Credit: Reuters
      Copy linkCopiedWhen could the fight happen?
      Fury’s bout against Usyk was set for February 17, however it has been postponed following the Gypsy King’s injury.
      The Daily Star have claimed that the clash could be rearranged for as soon as June.
      Copy linkCopiedBridges reacts
      Ebanie Bridges has reacted to the news that Tyson Fury’s clash with Oleksandr Usyk is off.
      She wrote: “Wow, Fury Usyk is off…. I mean.. are we surprised tho?
      “Not very. I feel sorry for the undercard if the whole fight card is cancelled too.”
      Credit: x
      Copy linkCopiedLewis on Fury injury
      Boxing legend Lennox Lewis has shared his thoughts on Tyson Fury’s injury and claimed that he could need three months to heal.
      He wrote: “Tough break for @Tyson_Fury.
      “This cut is in same area as one he got in the Wallin fight.
      “He’s probably gonna need about six stitches and three months to heal. 🙏🏾😑 The saga continues…”
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