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      Moses Itauma puts on ‘best British boxing performance of the year’ with brutal stoppage of Mariusz Wach

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      MOSES ITAUMA snatched the first serious scalp of his career with a ruthless second-round stoppage of a giant more than twice his age.Mariusz Wach – now a tired 44 – took Wladimir Klitschko the distance in 2012 and later did the same to Hughie Fury, Dillian Whyte and Frazer Clarke.Moses Itauma stopped Mariusz Wach in two roundsCredit: PAItauma knocked down WachCredit: PABut the 6ft 7in Viking Pole was peppered and pillaged by the 19-year-old Kent prodigy inside six one-sided minutes – the quickest Wach has EVER been beaten. Itauma said: “I don’t want to badmouth anyone but Wach was known for taking people the distance.“The earliest I think he was ever stopped was around six rounds but I have done him in two, so it is a statement.“He has been in there with the likes of Klitschko and Dillian Whyte and they have not done that to him.READ MORE IN BOXING“It lets the heavyweight division know I am here, I am only 19 but come on.“But I want to say thank you to Mariusz because nobody else wanted to take the fight.”Itauma, who only turned 19 in December, feinted and jabbed with skill and sense beyond his years in the opener, sussing out his veteran prey.But in the second round he zoomed up the gears, dropped Wach with a series of spiteful whacks and forced the referee to jump in before a case for abuse of the elderly could be launched.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Chatham ace backed the battered visitor into a neutral corner and unleashed a volley of shots into his flabby torso and ponytailed head.And, when ref Michael Alexander halted the abuse, the Brit prospect poked his baby face through the ropes and grinned into the crowd that was roaring at his latest masterclass in measured savagery.Former world champion and commentator Carl Froch hailed it as one of Britain’s best boxing performances of the year. And Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren warned Frazer Clarke that he is there intended next victim. Itauma celebrates with his WBO beltCredit: Getty More

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      Derek Chisora’s nephew, 22, won’t let tragedy stop him making boxing debut alongside uncle on Joe Joyce undercard

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      DEREK CHISORA and his nephew witnessed British boxing’s latest tragedy from ringside but will still fight together on Saturday night. In May, at the Harrow leisure centre, 29-year-old Sherif Lawal lost his life after suffering a brutal knockout in his professional debut.Derek Chisora has been in brilliant and bloody battles to secure better lives for his little girlsCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunSherif Lawal sadly died after losing his professional boxing debut in Harrow, LondonCredit: Philip SharkeyHampstead warhorse Chisora, 40, was ringside with 22-year-old Jermaine Dhliwayo when the tragedy struck, as the prospect and Lawal shared their St Pancras amateur gym.And on Saturday night Dhliwayo – an electrical apprentice – will make his own professional bow after a frank talk with his uncle, a no-nonsense veteran of 47 punishing pro fights.“I haven’t talked to him about it,” Chisora tried to tell SunSport ahead of his Saturday shootout with Joe Joyce. “I am nobody’s therapist!“I went to the hospital and I spoke to the British Boxing Board of Control, I went to visit the boy’s family and spoke to his mother.Read more in Boxing“I spoke to my nephew about it briefly, I asked him if he still wanted to fight, after seeing that.“He said he did so I told him ‘cool, go and do your thing’.“Formula 1 drivers go 200mph, they crash and they blow up.“We just love the game, it’s hard but we love it. I won’t lie to you, we love the game.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnyone who loves the game will love Chisora, he has taken on almost every dangerous giant of his era.After foreign robberies against the likes of Robert Helenius and Kubrat Pulev – and violent stoppage losses against David Haye, Dillian Whyte and Tyson Fury – fight fans are rightfully worried about the fearless veteran.Moment Derek Chisora HEADBUTTS Deliveroo rider as row erupts outside restaurantThe Zimbabwe-born wildman – who used to kiss, slap, spit on and throw tables at rivals – is now a dedicated father of two daughters.And we are all starting to fear for his health and safety, especially in later life when he should be enjoying his retirement with Angelina and Harare.But the showman – who has bravely taken world champions Vitali Klitschko and Fury the distance in valiant losses – tells us NOT to worry about the price he has paid but more the lifestyle he has earned for his family.“Do not worry about me,” he said in an emotional chat. “Nobody anywhere needs to worry about me.“I am the last person in the world anyone needs to worry about.“Trust me, I am fine.“I know what I am doing, I know what I have done, I know where I will end up.“I prefer to keep my eye on everyone else.“I have put my girls through private schools, I have given them the best lives I could have wished for.”And what else is there to do after boxing? “You see all the great guys who finish boxing – maybe a bit too early – they end up depressed and they try to heal their depression with drink and drugs. “You have to be ready to walk away, you have to have a plan for afterwards and I am not ready yet. When I am ready you will know it.”Deliveroo headbuttChisora hit the headlines two weeks out from his Joyce battle for appearing to headbutt a Deliveroo driver in the street after an argument.Footage shared on social media suggests he acted in self defence after the fast-food rider threw the first punches.And SunSport understands Del Boy was angered that the electric bike was trying to zoom past children and pet dogs enjoying lunch on a narrow pedestrianised walkway.It was a rare reminder of his old days as the bad boy of British boxing and he insists having two little girls – who witnessed the fracas – to provide for and protect has helped to tame him.He explained: “I try to behave very well around my daughters at home, so they learn to behave that way outside of the home.“My daughters have grown up to become very kind, really kind. But they are vicious as well!”They have taken their kindness from their mum, they’re understanding and sharing and very calm. “They don’t have any violence in their lives. They are very good girls.“Having girls made me softer. But the beast in me is still there, when that switch goes, it goes.”Last danceChisora claims he will hang up his gloves after his 50th bout. After Joyce there will be a final trip to Manchester and his last dance will hopefully be back in Zimbabwe.It’s probably a few fights too late for Chisora to go out on a high but he will be sorely missed after giving everything to the sport.And despite his occasional madness, controversial comments, Nigel Farage friendship and trademark red MAGA hat, Chisora doesn’t seem to be leaving the hurt business with a single serious enemy.“I love everybody,” he said sincerely. “We are all somebody’s son. I don’t need aggro with anyone.READ MORE SUN STORIES“After a fight we go to see each other, we hug, we meet our families and that’s it.“Everyone is my friend, I have no beef with anybody. But, when it is fight time, I go.”Veteran fighter Chisora had an altercation with a fast food courier in HamsteadCredit: YouTube/CityBanterDel Boy struck up an unlikely friendship with politician Nigel FarageCredit: ReutersChisora also likes to wear a bright red hat with Donald Trump’s favourite mantra on the front More

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      Floyd Mayweather, 47, could face Manny Pacquiao, 45, in rematch of £500m fight – but with a twist as rivals make returns

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      FLOYD MAYWEATHER and Manny Pacquiao could be set for a rematch – but with a twist on their original money spinner. Mayweather beat Pacquiao in 2015 to end boxing’s most drawn out saga in a blockbuster worth over £500MILLION. Floyd Mayweather is still linked with a rematch against Manny PacquiaoCredit: ReutersPacquiao in training for his exhibition comeback fightCredit: @MannyPacquiaoBut even in retirement the pair remain linked with a rematch as they continue to box on in exhibition bouts. And Japanese MMA promotion Rizin could be the unlikely source to hold the key to a deal between the ring icons. Pacquiao, 45, returns this weekend in Tokyo against ex-kickboxing champion Rukiya Anpo, 28. Mayweather, 47, meanwhile has scored two knockout victories against martial arts opponents under the Rizin banner. READ MORE IN BOXINGPromoter Nobuyuki Sakakibara revealed a rematch with Pacquiao remains a possibility – so long as professional records are not at stake. Sakakibara told SunSport: “I wouldn’t be surprised if anything happens these days so the possibility is still there. “We still have a good relationship with Floyd but he’s not thinking of coming back to real competitive fights. “I understand that there isn’t no interest from his side on the rematch in non official bout, and Manny is interested.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”So it all comes down to the timing. And when everything aligns perfectly, I’m sure that rematch will happen.”Last year, Pacquiao and Sakakibara announced that a rematch with Mayweather was in the works for 2024. Floyd Mayweather breaks silence over Manny Pacquiao rematchBut the American great instead returns on August 24 in Mexico against John Gotti III. Mayweather officially retired in 2017 after beating UFC superstar Conor McGregor, 36, but has boxed in exhibitions since. His last was against the grandson of notorious crime boss Gotti – ending in a brawl in the ring to lead to the rematch. Pacquiao meanwhile hung up his gloves following defeat to Yordenis Ugas in 2021 – but he has teased a comeback ever since. And the WBC even controversially opened the door to PacMan challenging welterweight champion Mario Barrios, 29, for the title.Pacquiao is using his exhibition with Anpo to ease back but Rizin are open to future fights with the Filipino. Sakakibara said: “Depending on the result and his performance in his upcoming fight on July 28th, we need to assess the market to see if his return would make sense. “This is a single bout agreement so if we were to have him back, we need to make sure there is a demand in the market. READ MORE SUN STORIES”If we can create momentum and anticipation together – since Manny himself is still wanting to have competitive fights – he’s not thinking that this is his last fight. “So if things turn out right, there is a good possibility where there could be more Manny Pacquiao fights in Rizin.”Mayweather beat Pacquiao in 2015Credit: Getty More

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      Premier League winner and ex-Cristiano Ronaldo team-mate in shock talks for debut boxing fight

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      MISFITS BOXING are in talks with a Premier League title winner and former team-mate of Cristiano Ronaldo over a shock fight.YouTuber-turned-boxer KSI and music mogul Mams Taylor co-founded the platform as a home to celeb-style crossover bouts.Patrice Evra, Cristiano Ronaldo, Danny Simpson and Paul Scholes celebrate in 2007Credit: GettyAnd promoter Taylor has talked up the possibility of welcoming footballers into the Misfits scene.Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney admitted he was even in talks to do so – before turning it down to focus on management. But SunSport understands Danny Simpson – who played with Rooney and Ronaldo at United – is negotiating a fight with Misfits. Simpson, 37, is eager to cross over to the ring despite never actually announcing his retirement from football. READ MORE IN boxing As of last year, he was training with non-league Macclesfield while also returning to United to work on his coaching badges. He is a regular on MUTV having come through their academy before spending four years there as a professional between 2006–2010.In that period under the great Sir Alex Ferguson, the full-back only made eight appearances and spent time out on loan.But Simpson was part of the famous Leicester side that beat 5,000-1 odds to win the Premier League title in 2016.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe defender was playing for Bristol City until his contract was ripped up by mutual consent in March 2022. Misfits have had stars from the social media, MMA and boxing world compete on their shows. I walked away from pro MMA career to become Conor McGregor’s photographer… now he’s helping me make Misfits Boxing debutAnd Simpson would not be the first to trade the pitch for the ring.Curtis Woodhouse played in the Prem but switched to boxing in 2006 despite having no amateur background. He had 31 pro bouts – even winning the English and British light-welterweight titles – while playing football part-time. Woodhouse’s last fight was in 2017 beating renowned and celebrated journeyman Lewis van Poetsch. Leon McKenzie was another to have played in the English top-flight for the likes of Crystal Palace and Norwich. McKenzie is the son of British and European title holder Clinton and nephew of three-time world champ Duke.So after his playing days stopped in 2013, he also moved into boxing making his super-middleweight debut that year. McKenzie amassed a record of eight wins, two losses and one draw before hanging up the gloves in 2017 aged 39. Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing currently have former Accrington Stanley midfielder Paddy Lacey signed. Lacey still plays for Welsh top-tier side Flint Town United but is 10-0 as a middleweight boxer. Despite the successful switches – it does not work out for everyone.Rio Ferdinand infamously tried to turn pro aged 39 but was denied a British Boxing Board of Control licence in 2018.Ferdinand’s former team-mates Wes Brown and Simpson both train at the same Punchline Boxing Gym in Macclesfield. READ MORE SUN STORIESSimpson has been in boxing training as far back as 2020 with an eye now on a debut bout.The player’s reps and Misfits Boxing have been contacted for comment. Danny Simpson in the boxing gym training More

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      Eddie Howe’s hint he could succeed Gareth Southgate as England boss shows job is more attractive than ever before

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      EDDIE HOWE, the bookies’ favourite to become the next England manager, is an avid fan of the 80s Norwegian pop group A-ha.And while this may not be a ringing endorsement of his personal tastes, the idea of Morten Harket & Co performing a secret gig for our brave Three Lions at the next World Cup is surely still an improvement on Ed bleeding Sheeran.Eddie Howe is a candidate for the England jobCredit: GettyGareth Southgate stepped down from the role after Euro 2024Credit: GettyHowe’s response to links with the England job wasn’t quite a ‘take on me, take me on’ plea to the FA.The Newcastle boss insisted he has an ‘unwavering’ commitment to his club, that he is ‘happy’ on Tyneside, which is ‘the best place’ he could be.But then came the caveats.Asked if he would still be Newcastle manager at the start of the season, Howe replied: “As long as I’m happy in the position that I’m in.READ MORE ON SPORT“As long as I feel supported by the club and free to work in the way that I want to work, yes. That is the crucial thing.”This was not typical of Howe — usually extremely measured in media interviews — and it sounded like a prime example of a man speaking to two conflicting audiences simultaneously.There were hearts and flowers for the Toon Army — the self-styled ‘loyalest football supporters the world has ever seen’.But for the FA — who want an English successor to Gareth Southgate — it was also a major suggestion that Howe might be open to a move.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHowe has been unsettled by a summer of boardroom upheaval in Geordie Arabia — the arrival of sporting director Paul Mitchell and the departures of Amanda Staveley and her husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi, who had provided the key link between Howe and his Saudi paymasters.There are also Profit and Sustainability restraints, which mean Newcastle’s inevitable rise to the Premier League summit is likely to be a long-term project.Footage resurfaces of what Eddie Howe said about England job as he is tipped to succeed Gareth SouthgateSouthgate’s England legacy should be celebrated, not torn downBy Tom BarclayGareth Southgate claimed that only winning Sunday’s final would earn England the respect of the footballing world.Spain proved a last-gasp comeback too far in Berlin, but defeat did not change the fact that Southgate’s eight-year transformation put respect back into the world of England football.Critics will pick apart his cautious tactics, his selection choices and his record in the most high-pressurised games – with some legitimacy.Yet what is quickly forgotten is the laughing stock our national side had become before he took over in 2016.A shambolic Euros exit to Iceland that summer had been followed up by Sam Allardyce quitting just one game into his tenure thanks to his pint of wine with undercover reporters.Then came Southgate, with his decency, his humility, his understated eloquence and his vision for a better, different future.He had analysed why England had so often failed in the past, from lack of preparation at penalty shoot-outs to players being bored out of their minds during major tournaments.Southgate took those findings and implemented a culture where players wanted to play for their country again – and it led to back-to-back finals for the first time in our history.Instead of going to war with the media, he opened his doors to them and discovered, shock, horror, that it was met, generally, with support. It did not stop him from being criticised when required – we are no cheerleaders, here – but the vitriol of yesteryear – or today on social media – was largely gone.No manager is perfect and neither was Southgate. We cannot pretend his teams played like those of Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp.But in the fullness of time, his feats will likely be revered because the results speak for themselves.Hopefully his successor can go one step further and bring football home. To do that, they must show respect to what Southgate has created and build on it, rather than rip it down.To read more from Tom Barclay click HERE. But this was still a bold public statement to make for a man who has just failed to qualify for Europe at the club with the  richest owners in world football.Howe ought not to be in a position to call any shots — and he surely wouldn’t be doing so if there wasn’t an England job that’s probably his for the taking.Last week, SunSport revealed Howe had stated his long-term ambition to manage England in an interview conducted before Southgate’s resignation.And the fact that Howe clearly holds some interest in succeeding the outgoing Three Lions chief is a huge compliment to Southgate.Because eight years ago, this wasn’t a job the boss of a filthy-rich top-flight club would have regarded as any sort of step up.Especially given that Howe would have to take a hefty pay cut if he were to leave Newcastle for England.Not since the launch of the Premier League has the national team been truly regarded as  ‘bigger’ than the biggest clubs.Although, admittedly, there have been fewer Englishmen operating at top clubs over these past three decades.It’s 42 years since Bobby  Robson and Brian Clough duked it out to succeed Ron Greenwood — and Clough, a two-time European Cup-winning genius, was left unfulfilled by never having managed his national team.Southgate has raised the status of the England job back to those levels by leading his team to two Euros finals, a World Cup semi-final and quarter-final, and by changing the national-team environment.The FA are right to prefer an English  successor and, given  Howe is pretty much the only English candidate whose Prem record must be regarded as an overall success, he is the best man for the job.While his Newcastle predecessor, Steve Bruce, referred to Howe as ‘the fella who got Bournemouth relegated’, he had previously guided the Cherries from the Football League basement to the top flight, then led Toon to the Champions League in his first full season at the North East club.Howe possesses many of Southgate’s better qualities — a good man-manager and an able media communicator — but also a tendency for the more positive footballing approach which England will need if they are to finally win a trophy.Some in the FA had hoped  Howe would part ways with Newcastle at the end of last season, avoiding the need to pay compensation to the Saudis.But the positives far outweigh the negatives when it comes to Howe’s candidacy.Even if the dressing-room playlist might still not be an easy listen.TEE ‘N A FAGDan Brown finished joint 10th at The Open – and enjoyed a smoke along the waySMOKING isn’t big or clever but plenty of sportsmen — and many more managers and coaches — still do it. Although only privately.So it was amusing, and strangely heartening, to see English debutant Dan Brown leading The Open with an oily rag on the go while standing on the tee at Royal Troon.Darts and snooker stars used to puff away while playing and there were plenty of elite football bosses — including World Cup winners Cesar Luis Menotti and Marcello Lippi — who used to light up in the dugout.Meanwhile, cigarette companies would sponsor F1 teams and several major sporting events.But now golf is pretty much the only major sport where smoking on the go is still vaguely acceptable.A major boon for all those treated as social pariahs due to unfashionable addictions.RAY HAD ALL FANS ALL SHOOK UPRay Reardon mentored Ronnie O’SullivanCredit: ReutersIT’S easy to forget just how famous leading snooker players were in the 80s.On a childhood holiday, I watched Ray Reardon play at Butlins in Barry Island and it felt like watching an Elvis residency in Las Vegas.Reading obituaries to the legendary Welsh cueman — who has died aged 91 — reminded us of a life far more varied than those of most sportsmen.Reardon was not just a six-time world champion, and mentor to  Ronnie O’Sullivan, but a man who defied death in both of his previous careers as a coal miner and a policeman.He was also a better entertainer than any holiday camp Redcoat.SHO FAITHShoaib Bashir took five wickets as England beat West IndiesCredit: ReutersTHERE was a Test match to be won at Trent Bridge on Sunday and — in the fourth innings, when the pressure is always on a front-line spinner — Shoaib Bashir went and won it for England.The 20-year-old off-spinner isn’t even first-choice for his county Somerset.But after decimating the West Indies at Nottingham, he has three five-wicket hauls in his first five Tests.If England are to have any chance of regaining The Ashes in Australia 18 months from now, the continued progression of Bashir will be crucial.READ MORE SUN STORIESPAR BLIMEYParis is hosting the Olympics this weekCredit: GettyTHE Olympic Games are always a joyous opportunity to showcase some weird and wonderful sports — and stop us from obsessing about football for a fortnight or so.But the best thing about boarding a Eurostar and travelling to watch the Paris Olympics live and in person will be not having to view wall-to-wall cheerleading TV coverage on the BBC.Southgate’s highs and lows as England bossGARETH Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.But what were the best – and worst matches – from the popular gaffer’s eight-year reign before that devastating Sunday night in Berlin? Here we take a look.THE HIGHS:Colombia 1-1 England (3-4 on pens,) 2018 World CupThis was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.Spain 2-3 England, 2018 Nations LeagueFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.England 2-1 Denmark, Euro 2020 semi-finalSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.England 3-0 Sengal, 2022 World Cup last 16England had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Italy 1-2 England, Euro qualifiers, 2023On a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.England 2-1 Holland, Euro 2024 sem-finalThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.AND THE LOWS….Croatia 2-1 England, World Cup semi-final, 2018Having led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Italy 1-1 England (3-2 pens) Euro 2020 finalWill probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.England 0-4 Hungary, Nations League 2023A year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.England 1-2 France, World Cup 2022 quarter-finalsAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.Instead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out. More

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      in Boxing

      Listen to Anthony Joshua’s brutal voicenote to Carl Froch after Brit boxers’ public fallout

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      ANTHONY JOSHUA sent Carl Froch have been involved in a very public, very bitter public row – and now you can listen to AJ’s brutal voice note to his rival.The two were once friends and training partners at Team GB’s Sheffield HQ. Carl Froch played out a voicenote sent from Anthony JoshuaCredit: YouTubeJoshua and Froch were locked in a feudCredit: GettyBut in retirement, Froch has become an outspoken pundit not afraid to criticise the likes of AJ and Tyson Fury. Joshua and Froch then went back-and-forth with WhatsApp messages at the peak of their feud.But things look to have cooled down as AJ sent in a question for Froch on his YouTube channel – despite aiming a dig.Joshua said: “What’s happening? How’s your week going? How’s your podcast going? READ MORE IN BOXING”Quick question – when you boxed Jean Pascal for your first world title in Nottingham, Tyson Fury actually made his pro debut on that card, you fought for a vacant title right?“So you didn’t beat a champion. What do you feel about that? Do you feel that you was regarded a champion because you fought for a vacant one? “So the title not being there, it would have just been a normal fight. But they threw a title in the air and you became champion.“You didn’t beat a champion, to become champion if you get what I mean. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Do you feel like that win is, not irrelevant, but it’s not highly regarded the same as if you was to have gone and beat a world champion? How do you feel about that fight with Jean Pascal?”Froch beat Pascal for the vacant WBC super-middleweight title after Joe Calzaghe moved up to light-heavyweight. Carl Froch adds fuel to fire of Anthony Joshua feud with big claim and says Daniel Dubois fight could be his lastAnd in response to Joshua, he said: “Did I feel like world champion? I had the green and the gold belt. “When I woke up and saw the belt at the bottom of my bed in the morning, I felt like a world champion. “I know what he means. I didn’t beat the champion to become the champion. That’s probably why he conveniently didn’t ask about the IBF title.”Froch won the IBF belt in 2012 against Lucian Bute and later unified it with the WBA version against Mikkel Kessler. He retired in 2014 after knocking out George Groves in their rematch – famously in front of 80,000 at Wembley. It is the same stadium where Joshua, 34, returns on September 21 against Daniel Dubois, 26, in his challenge for the IBF title. I think he’s alright. I think we’re seeing eye-to-eye. We’ve had a good exchange of messages. Carl Froch on Anthony JoshuaAnd Froch, 47, revealed they are mending their relationship and teased a reunion. He said: “I think they all know. Anthony Joshua was the first question. He sent me a voicemail. “I think he’s alright. I think we’re seeing eye-to-eye. We’ve had a good exchange of messages. “For all you fanboys out there that are upset that we’ve played the voicenote ‘oh you shouldn’t be releasing private messages’. “Trust me, me and Anthony Joshua are OK. We’re both fighters. We’ve both shared the ring and we’ve shared same trainer and environment.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He’s got respect for me, I’ve got a lot of respect for him and I wish him all the best. “He actually said he’d be coming on the channel in the near future. He’s paying me lip service.”Joshua and Froch pictured in 2017Credit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      Paris Olympics star Jalolov is next in line to heavyweight throne and so good he was gifted luxury BMW by boxing boss

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      BAKHODIR JALOLOV is the 6ft 7in horse-riding, gun-toting Uzbek southpaw tipped to top heavyweight boxing after the Paris Olympics.The 30-year-old leftie already has a winner’s medal from Tokyo 2020 and is the red-hot favourite to do the double in France.Bakhodir Jalolov won super-heavy Olympic gold at Tokyo 2020Jalolov was gifted a luxury BMW as a wedding gift by a Russian boxing bossAnd – in another embarrassment for struggling amateur boxing – he has been allowed to reach 14-0 in the pro ranks, knocking over all of the stiffs inside the distance.The scary stats impressed Russia’s International Boxing Association boss Umar Kremlev so much he sent Jalolov a luxury BMW – complete with bright red bow tied across the bonnet – as a December wedding gift..And the flashy gift from the controversial figure arrived with a whiff of ludicrous as it failed to blend in with the much more modest surroundings of Jalolov’s home.With 37-year-old undisputed king Oleksandr Usyk, 35-year-old rematch challenger Tyson Fury and 34-year-old former champ Anthony Joshua all approaching retirement, the throne will soon need a huge and super-talented backside to take over.Read more OLYMPICSAnd – even though 19-year-old Kent prodigy Moses Itauma has shown staggering early potential – giant Jalolov is earmarked to be the next monster success.Legendary Top Rank promoter Bob Arum revealed Paris was always part of the plan when the US powerhouse did their deal with the ace.The mastermind, who has played a pivotal role in the careers of icons from Muhammad Ali to Vasyl Lomachenko, explained to us: “When we signed Jalolov last year, his participation at the Paris Olympics was always part of the plan. “I have the utmost confidence that he will win another gold medal.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“We plan on moving him very quickly after the Olympics. “He is a uniquely talent fighter, and I do not doubt that he’ll one day be a dominant heavyweight champion.Inside Muhammad Ali’s stunning former LA mansion up for sale“His combination of size and power from a southpaw stance doesn’t come around too often. “Every time I watch him fight, I am amazed by his composure and unique skill set.”The devout Muslim is multi-talented too, judging from the photos and clips from his star-studded Instagram account.Sandwiched between photos of Jalolov with Conor McGregor, Mike Tyson and Cristiano Ronaldo, are snapshots of his far-more pious personal life.The 18st hulk knows his way around a stable and can even mount and ride a giant horse, without either of them collapsing.I have the utmost confidence that he will win another gold medal.We plan on moving him very quickly after the Olympics.He can also bend a left-footed free-kick into the side netting from 25 yards so sweetly that – if he were English – Gareth Southgate would undoubtedly guarantee him three minutes off the bench in a pointless friendly.One Englishman who already rates Jalolov very highly is 2016 Olympic silver winner Joe Joyce, 38 – who beat the rising star in Rio.Jalolov has already been invited out to boxing hot bed Saudi Arabia and mixed with Cristiano RonaldoThe giant Uzbek southpaw has also met Mike TysonTeam GB hero Joe Joyce did beat Jalolov at the 2016 Rio GamesCredit: AP:Associated PressThe Putney Juggernaut – who was robbed of a gold by scandalous judging – told SunSport: “He was quite young back then and I felt I was in my prime, unstoppable.“It was a good fight, he tested me but I was ready and really ripping through people back then.“He was fresh back then and a tricky southpaw, but I was driving through anyone to get that gold medal.“That was eight years ago so he will have more experience and power and be even more difficult to beat.”Away from the ring and sport, Jalolov is a patriot too.Every January 14 he celebrates Uzbekistan’s military holiday by donning their combat fatigues.World title next yearBy Wally Downes JrBAKHODIR JALOLOV will get his world title shot in 2025.A second Olympic gold in Paris at the start of August will only strengthen his case but he already has most of boxing’s powerbrokers firmly in his corner.Heavyweight kingmaker Turki Alalshikh has already hosted the amateur star in Saudi Arabia and promoter Bob Arum knew he was dedicated to competing at the 2024 Games when he signed him last year, so the wheels are turning perfectly.Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois will decide an IBF boss on September 21 and Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury will settle their two-fight rivalry three months later.Then Jalolov will join in-form giants like Joseph Parker and Agit Kabayel – who have seriously impressed in the Middle East since its takeover – in competing for the four major titles that are bound to fragment.Brit prodigy Moses Itauma seems nailed on for the top too but Jalolov has over a decade of experience on him and two Olympic gold medals would definitely put him at the head of the mega-money queue.Saudi is hosting a US show on August 3 in Los Angeles – featuring Andy Ruiz, Martin Bakole and Jared Anderson – and an eye-catching win for one of those hulks will sling them in the mix too.But Jalolov – complete with his rare heavyweight stance, his size, amateur pedigree and power – will be the golden bloke of 2025.Read more from Wally Downes Jr.And in 2020 – to mark the May 9 Uzbek Memorial Day – he showed off his rifle handling skills flanked by soldiers.In Paris, if the form book is to be believed, Jalolov should meet Team GB’s hero Delicious Orie in a mouth-watering semi-final clash.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Russia-born Brit with the beautiful backstory will need to add another chapter to his tale to win, after suffering three 2024 defeats already.But it already promises to be a cracker as the Turkic cowboy targets one more gold mine before turning pro and hunting down belts to match his stirrups and reins. 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      Inside Lautaro Martinez’s Miami trip with bikini clad wife as fans go wild for model Agustina Gandolfo’s sizzling posts

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      LAUTARO MARTINEZ is living his best life on a well-deserved summer holiday.He’s been joined by his model wife Agustina Gandolfo and their holiday snaps have been sending fans wild.The couple are currently on holiday in Miami and hired out a luxury yachtCredit: INSTAGRAM@AUGUS.GANDOLFOThe Inter Milan hitman is now enjoying a well-earned holiday with his wife Agustina GandolfoCredit: INSTAGRAM@AUGUS.GANDOLFOAgus Gandolfo has over two million Instagram followersCredit: INSTAGRAM@AGUS.GANDOLFOThe couple enjoyed a spot of jet skiing on the Atlantic OceanCredit: INSTAGRAM@AUGUS.GANDOLFOThe Inter Milan star was part of the Argentina side that lifted the Copa America trophy for a second tournament running earlier this month.Martinez played a pivotal role in La Albiceleste’s latest triumph, scoring five goals in six matches.That haul added to the glut of goals he scored for Inter last season, in which he found the back of the net 27 times in 44 appearances.The striker has well and truly earned his R&R time, which he’s spending with his wife Agustina.READ MORE ON WAGSThe couple, 26 and 29 respectively, are currently on holiday in Miami, Florida.Martinez and the love of his life have been making the most of Miami’s plush restaurants and amazing scenery.They even hired out a luxury yacht for the day to sail the Atlantic Ocean and were joined by Martinez’s basketball-playing brother Jano.No yacht trip on the ocean is complete without a spot of jet skiing, which the loved-up duo enjoyed and then some.Most read in FootballThe Martinezes documented their epic day out on their Instagram stories.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Martinezes were joined on holiday by their pals and Lautaro’s brother, JanoCredit: INSTAGRAM@AGUS.GANDOLFOThe couple have been happy to share their relationship with fansCredit: Instagram / @agus.gandolfoAgustina is his biggest supporterShe has 1.6million followersAnd they ended the day by sharing matching posts of them smooching on the yacht.Lautaro’s accompanying caption read: “My life!!! I love you.”Lautaro Martinez celebrates into the night after Inter victory on the Serie AAgustina shared a snap of herself in a blue bikini on the beach which the model’s 1.6million followers couldn’t get enough of. She is arguably as popular as her husband, with previous photos posted on social media jokingly labelled “illegal” by fans.The couple have two children together – Nina, three, and Theo, who was born in August.Martinez’s impressive displays for Inter over the last few years have caught the eye of several teams, including Premier League big boys Chelsea.But Inter have tied down the Argentine to a bumper new deal at the San Siro.Inter CEO Giuseppe Marotta told Sky Sport Italia: “It’s all done, he already signed the paperwork.”But we want to make it official when he has returned from his vacation.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMartinez’s new contract with the Nerazzuri is said to run until the summer of 2029. And reports claim it will see him take home a cool £7.5million a season.Lautaro Martinez played a big role in Argentina’s Copa America triumph this monthCredit: REUTERS More