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      in Boxing

      I needed four stitches after winning brutal boxing war but my real hero dad still called me a p***y

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      DANNY QUARTERMAINE won a bloody and brutal war last Saturday – needing four stitches – but his superhero dad still joked he is a ‘p***y’.The 27-year-old super-featherweight was dropped in the opening round by James Chereji and left with a horribly cut and swollen eye.Danny Quartermaine celebrates victory alongside his dadBut he came through the trenches and rallied to win a unanimous decision – moving him to 12-0 – that impressed almost everyone apart from the main man.After his battle wounds were stitched up, 1st battalion paratrooper Quartermaine Snr took the hilarious chance to remind his fearless lad who the toughest man around the dinner table will always be.The Leamington Spa star laughed to SunSport: “I had two stitches in my eyebrow and two in my head and I looked at him and he looked back at me and said ‘p***y’.“But this is coming from a man who once had 22 stitches right across his forehead, so I have to take it and get on with it.READ MORE BOXING“But that mentality has always been in me. I was never pushed too hard to do anything. “I always understood how important it was to give my all, never give up and fight to win.“My dad never boxed, but he did a lot of martial arts and he was also a doorman for a long time, since the age of 16, going all over the country. “So I think that fighting mentality has always been there for him and it’s there for me now.”Most read in BoxingBoxing is full of some of the world’s toughest blokes but there is still the odd pretender playing the tough guy.Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk proved they’re the real deal in their undisputed duel in May – only for attention-grabbing John Fury to blow his boy’s chance at immortality with laughable corner work.Tyson says Paris doesn’t know how much is in their bank accounts Thankfully Quartermaine knows his old man – who also bravely served and protected us in the Pathfinder Platoon – is far too honourable to pull a similar stunt.He told us: “You won’t ever see him jumping up and celebrating, never. For my dad it’s a case of ‘job done’.“He won’t go down the John Fury route, he’s far too quiet. He taught me to stay quiet and take everything in, then react if you have to.“Dad’s definitely not getting up and getting involved in anything, I am pretty sure he’s seen enough p***heads in his lifetime on doors to avoid all that. “I’d never find him in my corner talking over my coach, I’d more likely look over the ropes and see him throwing people out for free!”Role at Aston MartinDespite his father being a real-life James Bond, Quartermaine walked out on 007’s favourite supercar firm Aston Martin when they tried to cut into his training time.A steady 9-5 with one of the most glamorous motor companies on the planet was not enough to stop the proud Midlands lad trying to make himself a local legend and secure his family’s future.The handsome fighter explained: “I have been full time for almost three years now, thanks so much to my sponsors.“Before that I had all sorts of jobs, just to work around my training. People thought I was mad to leave Aston Martin, such a prestigious company, but they moved into shift work and that meant I had to leave because I have always known I want to be a boxer and everything else has to revolve around that.“I want to create a bit of a legacy. I would love in years to come, if someone says ‘Danny Quartermaine’ in a pub or gym, I would love someone to overhear and say ‘I remember him, I remember him being in a great fight and winning that title’.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I have just started making a living out of it now and I would love to be able to change the lives of the people around me with it too.”Danny Quartermaine is proudly sponsored by Scott Simpson, Jay RSD, Max Biddle, Steve Massey & The Hope, Simon Bennett and Barry Gueney, John Barrett, Ace Scaffolding, Laki, The Bulldog Pub and the K9 Club.  More

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      in Soccer

      I played with Bellingham, Musiala and Palmer before swapping countries – England star’s act in training blew me away

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      SERINE SANNEH has played alongside some of the biggest stars in Europe.At the age of 15 he represented England alongside the likes of Jude Bellingham, Jamal Musiala and Cole Palmer to name a few.Serine Sanneh currently plays for non-league side RusthallSanneh played for England as a teenagerThe goalkeeper first joined the England set-up aged 15However, a horrific knee injury stopped him from taking the same path.The former West Ham academy star now plays for non-league side Rusthall FC having recovered from the devastating setback.But he is thrilled to see his former England team-mates shining on the big stage.Sanneh discussed his time in the Three Lions set-up during an exclusive chat with SunSport ahead of the Euro 2024 quarter-finals.Read More in Football”I remember the first day I went to the England camp and, obviously I’d just spent my whole life at West Ham so that was a comfortable environment,” he recalls.”Then all of a sudden you’re at the England camp and you’re playing the best of the best and it was just crazy.”The ability that everybody had there – less mistakes, obviously the standard was a bit higher, it was crazy.”Three players in particular stood out to him at the time – Bellingham, Bayern Munich ace Musiala and former Newcastle winger Amadou Diallo, who is now a free agent.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSanneh recovered from a severe knee injury two years ago”Speaking about Jude, he did stand out because he was a skilful player.”But I remember he was training up with Musiala and there was one guy called Amadou Diallo, I think it was those three that were training up. Yeah, at the time Jude, he was very good. Musiala as well.SunSport’s Latest Euro 2024 headlines”Obviously I hadn’t really played against Jude that much, it was my first time actually meeting him because he was playing for Birmingham.”But Jamal Musiala, I played against him while he was at Chelsea so I knew that he was very good.”It’s funny, I think a player at the time, we were U15s, had never gone one-v-one and dinked me. The first ever time it was Jude Bellingham! I was shocked!”I was like, ‘yeah, this is crazy!’ When you’re playing against them it’s different because their shooting is a lot better and as a keeper, you have to make an outstanding save against them.”Yeah, they just can finish. I think the best finisher out of the three was probably Diallo, but they could all finish.”Sanneh still remains in contact with Bellingham.In fact, he made sure to congratulate the England midfielder on his Euro 2024 last-16 heroics following Sunday’s 2-1 win over Slovakia.Bellingham scored a stunning bicycle kick to equalise before Harry Kane went on to net the winner.”It was very good! That was the goal I messaged him about and said congratulations because it was a very big goal.”He seems to be in the right position at the right time every time. But he deserves it because I know how hard he works and he’s very talented.”Sanneh always knew the midfielder had a special gift – even when they were both playing for the U15s.”I feel like when you have a lot of talent, when you believe, and I’m not saying Jude was ahead of himself but he was confident in a way that’s good.”He knows ‘okay, I’m good at football, it’s time to show these guys why I’m here.’ Because he was training up an age group. He was coming in and doing so well, so he was very, very good.The goalkeeper played for England U15s, U16s and U17sSanneh played alongside Jude Bellingham as a teenagerCredit: GettyHe messaged Bellingham to congratulate the midfielder on his goal against SlovakiaCredit: AP”Sometimes it’s good to show that confidence because that’s how you’re going to play well.”If you show that throughout your career, like he has done, building up his way from Birmingham City, kept going and into the first team.”He played well and just kept getting more confident, got his move to Dortmund and now looks good to show that. Otherwise I don’t think he’d be in the position he is now.”Like his former team-mate Musiala – who now plays for Germany – Sanneh made the decision to switch international allegiance after two years in the England set-up.At just 18-years-old he was given the opportunity to play for Gambia’s U20s – a new challenge that he relished.”It was a very proud moment playing for Gambia, very proud to play for my African team.”At the time I was standby for England because I wasn’t really playing as much at West Ham. Complications happened at West Ham, nothing to do with my football ability or attitude-wise, they were out of my control I’d say.”I wasn’t really getting picked for England and then I think Gambia, we had an upcoming tournament, U20s, and I was still 18 at the time so I got picked to go. I’d played a few matches before and they saw my clips, it was very good but different.”Having played non-league football since recovering from a severe meniscus tear in 2022, Sanneh is now looking to the future with a sense of belief and optimism.But in the mean time he is loving life with Southern Counties side Rusthall.”My ambitions are obviously to get back to where I belong and where I deserve. Obviously I’m working hard everyday.”I’m at a club where I’m enjoying my football and the managers. I love them to bits because they’re letting me play how I play.”Everyday I’m training hard and luckily now I’m performing how I was before. I even think I’ve improved in terms of my goalkeeping.”I can’t really know where I see myself in the next few years but I know it’s something good because I know behind the scenes I’m working very hard to get back to where I need to be.”Sanneh has even enlisted the help of close friend Anthony Elanga, who currently plays for Nottingham Forest, in training.”I have friends like Anthony Elanga, who I was with a few days ago. We were doing a shooting competition.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He was doing good shooting, I was making good saves and we were just talking about how he came up as well, what was difficult for him.”I speak to him and he tells me that he knows one day I’ll be back to where I need to be.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      in Motorsport

      Inside abandoned race track named after writer and left to rot with weeds growing in grandstand and start lines in tact

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      A FORMER race track named after William Shakespeare is looking worse for wear after being left abandoned.The Shakespeare County Raceway was built on the old runway of RAF Long Marston in Stratford-upon-Avon.The abandoned Shakespeare County Raceway in Stratford-upon-AvonCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexIt was originally opened in 1940 as RAF Long Marston airbaseCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexHowever, after the war it hosted its first drag race in 1973Credit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexThe races became a permanent fixture in 1980Credit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexIt is considered to be Britain’s second dragstripCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexWeekend music events were also a common attractionCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexIt later played host to the Hells Angels Bulldog BashCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexBy 2007 it attracted some 50,000 peopleCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexThe airfield had been built in 1940 before ceasing its operations in 1954.Then in 1973, Long Marston held its first ever drag race before the event became a permanent fixture at the venue from 1980.It is considered to be Britain’s second dragstrip, after the Santa Pod Raceway which also claims the title of Europe’s first dragstrip.However, it was not only racing that took place at the race track, with weekend music events a common theme.READ MORE IN MOTORSPORTIndeed, 1987 saw the first ever edition of the Hells Angels Bulldog Bash, which grew to an incredible size of a reported 50,000 people in 2007.In 1990 the track was renamed as Avon Park Raceway, before being renamed again in 2008 as the Shakespeare County Raceway in honour of English writer William Shakespeare.Racing and events continued there all the way until 2017.However, that year saw the site sold off to property developers before the decision was confirmed in 2018.Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRacing and music events carried on there until 2017Credit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexIt was renamed the Avon Park Raceway in 1990 before later getting its Shakespeare name in 2008Credit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexLocal newspaper the Stratford Herald reported a local council document had detailed plans for £100m of funding from development company Cala.These plans allegedly featured the building of an initial 400 homes with a further 3,100 to follow later on.Inside the world’s abandoned stadiums, which have been abandoned and left to rot after years of disuse and in desperate need of repairHowever, as it stands, the track has been left derelict and remains frozen in time.Nature has overtaken the buildings on the site, with weeds and vegetation encroaching on the desolate old strip.Not much of it remains intact, with the exception of the start-finish line which pays homage to the history of the site.The Shakespeare racecourse is not the only venue of its kind in the UK, with the Brooklands Motor Course in Surrey that hosted the first ever British Grand Prix being left abandoned since World War Two.Overseas, there is the French Reims-Gueux circuit and Circuit de Charade, the £540million Hanoi motor race circuit in Vietnam and the Flemington Speedway in New Jersey, USA.However, it was abandoned in 2018Credit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexIt was set to make way for property developers building as many as 3,500 houses on itCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexThe plans would have seen £100m spent on the siteCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexOnly the start-finish line has been left largely intactCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexBut the site has been left frozen in timeCredit: Jam Press/Chloe UrbexOvergrown vegetation has left it looking unrecognisableCredit: Jam Press/Chloe Urbex More

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      in Soccer

      A ‘world class goalie’ and a ‘winger who offers something different’, meet the Switzerland stars looking to down England

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      SWITZERLAND should “not be scared of anybody” and have the belief and momentum to down England.That is according to 47-year-old Raphael Wicky, who led Young Boys to the Swiss Super League and Cup double last year.Raphael Wicky provided a run-through of the Swiss men looking to down EnglandCredit: GettySwitzerland face the Three Lions in the quarters of Euro 2024 on SaturdayCredit: GettyWhen asked by Sun Sport if Murat Yakin’s side can create history in Germany by overcoming England to reach their first semi-final, the ex-Atletico Madrid star said: “Absolutely, the belief is there.“The energy in the country after the performances from the players is amazing and everyone has the right to dream big.“The momentum is really positive for the team, and you can see that even if players don’t play, they are all happy for each other and celebrate together.“Playing Hungary and Scotland, the expectation was that we needed four or six points from both fans and the players and staff.READ MORE ON EURO 2024“Then, Switzerland played one of the best tactical games in the last few years against Germany where they were very strong defensively and they interrupted the German game very impressively.“They then dominated Italy completely, but dominated not defensively but with the ball.“So we have shown that we have a lot of different ways to play and be very solid in defensive but very dominant with the ball.“That’s why I don’t believe that we should be scared of anybody right now. The momentum is very big with Switzerland.”Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSYakin’s team have lined-up in a 3-4-3 formation so far, and Wicky believes that will be the case again against Gareth Southgate’s England in the quarters.The ex-Basel coach said: “Switzerland have played it very well this tournament, it’s very fluid, they can press high and remain in a low block without possession.Watch as Switzerland supporter is smacked in face by ball but fans can’t get over Scot’s reaction in front of him“There is no reason to have a change but there was not really to change and after the first game we did because they had a plan.“I don’t expect many, but it is possible there are one or two changes.“He may bring Silvan Widmer back in a right wing-back, which will be a little bit more defensive, and put Dan Ndoye back into his wing position, that is a possibility.“I don’t think anything will change on the left, but on the right it is possible – but for sure there will be no changes in the midfield, that will be Remo Freuler and Granit Xhaka.“They have worked very well together for many years and they are the heart of this team.”Wicky continued: “I think Embolo will play, but it depends on his fitness. He had a big injury and didn’t play much after being out with an ACL.“So he did not play for Monaco much and now, at a tournament where he plays every three or four days, the biggest question is how is his body doing?“But they’ve had a longer break now and it should be enough time to recover, then I expect him to go in.”So who exactly are the Swiss stars looking to roll over Gareth Southgate’s side? Wicky told SunSport in his own words:YANN SOMMER“A proven world class goalkeeper for many years and he is so important because of his experience, calmness and he is really, really good with his feet as well as being a good shotstopper.“He is a very, very important piece for this team.”FABIAN SCHAR“A lot of experience and has been with the national team a long time.“His strengths are also that he is very calm and good with the ball, his diagonal passing fits very well to this system with the width on both sides.”MANUEL AKANJI“A world class defender who I coached in Basel before he went to Dortmund and I’m not surprised with how his career has gone.“He is one of THE most important parts of this team with his overall package; strong is duels, very fast and he is unbelievably intelligent when in possession which helps a lot to build.”RICARDO RODRIGUEZ“A different player from Schar and Akanji, he was originally a left-back, but just as much experience and intelligence.“But I think that he is perfectly suited to play a back three as he’s the left-footed but he is always able to make a numerical advantage on the left hand as he often goes to help the wing-back on the offensive.“So this suits him as he is used to going forward from playing as a left-back.”England must go old-school to shock Switzerland… this formation would be perfect, says Jurgen KlinsmannIT might be time for England to try something different at these Euros, writes Jurgen Klinsmann.Maybe Gareth Southgate will want to start the quarter-final against Switzerland in a 4-4-2 formation, with Ivan Toney alongside Harry Kane up front.I think it might work, and if Gareth feels the same, he should do it.This is the time when, as a manager at a tournament, you have to trust your gut instinct and never hold back from unpopular decisions.The quarter-finals are make-or-break time. Win and you’re in the last four and everyone respects you.Lose and it’s not acceptable for big nations like England, Germany, France and Spain.England are facing the best Swiss team of all time on Saturday – and it is certain to be another rollercoaster.I understand there can be snobbery about playing a 4-4-2 but sometimes you have to do something different. It can still be a fantastic system — two hard-working frontmen like Kane and Toney can be a real threat to the opposition.I think England need to surprise the Swiss, to try something different.And that just might be a good old-fashioned 4-4-2.Read Jurgen Klinsmann’s column in full.Or check out all of Jurgen’s Euro 2024 opinions.DAN NDOYE“Ndoye is a very fast winger and a very vertical player who is always a threat when one-on-one with a defender.“He offers something different to the other players that we have.”REMO FREULER“It did not quite work out as he’d have wanted at Nottingham Forest so English fans may not have seen the real side of him but he’s another very experienced player.“He played for many years in Italy and has a very good tactical understanding. He’s everywhere, sees the spaces very well and he is a box-to-box midfielder.“For me, he is the complete team player – the team always comes first and that is why everyone really respects him in Switzerland.”GRANIT XHAKA“Swiss fans love him – he is with Sommer and Akanji the rhythm of our game, they are the leaders.“He is the captain, leader and along with those other guys, he is the most important player in this team.”Granit Xhaka will lead Switzerland out against EnglandCredit: GettyMICHEL AEBISCHERA central midfielder originally, he may play defensively as a left wing-back but in possession he usually goes into the centre to create an overload.“He then has the full freedom to go into the No.10 and No.8 position and float around and that has worked really well.“But then he has to defend as a left wing-back, where he did not often play for his club. So he and Ndoye are completely different players but the combination works well on the flanks.”FABIAN REIDERDespite only being 22, he is very mature for his age.Has an extremely good left foot and engine, a real box-to-box central midfielder with big volume.RUBEN VARGASHe’s similar to Ndoye and is also a winger and a big threat with his pace and in one-on-one situations.In them, we have two players that whenever they receive the ball wide, they are always a threat.He has made a great progression from playing in Germany the last few years. We need this mix of vertical players to go with our good central midfield players.BREEL EMBOLO“He is completely different to Shakiri, who would play as a false nine, and have the freedom to go anywhere and drop between the lines, but then you relieve the threat from Vargas and Ndoye to go in behind.“With Embolo, he is very strong, very physical and can hold the ball. And that would provide a very different problem for the English defenders than Xherdan Shaqiri.”Wicky played twice for Switzerland at the European Championship and won honours for Sion, Werder Bremen, Atletico and Hamburg before retiring in 2008 after a stint in America.His coaching career started at youth level with youth sides FC Thun, Servette and Basel before he took over their first-team late in the 2016/17 season.They wrapped up the title days later and followed that up with Swiss Cup success but he left the club the following summer after they finished runners-up.Wicky then had spells as USA under-17 and Chicago Fire in the MLS but returned to his homeland in June 2022.He took over Young Boys and led them to a Swiss double in his first season in charge but he left them in March despite them still being a point clear in the title race.Wicky is working as a pundit for Swiss TV throughout Euro 2024 but is looking forward to a challenge that excites and feels right enough for him.He added: “I’m enjoying some time off because, as every coach will tell you, the job is very intense so I’m enjoying this little bit of a break.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I always say though that I’m not just searching for A job – I’m very open if there is an interesting project that I can work with good people who have the same philosophies of how I see the game.“Whenever there is a good possibility then I am open, but I’m also very relaxed at the moment and don’t need to just jump into any job. It needs to feel right.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      in Boxing

      Chris Eubank Jr shock ‘favourite’ to be Canelo Alvarez’s next opponent in huge world title opportunity for Brit boxer

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      CHRIS EUBANK JR is allegedly set to be the shock next opponent to fight the legendary Canelo Alvarez.The Brit, 34, has a 33-3 record and gained revenge on Liam Smith in their rematch last year with a tenth round TKO in his last bout.Chris Eubank Jr could finally be set for a huge career paydayCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunThe four-weight world champ is looking to fight before the end of 2024Credit: ReutersNow the son of the iconic Chris Eubank Sr is set for a shot at the undisputed super-middleweight king.At least according to ESPN’s Salvador Rodriguez, who states that Eubank Jr is the new favourite to challenge the 33-year-old Mexican.Canelo dominated Jamie Mungia in May in his last 168lbs title defence.He dropped his compatriot before then claiming a unanimous decision victory to take his incredible career tally to 64 wins, two losses, and two draws.READ MORE ON BOXINGNow he is hunting for his next opponent after that fourth straight win.And Canelo is eyeing a return to the ring towards the end of 2024.Eubank Jr, a former WBA title challenger, is said to be top of the pile on the list of potential names.He has publicly called for an opportunity to fight Canelo for a number of years.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut he has so far been snubbed by matchmakers for the four-weight world champion.However, just as he prepares to turn 35 in September, he may finally get the birthday he has long waited for and the mega career payday.My five-year old son already wants to be a boxer… I said he must learn to take a punch first, reveals Canelo AlvarezMost boxing fans have been clamouring to see Canelo take on fellow Mexican David Benavidez Jr, who has recorded 24 knockouts in his 29-0 record.Unfortunately for them, that seems a bout that fails to excite Canelo.Regarding Benavidez, he recently told Fight Hub TV: “Maybe it’s one of the biggest fights, who knows.“But you know, he brings nothing to he table for me, he just brings 25 pounds on the night of the fight.“I feel if some promoter, not him because he’s not in a position to offer anything me any money, I’m the one, but if one promoter who I work with, if they offer $150m-$200m, I fight tomorrow.“That’s the only reason I fight with him, the only thing he brings to the table is 25 more pounds.”“No pressure to make the fight, I don’t need to fight anybody, I don’t need to prove anything to anybody because I remember when this happened with Golovkin. I don’t need to prove anything to anybody.”READ MORE SUN STORIESCanelo is widely-considered to be one of the top pound-for-pound boxers on the planet after his dominance at four different weights.Eubank still has not managed to claim a world title but did hold the IBO belt at super-middleweight. More

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      in Boxing

      Uni graduate Johnny Fisher has dad with famous catchphrase but he’s from a different world to brutal bouncer Alen Babic

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      JOHNNY FISHER is too posh to push around Alen Babic, says the Croatian bouncer.The 25-year-old heavyweight is a fans’ favourite thanks to his knockout power, social media star dad Big John and the classy way he carries himself.Jonny Fisher (left) squares up with Alen BabicCredit: Mark Robinson Matchroom BoxingCroatian heavyweight Babic only wants brutal boutsCredit: Mark Robinson Matchroom BoxingThe strapping Romford Bull is a hero around Exeter – as well as Essex – after he gained a 2:1 history degree at the university and starred in the rugby team.But Saturday night’s opponent Babic – a 33-year-old former doorman and graduate from the school of hard knocks – reckons he will teach the bachelor of arts a lesson.The shaven-headed slugger said: “Me and Johnny have very different stories, very different.“I only knew one way, so me standing here means a lot more than him standing here.MOST READ IN BOXING“I was meant to be in jail or dead or even robbing drug dealers, I was meant for all the worst things“This is a collision of two worlds, we are two worlds far apart.“There’s a big difference in age – and everything else – and it will tell on Saturday.”Babic was a fan-friendly wrecking ball when he burst onto the scene – ignoring almost every basic boxing rule.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAfter 11 violent wins – nine in the UK where he gained the nickname of The Savage – he was given an April 2023 world title shot at the new and unnecessary bridgerweight title.The one-round battering he suffered against Lukasz Rozanski was brutal but nothing compared to the fall out that followed and changed his perspective.I was forced to flog meat on doorsteps with social media sensation father…now I’m chasing boxing titles“I don’t want belts,” he growled with conviction. “I just want fights the fans can enjoy .“I went for a world title last time and it f***ed my whole life.“I paid one year of my life a year of depression, all the sorts of bad things you can imagine“I paid with my own blood, literally. And I’m never going to do it again.”Fisher with his catchphrase-loving dad Big JohnCredit: Mark Robinson Matchroom Boxing More

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      in Soccer

      Abandoned Euros stadium bigger than Villa Park shadow of its former self with overgrown grounds and shattered turnstiles

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      A STADIUM which once hosted Champions League and European Championship matches looks completely different after it was abandoned. The historic Donbas Arena used to seat more 52,000 fans when it served as the home stadium of Shakhtar Donetsk, making it bigger than Villa Park.The Donbas Arena was abandoned by Shakhtar Donetsk in 2014Credit: AFPIt came as the Ukraine conflict escalatedThe ground once hosted Champions League and Euro 2012 matchesCredit: Twitter/Shakhtar_uaBut war has left the ground strew with debris including shattered glass and broken turnstilesCredit: Twitter/FCShakhtar_engThe ground took three years to build from 2006 until opening in 2009, costing an estimated $400million (£313.4m). The ground served as the home of the Ukrainian giants Shakhtar as they won five titles in a row.In the Champions League the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City all failed to come away with three points.On the international stage it hosted five games at Euro 2012, including the semi-final between Portugal and Spain.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDuring this game alone, superstars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Andres Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez all took to the hallowed turf.The England national team even had the chance to play there twice, first in a 1-1 draw with France before a goal from Wayne Rooney secured a 1-0 win over the host nation in a second Group D match.However, as a result of the growing conflict in Ukraine, in 2014 the ground was abandoned.That came despite it playing host to a “Peace March” against the violence of the 2014 pro-Russian unrest in Ukraine and the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe stadium cost £313m to buildCredit: AFPBut reported artillery shelling has hit the infrastructureCredit: GettyAnd this has left the ground looking completely unrecognisable from its heyday.As early into the conflict as 2014, the ground was hit by reported artillery shelling.SunSport’s Latest Euro 2024 headlinesPictures of the ground today show the mess it has become, with shattered glass, overgrown vegetation and broken turnstiles all visible features.Following the expansion of the conflict in 2022, the old football infrastructure has continued to sustain damage, with drone footage from February this year showing the damage that has been inflicted.Shakhtar have moved four times since abandoning the Donbas Arena.Between 2014 and 2016 they played in the the Arena Lviv, before moving to the Metalist Stadium in Kharkiv, some 155 miles to the northwest of Donetsk.The Stadion Wojska Polskiego in Warsaw, Poland, then played host to the club’s home European matches in 2022/23, with the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg, Germany hosting games last season.And they are set for a fifth new home next season after it was announced the club will play their European home games at the Veltins-Arena in Gelsenkirchen for the 2024/25 season.A club statement said: “Our new European Cup home.”Shakhtar will play the home games of the Champions League for the 2024/25 season in Gelsenkirchen in the Veltins-Arena.”Club CEO Serhii Palkin has hailed the deal and argued that the decision was made due to the club’s support in the country.He said: “We are glad to hold our Uefa Champions League matches at one of the best stadiums in Germany.”The positive experience of the last season shows that Shakhtar has a strong support of the fans in this country – both local residents and Ukrainian refugees.”This factor is of great importance to our club.”We thank the management of Schalke 04 and the city of Gelsenkirchen for solidarity and do not doubt the mutually beneficial cooperation.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We are looking forward to the Uefa Champions League matches.”The move to the Veltins-Arena is 1,582 miles from the club’s original home.The stadium could host some 52,000 people, making it bigger than Villa ParkCredit: PA:Press AssociationA drone showed the damage from the expanded conflict in 2022Shakhtar will play their home European games next season at the Veltins-Arena in GermanyCredit: AFP More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Riyad Mahrez and Taylor Ward’s relationship from £400,000 engagement ring to dream third wedding in Lake Como

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      ANOTHER footballer’s wedding, ANOTHER lavish occasion.But for lovebirds Riyad Mahrez, 33, and Taylor Ward, 26, it’s the third time they have walked down the aisle together.Riyad Mahrez and Taylor Ward are football’s most loved-up coupleCredit: Instagram / @taylorwardxGorgeous Taylor has said her ‘I do’s’ to Mahrez for a third timeThe ex-Man City ace, now playing in Saudi Arabia, and his Cheshire-born missus are clearly a match made in heaven and cannot get enough of one another.This time they said their ‘I do’s’ in the wondrous setting of Lake Como, Italy at the exclusive Villa Balbiano, where the Hollywood movie House of Gucci was filmed.It’s another chapter in their relationship that began in 2020.Following a whirlwind romance, they secretly wed a year later.Read more football newsTheir love affair has continued to blossom as the years have passed.Unlucky in loveBefore they met one another, Mahrez and Taylor appeared unlucky in love.She was linked to footballers Mason Holgate and the Algerian’s former teammate Sergio Aguero, however happiness was short lived.Mahrez was married to British model Rita Johal, after they met on London’s Oxford Street, where he asked her out in 2012.Most read in FootballThey married in 2015, but it wasn’t to last – with the pair filing for divorce five years later.Pregnant Taylor Ward reveals she’s having a girl with footballer boyfriend Riyad Mahrez in sweet gender revealRita was in the headlines for ‘chatting intently’ to boxer Deontay Wilder in a Manchester nightclub, which reportedly left Mahrez devastated.The reason why they divorced was never disclosed.Finding each otherWard and Mahrez met in 2020 in the street in Manchester when she was visiting a Christmas market, and soon fell madly in love with another.They were soon engaged by 2021, after the winger whisked the beauty off to Mykonos for a stunning summer holiday.While on their break way, it is believed he dropped to one knee and presented Taylor with a diamond sparkler worth an estimated £400,000.In January, 2022 they walked down the isle in a secret traditional Islamic Nikah ceremony.It was merely the start for the pair who love devoting themselves to each other.Building a familyIn the summer of 2022, Taylor and Mahrez welcomed their first child together.Mahrez and Taylor began dating in 2020 after they met on the street in ManchesterSoon, Mahrez proposed with a £400k diamond engagement ringTaylor shows off her £400k engagement ring after romantic Mykonos proposalBy 2021, Taylor was expecting her first child with MahrezBaby Mila was born in the summer of 2022They announced their daughter Mila on Instagram – sharing a photo of her nestled in a carrier.A caption next to the adorable snap read: “One week of loving you. Mila Mahrez 01.07.22.”Previously, an excited Taylor showed off her extravagant baby shower on social media.The bash featured lavish decorations, including a huge balloon arch,  sprawling pink table and a bespoke three-tiered cake.That came after the pair revealed the gender of their new-born, once again on Instagram, in a sweet reveal video.A second ceremonyBlissfully happy, Mahrez and Taylor exchanged their nuptials for a second time in September, 2023.This time they upped the ante, marrying in front of their closest friends and family at the five-star The Londoner hotel found in the heart of the West End.She looked incredible in a beautiful white dress.While Mahrez was dapper in a black tuxedo.Mahrez and Taylor walked down the aisle for a second time at the five-star The Londoner hotelCredit: Instagram / @taylorwardxBaby Mila was present for the occasion, as was Mahrez’s daughters Inaya and AylaCredit: Instagram / @taylorwardxTaylor looked beautiful in a white dress, while dapper Mahrez opted for a black tuxCredit: Instagram / @betiolacekaaread more sport featuresMahrez and Taylor were also joined by his two daughters, Inaya and Ayla, from his previous marriage and their baby, Mila.The football world united in their love for the couple, after pictures of the ceremony were shared online.Taylor’s furniture designer and Real Housewives of Cheshire star mum, Dawn, declared: “The most amazing day you all look incredible. Me and Dad are super proud, love you all so much.”Former Newcastle star Allan Saint-Maximin commented: “Very beautiful, it’s strong ♥️.”While ex-Man City Ilkay Gundogan’s partner Sara added: “Omg congratulations 🤍🫠😭😍 love it.”Settling in SaudiIf ever there was a test on a relationship, it would be moving to foreign shores.When Mahrez was offered an incredible opportunity – a £45million-per-year contract with Al-Ahli – it was too good to turn down.But, that could have put a strain on the couple’s marriage.In the Married to the Game docuseries put together by Amazon Prime, Mahrez and Taylor offered fans a glimpse into their lives.One emotional scene saw Taylor confessing her struggles to adapt to a new way of living.She admitted: “I feel like it is so hard, there are times I can’t, I just don’t like it.”Mahrez was offered a princely sum to join the Saudi Pro LeagueCredit: AFPTaylor has adapted to her surroundings in the name of love for her partnerAlthough Taylor has admitted it’s been tough at times in the Middle EastTaylor also spoke about an experience she had at a hotel pool.She said on camera: “I won’t lie, I had a freak out yesterday. I rang the hotel to ask ‘I’m coming with my baby, what do people wear around the pool’, I know it is a lot more conservative there and you have to dress a certain way.‘”I said ‘I just want to check when I come with a baby what is the best thing to wear, do I need to wear something covered if I am going in the water?'”They were like ‘oh no sorry, it’s just a man’s pool, it is just a gents pool'”.Third time’s a charmNeedless to say, they have now adapted perfectly to life in the Middle East.Their undying love prompted the pair to wed for a THIRD time in the romantic setting of Lake Como.They did this at the luxury Villa Balbiano, famously featured in Ridley Scott’s House of Gucci starring Adam Driver, Lady Gaga and Jared Leto.The luxurious property boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a private pier and a boathouse.They had an outdoor ceremony, followed by a party with guests. Taylor looked stunning in a long sleeve white gown.Mahrez and Taylor tied the knot again at the splendid Villa Balbiano in Lake ComoLeona Lewis performed at Taylor and Mahrez’s third weddingThe stunning occasion was shared by Taylor’s mum Dawn WardHer footballer dad Ashley walked her down the aisle to Callum Scott’s You Are The Reason surrounded by hundreds of white roses.READ MORE SUN STORIESSinger Leona Lewis, who shot to fame on The X Factor in 2006, performed after the wedding.She famously sang ‘Bleeding Love’. And that’s exactly what Mahrez and Taylor do for each other. More