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      in Soccer

      Pro-Putin Serbian ultras have more reason than ever to launch attacks on England Euros fans, expert warns

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      SERBIAN hooligans could use the political carnage plaguing Europe to launch an attack on England Euros fans, an expert has warned.Professor Martha Newson fears the pro-Putin Serbs could strike, using the Ukraine war and their far-right views as an excuse to unleash violence in Germany.Police in riot gear face ultras at a Euro 2012 qualifying match between Italy and SerbiaCredit: GettyA masked Serbian fan burns the flag of Albania during a match between the two countriesSerbian gendarmerie officers are often deployed at matches to ensure safetyCredit: AFPSerbian ultras are seen as some of the hardest football fans in Europe due to their passion and commitment to their nation and club sideCredit: REUTERSFans have been seen getting arrested after topless pitch-side brawls that left them with bloodied faces and marked bodiesCredit: ReutersA Serbian fan holding up a flare at an Austria versus Serbia friendly on June 4, 2024Credit: GettyFrom pitch invasions to mass brawls, the Serbian ultras are known for creating carnage when they descend on the footballing world.A growing number of die-hard Balkan hooligans have been causing havoc in their country and abroad.With Germany next up on the footballing calendar, many fear Europe’s hardest fans could quickly cause the tournament to erupt in violence.Dr Martha Newson, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Greenwich, has growing concerns over how the situation in a war-torn Eastern Europe could impact the tournament.read more in Serbia ultrasShe told The Sun: “There’s a potential for violence, especially with the Russian-Ukrainian war and people having expectations about Serbian fans tying into those conceptions of East versus West.”Serbian hardcore fans tend to be more likely to be on the far right so there is potential for the Russian conflict and allegiance to come out and play out among fans on the global stage.”Serbia has close relations with Russia that date back centuries through a common Slavic origin and the Orthodox Christian religion. Russia was also supportive of Serbia’s attempted coup in Kosovo after the nation claimed independence in 2008.Most read in Euro 2024The West strongly backed Kosovo in their fight for independence angering Serbs in a similar manner to how Putin’s assaults have been strongly condemned by Nato.Their fans go by several names – such as The Gravediggers, Head Hunters, Zulu Warriors, and the Red Devils.Meet Serbia’s most fearsome hooligan ‘Ivan the Terrible’ who even hijacks team buses as England fans warned ahead of Euro clashAnd are known for using a range of weapons such as baseball bats, belts, pyrotechnics, knives and guns.With England’s first match against Serbia on June 16 already being labelled one of the most “high-risk” games of the tournament.However, Germany’s experience with hosting major widescale sporting events means they are well prepared – which could put off some hooligans from causing trouble.Up to 1,300 police officers will be deployed on matchday around the grounds with extra surveillance at fan zones and city centres as part of the massive security operation.It is understood British police “spotters” and plain-clothed officers will also be on hand to watch England fans at every match.Tracing their lineage back to the Balkan War of the 1990s, Serbian football hooligans are renowned for their love of the game.The chief executive of the county’s top side Red Star Belgrade once famously said Red Star is “not just a football team, it is an ideology, a philosophy and a national symbol”.In Eastern Europe I think organised violence has a bigger presence and that’s probably something German officials are considering when they’re labelling (Serbia games) as high riskMartha NewsonAssociate Professor of Psychology at the University of GreenwichThis belief has led to a barrage of controversial moves at matches against anyone who goes against the “national identity”.Stadiums in Serbia have developed into breeding grounds for militia recruitment, say experts, due to this sense of pride.During the Yugoslavian wars in the 1990s, it has been said that football hooligans were some of the first men to be sent to the frontlines.Dr Newson says this has created a formidable legacy.She said: “Often in football, people are playing out their national identities almost like a theatre performance.”They’re bringing everything into a ritual arena, so it is often an opportunity, or perceived as an opportunity to sort of flex the muscles.”So the reports coming in around the Serbian fans, I think, is a mixture of their legacy and their reputation.”England’s ‘high risk’ Serbian clashENGLAND kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia on Sunday, 16 in a match where Southgate’s men start as a clear favourite on the pitch.
      Due to Three Lions fans and Serbian ultras flocking to Germany this weekend warnings have been placed all over the game.
      German police have claimed “up to 400 or 500 ­violence-seeking ­Serbian ­hooligans will travel to ­Germany” ahead of Sunday’s fixture.
      Peter Both, the chief of police in Gelsenkirchen, said: “I guess the biggest challenge for us will be to identify violent, disruptive groups at an early stage, to separate them from peaceful and law-abiding fans, that will be our biggest challenge.”
      Roughly 500,000 Serbs live in Germany with many planning to head to Gelsenkirchen for the England game.
      One East European media platform has already vowed daily updates from the Euros “where we will cover the matches and, above all, events outside the stadium”.
      Up to 1,300 police officers will be deployed on matchday around the grounds with extra surveillance at fan zones and city centres as part of the massive security operation at the Euros.
      It is understood British police “spotters” and plain-clothed officers will also be on hand to watch England fans at every match.
      But a special focus will be on fan zones where 40,000 supporters are expected to gather.
      Dr Martha Newson says: “Fans go with the mentality of going into battle but that battle is only there if they perceive a threat.
      “So the England fans going out there if they perceive the Serbians as a potential threat or risk that’s when they’re gonna have a battle mindset and same for the Serbians.”
      However, Germany’s experience with hosting major widescale sporting events means they are well prepared – which could put off some hooligans from causing trouble.
      A UK law enforcement source told the i: “If you were going to hold this tournament at this time anywhere apart from the UK, then you would choose Germany.
      “But it’s a complex picture and unfortunately England fans are still regarded as fair game, or even desirable targets, by opposing hooligan groupings.
      “There is particular concern about the Serbia game.”

      8,000 flare-wielding Serb fans attempted to storm their own team’s training session in Germany on Wednesday.Cops were attacked with the roaring flares and forced to tackle a pitch invader at the Serbian team’s base.Ivana Jeremic, an investigative journalist who has extensively covered the link between football and the culture in Serbia, also told The Sun: “Serbian ultras have been influenced and controlled by state actors and criminals.“In the 90s, they bolstered paramilitary ranks. In peacetime, they have shaped public opinion and participated in significant political events.”This “war” mind-frame has continued in the past three decades with ex-ultra members stating they were made to “bleed” to become a fully-fledged fan.This siege mentality would see fans forced to attack others in a harrowing initiation ceremony.It resulted in riot police being deployed at almost every match in the country with batons and semi-automatic handguns.One of the ways the Serbian ultra-groups differ from other fan groups across Europe is their planning of violent acts.In recent years, they’ve formed a working relationship with the ruling party, allowing them to conduct business relatively unmolestedIvana JeremicInvestigative journalist Dr Newson said: “In the UK spontaneous violence is really all that we see nowadays, just a fight, sort of erupting without this sort of planning and scheduling.”In Eastern Europe, I think organised violence has a bigger presence and that’s probably something German officials are considering when they’re labelling [Serbia games] as high risk.”In 2022, a report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime declared Serbia as the most concerning country for hooliganism.The report mentions how youngsters are often drafted into these ultra groups to act as “foot soldiers” for the ring leaders.In Belgrade, to become a member of the notorious United Force Ultra any newcomer must “stab someone with a knife”.Elsewhere Principi Ultra rookies are tasked with making rival fans bleed to build up trust within the group.In a Euro 2016 qualifier, Albanian players were seen frantically running off the pitch as Serbian fans ran on and caused carnageCredit: EPAA crazed Serbian fan threw a punch at one of the Albania playersCredit: ReutersIn 2017, Wales fans were seen fighting with Serbs through the gated barriersCredit: Huw Evans AgencyA Serbian fan punched a Brazil fan after a brawl in the stands at the 2018 World CupCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe ringleader of the Serbian ultra group dubbed “Ivan the Terrible” BagdanovCredit: GettyFans holding lit flares at an Austria and Serbia match in JuneCredit: APThe fearless firms are also heavily linked to far-right politics, Neo-Nazi sympathies, and organised crime – making them a haven for the criminal underworld.Prompting a culture of racism, drug use, drug selling and gang violence all away from the sport that has been ongoing for decades.Sasa Djordjevic, a researcher at the Belgrade Centre for Security Policy, says hooligans are good for three things outside of football.Promoting nationalism, drug dealing and private security.He said: “The first part of their job is to promote a nationalistic narrative in public and spur the rise of nationalism, chauvinism and so on. The second part is drug dealing and the third is private security. “The first part is important because of politics, and it seems that it is some kind of favour [to politicians], and in return, hooligans get to do their illegal business.”BARBARIC ATTACKSOne of the worst Serbian ultra attacks came when a rival fan was ruthlessly beaten to death.In 2009, a Toulouse supporter – Brice Taton – was attacked with iron bars and bike chains by Partizan Belgrade hooligans before a match.A staggering fourteen men were charged, with the ringleaders being sentenced to up to 35 years for the heinous beating.Rangers fans were also ambushed with glass bottles in Belgrade when hooligans attacked them ahead of a Europa League match a few years ago.The travelling supporters had already been warned not to travel around Belgrade in small groups or late at night for fear of trouble.In 2021, cops raided several fan groups linked to clubs Partizan and Red Star Belgrade.They arrested 17 people on several “monstrous” charges including drug and murder crimes.Serbian ultras have been influenced and controlled by state actors and criminalsIvana JeremicInvestigative journalist In 2013, die-hard fans of a Serbian third-tier side dug a grave on their own pitch in a thinly-veiled threat to players.The hooligans – who snuck in after a match – pinned a crucifix to the ground which read “second division or this”.On the international stage, Serbian brutes are just as malicious.Ivan Bagdanov – a firebrand hooligan leader with links to Serbian far-right paramilitaries – was responsible for forcing a Euros qualifying match between Serbia and Italy to be abandoned In 2012.He tried to attack rival fans before turning on police and sparking the grisly carnage that led to an all-out war on the pitch.Nicknamed “Ivan the Terrible” Bagdanov rallied his fellow mob to set off live flares onto the pitch as players warmed up.Serbian Red Star Belgrade supporters let off red flares during their derby match against Partizan BelgradeCredit: AFPFans have even been known to set light to opposition team’s kits in the standsCredit: EPAEven on the pitch Serbian players are seen as some of the toughest opponents to face physicallyCredit: EPAThe Serbian Cup Final is seen as one of the most intimidating matches in Europe due to the fansCredit: ReutersThe ultra group are famous for their use of flares which cause a thick cloud of smoke to fill the stadiumCredit: ReutersThey also tried to break down the barriers separating the two sets of fans.Several other fights broke out at games across the past decade including a mass brawl with Brazilian supporters at the 2018 Russian World Cup.Four years earlier at a Euro 2016 qualifier between Serbia and Albania, another battle kicked off in the stands.Kosovo fought Serbia in a bitter war for independence in 1999 that resulted in the deaths of thousands of civilians and soldiers on both sides.These horror incidents have resulted in several fines and bans.The latest being when UEFA ordered them to play a 2024 European Championship qualifier in front of an empty stadium last year due to racist chants at a game against Montenegro.READ MORE SUN STORIESFans of both sides were said to have traded ethnic-based slurs resulting in Serbia being slapped with a £50,000 fine.Ivana Jeremic added: “UEFA’s disciplinary decisions frequently highlight issues, with the Serbian National Team being fined for racism and hate speech at international events.”Serbia’s history with hooligans and the governmentIN the 1990s, Yugoslavian governments were said to have started to fear football-going thugs.
      Former president Slobodan Milosevic had allowed for thousands of kids to grow up idolising such fans, in turn creating a culture of violence on match days.
      As the dangers increased and the ultra groups power soared, Milosevic ordered that the groups elected a leader he could talk to.
      A hooligan nicknamed Arkan – or Zeljko Raznatovic – was the first to be elected.
      He had a chilling past of robbing banks and escaping prison as well as heading up the notorious Delije ultranationalist fans of Red Star Belgrade for years.
      He would order his men to threaten and assault fans who were seen as anti government or anti-Communist.
      Milosevic was later called up to fight in the Balkan conflicts as he formed a paramilitary brigade of a 1000 men all from his football clan dubbed Arkan’s Tigers.
      He was later indicted by the International Tribunal of War Crimes at the Hague for genocide and known as one of the decades worst war criminals.
      Soon after the fighting, football stadiums in the country were filled with chants of “kill yourself Slobodan” aimed at the president.
      Until tempers reached boiling point in 2000 when hooligans led the way in violent protests that led to the storming of the Serbian Parliament.
      Milosevic resigned straight afterwards as tempers continued to flare.
      Rising ultra-nationalism flooded sporting environments in the years after the rioting.
      Ivana says this is still a major issue in Serbia today with politicians allowing ultra groups to get away with many heinous crimes in return for political support.
      She added: “In recent years, they’ve formed a working relationship with the ruling party, allowing them to conduct business relatively unmolested.
      “This makes those ultras significantly different from most other European countries in a sense that their actions are usually tolerated by the authorities.“
      The ruling Serbian Progressive Party is said to allow many hooligan groups to continue with their dirty work in order for everyone to stay happy within society.
      Current president, Aleksandar Vučić, has even labelled himself a former Red Star ultra in the past.
      Researcher James Montague claims the Serbian leader has sought to court and co-opt football hooligans.
      He said: “Vučić understood that this is a powerful and dangerous constituency that can make or break a president.
      “The ultras can quickly be mobilised for political goals if needed. At the same time, the authorities listen carefully to what is being shouted at the stands.”

      A bloodied hooligan being arrested after causing a riotCredit: AFP or licensorsPolice often clash with fans at the stadiumsCredit: EPABlood stained fans are seen by the pitch after a fierce derby match in SerbiaCredit: AFP or licensorsA former Yugoslavian army T-55 tank was once seen parked outside the Rajko Mitic stadium in BelgradeCredit: AFP or licensorsMany matches in Serbia are played under thick smoke clouds coming from the standsCredit: AFPArmed riot police battle with Serbian fans causing issues in the standsCredit: Reuters More

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      in Boxing

      Gervonta Davis brutally exterminates The Ghost Frank Martin with stunning left hand in world title fight

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      GERVONTA DAVIS exterminated The Ghost Frank Martin to avoid the biggest scare in his career. The American superstar came from behind to close the show in round eight with two brutal left hands. Gervonta Davis KO’d Frank MartinCredit: GettyHe came from behind to win the boutCredit: APMartin was laid out with a left handCredit: GettyDavis celebrates his winCredit: GettyDavis’ first uppercut set up the finishing blow to land Martin flat on his back and out for the count. The WBA champion bounced back after 14 months out the ring amid legal troubles to claw back his 27th knockout in 29 unbeaten fights. Davis, 29, said: “Just a little rusty but I’m back.”A couple of rounds I feel I didn’t warm up completely like how I wanted to but I did warm up and got caught as the fight was going on. But it’s okay, no excuses.”Martin – who began boxing aged 18 after ditching his NFL dreams – started the quicker to draw up an early lead. Davis – who walked out to a Ghostbusters theme – was on the front foot throughout but walked into jabs, left hands and combinations. But bit by bit the man affectionately known as Tank crept ever closer to landing the finishing blow. In round seven, the writing appeared on the wall as Martin’s firepower dwindled and his responses dramatically dipped. Most read in BoxingDavis trapped Martin into the corner and unloaded with left hands as the challenger no longer was able to return with damaging counters. And in round eight, Davis backed Martin into the ropes allowing his trademark left uppercut to stun the Texan. Shocking moment Ben Whittaker is attacked with headbutt and elbow as he outclasses furious opponentIn a flash, Davis followed up to nail a left hand into a defenceless Martin. The referee began counting but the champ was already celebrating on the top rope. Eventually, Martin, 29, was counted out and Davis declared the winner to mark a sensational return over a year after beating Ryan Garcia, 25. He added: “I’ve been training since I was seven-years-old, competing since I was eight so it’s like second nature.”It’s about staying focussed. Make sure my minds on the goal and it’s always to come out on top.”Martin, beaten for the first time, said: “I felt like in the beginning I was in control and then got a little too comfortable.”I got caught chilling on the ropes, trying to find that bigger shot it wasn’t presenting itself. “I stopped doing my movement and once I stopped doing my movement he was able to land more shots.”Once I stopped doing my thing he got off more shots on me.”Davis now has the likes of Vasyl Lomachenko, Shakur Stevenson and a rematch with Isaac Pitbull Cruz in his sights. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “All them guys are on my radar.” More

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      in Soccer

      Ultimate Euro 2024 rich list reveals England’s top earners & how Ronaldo’s salary is EIGHT times higher than Mbappe’s

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      EURO 2024 will see some of the world’s finest talents clash on the pitch – but who comes out top dog away from it?With staggering salaries and lucrative endorsement deals worth millions, players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe could retire now and never have to work again.Cristiano Ronaldo tops the rich list of players taking part in the Euros this yearCredit: @cristianoRonaldo on holiday with his fiancee Georgina Rodriguez and their childrenCredit: Instagram/@cristianoRonaldo is the richest footballer playing in the Euros this yearCredit: Instagram / @cristianoEven the likes of England superstar Jude Bellingham, who is just 20 years old, is already worth a not-so-small fortune thanks to commercial tie-ups, including an eye-catching deal with Kim Kardashian’s Skims.Ahead of the first game of the tournament kicking off tonight, here we reveal the ultimate Euro 2024 rich list.Cristiano Ronaldo £471mPortugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, will play his sixth European Championship when his team faces Czech Republic on Tuesday. It is believed this could be his last Euro games. In 2020, he became the first active team sport athlete to surpass $1billion in career earnings – and two years later, he signed a two-and-a-half year deal with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.READ MORE ON SPORTAccording to Forbes, he is paid around £164million by the club for his on-field duties.Ronaldo has raked over £47million in endorsement deals with brands such as Nike, Unilever, and Herbalife.The star also has an incredible property portfolio.Among the impressive homes owned by Ronaldo and his fiancée Georgina Rodriguez are a £5.5million house in Lisbon, a £1.5million flat, and a £2.5million mansion overlooking the River Cavado.Most read in Euro 2024Kylian Mbappe – £141mAfter making his debut for the French national team in 2017, Kylian Mbappe has risen to become one of the most exciting players in the world. With a £141million net worth, he is the second richest player in the tournament this year. At just 25, he has lifted some of the biggest trophies, including the World Cup in 2018.England fans’ must watch guide to Gelsenkirchen ahead of Three Lions’ Euro 2024 clash vs SerbiaAt just 25, Kylian Mbappe is one of the richest athletes in the worldCredit: GettyThe star often posts snaps of his lifestyle on social mediaCredit: Instagram / @k.mbappeHis salary is pegged at a whopping £21million-a-year – which equates to £404,000-a-week.However, that marks a drastic pay CUT compared to the previous two-year deal he was on at PSG, which netted him a staggering £5.1million per week.And it works out at about an eighth of Ronaldo’s!Mbappe has also signed lucrative deals with Hublot, Louis Vuitton, Oakley, and Hennessey. According to Forbes, his endorsement deals fetch him £15.7million alone.Earlier this month, it was reported that he had purchased a £15million mega mansion in Spain after finalising his move to Real Madrid. Harry Kane – £72mEngland’s Harry Kane is the third richest player in the tournament this yearCredit: GettyHe has an impressive £13million property portfolioHarry Kane, England’s top goal scorer of all time, saw his net worth shoot up by £24million to £72million in just a year.That figure will continue to rise since. In 2023, he signed a lucrative deal to move to Bayern Munich that pays £21.5million per year.His £100million transfer was said to have come with a £30million signing fee.Kane’s skills have also netted him an endorsement deal with Amazon and a partnership with Sketchers that is said to be worth £2million.He has also invested in properties with a portfolio that stands at an eye-watering £13million. Despite this, it’s been reported that Harry lives in a £1million-per-year rented mansion with wife Katie and their three kids.Antoine Griezmann – £71mAntoine Griezmann has a peak base salary of £21millionCredit: AFPHe lives in a modern home with his wife and kids worth £5millionCredit: INSTAGRAM/EriKA ChoperenaFrance’s Antoine Griezman, 33, has a reported net worth of £71million.His £21million peak base salary made him one of the ten highest-paid football players in recent years. Away from the pitch, he earns over £4.7million in endorsement deals with brands such as Puma, Gillette, and Head and Shoulders.Fans have seen glimpses of the Atletico Madrid player’s elegant modern home, which is said to have cost over £5million. Robert Lewandowski – £67mRobert Lewandowski is one of the best strikers of all timeCredit: Instagram @_rl9He owns a deluxe £7million apartment in Warsaw with his wifeCredit: INSTAGRAM @_RL9 @annalewandowskaPoland’s Robert Lewandowski’s impressive skills on the pitch saw him crowned the best player by FIFA and UEFA in 2020. According to Celebrity Net Worth, his salary in 2020 was £23.5million, which made him one of the highest-paid football players in the world.The Barcelona player has often been named one of the best strikers of all time and has many sponsorship deals to his name. In 2016, it was reported that he spent £7million on a deluxe apartment in Warsaw, his home city. Kevin De Bruyne – £56mKevin De Bruyne’s career has netted him a £56million fortuneCredit: GettyHe owns properties in Cheshire and BelgiumCredit: INSTAGRAMKevin De Bruyne has been one of Belgium’s most trusted aces for many years. The Manchester City player’s stunning career has earned him a £56million net worth. Regarded as one of the greatest of his generation, the 33-year-old’s base salary is £15.7million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.His huge popularity has been a hit with brands – he has partnered with Nike, McDonald’s, and Emirates. Like many on this list, he enjoys the finer things in life. He owns properties in Cheshire and a villa in Belgium, his home country, equipped with a jacuzzi, swimming pool, and a basketball court.Romelu Lukaku – £50mRomelu Lukaku is one of Chelsea’s most expensive signings of all timeCredit: GettyBelgium striker Romelu Lukaku is believed to be worth a staggering £50million.With an impressive resume that includes stints with Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Chelsea, it is no surprise that he is one of the most in-demand players in the world. In 2021, his return to Chelsea made him the seventh-most-expensive player in a club-record transfer worth £97.5million. After one season, he was sent out on loan to Roma and forced to take a pay cut. According to Football Transfers, he now earns an annual salary of £6.3million. Luka Modric – £58.9mCroatia’s Luka Modric recently splashed £10m on a mansionCredit: GettyThe footballer with wife Vanja Bosnic, who secured a monumental deal that took him to Real Madrid in 2012Credit: Instagram @lukamodric10Croatian captain Luka Modric is best known for his long tenure as a midfielder for Real Madrid.Regarded as one of the greatest players in the world, he has amassed a fortune of £58.9million.While his annual salary with the La Liga team has not been made public, it has been estimated to be around £7.8million.Last year, it was reported that he had forked out £10.1million on a new home in Madrid.It has a huge parlour, nine bedrooms, a swimming pool, and a gym. He lives there with his wife, Vanja, and their three kids.Thomas Muller – £45millionHarry Kane’s Bayern teammate reportedly earns £345,000 a weekCredit: ReutersThe Geman icon with wife Lisa, who he married in 2009Credit: Instagram @esmuellertGerman icon Thomas Muller, 34, has made around £45million throughout his career.Very few can match his trophy hauls, which include the Bundesliga, Champions League, and the World Cup.He is said to be making £18million a year and £345,000 a week.This makes him one of the highest-paid footballers at Bayern Munich, where he has been since 2008.He lives in Munich in a villa with his wife, Lisa, which was burgled while he played football in 2022.Jude Bellingham – £40mAt just 20, Jude Bellingham has made £40million in his careerCredit: GettyHe’s recently been unveiled as the new face for Kim Kardashian’s fashion brand SKIMSCredit: SKIMSEngland and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham is worth £40million, thanks partly to his £103million deal transfer to Real Madrid last year. This equates to a yearly salary of £11.6million a year and weekly wages of £200,000.The 20-year-old has a growing endorsement portfolio, which includes partnerships with Louis Vuitton and Lucozade. More recently, he became the face of Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS.READ MORE SUN STORIESAdidas has also designed a logo in his image. That partnership is said to fetch him £2.6million.Jude became the youngest first-team player for Birmingham City when he was 16 and has continued to break records since. They include becoming the youngest English goalscorer in the Champions League back in 2021. More

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      in Boxing

      The heartbreaking chance meeting between Muhammad Ali and Colin Hart where boxing icon revealed ‘I’m not scared to die’

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      MUHAMMAD ALI gave legendary Sun boxing writer Colin Hart his biggest ever story in a totally chance and heartbreaking meeting.In December 1981, a 39-year-old Ali endured the last sickening defeat of his magnificent career, ten long hard-to-watch rounds against Trevor Berbick.Muhammad Ali in his last fight against Trevor BerbickCredit: GettyAli in 1988 with businessman Fred Trump and the first wife of Donald Trump, Ivana, a few months after his diagnosis had become knownCredit: GettyAli’s health was already under such suspicion before the one-sided beating in the boxing backwater of the Bahamas.And six years later the tragic news that he was hit with Parkinson’s spread around the world.Our man Harty smelled a very separate scoop out in Las Vegas in 1987, around the same time of the agonising diagnosis.But when he went to Sin City to seek out the Baddest Man on the Planet he ended up being approached by The Greatest.READ MORE IN BOXINGAnd the 89-year-old doyen relived the gut-wrenching yet inspirational moment in a SunSport video.The revered ringside veteran explained: “Mike Tyson had just won the world title (in November 1986) and I knew he was going to be carrying the spit bucket for his great friend Edwin Rosario for his world title shot against Julio Cesar Chavez (November 1987).EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERS“I asked my boss to send me because it was already a great fight but I also thought I could get an interview with Mike Tyson.“It was a great fight, Tyson did carry the bucket but Rosario was beaten in the 11th.Most read in Boxing“But the next morning I’m standing at the news stand, minding my own business and waiting for breakfast outside the Hilton hotel in Vegas.Anthony Joshua shows the training never stops as boxer does 30 press-ups on PRIVATE JET as all-Brit clash edges closer“And who should come along but Muhammad Ali. I had been at his last fight in the Bahamas and he came over naturally just to have a chat.“But it had just been made public that he was suffering from Parkinson’s.“I told him how sorry I was to hear about it and he just started talking. He said, ‘If I die, I have no regrets.God gave me Parkinson’s to show me I’m just a manMuhammad Ali to Colin Hart“‘I have an obligation to keep myself healthy. But the final decision is my maker’s.“‘I’ve tried to live a good life and do the right thing. But I’m not scared to die, because I have made my peace.“‘God gave me Parkinson’s disease to show me that I am just a man, like everyone else, to show me that I have human frailties like everyone else. Because that is all I am, a man.’”In typical Sun style, Hart dropped everything – including his appetite – to get his copy over to London ASAP.And, in one of Fleet Street’s most decorated careers, it remains our modest man’s pinnacle.He said: “I was absolutely taken back by that and I was 42 years younger so I forgot about breakfast, ran up to my room and wrote it on my type writer.READ MORE SUN STORIES“That was the biggest scoop I ever got and it came just out of the blue.”Ali, who is widely regarded as arguably the greatest sportsmen who ever lived, died in 2016 aged 74.Muhammad Ali boxing record MUHAMMAD ALI turned pro in 1960 after winning gold at the Olympics. Here is the rundown of his iconic boxing career.
      Fights: 61
      Wins: 56
      Losses: 5
      KOs: 37
      Height: 6ft 3in
      Reach: 78in
      World titles: 3
      Olympic gold medals: 1

      Mike Tyson knocked out Trevor Berbick in 1986Credit: GettyTyson and Ali pictured in 1998Credit: EPAAli sadly passed away in 2016 aged 74Credit: ZENON TEXEIRA/FAMEFLYNETEx-boxer Spencer Fearon and Colin Hart at the Sport Gives Back Awards 2024Credit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      England stars’ favourite cheat meal and pre-match food revealed ahead of Euro 2024

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      CURRY PIE, sausage roll, come on England score a goal.Our Three Lions stars will tuck into curry pies and burgers if they can deliver Euro 2024 success, revealed their private chef.Private chef Jonny Marsh cooks for a number of England’s starsCredit: Instagram @chef_jonnymarsh
      Marsh has teamed up with Deliveroo to offer fans an at-home dining experience on England match daysCredit: DeliverooKyle Walker and Luke Shaw are two of his clients from the Three Lions campCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunMichelin star trained Jonny Marsh cooks for a host of football stars – including several members of Gareth Southgate’s squad in Germany.His clientele includes Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, while his latest one is Manchester United ace Rasmus Hojlund.England’s own Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker and Luke Shaw are just some of Southgate’s men who hire him – and now he has lifted the lid on what it’s like cooking for our Euro-chasing heroes.He told Sun Sport: “Luke Shaw is a big one for me and a big part of my career so far but I’ve cooked for a lot of players in that squad.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“In the last Euros, it was the game that Bukayo Saka didn’t start, there was a game that I’d cooked for every player on the pitch bar Harry Kane. That’s a pretty cool little fact.“But for me personally, whether it’s meal preps, daily cooking or a one-off event, I’ve cooked for pretty much everybody.”Marsh has now teamed up with Deliveroo to launch a competition for fans, with entry now open via participating restaurants, to win him as a private chef, in their very own home, to cook them a three-course menu during an England group game.And the kitchen whizz, who says a spaghetti bolognese is “a go-to pre-match pasta for sure” for his clients, could you up one of their favourite cheat meals.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMarsh said: “Everybody is different but I would say the most common is burger – that’s quite a big one.“And, do you know what, since coming back from Christmas and doing my Proper Pies series, pies have become very, very popular.The Sun’s Tom Barclay gives live update from England training and John Stones MISSES session through illness“Hojlund loves a meat pie, Aaron loves the chicken, leek and bacon pie.“There’s a load of variations on pies, which is great because we can always do something but everyone loves a curry pie.“They can take a while as you’re cooking the curry down so that the meat is tender and the pastry is like a hot water pastry so it becomes very, very crisp, which is why pies can kind of stand on their own rather than just have a pastry top.“The water pastry, you’re melting the water, butter and lard together until it’s hot and then pouring it into the flower.“And you can’t roll the dough out while the pastry is hot – you have to cool it down – so that will take a few hours. “All in all, it might take them five minutes to eat but eight or nine hours to make fully.”Jonny’s Beef Vindaloo PieA winning combination of two of English football’s most loved foods, the hot curry and the humble pie…
      INGREDIENTSDough
      • 720g flour • 240g water • 6tbsp butter • 6tbsp lard • Pinch of salt
      Filling
      • 800g beef (diced)
      Curry Paste
      • 2 tsp coriander seeds • 6tbsp chilli powder • 3 tsp cumin seed • 4 cloves • 4 cardamom pods (green) • 2 tsp cinnamon powder • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, roughly chopped • 10 garlic cloves (yes, 10!) • 1 tsp brown sugar • 1 tsp fenugreek seeds • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder • 230g cups water
      Curry Sauce
      • 50g unsalted butter • 1 onion, finely chopped (white) • 2 tsp ginger, finely grated • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced • 2 tbsp tomato paste • 500ml beef stock
      METHOD
      Dough
      1. Add your water, butter and lard to a pan and bring to a boil.
      2. Mix your flour and salt.
      3. You can either use a wooden spoon and a bowl or a food mixer and slowly bring dough together by adding your water and butter mixture slowly to the flour.
      4. Then flour a plate and place the dough on the plate and leave in your fridge to cool down – will take around 2 hours.
      FILLING
      1. Toss beef in salt.
      2. Curry paste: Place the curry paste ingredients in a small food processor with the water. Blitz until smooth.
      3. Fry your beef dice until golden brown, once brown transfer to a bowl.
      4. Curry sauce: Melt ghee over medium-high. Cook onion, ginger and garlic until they become translucent – about 3 minutes.
      5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
      6. Add your beef back to the pan and mix thoroughly, then add your curry paste and mix.
      7. Add beef stock. Slow cook and place lid on top, then cook for 2 hours or until beef is falling apart tender and the sauce has darkened in colour and thickened.
      8. When you have rolled out the dough, place in your non-stick mould and bake for 40 minutes at 175 degrees until golden brown, making sure you brush the pie lid with egg wash before cooking.
      ALLERGENS
      Pastry – Wheat, Milk
      Mash – Milk
      Filling – Although extremely rare, anaphylaxis has been reported with some spices. These reactions are consistent with true allergy. Some reactions can occur with oregano, thyme, coriander, caraway seed, cumin and cayenne pepper.

      He continued: “Players, in terms of cheat meals, it’s not like they are going to KFC and getting a bargain bucket and stuffing their faces full of chicken wings.“Their version of a cheat meal is a lot different to a normal person’s cheat meal.“So a cheat meal for them might be going out for a cheat meal but still eating quite healthy, so it’s all in perspective.“But they won’t be going down to McDonalds and getting 20 chicken nuggets.”Marsh will be watching on like the rest of the nation to see whether his England pals can cook up a storm on the pitch.He said: “I’ve never been asked to do an international tournament as England have their own chef.“They’ve had two or three chefs but had the one sole chef working for them for the last five or six years.“There was an opportunity a few years back if I wanted to apply for it but I’m pretty sure they filled it quickly.“It’s one of them, maybe one day I might be England chef.”Asked on why he had decided to team up with Deliveroo, Marsh said: “I think it’s because it gives people an idea of exactly what I can do on a day-to-day basis in terms of the players.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT“It also gives a bit of an insight into players’ cheat meals and that’s what the menu is based around.“So it’s a sort of day in the life and POV of what I get up to but also showing a bit of a fun side to the players and what they like to eat when they are not on strict diets.”The winner can be certain that he will hit the back of the net with whatever magic he cooks up for them – unlike his self-confessed biggest own goal with Man City legend Ilkay Gundogan.“When I very first started with Ilkay I made him like a smoked fish cake,” he added.“I really enjoyed it and made a sweet chilli sauce, it took hours to make and it was really nice. It just didn’t sit with him and he didn’t like it.“I was gutted but at least then I knew that smoked fish was a no-no for the rest of the five years that I was with him.”READ MORE SUN STORIESPrivate chef to pro footballers, Jonny Marsh, has teamed up with Deliveroo to offer fans the chance to eat like an England player, winning an at-home dining experience on match days on 20th and 25thJune.Order from participating restaurants from 14th-16th June, to find out more visit https://deliveroo.co.uk/more/news-articles/baller-bites. More

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      in Boxing

      Heartbreaking story of boxer who’d get beaten up in ring to numb pain of baby son’s fight for his life

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      MACAULAY MCGOWAN was supposed to stop accepting dangerous fights after his baby boy won the toughest one of all.In December 2019 the Manchester super-welter was supposed to welcome his little boy smoothly into the world. Macaulay McGowan is a proud fighter and an even prouder dadCredit: Macaulay McGowanMcGowan lost three dangerous fights in a row after a bright undefeated startCredit: GettyBut brave missus Francesca suffered a placental abruption and internal haemorrhage, robbing little Albie of his oxygen supply.The fearless light-flyweight suffered Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathy – or birth asphyxia – and the biggest concern was whether or not he would survive – not even how much brain damage he would suffer.The undefeated new father was almost destroyed and – faced with the added financial and psychological punishment of the Covid lockdown – he took three rushed fights as the rank underdog and lost them all.Incredibly Albie has since beaten odds that daddy could have only dream of and is now walking and talking and attending nursery and dad has rebuilt with six wins, a harsh draw and an even harsher points defeat.Read more boxingBut he’s back in the deep end on Friday on Channel 5, against celebrated German amateur Abass Baraou for the European title, but tooled with a far brighter outlook and side hustle.“They were dark days,” McGowan told SunSport with the sounds of jet engines rattling down the phone.EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERS“I lost three fights on the spin, 30 long rounds, and never felt a thing.”I was using boxing as a distraction from what my son and missus were going through.Anthony Joshua shows the training never stops as boxer does 30 press-ups on PRIVATE JET as all-Brit clash edges closer“Being punched in the face for half an hour by an amateur star or a former world champion was better than facing up to what my lad was going through.“We had no idea how good or bad things would be, we just had to sit and watch and wait and hope and then slowly he got up and started walking and then talking and, although we have to keep an eye on a few things and he’s a bit behind his class with his speech, he has come on so much and has now started at nursery.“Now I am boxing because I love it again and I think I can surprise a few people and upset a few opponents.“I never wanted easy fights and I still don’t. But now I am not just getting beaten up to help numb me to stuff outside the ring.”Macaulay McGowan’s son Albie is even tougher than his dadCredit: Macaulay McGowanMcGowan with heroic wife FrancescaMost read in BoxingIt would be a very emotional phone call if it wasn’t for the constant roar of aeroplanes drowning out some of McGowan’s poignant words.“I’m up a scaffold near the airport,” he says very casually.“When I am not on the school run or training I come and labour for my mate’s construction firm, Broadbent Developments.“I do it right up to a week or two before the fight, they offer to teach me the trades and get me trained up.”But I’m already OCD about boxing and everything else in my life, so I come on site to have a laugh, keep me busy and entertain the lads.”McGowan is as as handy on site as he is in the ringCredit: Macaulay McGowanDespite having so much on his plate, the working-class hero refuses to boast about his ability or chances of beating Baraou. The same cannot be said of seven-year-old daughter and No1 fan Francesca.McGowan explained: “She ran out of a playground recently crying and saying some bigger boys were being mean to her.“I went in to calm everything down and make sure everyone was being kind to each other.READ MORE SUN STORIES“And the lads in there said she had been telling everyone that her dad is a professional boxer who can beat everyone up.“So I will be hiding the belt from her if I get it home, I can’t have her talking me into fights, she’ll be offering me out to everyone and I’ve got to get back on the tools with the lads next week.” More

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      in Soccer

      England WAGS are no fun compared to Germany 2006 line up – they knew how to party & were unafraid to splash stars’ cash

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      AS starting line-ups go, it’s the equivalent of pitching a Panini All-Star Legends XI against Accrington Stanley.In the former first 11, clad in a dazzling kit of Hermes, Roberto Cavalli and a lick of caramel hair extension, we have Victoria Beckham, Coleen Rooney, nee McLoughlin, Cheryl Tweedy, Abbey Clancy and flamboyant journeywoman Nancy Dell’Olio.Victoria Beckham, Coleen Rooney, Louise Bonsall, Elen Rives and a pal hit the townCredit: RexThe glam squad, Cheryl, Coleen and Posh, at an England gameCredit: AlamyElen Rives and Carly Zucker on a night outCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe latter, a team of identikit smooth-foreheaded influencers, names available on Google.Yep, on the eve of the Euros, the question remains: Where have all the good Wags gone?What we all wouldn’t do to bring back the glory days of BadenBaden, Germany, 2006, when England was awash with first-team talent.Eighteen years on from that memorable World Cup — probably less memorable for the £140-a-pop bottle of Moet-swigging wives and girlfriends — the glory days are long gone.read more on eurosToday’s generation are a bunch of camera-ready, media-wary young women who’ve grown-up on TikTok.And where’s the fun in that?As a cub reporter of 24, my first foreign assignment for a national newspaper was in Baden-Baden.It was a baptism of fire. And pear bellinis. Sooo many pear bellinis.Most read in FootballAfter being dispatched to the Black Forest, I decided to invite my German housemate: The Bavarian Batman to my Robin. Initially, it proved a masterstroke.England Wags Instagram Rich ListOn night one ­— after the Wags went to the quiet spa town’s local bar, Garibaldis — German Martin and I followed and I made him charm the local barman . . . and get a copy of the girls’ astonishing £3,300 bar tab.Meine damen und herren, we were up and running.This first night quickly set the tone for the most exhausting two weeks of my hitherto relatively sheltered young life.Each night, Martin and I would traipse to Garibaldis and watch the Wags in action. (Soon joined by the rest of the media “pack”).They were a glorious, life-affirming, carefree sight to behold — and provided thous- ands and thousands of words of copy. Or “content”, as their 2024 counterparts might say.Unquestionably, Head Wag was Mrs Beckham. Unlike the rest of the squad, the Spice Girl was accompanied by a shaven-headed, ex-Forces body- guard at all times.Unfortunately, he clocked Martin and I (pretending to be a couple) early doors, during a quiet family dinner in the Wags’ Michelin-starred hotel restaurant, Wintergarten.’META-FEMINISM’He pointed me out to Victoria, who veritably swivelled in her chair and stared me menacingly in the eye.She audibly tutted in disgust over her steamed broccoli. My card was marked.From here, I became enemy No1 with Coleen and co.“You’re scum and you know you are,” chanted the late Neville Neville, Gary’s dad, and quite the character.He was swiftly joined by a 40-strong contingency of family and friends, their voices ringing loud and clear — certainly louder than any of the muffled, on-pitch national anthem renditions of their loved ones — in the Brenners Park Fritz and Felix bar.Unembarrassable, because I was 24 and on a crucial work assignment, fearing instant dismissal if I failed in my 007 Wag mission, I resolutely stayed put, smiling gormlessly and cheerfully sipping my champagne.(Many of these would later appear on my newspaper’s expenses tab).These ladies knew how to party, and they were staunchly, admirably, unafraid to spend their partners’ cash however they saw fit. Which is meta-feminism, I suppose.Starting with some shopping-shopping in Baden-Baden.Clemmie and her friend Martin covered the action on her first big assignmentCredit: SuppliedCheryl and Victoria out on the townCredit: MatrixThey were up at around 9am for a spot of breakfast (and caffeine) before a busy morning hitting the designer stores.While the men dribbled and tackled, their womenfolk dribbled with excitement and tackled Gucci and Prada and Co with the enthusiasm of Goldenballs eyeing a free kick.While they shopped, I trailed.On June 19, the eve of England’s final group game, £57,000 was spunked in an hour. A Spanish paper dubbed them “hooligans with credit cards”.“Everywhere I go, there’s that annoying little blonde,” hissed “hooligan” Coleen, in her new £900 shades, pointing at me in my sensible M&S ensemble, total cost approx 50 quid.She had a point, to be fair.I was one of the few reporters based at the Wags’ hotel, and by the end of the stay even I was sick of me. Fleet Street’s assortment of high-brow, knowledgeable football reporters also loathed my presence.My esteemed colleague actually rang our news editor at one point pleading for me to get sent home (sent off?) as my constant Wag coverage was “undermining the credibility of the game”.The Wags were accused of many things, frugality was not one of themClemmie MoodieHe said he was losing the trust of the families because I was writing about the ladies’ karaoke habits. (More on these later.) But the Wags were selling papers. I stayed.Afternoons saw the gang hitting up the hotel spa for various facials and manicures.Naturally, I booked in and spoke to a lovely therapist, who praised Mrs Beckham’s tan and gave me an identical treatment.When not utilising the hotel’s five-star facilities, or getting papped — one memorable shot saw Posh, Coleen and her mate, Claire, Louise Bonsall (Michael Owen’s missus) and Elen Rives (Frank Lampard’s partner) confidently strutting into town like the line-up scene from The Usual Suspects — the gang were making the most of their in-room entertainment.Honourable mentions here to Ms Rives and Alex Curran, Stevie G’s other half, who racked up hotel bills of £28,607 and £25,321 respectively. The latter’s included 60 bottles of pink champagne.The 22-strong contingent’s cumula-tive hotel spend was just shy of a reported £600,000. Their total spend, including alcohol, almost £1million.’RAUCOUS NIGHTS’As I wrote at the time, “the Wags were accused of many things, frugality was not one of them”.Elsewhere, the genteel Black Forest town’s nightclub, Maxi’s, soon became the extra-time venue of choice.While management refused to give the girls freebie drinks, they were allowed off the £7 entry fee.A 3am finish became the norm. While the women slept it all off, I filed copy, by now a shell of a creature.“More, more, more,” came the newsdesk cry, at a time when tabloids were at their peak and social media was but a twinkle in Joe Cole’s eye.On the subject of the former Chelsea midfielder, his beautiful, athletic girlfriend Carly Zucker briefly became a star of the show.A ripped personal trainer before abs on women were a “thing”, she would go jogging most mornings. Martin and I, especially, had a vested interest in making her a star.She worked for £22 an hour as a personal trainer at the Virgin Active gym opposite my then office.Obviously, weeks before the tournament kicked off, I made hapless Martin sign up for a course of PT sessions with her, hoping we’d have a ready-made friend out there.Posh shopping in some denim hotpantsCredit: GettyCarly Zucker had abs before they were trendyCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdAlas, when she saw us both, her look was not one of unconfined joy.Anyway, karaoke became a big theme of those halcyon few weeks — We Are The Champions, I Will Survive and The Black Eyed Peas’ 2005 classic My Humps were regularly requested.Victoria was largely absent from these raucous singing nights.Perhaps she was missing Ginger.When we weren’t working 19-hour days we angered the women even more by setting up camp outside the hotel and playing raucous games of football beside the gently flowing river.It’s safe to say manager Sven-Goran Eriksson’s squad had little to fear in the way of last-minute selections. By the end of my stint in the salubrious town there was no amount of health-giving spa water that could heal my broken body.But my heart was full.These women, superstars one and all, partied like it was the apocalypse and did it, on the whole, with good grace.They knew we had a job to do and were savvy enough to know such exposure could prove hugely lucrative in the coming months. And, undoubtedly, it did.WORLDS AWAYAnd the husbands? Lost on penalties in the quarters, naturally. (Mrs Beckham’s husband was crocked and Mrs Rooney’s husband got sent off).So what of today’s Wag world? While the tournament bases are only 475 miles away, the Wag fun possibilities seem worlds away.Well, I suppose there will be some drama. England’s star defender Kyle Walker will have not one, but two Wags in attendance as he hopes to score purely on the pitch for once.Five of the six children he has fathered with both are also expected to be there to cheer on daddy-o. Wife Annie Kilner — perhaps the most famous of this generation of Wags — and her four children will be sitting among the rest of the players’ families in pitchside seats arranged by the FA.His ex-mistress, Lauryn Goodman, is also planning to support him, alongside son Kairo.The possibility of thuggery threatens to overshadow anything Serbia’s militant fans could possibly throw at the tournament.READ MORE SUN STORIESOtherwise though — with no Jack Grealish and his semi-famous gf Sasha Attwood — the pickings for mischief, madness and good old- fashioned front-page fun look decidedly limited.Looks like it’s down to the boys to bring it home, then.Sven-Goran Eriksson’s girlfriend Nancy Dell’Olio wearing a Number one capCredit: RexLisa Roughhead (left) girlfriend of Michael Carrick and Michaela Henderson-Thynne girlfriend of Stewart Downing at the Garibaldi restaurantCredit: RexDavid Beckham sits on the bench after his substitution at the quarter-final against PortugalCredit: ReutersWayne Rooney was sent off with a red cardCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      How Russian ultras sat back to let England fans get boozed into a stupor before launching bloodiest hooligan in decades

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      CARNAGE unfolded at the 2016 Euros as Russian ultras launched one of the bloodiest hooligan brawls in a generation on boozed up England fans.Over 100 Three Lions supporters were left “walking wounded” with some in a critical condition after barbaric attacks that saw Russian thugs stalk drunken fans outside of pubs and bars. The horror scenes in Marseille eight years ago this week when Russian ultras launched the bloodiest hooligan brawl in a generation on England fansCredit: Getty Images – GettyRussian ultras were said to have targeted pubs where England fans were drinking as they let them get boozed into a stupor before attackingCredit: GettyOver 100 Three Lions supporters were left ‘walking wounded’ after the attacksCredit: AFP – GettyGlass bottles were seen being thrown by both sides of fans after Russian thugs stalked England fans in MarseilleCredit: ReutersThe Euros in France was viewed as a major failure for England both on the pitch and off it due to the disturbing levels of fan violence.Now infamous, the Battle of Marseille saw England fans stand toe-to-toe with some of the hardest fans on the planet across several days of fighting. Russian hooligans were described as “hyper-rapid and hyper-violent” by the chief prosecutor in Marseille for their heinous planned assaults eight years ago this week.Before the tournament had even begun, scraps broke out between England fans and rival supporters in the city with cops being forced to tear gas local youths.READ MORE IN HOOLIGANISM After England drew with Russia on June 11, more severe clashes broke out on the street.The Russians came with serious intent to carry out barbaric violence. They were highly organised, very effective and we saw football hooliganism on a different levelSteve NeillSenior police chief in MarseilleTwisted plans from a Russian hooligan blog revealed the ultras coordinated their attacks to cause trouble outside of boozers in a piazza near the Old Port.Russian ultras began to lob things from chairs and bottles at the England fans to provoke them to come outside for a fight.Due to the drinking, many fans were left in a stupor and accepted the grim deal.Most read in Euro 2024Streaming drunks filed out of the pubs with their hands raised as several others converged in Marseille to join the brawl.British police feared at the time that at least five England fans could’ve died from their injuries.Pub-drinking England fans are most at risk at Euros from martial arts trained football ultrasPolice spotters out in France said the streets looked like a “battlefield”.Saying the violence was the most extreme and brutal they had ever witnessed by football mobs.Thirty England fans were taken to hospital across the opening weekend of Euro 2016 with serious injuries.One of the most shocking scenes saw a Three Lions fan stumbling across the cobbled streets after a Russian maniac had severed his Achilles tendon.Another reportedly had glass shards sticking out of his neck.I stood in Marseille as the senior officer believing we were going to get five fatalities that night, we might have five murders on our hands.Steve NeillSenior police chief in MarseilleSenior police chief in Marseille Chief Superintendent Steve Neill said: “The Russians came with serious intent to carry out barbaric violence. They were highly organised, very effective and we saw football hooliganism on a different level.”It was like a herd of wildebeest rampaging through tables and chairs, fights going off, people being kicked on the ground by groups of five or six men.”I stood in Marseille as the senior officer believing we were going to get five fatalities that night, we might have five murders on our hands.”The scenes became so violent that cops deployed anti-terrorism procedures as well as spraying water cannons and dropping tear gas on scuffling fans. Police spotters out in France said the streets looked like a ‘battlefield’Credit: Getty Images – GettyClashes also broke out in the stadium between Russian and English fansCredit: Getty Images – GettyRussian and England fans were seen scrapping in the streets over several days of fan violenceCredit: Getty Images – GettyRiot police were forced to take serious measures to break up the fighting including tear gas and water cannonsCredit: Times Newspapers LtdClashes also broke out in the stadium during the one all draw with shocking pictures of fans with ripped tops running from Russian brutes. Russia, the clear aggressor in the brutal beatings, were given a suspended disqualification as a team and fined €150,000 (£126,000).But, more violence erupted between English and Russian fans in Lille a few days later.At least 40 fans were reportedly arrested, 50 Russians deported and dozens left injured after the clashes.After the tournament Russian politicians claimed the country had been singled out for unfair treatment.Britain’s Andy Burnham condemned the violence saying England had bene let down by a minority of their own fanbase.Former England manager Roy Hodgson and captain Wayne Rooney pleaded with fans to “stay out of trouble”, prior to the final match of the group stages.Euro 2024 hooligan fearsWith just days left before the biggest tournament of the summer kicks off worrying reports of hooliganism have already come out.With England fans being warned that a 500-strong army of “violence-seeking ­Serbian ­hooligans” are set to swarm Sunday’s huge Euros clash.The opening game for both sides has already been labelled as a “very high risk” match by German cops with 1,300 extra officers being deployed on matchday as well as heavily increased surveillance.Serbian ultra groups such as Headhunters and Gravediggers are among some of the most feared football fans in Europe.They have regularly caused riots on the streets and fierce fights up in the stands at international matches – even by pitch invading and attacking rival players.With England fans also being known for causing havoc at football matches through distasteful chants, alcohol-fuelled ventures and their undying arrogance over the team’s ability on the pitch.Rowdy Three Lions fans and ruthless Serbian ultras are flocking to Germany over the weekend to take part in what could be one of the most volatile games of the tournament.Despite Both saying they don’t “have concrete information” on the number of travelling thugs he vowed his team will prepare for any eventuality.He told The Guardian: “I guess the biggest challenge for us will be to identify violent, disruptive groups at an early stage, to separate them from peaceful and law-abiding fans, that will be our biggest challenge.”Roughly 500,000 Serbs live in Germany and there are fears some may travel to Gelsenkirchen specifically to cause trouble.Around 22,000 federal police officers will be on duty every day of the tournament across Germany.With officers from across the continent being on high alert for any potential suspects at borders and train stations.READ MORE SUN STORIESFurther restrictions saw booze banned in the stadium for the match and replaced by low alcoholic shandy.The Foreign Office were issuing official warnings to fans telling them to “drink responsibly” after concerns were raised over the cheap price of strong beer in Germany.Are the Serbs the most notorious football fans?FROM pitch raids to mass brawls and death threats, Serbian hooligans are known wreak havoc and create carnage during football games.
      Die-hard groups of hooligans are intertwined with football in Serbia – and they are known for ruthlessly attacking players on the pitch and storming opposition stalls when the match turns against them.
      Hooligan firms in the Balkan state have chilling names such as The Gravediggers, Head Hunters, Zulu Warriors, and the Red Devils.
      And one of their most vicious leaders is known as “Ivan the Terrible”.
      In 2012, Ivan – who has been linked to Serbian far-right paramilitaries – forced a Euros qualifying match between Serbia and Italy in Genoa to be abandoned after trying to attack rival fans and police.
      He rallied supporters to lob live flares and bangers onto the pitch as players warmed up and ordered them to break down barriers separating them from Italian fans while taunting police.
      Tracing their lineage back to the Balkan war of the 1990s, Serb football hooligans are renowned for their tough-as-nails attitude and love of violence.
      They are known for throwing live bangers at players who have switched sides and invading the pitches when games don’t go their way.
      In the past, the Ultras have killed rival fans – including a Toulouse supporter in 2009 who was beaten to death with iron bars and bicycle chains.

      Fears are increasing that Serbian hooligans could swarm the 2024 Euros and attack England fansCredit: AlamySerbian ultras are known as some of the hardest fans on the planetCredit: AFPSerbian ultra leader Ivan Bogdanov is one of the most notorious football maniacsCredit: Getty More