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      in Soccer

      Inside bloody Roma ultras who target Brits including vicious knife-wielding Fedayn firm after two Brighton fans stabbed

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      ROME is a historic football city known for its talent on the pitch and incredible fans up in the stands – but on too many occasions this unwavering support has gone miles too far.The feared Fedayn ultras lead the violent pack and are known as some of the most dangerous fans in world football – constantly fighting, stabbing and robbing rival fans and especially Brits. Roma’s ultras the Fedayn are known to hit rival fans with beltsCredit: InstagramThe hooligans have been causing issues across Europe for decadesCredit: InstagramThey often wear masks to hide their identity and plan out attacksCredit: InstagramJust last night two Brighton fans were left bleeding out on the streets of Rome after thugs stabbed them multiple times and robbed them.Many are claiming it was the work of the notorious Fedayn firm who frequently target innocent fans of British clubs.Their name means “the devotees” in Italian and those in the gang are devoted to one thing – fiercely intimidating and hurting rival fans.First established in the 1970s by Roberto Rulli, the Fedayn group is chillingly modelled after an Iranian terror group.read more football fans They have a terrifying reputation for wielding knives on the streets on match days and seem to specifically target international fans travelling into Rome.Rome is certainly up there as one of the most dangerous cities a football fan can travel to – there can never be a guarantee that you’ll stay safeGeoff Pearsonfootball violence researcherBut according to Geoff Pearson, a football violence researcher, they target British fans more than anyone else.Pearson told The Sun: “Fans of English sides are frequently targets of attacks by ultra groups abroad.”Roma ultras, especially Fedayns, are quite active with atmosphere generation but some elements can also lead to them becoming involved in serious violent activity.” Most read in FootballPearson has spent the last three decades discovering the horrors of football hooliganism including one time when he was ambushed by a rival gang on an away day to Roma. He continued: “Rome is certainly up there as one of the most dangerous cities a football fan can travel to.”There can never be a guarantee that you’ll stay safe even with police escorts and their help.”I’ve even seen bus convoys in Rome be attacked by ultras when on route to the Stadio Olimpico.”Even more worrying is that ultras in Rome and especially Fedayn fiends have a tactical assault plan for when they come face to face with rivals.Often attacks see a guerrilla style assault carried out by the Fedayn’s as they seemingly orchestrate the chaos. Inside bloody world of the Italian ultras dubbed the ‘mafia’s foot soldiers’ as hooligans target England match It has been said that the core leaders of the group have weekly meetings to discuss harmful songs to be sung at games and to plan out fresh attacks.They typically wear a thick belt and when needed take it off and use it as a weapon to smack and whip fans into submission.From there they then reportedly stab them in the legs and put them on the ground to make them suffer without risking a murder charge.There is also a horrifying trend where victims report being left with stab wounds around their backside.The medieval torture routine is seen as the favourite attack method of football firms in Rome.The ultras are easy to spot outside grounds as they even have a dress code – a black hooded jacket, blue jeans, white trainers and a painful, stiff black belt.Some have even been known to carry hammers as they pile into stadiums across Europe.Rome is dubbed the “Eternal City” by many but that all changes when a football match is on as its been given the nickname of “Stab City” says The Gentleman Ultra.Several fans have suffered life altering injuries due to violence from Roma’s ultras across the last 45 years.The ultras marching through the streets pregameCredit: InstagramFedayn thugs are most well known in Britain for the vicious assault on Liverpool Fan Sean Cox that left him in a coma and wheelchair bound ever sinceCredit: PA:Press AssociationUltras attacking fans in the stands’HUNT DOWN AND HURT’Outside of Italy, the Fedayn are most well-known after they pledged to “hunt down and hurt” Liverpool supporters after they allegedly assaulted Sean Cox in 2018.The unprovoked attack before a Champions League match left Cox with a brain injury as well as wheelchair-bound. The hooligan responsible for the brutal attack, Simone Mastrelli, was jailed as the judge told him at his hearing: “You must have picked him (Sean Cox) out because of the Liverpool scarf.”Your head and face were covered by a hood and a balaclava and you were in front of Mr Cox with both arms raised towards him in a somewhat aggressive or confrontational way.”Thug Mastrelli led a group of around 50 to 60 “ultras” all wearing distinctive clothing with their faces covered.Many of them were carrying belts in their hands as weapons as others wielded knives.Former Roma president James Pallotta gave an emotional speech against the extreme ultra minority after the attack.He said: “We have a long history at Roma and what’s going on when you have a few stupid people is that they destroy our history and destroy our legacy and I’m tired of it.”It’s just a couple of f****** morons who take the rest of us down. It’s time for things to change.”UNITED FOR VIOLENCE In 2007, 13 Manchester United fans were taken to hospital after a Champions League game against Roma.During the game fans of each side were seen shouting and screaming at one another as flares and missiles were fired in the stands.The British Embassy said 11 Red Devils supporters were taken to hospital and two kept overnight for serious health checks.Several of those hospitalised complained to doctors that they were stabbed in the backside.Riot police with shields and thick batons reportedly fuelled the fighting as they battled against fans using force, say the BBC.Manchester United released a statement after the game saying: “The disturbing scenes witnessed in the Stadio Olimpico last night shocked everyone at Old Trafford.”MIDDLESBOROUGH WOESBack in 2006, three Middlesborough fans faced similar miserable days out as they went home with brutal knife wounds.Ten others were also injured when they were attacked by Roma ultras.A police spokesperson said at the time: “A group in excess of 30 Italian youths, described as Italian Ultras, came into the square. They were a clearly well-organised group.”They had an identified leader at their head – a gentleman who has been described to me as wearing a silver or shiny fireman’s-type helmet and a bandana across his face with only his eyes visible.”These people were carrying sticks, they had axes, we later discovered they had knives, they had firecrackers and paper firebombs.”One supporter injured in the barbaric assault was a 16-year-old boy as another 39-year-old needed surgery for his injuries, say the BBC.NO EXCEPTIONS Outside of the assaults on rival fans, Roma fans have also became incensed by match officials. Fuming Roma fans hounded British referee Anthony Taylor and his family at Budapest International Airport after they lost the 2023 Europa League final on penalties.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe local cops were forced to rush Taylor and his petrified wife and kids into a private room for their own safety.Things almost took a horror turn when a chair narrowly avoided hitting him and his terrified family.They often cause chaos in the stands as well as before gamesCredit: InstagramThug Simone Mastrelli was jailed for the attack on Liverpool fan Sean CoxCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Anthony Joshua’s lavish life, from flying in a £45m private jet to enjoying luxury trips and owning a £350k watch

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      ANTHONY JOSHUA’s social feeds pay homage to a magical lifestyle, featuring snaps of exotic holidays on private jets, custom-made motors and fancy watches.But despite being worth hundreds of millions and living a life of luxury, the British star still remains true to his mantra of staying humble.Frugal Anthony Joshua has amassed an astonishing wealth believed to be over £200mCredit: Instagram, @anthony_joshuaThat gives Joshua the opportunity to live a lavish lifestyle and enjoy trips to the world’s most glam hotspotsCredit: InstagramDespite his mega net worth, Joshua has been said to live, as his mantra says, a humble lifeHe rarely discusses his wealth, dodging the question in an interview with Louis Theroux in 2023.The 6ft 6in heavyweight banks a lot of his money, only splashing out on treats for his family, rarely on himself.A shrewd operator, he boasts an impressive property investment portfolio, owning commercial buildings in Mayfair and Bond Street.However, his right-hand man and marketing manager, Freddie Cunningham, once said that despite having “a lot of money,” Joshua “doesn’t live the life that he could.”Read more Anthony Joshua news”From the outside, it probably looks like he does. He’s seen in private jets, wearing expensive watches, and driving around in nice cars,” he told Business Insider in an interview in 2017.”But the jets are all sponsored. We’ve never paid for a private jet, or a helicopter, in our life. He gets a signature car from Land Rover.”He’s not spending that money. He’s accumulating money.”He’s living a lifestyle that probably everyone wants him to live, or see him live, but he’s doing it in a smart way. Tactful.”Most read in BoxingA free £45million private jetAJ is sponsored by US sportswear giant Under Armour – who provide him with a private jet, as well as paying him a seven-figure salary.Heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua’s tattoos explainedShowing the interior of the £45million black G550 ahead of his trip to the States to face Ruiz for the first time, AJ said: “These type of things aren’t ordinary, in my daily life and in many other people’s daily lives, so it’s a blessing.”However, my view is even though I enjoy it and the door has been opened for me, I can’t forget to open the door for people who have come with me and the people who aren’t in a position to enjoy this type of luxury.”I never get too lost in the source and get carried away with these types of things.”The company also provide the former world heavyweight champion with his in-ring attire and training wear, including all tracksuits and trainers.Anthony also has free use of a helicopter, provided to him by Beats by Dre, who he’s been the face of since 2017.Free car when his was stolenAs a 17-year-old, Joshua’s first car was a Vauxhall Astra, which he saved up £1,500 to buy and claimed it was a “stable, sturdy car.”Now, thanks to his partnership with Jaguar Land Rover – which is rumoured to be worth £790,000 a year – AJ rolls round London in his choice of a fleet of luxury wheels, including a customised white Jaguar XJR, worth £93,000.His favourite motor is a customised Range Rover Dynamic, which he says “looks very professional and sets a standard” worth £150,000.While, he once tried to buy a £600,000 stunning Rolls-Royce Phantom stretch limo, after he was taken for a ride in it in 2016.AJ hired the amazing motor when he attended an event in Staffordshire.And he was so impressed, he reportedly asked John Smith, the owner of Phantom Limo Hire, if he would sell it to him.Joshua also shared a snap on Instagram posing with the limo.He captioned the photo: “Work… That’s all a brother’s working with.”AJ was a former IBF, WBA and WBO heavyweight world champion after losing the belts to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021Credit: Getty Images – GettyAJ has a deal with Jaguar Land Rover, who gave him a stunning Dynamic model Range Rover worth £150kBoxing heavyweight AJ proudly shows off his motors on InstagramCredit: Instagram, @anthony_JoshuaAJ was enamoured by a £600k Rolls-Royce limo he hiredCheck out these amazing collections
      Free trips to Dubai, Miami and JamaicaWhen he isn’t sparring, AJ enjoys exotic holidays with his family and friends, with his Instagram showing him glam locations like Dubai, Jamaica and Miami.Some of these trips are sponsored by countries and resorts who want the privilege of having the sporting icon spotted hitting their hottest tourist spots.Cunningham said: “We have a partnership with Dubai Tourism and they really like him and get his philosophy on life, his morals, everything.”He resonates with that territory. They want to bring boxing there. Hopefully we can do something there.”Anthony has also stayed at the Nobu Miami Beach Private Villa, which costs £5,000 per night and the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, where luxury villas are rented out for £4,000 a week.read more sport featuresAway from the ring, AJ lives a jet-set life and travels consistently around the globeAnthony travels on a £45million private jet provided by Under ArmourCredit: Instagram, @anthony_JoshuaAJ takes a ride on the XLine zipline in Dubai as he enjoys living the fun lifeCredit: Instagram @Anthony_JoshuaDubai is one of AJ’s favourite destinations and he has a deal with the tourism boardA free watch worth more than a houseAnthony came from humble beginnings on a council estate in Watford.He now says he knows the value of the money he’s made.“Don’t save what is left after spending, spend what is left after saving,” was the advice he gave his Instagram followers.But despite keeping his purse strings shut, he still wears jewellery and clothes worth thousands.He was gifted a £350,000 watch worth more than the average house, thanks to his partnership with luxury jewellers Audemars Piguet.In another social media post, he shared a snap of a Marvel-themed time piece worth £120,000.Watch collector AJ has a stunning £350,000 Audemars Piguet watch seen hereAJ also showed a £120k timepiece that was inspired by Marvel superhero Black PantherProperty portfolioPlaying real-life Monopoly, Joshua has bought commercial buildings in Mayfair and Bond Street – the latter for a whopping £25million.Through his company 258 Investments he has also acquired two residential homes in North London, and is said to own three homes in his native Watford worth £1.5million.Back in October, The Sun exclusively reported Joshua dropped £30million on a 301,000 square foot property in Hertfordshire, which was previously the HQ for oil giant BP.READ MORE SUN STORIESA close pal of the 2012 Olympic gold medalist told us: “AJ has seen so many athletes build vast wealth and then squander it all.”He is smarter than that. He has been working to build a huge empire that spans multiple large investments in different industries and will continue to grow way after he hangs up his gloves. He and his partners have really big plans for the complex he has bought.”In recent times, Joshua has become a property magnateCredit: GQ / Matthew BrookesAJ has spent his wealth wisely on property investments, including this retail space in Bond Street for £25mThis plush Mayfair building is also owned by AJ as part of his portfolio More

    • 275 Shares179 Views

      in Motorsport

      The £26bn Red Bull tycoon who holds Christian Horner’s future in his hands… and whose playboy son has scandal of his own

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      HE’S the Formula 1 tycoon who could single-handedly steer Christian Horner’s career to safety.Red Bull owner Chalerm Yoovidhya holds the biggest stake in the company and is said to be the most important supporter of the embattled team principal.Chalerm Yoovidhya, pictured next to wife Daranee, shows his support for Christian and Geri at the weekendCredit: GettyThe Red Bull owner with three-time world champion Max VerstappenCredit: APF1 boss Horner, who is married to ex Spice Girl Geri Halliwell, was rocked last week after bombshell ‘sext’ messages with an alleged female colleague were leaked online.Only 24 hours before, he had been cleared of misconduct towards the woman by an internal probe – allegations he had always denied.Now, an astonishing civil war has broken out at Red Bull after Jos Verstappen – the dad of superstar driver Max – warned the team will “explode” if the 50-year-old stays.While some high profile figures in the company have reportedly turned on Horner, Chalerm – who is worth £26billion – remains his most crucial public ally.Read more on Christian HornerAt the Bahrain Grand Prix over the weekend, the pair were pictured together alongside their wives, Geri and Daranee, as they celebrated three-time world champion Max winning the first race of the new season.Thai billionaire Chalerm is the oldest son of Chaleo Yoovidhya, who co-created the energy drink brand with Dietrich Mateschitz.The late Dietrich Mateschitz was Horner’s biggest championCredit: GettyDietrich’s son, Mark, has taken over his role in the F1 teamCredit: GettyAustrian businessman Dietrich spearheaded the development of Red Bull’s sporting division, handpicking Horner to launch their F1 team and proving to be his biggest champion until his death in 2022.Since then, Horner has made close ties with Chalerm, while Dietrich’s own heir, Mark, is believed to have cooled on the scandal-hit team leader, according to Mail Online.Most read in MotorsportAway from the track, the Yoovidhya empire spreads across multi-million pound properties, vineyards and businesses, from London to Bangkok.But the playboy lifestyle of one of Chalerm’s 11 children has presented the family with a scandal of their own – and one far darker than Horner’s.Horror smashIn 2012, Charlem’s son Vorayuth was allegedly involved in an accident in Bangkok in which a cop was killed.He has been effectively on the run ever since – as the clock runs down on prosecution time.Verstappen breaks silence on Christian Horner ‘sexting’ probe as pressure mounts on Red Bull 3 weeks after shock claimsVorayuth – known as ‘Boss’ – has been pictured travelling around the world on private jets, enjoying lavish holidays in Japan, Monaco, Venice and Laos in Asia and celebrating a birthday at Gordon Ramsay’s London restaurant.He is believed to own a home in London where he keeps a black Porsche Carrera with the personal number plate BO55 RBR – short for ‘Boss Red Bull Racing’.Last month it was revealed a former top policeman in Bangkok faces charges of helping Vorayuth escape justice along with other senior figures.The saga began 12 years ago when it was claimed the 42-year-old hit policeman Wichean Glanprasert with his Ferrari on a main drag in Bangkok. The officer’s mangled body was dragged down the block along with his tangled bike.Cops followed a trail of brake fluid to the Yoovidhya family’s gated property nearby, where they found Vorayuth’s car with its bumper hanging off.A chauffeur was first blamed for the accident but Vorayuth, who attended the exclusive private school Bradfield College in Berkshire,  later turned himself in and admitted being behind the wheel. Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya seen outside his house in LondonCredit: APVorayth’s Ferrari was found smashed up after an accidentCredit: AFPHis attorney claimed alcohol found in his system was drunk to steady his nerves after the crash.The family put up £12,000 for bail and he went home the same day, quickly resuming his jet-set lifestyle. He was seen three months later at the Red Bull Singha Race of Champions in Bangkok, surrounded by friends and cousins.It took Thai police another five years to issue a formal arrest warrant in 2017 when Vorayuth fled Thailand and his passport was revoked.  Interpol issued a ‘red notice’ to arrest him pending extradition but it appears to no longer be posted on its website.He has since failed to show up at court with lawyers claiming he was too busy to appear or had important appointments – including one in London.Chalerm sees Horner as some sort of foster sonEx F1 driver Ralf SchumacherThe Thai statute of limitations – the time in which someone can be prosecuted – started to expire on potential charges of speeding, hit and run and causing death by reckless driving.Then, in 2020 the police suddenly announced they were dropping all charges.The move provoked fury and a boycott of Red Bull products in Thailand, where campaigners complain of a two-tiered justice system – one for the poor and  another for elites.It emerged that at the time of the accident the dead policeman’s brother signed a contract with the Yoovidhyas to receive around £75,000 in compensation if the family agreed not to start criminal or civil proceedings.However, the deal didn’t shield them from a case brought by Thai prosecutors and, after the outcry following Vorayuth’s acquittal, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha ordered a new investigation.He said the original probe had been “compromised” and fresh charges of drug use and causing death by reckless driving were laid against Vorayuth in 2020.Who is Jos Verstappen?A FORMER F1 driver himself, Jos achieved two podiums in 106 races but is been better known for being the father of three-time world champ Max Verstappen.
      Jos can frequently be seen behind the scenes at Red Bull during the race weekends and takes pride in supporting his son publicly.
      However, he has been the subject of some scrutiny in the past.
      After an incident in 1998 at a karting track where another man suffered a fractured skull, he avoided a suspended jail sentence after agreeing an out-of-court settlement with the victim.
      Ten years later, he appeared in court, charged with assaulting his wife, Sophie Kumpen.
      He was found not guilty of assault, but guilty of threatening Kumpen in text messages and of violating a previously issued restraining order.
      He was fined and sentenced to three months of a probational, suspended prison sentence.
      And in January 2012, he was arrested following accusations that he drove a car into his ex-girlfriend but was released two weeks later after the charge was withdrawn.
      He has overseen his son’s career like a hawk and now, with a wedge drive between himself and Horner, it leaves Max Verstappen in an awkward position

      Since then, cops have run out of time to prosecute the drug charge and the driving offence is set to run out in 2027.Last month several government officials and cops were accused of a conspiracy to help Vorayuth escape the country.Police chief Somyot Poompanmoung and other suspects face being charged with an abuse of power in order to aid an individual to avoid prosecution.Somyot was last year accused by the National Anti-Corruption Commission of tampering with evidence by altering the speedometer of Vorayuth’s Ferrari.Humble beginningsThe scandal is a long way from the humble beginnings of Vorayuth’s grandfather, who was once a farmer on his family’s duck farm.Born to poor Chinese immigrant parents who traded fruit in a town to the north of Bangkok, Chaleo Yoovidhya got a job as an antibiotics salesman before quitting to set up his own pharmaceutical firm in the early 1960sHe said “divine inspiration” helped him create an energy-boosting drink, which he named Krating Daeng.Austrian salesman Dietrich found the drink cured his jet lag and went into partnership with Chaleo in 1984, launching Red Bull.While the drink became a ‘go to’ for party animals, Chaleo was deeply private and had not given an interview in 30 years when he died in March 2012 aged 88.As the eldest of two sons, Chalerm took over the business empire and Red Bull Racing was born in 2005.The family are said to own five multi-million pound properties in London as well as a luxurious gated home in Bangkok.Chalerm has 11 children with wife Daranee and one owns a £5.9million townhouse in Chicago.Since 2001, the F1 businessman has also run a winery in Dallas, Texas, called Siam.’Foster son’ relationshipChalerm is said to see Horner like a foster sonCredit: GettyWith Chalerm owning 51 percent of Red Bull – with Austrian Mark Mateschitz retaining 49 per cent – he could be the deciding factor on whether Horner remains team principal.As Geri Halliwell stood by her man at the weekend, packing on the PDA at the Bahrain Grand Prix, the Red Bull owner also made a show of support.He and wife Daranee were pictured laughing and joking with the Horners on the terrace in the clearest sign yet that Christian has the ear of the big boss.Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher previously described Horner as a “kind of foster son” to Chalerm.Speaking before Horner was cleared by Red Bull, he said: “He stands by him unconditionally.”Horner has said he is “absolutely confident” he will ride out the biggest storm of his life.Only time will tell if he’s correct.Horner, with wife Geri, says he is confident he will keep his jobCredit: Getty More

    • 250 Shares169 Views

      in Boxing

      How ‘freak’ athlete Francis Ngannou would have been a star in totally different sport… if he was born in America

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      FRANCIS NGANNOU could have been a star in a totally different sport… had he been born in America. Ngannou’s remarkable story saw him leave Cameroon at the age of 26 to seek a better life in Europe. Francis Ngannou ahead of his fight with Anthony JoshuaCredit: GettyNgannou put the work in during training campCredit: @francisngannouStrength and conditioning coach Trippe Hale with NgannouCredit: @trippe_haleAnd after battling homelessness and border control, he made it to France after 14 horror months on foot. From Paris he became a prizefighting sensation, winning the UFC title after just eight years in the sport. But last year he put his MMA career on hold to cross over to boxing for a blockbuster bout with Tyson Fury. The mother of all upsets even looked on the cards when he floored Fury, 35, only to lose a controversial split-decision. READ MORE IN BOXINGNow he returns to the ring on Friday against Anthony Joshua in Saudi Arabia. Helping whip the 6ft 4in, 19st monster of a man into shape is strength and conditioning coach Trippe Hale. And Hale warned Joshua, 34, that Ngannou, 37, is just as frighteningly powerful as he looks. He told SunSport: “He is a big boy, he’s a freak. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“But with that it’s not always about making him bigger or stronger, it’s about making him more mobile, more stable, more in shape, a better conditioned athlete. “Everybody has all the tools and resources in the world for recovery but I feel like they take away from the condition side.Francis Ngannou turned down mega money from UFC before boxing switch“This is not the case with Francis, every single muscle he has are go muscles. “You have show muscles and go muscles, his might look like show muscles but they are go muscles. “Every single muscle in his arm, you will feel that when he punches you.” Ngannou linked up with Hale after he left the UFC and lost access to their Performance Institute and the coaches there. He joined boxing coaches Dewey Cooper and John M’Bumba as well as MMA head trainer Eric Nicksick in the camp. And after a test run against Fury, Hale said: “His confidence is way higher.“Last time he would wonder if he was in good enough shape, he would question things like that. He’d say, ‘Do you think I need another week? Do you think I need this?’“There’s been no questions about that. He understands he went the ten rounds with one of the best in the world.The pair have been working together for a yearCredit: @francisngannouHale is part of Ngannou’s boxing teamCredit: @francisngannouNgannou put his MMA career on hold for boxingCredit: @francisngannou“I think he knows inside what he needs to feel like and what he needs to accomplish, Dewey, John and Eric were a lot harder on him this camp in sparring. I think that’s played a big impact on his will.” Joshua’s coach Ben Davison is renowned for his analytical boxing brain and attention to detail. But Hale insisted anyone would be wasting their time banking on film study from his boxing debut against Fury. He said: “I mean it’s a big time growth from last camp, he’s a completely different boxer.“If people are watching film on the last fight, that’s a completely different person than you’re going to deal with in this fight. “And that’s what I’m excited about.” Hale has been in the coaching game for over 17 years and has worked with athletes from basketball to baseball. Ngannou returns to face AJ in only his second boxing boutCredit: @francisngannouThe ex-UFC champion has been described as a ‘freak’ athleteCredit: @francisngannouNgannou stands 6ft 4in tall and weighs over 19 stoneCredit: @francisngannouBut his bread and butter is American football and he knows and NFL talent when he sees one – and Ngannou has all the makings of one. Hale said: “If he was born in America, he would be playing in the NFL, no doubt about it. “He wouldn’t have a choice! Especially if I got a hold of him, he wouldn’t have a choice. But what position would Ngannou be if he traded the ring for the field? “He would definitely be a DN, defensive end,” Hale said. People don’t understand how fast he is the guy can run. “He can run so I could definitely see him being like a Myles Garrett, who was defensive player of the year this year. READ MORE SUN STORIES“He definitely has that body type, that size, that kind of speed. He would definitely be an NFL football player if he was born in America.” Joshua facing off with NgannouCredit: AFP More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Mark Clattenburg was a referee for the Instagram age… why on earth is Gladiators star working at Nottingham Forest?

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      IF you’re a strange enough person to train to become a referee, there’s one excellent rule of thumb you’re supposed to live by.If nobody notices you, you’ve had a good game. And if you hardly ever get noticed, you’re a bloody good ref.Mark Clattenburg is one of the Premier League’s most recognizable refereesCredit: GettyHe is now working at Nottingham ForestCredit: PAI never was a particularly good ref. I jacked it in after 18 months – not long after a woman running the line for her son’s Under-12s team likened me to Adolf Hitler because I over-ruled her offside decision.If you’re being compared to a genocidal maniac, I figured, then the low-profile thing isn’t really happening.Which brings us to Mark Clattenburg, who has never run a Reich either, but who certainly seems to have debunked the ‘quiet-ref-is-good-ref’ myth.The perma-tanned Geordie – now causing a stir at Nottingham Forest as the Premier League’s first referee analyst – was a ref for the Instagram age.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe took charge of the Champions League Final and had a tattoo of the trophy on his arm. Likewise the Euro 2016 final.He broke rules by travelling from a match alone because he had Ed Sheeran tickets.He was at the centre of a sewage storm over a verbal bust-up with Chelsea players. And another about his business debts. And another about Craig Bellamy.Yet despite his limelight-hogging, Clattenburg was undoubtedly one of the world’s best referees.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAt the height of his powers, Clattenburg quit to take a job at the Saudi FA. Then similar posts in China, Egypt and Greece, where he met Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.And now on TV’s Gladiators, where he arbitrates on lycra-clad contestants rolling around in giant hamster balls.Premier League manager flips at assistant referee for ‘disrespectfully’ eating SANDWICH during conversation after match So it’s fair to say Clattenburg isn’t one for the quiet life – just like his new boss, the ‘larger-than-life’ Marinakis.So after Paul Tierney dropped an almighty conker during injury-time, then Liverpool scored a 99th-winner to defeat Forest on Saturday, it was little surprise to hear of Marinakis kicking off in the tunnel and Clattenburg giving media interviews in the City Ground’s ‘mixed zone’.Now Tierney was clearly wrong to award a drop ball to Liverpool after he’d halted a Forest attack so that Ibrahima Konate could receive treatment.One minute and fifty seconds later, Darwin Nunez scored the only goal. So yes, Forest were hard done by, but who knows, Liverpool might have scored a late winner anyway. Liverpool usually do.The question is ‘what on Earth is Clattenburg doing at Forest?’To me, it’s obvious why Clattenburg took the job. Same as most people take most jobs, for money.But why did Marinakis take the unprecedented decision to add a former ref to his club’s staff?Interestingly, it doesn’t appear to be to educate players on the laws of the game.Forest skipper Ryan Yates says he hasn’t spoken to Clattenburg since the club employed him a fortnight ago.My conclusion, then, is that Marinakis appears to believe Clattenburg’s appointment might influence top-flight referees, some of whom are his friends, to give Forest more favourable decisions.This is not to imply that Premier League refs are in any way easily influenced. It’s always best to assume cock-up rather than conspiracy on that front.Nor even to infer that Marinakis feels they might be influenced.Just that – perhaps in some intangible way – Clattenburg’s appointment might sway even one key decision in Forest’s favour. A decision that might be the difference between relegation and survival.Otherwise, what’s the point of employing him?Howard Webb, head of refereeing body PGMOL, had no prior knowledge of Clattenburg’s appointment and can do nothing about it.And Pgmol insist Clattenburg will receive no favourable treatment, compared to any other club official who asks for clarification over decisions.Half an hour after the final whistle, managers or other club staff are allowed to request to speak to a ref.Interestingly, in his post-match interviews on Saturday, Clattenburg stated that he asked to speak to Tierney in the referees’ room and Tierney refused.Yet this was only because another Forest staff member had already done so.But Clattenburg’s Forest gig could be troublesome for Premier League chiefs.During Forest’s FA Cup home clash with Manchester United last week, Clattenburg and Webb were shown on BBC TV sitting next to one another and chatting.Webb watches one or two games per week live and chose Forest v United, with the home club deciding to sit the pair together.Clattenburg has been very critical of Pgmol and the two former elite refs are not bosom buddies.And United were awarded a late winner despite a long VAR check.But what if Forest had been awarded that major decision?Would it have looked good for Webb and Clattenburg to be seen chatting?Maybe we are just being too cynical and suspicious.But, more pertinently, Marinakis appears to be motivated by the possibility of marginal gains.And if there is any suggestion that employing Clattenburg might do Forest any good at all, then many more clubs will seek to add former refs to the payroll.Maybe we will then see two ex-refs working as club analysts for rival clubs speaking to the media post-match, giving opposing views on controversial decisions.And maybe referees themselves might start speaking after matches, as they often did a couple of decades ago.Or maybe my old refereeing instructor was right all along. That a good ref is a ref you never notice.TIME TO SWITCHJude Bellingham crossed paths with a referee on the weekendCredit: AFPFOOTBALL lawmakers seem hell-bent on tinkering with the world’s most popular game in umpteen different ways.Yet the most obvious beneficial major change, the introduction of a stop clock to erase controversies over time-keeping, is always ignored.The extraordinary decision to disallow Jude Bellingham’s ‘winner’ for Real Madrid against Valencia, because the referee had blown the final whistle a second earlier, was only extraordinary because there was no clock with an official end point.Covention has it that referees tend not to blow for full-time at such a point, but why rely on vague conventions when this is a flashpoint which could be easily averted?A NOD TO ARTDarwin Nunez headed Liverpool’s winning goal against Nottingham ForestCredit: AlamyWHAT a wonderful Saturday it was for lovers of good, old-fashioned, towering, headed goals.Due to widespread copycat Pep Guardiola tactics — as well as concerns over concussion —  the sight of a big centre-forward taking a leap and nutting one home has become increasingly rare in the Premier League.But this weekend we saw Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez, Everton’s Beto, Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz and Nicolas Jackson of Chelsea all reviving this ‘dying art’.ALL TOGETHER NOW: “WALLOP!”Fans have tuned on Mauricio PochettinoCredit: AlamyIT’S never great for a manager when his club’s supporters turn on him — but it’s not necessarily fatal.But when the fans turn on the club’s owner, that’s when the manager tends to get sacked pretty damned soon.So while Mauricio Pochettino won’t have enjoyed Chelsea fans telling him to “f*** off” at Brentford this weekend, he should be far more concerned about the Blues faithful calling Todd Boehly a “c***”.NEV-ER MIND THEMGary Neville, right, and Jamie Carragher have been vocal about Chelsea and Manchester UnitedCredit: GettyLAST week’s Premier League news cycle was dominated by Mauricio Pochettino responding to Gary Neville’s criticism of Chelsea, and Erik ten Hag having a pop at Jamie Carragher over his criticism of Manchester United.There is one way to avoid all this.Just stop talking about what Neville and Carragher think. It only encourages them.READ MORE SUN STORIESWHITE TIME WHITE PLACEJimmy White is set to have a film made about himCredit: GettyJIMMY WHITE’S life story is to be the subject of a Hollywood movie.Given Tinseltown loves a happy ending, the six-time World Snooker Championship runner-up might finally get to see himself lifting the trophy at the Crucible. More

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      Inside world of bare-knuckle MMA dubbed ‘most VIOLENT show’ where ‘skulls vibrate’ in brutal bouts made by ex-UFC star

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      JORGE MASVIDAL is providing fans with the “most VIOLENT show” on Earth by mixing his two passions together. Masvidal became a cult hero during his UFC days and stands as the proud owner of the fastest knockout in octagon history. Ex-UFC stars Junior dos Santos and Fabricio Werdum in bare-knuckle MMACredit: Gamebred Bareknuckle 5MMA legend Jorge Masvidal promotes the boutsCredit: Gamebred Bareknuckle 5Werdum left brutally marked upCredit: Gamebred Bareknuckle 5But nearly 20 years before rendering Ben Askren unconscious in five seconds with a flying knee, the American was a feared street fighter. He shot to underground fame on YouTube brawling on the streets of Miami for $500 at a time after being recruited by viral sensation Kimbo Slice. So when Masvidal launched Gamebred Fighting Championship in 2021, he married together his two loves to produce sweet violence. He introduced bare-knuckle MMA, where fighters compete without gloves on in the cage, which returns on Saturday streaming free on Kick. READ MORE IN MMAMasvidal, 37, told SunSport: “There’s more submissions, there’s more knockouts, there’s more cuts, it’s more violence. So it’s not everybody’s cup of tea.”But for the right type of person that wants to see two trained killers going at it with no gloves and see what would happen in real life this is it right here. “When we did Junior dos Santos’ fight with Fabricio Werdum over a period of five hours we had a million views. “That just shows, like man, we’re heading down the right path. This is the right cup of tea for a lot of people are we’re going to keep pushing this product that nobody has. Most read in SportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“And on March 2nd, I bring you the world’s most violent show, Junior dos Santos versus Alan Belcher for the heavyweight title.” Masvidal says bare-knuckle MMA bouts have a brutal 80 per cent stoppage ratio. Jorge Masvidal insists making amends with Jake Paul will not stand in way of mega-fight after confirming boxing switch He added: “People are just going to sleep, sleep from ground and pound. “Because they get hit with that bare-knuckle fist and they’re on that mat and they don’t get to absorb it. “It’s all on their skull freakin’ vibrating. Those are pretty gnarly. Some submissions and obviously a lot of blood. “You’ll see a guy with a submission and as he’s squeezing he’s pouring blood and this guy’s pouring blood and it’s just a bloodbath. “That’s definitely something you don’t see as much with the padded gloves. But the knockouts when they do happen are just violent.” Masvidal credits much of his career to Slice but what would the street fighting king think of bare-knuckle MMA? “He’d be sitting there ringside with me handing out belts, having a good old time just promoting fights and finding the future talent,” Masvidal replied.  Masvidal says bare-knuckle MMA bouts have an 80% stoppage ratioHe called it the ‘most violent show’Masvidal admits ‘it’s not everybody’s cup of tea’Bare-knuckle MMA launched in 2021“I always give a big shout out to Kimbo because he allowed me to come onto his platform back then when he was a rockstar on YouTube, getting millions of views. “Nobody knew me and he asked me, ‘Hey, do you want to come fight on my platform?’ He opened that door for me as a mixed martial artist and pro fighter to just build a platform.” Masvidal emotionally announced his retirement from MMA last April in his home of Miami following defeat to Gilbert Burns. But surrounding himself immersing himself in promoting fights has done nothing to itch the scratch that has plagued him since hanging up his gloves. And now Masvidal has confirmed he is coming back this year – but not in the MMA cage. He said:“Does a dog miss a bone, brother? Hell yeah, every mother f***ing day. “I’m coming back to do boxing this year, that’s definitely maybe something the UK didn’t know too much about. READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’m definitely going to be doing boxing this year.” Masvidal intends to come out of retirement for a boxing switchCredit: Getty More

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      I starred in hit TV series Euphoria but now I’m signed to Jake Paul and tipped to be boxing’s biggest star

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      JAVON WALTON is being tipped as a name to remember in boxing – but some will already know exactly who that is. Walton had over 85 amateur bouts and several junior titles but he shot to fame with his role in Emmy-award winning HBO series Euphoria.Javon Walton has signed for Jake Paul and Most Valuable PromotionsWalton makes his pro debut under Paul’s MVPHe shot to fame starring in Emmy-award winning HBO series EuphoriaSo when the 17-year-old made the decision to turn professional, YouTuber-turned boxer Jake Paul snapped him right up. And Paul – who has spent the last six years going from prankster to prizefighter – believes he has boxing’s next big thing on his hands. Paul, 27, told SunSport: “He has everything it takes. And that’s the beauty of it. It’s up to him and bringing it into reality 1,000 per cent. “But I see it for him, he has the talent, he has the following already and he has Most Valuable Promotions, the name speaks for itself. READ MORE IN BOXING“He has people around him like Amanda Serrano, surrounded by GOATs since day one and being around events like this as part of his global debut, it doesn’t get any bigger or better than this. “I see no reason why with his family, his dad, the people in his life, Nakisa helping steer the ship that he can’t be the star of boxing.” Walton was first taken to the gym by his boxing-mad dad DJ at the age of just four. He said: “I really fell in love with it and I’ve been boxing ever since.” Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAt the same time as competing up and down the country, Walton was also making a name for himself as an actor. He has also featured in Utopia, The Umbrella Academy, and 2022 film Samaritan alongside Rocky creator Sylvester Stallone. EXCLUSIVE: Jake Paul says ‘eight-figure’ fight offer to Tommy Fury has been ‘RESCINDED’ after rival refused to ‘f***ing listen’But now he is ready to let his hands do the talking on Saturday night in Puerto Rico, making his pro debut against Joshua Torres. Walton said: “However, people support me, they support me, I appreciate the support at the end of the day. “Of course, I’d like people to know more about my amateur background for sure but not everyone is going to know about that. “That’s what I’ve got to do Saturday night, I’ve gotta prove to everybody why I’m in the ring in the first place and show everybody that I’m really about this.” Walton already has over 5million Instagram followers and is following the same blueprint that has afforded his new promoter so many lucrative fights. Paul said: “This is the new model of how to become the biggest in the sport and it’s starting from day one, it’s having that audience and backing it up in the ring. “You look at some of the biggest modern stars, the youngest ones, it’s me, Ryan Garcia and that came from branding and marketing themselves. “I believe the biggest fighters from the next generation will have their own content, have their own pages, have their own audience from maybe other places, podcasts whatever it might be. Walton with MVP co-founders Nakisa Bidarian and Jake PaulWalton had over 85 amateur boutsHis dad DJ, left, first brought his son to the boxing gym aged four“And this is the new model and that’s why this is so exciting is that he already has the people and the eyeballs and now it’s just going to compound. “And it’s almost greater when people doubt him or don’t think he’s going to be able to rise to the top of the sport because that journey and that story is more fun to follow than someone who is just starting out and you don’t know their name and their 22-0.” Walton – whose last role was in true crime drama Under the Bridge – refused to close the door on his acting career despite boxing taking a front seat. He revealed: “I won’t say this is an end on the acting world at all or projects in the future. “But the priority right now is boxing and to accomplish everything I can accomplish right now in the boxing world.” Walton’s most high profile gig was the role of Ashtray through two series of the acclaimed Euphoria. He starred alongside Angus Cloud and the two become close friends on and off set. Sadly, Cloud passed away aged 25 last year following an accidental drug overdose but his life will live long in the memory for Walton. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe young boxer said: “He was a good friend to me. He was a super great guy on set. “I knew him for about six years because we got to build that chemistry on set and he’s definitely going to have a special place in my heart forever.” Angus Cloud with co-star WaltonCredit: @onwardwannaCloud sadly passed away in 2023Credit: @onwardwanna More

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      Saudi Pro League is set to bite chunks out of top competitions with Premier League first in line… but it’s not all bad

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      THE Saudi Pro League may currently resemble a retirement earner for notable footballers — but don’t be complacent about its motives.Behind it lurks a different animal. One that could bite chunks out of successful European competitions, our Premier League first in line.Ruben Neves bucked the current trend by leaving for Al-Hilal when still at his peak and he reckons the Saudi Pro League could be huge within two yearsCredit: GettyAgeing legends like Neymar could be laughing all the way to the bankCredit: AFPThe Saudis have been ruthless in tempting star golfers away from the PGA Tour.  Within three years, their LIV Golf series has filleted the all-powerful PGA of stars including Jon Rahm, Paul Casey and five-time Major winner Brooks Koepka.The billions required comes from the Public Investment Fund, a sovereign wealth fund which recently bought 80 per cent of Newcastle United.Persuading the Saudi population to watch fading football stars  seems in some towns about as popular as camel-racing — there are fans but not in great numbers.  I predict that progress will accelerate, quickly.READ MORE TOP STORIESOnce it was something of a  speciality among men and a taboo among women. Now? Attendance figures bottom at 133, more the number you might expect of, say, West Allotment Celtic of the Northern Football League here.But on the positive side, the average crowd is growing — over 8,000 and the all-time highest 59,600. Oil barons are not noted for financial surrender and quitting the  soccer project will not  happen.It will surely far outlast the China bid to take over major clubs in the UK. Three of the four have quit. Most read in FootballHOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALLOnly one, at Wolves, has lasted more than a few years. So, the retirement plan for Cristiano Ronaldo and like-minded beneficiaries is going to continue drawing in fellow internationals of the standing of Neymar, Fabinho and Karim Benzema — who doesn’t like the money-no-object scene and neither did Jordan Henderson.No matter, plenty of others are queuing.Cristiano Ronaldo responds with bizarre gesture after rival fans chant Lionel Messi’s name during Al-Nassr gameAs far as European standards are concerned, many of the tempted two dozen were close to being put out to grass.Not all. Ex-Wolves’ captain Ruben Neves, 26, chose to move to Al-Hilal. A £47million fee eased his former club’s Financial Fair Play figures, leaving time for the Portuguese to return eventually to Europe.He isn’t sure he will move back. Where else could he earn £300,000 a week?  He says: “I don’t plan to do it soon. Saudi Arabia could have one of the most important leagues in the world within two years.“The quality of the players who arrive is very high. If each team goes for eight foreigners of that level, this almost becomes a PlayStation championship, in which we can choose the players as we wish.”This is strong testimony for the groundwork put in by the planners who are on track to host the 2034  World Cup in  Saudi.They have already captured the staging of the Italian and Spanish Super Cups and host top sports events — including track-and-field athletics, tennis and horse racing, including the £16m Saudi Cup.But a major football league would be an impressive coup for Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the driving force behind Saudi Arabia’s advance into the modern era.Money is no object and in a country of 27million people, football reaches places no other sport can.Its wealth will continue to attract excellent players, young as well as older,  bigger crowds and a growing challenge to the wealth and attraction of the Premier League and equivalents elsewhere.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere is a temptation to regard the Saudi version as an enemy. It isn’t.But it is a rival with benefits —  excellent pay for players, good conditions for spectators, involvement of more women spectators and women players, too. More