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    How identical twins and boxing champions became estranged in ugly rift during year of ‘havoc’ before rekindling

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    THE Charlo twins have risen to the top of the boxing world together – but their relationship has taken some blows along the way. The pair were born on May 19, 1990, in Lafayette, Louisiana, but they were schooled and raised in Houston, Texas.
    The Charlo brothers are identical twin boxing championsCredit: Instagram
    Jermall Charlo, left, is older by one minute
    The two shot to the top of the boxing world togetherCredit: Instagram
    Jermell, the younger of the two, was born one minute after his older brother Jermall.
    Both were introduced to boxing at a young age to follow in the footsteps of their dad Kevin, an ex-amateur.
    Jermall was the slightly more experienced in the unpaid ranks, with a record of 65-6 before making his professional debut in 2008.
    But Jermell – who went 56-8 in the amateurs – turned pro a year prior at just 17.

    Both raced to unbeaten records but it was Jermall who touched gold first as he won the IBF light-middleweight title in September 2015.
    He made one defense of the belt before a history-defining night presented itself in May 2016.
    As Jermell also fought for 154-pound honors, beating John Jackson the same night Jermall defeated Austin Trout.
    It meant the two reigned over the light-middleweight division at the very same time.
    Most read in Boxing
    Jermell said on the night: “We did it. We made history. We’ve been boxing for all these years, and it had to happen.”
    Jermall added: “It was great being the first twins to win titles in the same division, and I’m so proud of my brother.
    “I knew he could get the job done.”
    Jermell stayed at light-middleweight and became undisputed champion last year when he beat Brian Castano in their rematch.
    Meanwhile, Jermall later moved up to the 160-pound middleweight division and became WBC champion there.
    The pair have fought on the same card eight times and in 2018, Jermell suffered his first loss, losing to Tony Harrison.
    Jermall had beaten Matt Korobov but admitted watching his sibling lose dampened his celebrations.
    He said: “It definitely was [hard to celebrate], but we got home and we got over it.
    Jermall, left, and Jermell held light-middleweight titles togetherCredit: Getty
    The duo with boxing legend Floyd MayweatherCredit: Getty
    The two have fallen out in the pastCredit: Getty
    “It’s just part of the game that we just have to get used to. Sometimes it goes our way, sometimes it don’t.
    “But it’s still a sport, and you want to be undefeated. You don’t know how to take losses. It’s tough.
    “But it’s just boxing at the end of the day, it’s just a segment of our life that my brother overcame.”
    Jermell later beat Harrison in their 2019 rematch but cracks started to appear in his relationship with Jermall.
    The two have always had a turbulent relationship at times but it reached boiling point as Jermall suffered with his mental health.
    He has not boxed since June 2021 – beating Juan Macias Montiel – due to his problems outside the ring.
    It even cost him his dream bout with Canelo Alvarez as the American was deemed unable to accept the bout.
    Instead, Jermell accepted an offer to jump two divisions to take on the Mexican superstar.
    ‘We don’t see eye-to-eye’
    But he did so having spent months without speaking to Jermall and their falling out came under question on fight week.
    Jermell revealed: “This family affair thing has been really crazy.
    “I try not to touch on that topic too much because at the end of the day I love my brother.
    “But I think it’s just that at this current moment we don’t see eye-to-eye.
    “It has a lot to do with what he wants in his life and what I want in mine. They are two completely different things.
    “Growing up and growing apart from each other is just the nature of life but I just have to accept this just like I accept certain people and the good that comes with the bad.
    “One day, hopefully we speak again but right now I’m not in the mood to deal with the havoc that he brings and all the other stuff.”
    Jermall raised eyebrows when he showed up in Las Vegas to support his brother Jermell.
    I’m feeling better, I’m in a better space, I’ve got better people around me.Jermall Charlo
    But he said: “I’mma always be there for my brother man, no matter what the internet or social media is trying to make things out to be.
    “I’m feeling better, I’m in a better space, I’ve got better people around me.”
    Jermall also confirmed that he is set to return on November 25 against Jose Benavidez Jr.
    The world champion looked to come full circle in his recovery as he was filmed coming into Jermell’s dressing room before the Canelo fight.
    Read More on The Sun
    The two embraced with a hug which was met with loud claps in the room and a heartwarming reaction on social media.
    Jermell was later beaten over 12 rounds by Canelo but he did so with his brother back in his corner.
    Jermall embraces Jermell before his brother’s fight with Canelo Alvarez More

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      The football team that’s about more than winning

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      “WINNING is fantastic but it’s not our goal – it’s supporting each other on the pitch that counts.”It’s not exactly your typical manager’s pre-match huddle talk, but then South London’s Saving Souls FC aren’t your typical football team.
      Kerry Phillips founded Saving Souls FC to help bring people together
      While winning is a bonus, the real focus of the team, who are supported by National Lottery funding, is scoring victories over issues men face with their mental health.
      “I’m an Arsenal season ticket holder – I go by myself, home and away, and end up talking to so many different people,” says Kerry Phillips, Saving Souls’ founder, manager and “head of laundry”.
      “During lockdown, I realised that for me football is about more than 22 men kicking a ball.
      “It’s a point of connection with other people that nurtures my soul.” 
      Kerry, 36, from Catford, felt isolated during lockdown and reached out to friends on the phone.
      He sensed they were experiencing loneliness too but he couldn’t broach the subject. 
      “It was frustrating. It’s that ‘Men don’t talk about their feelings’ thing.”
      Kerry did some research and realised there was a problem. According to mental health charity Mind, 43 per cent of men regularly feel low but 28 per cent say embarrassment stops them seeking help.
      Most read in Football
      Men from minority ethnic groups are even less likely to access help than their white counterparts.
      “In 2017, I had therapy and that helped me understand my own mental health issues,” Kerry says.
      “As a child and young man I was overweight and lacked self-esteem, masking it with an outgoing persona.
      “Even after I lost 14st in my mid-twenties, I lacked confidence. Finally, turning 30, I faced up to my issues. That gave me tools for dealing with things.”
      National Lottery funding helps pay for the pitch hire
      Lockdown knocked his sense of self all over again. He wondered if there was something he could do to improve the mental health of men in his community.
      A couple of years earlier he’d organised a charity football match for his church – over-thirties versus under-thirties.
      “It was an intergenerational bonding session,” he says. “Was there a way of replicating that on a regular basis?”
      Kerry contacted the London Football Association and enquired about setting up a club with the aim of encouraging men to talk.
      Next, he rang Bellingham Leisure Centre, close to his home, and asked about hiring a pitch.
      Within weeks he had bagged a spot in the South London Grassroots Football League. Now all he needed was a team.
      The team are all about encouraging men to talk
      TALKING A GOOD GAME
      “I came up with the name Saving Souls FC and set up an Instagram account and promoted the first training session in 2021,” he says.
      “Sitting there on my own, I was nervous people wouldn’t turn up. But ten showed. Now Saving Souls has 88 members in its WhatsApp group.”
      Training takes place every other Friday evening, matches mostly on weekdays. And on the last Thursday of every month, Saving Souls holds a men’s forum.
      If people have specific problems they want to discuss, Kerry can signpost them to organisations like Citizens Advice and StepChange, the debt charity. 
      “We’re very diverse, with different religions and cultures,” he says. “Ages too – our oldest member is 58 and his son is the youngest at 18.
      “Friendships form – two members went into business together, while another felt strong enough to come off antidepressants through the boost playing gave him.”
      The team are achieving on the pitch too, winning the Grassroots League in 2022 with a goal difference of 137 and being named London FA Grassroots Project of the Year.
      Last year, Kerry successfully applied for National Lottery funding.
      “The FA gave us funding but I was spending my own money too,” he says.
      “We pay to hire the pitch, for example, but people might be struggling so sessions are free. National Lottery support was a lifesaver.”
      National Lottery players support health and wellbeing projects near you, like Saving Souls FC – the club helping people to improve their wellbeing and mental health through free weekly football matches.
      The National Lottery is also the proud sponsor of The Sun’s Who Cares Win Awards 2023, celebrating people, like Kerry, who put caring into everyday action.
      This season, Saving Souls FC have taken a break from the Grassroots League. “To give other teams a chance,” Kerry jokes.
      Instead, they’re organising matches with community groups, including teams of asylum seekers and Forces veterans.
      The club are welcoming women too, with free self-defence classes and plans for a women’s team.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Saving souls through winning and, as importantly, cheerfully conceding goals: it’s a simple concept but it works.
      Back of the net, Kerry and team. More

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      Chelsea star Mason Mount reveals he’s quitting Twitter in shock announcement to fans as he tells them ‘take care’

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      MASON MOUNT has announced he is quitting Twitter. The Chelsea star made the shock announcement to fans on his page on Thursday afternoon.
      Mason Mount has announced he is leaving TwitterCredit: Rex
      Mount will keep other social channels open
      In the post he revealed his reasoning behind the move, before telling fans how they can continue to support him and posting a heartfelt message to them.
      He said: “Over the years I’ve thoroughly enjoyed connecting with you all on Twitter. Sadly, the platform is changing so I have decided to delete my account.
      “You all can still connect with me on my other social media platforms. Here: http://masonmount.Komi.io
      “Take care, Mason ✌🏻.”
      READ MORE ON CHELSEA
      Mount has struggled with injuries and form this season – and there is much speculation over his future.
      The playmaker’s issues have only served to exacerbate Chelsea’s increasingly lame season.
      Despite an outlay of £600million on transfers and a huge fee to bring in ex-boss Graham Potter, Chelsea find themselves down in 11th in the Premier League.
      Indeed, so profound is their situation that Chelsea sit closer to the relegation zone than they do the top four, with a tough season run-in under interim boss Frank Lampard to go along with this.
      Most read in Football
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      Comments under Mount’s post were switched off. But quote tweets remained on to allow fans to share their thoughts.
      One user said: “No matter what Mason thank you 💙.”
      A second typed: “Mase 💔.”
      “Goodbye my king,” added a third.
      However, some users believe Mount’s decision stems from abuse he has received from so-called fans online.
      One user speculated: “Disappointing that it’s come to this, but I understand why he would. A real shame our own fanbase probably is a factor in this decision.”
      Another said: “This is actually sad man you lot have abused him so much. He deserves better.”
      While a third added: “Bullying your own player off Twitter is wild.”
      Mount has 1.8million followers on his Twitter page and 5.6million on Instagram. More

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      in Boxing

      I didn’t care whether I lived or died after losing to Mayweather and Pacquiao, even my parents wouldn’t speak to me

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      RICKY HATTON “didn’t care” if he lived or died after losing to Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather – and even his parents refused to speak to him.The Manchester boxer, 44, was literally on top of the world as IBO and The Ring light-welterweight champion.
      Ricky Hatton opened up on his suicidal strugglesCredit: Reuters
      During his peak he fought Manny PacquiaoCredit: AP:Associated Press
      He stepped up to welterweight and was stopped by Mayweather in 2007 then surrendered his world titles to Pacquiao two years later.
      But away from the boxing ring and public persona, the Hitman was struggling with his mental health, to the point he felt suicidal as his life appeared to crumble around him.
      Hatton said: “I was always paranoid about what people think, what’s the point in being world champion if everyone thinks you’re a d***head?
      “In my own mind, I’d think everyone was laughing at me after losing to Mayweather, I felt embarrassed.
      READ MORE ON BOXING
      “It got worse when I lost to Mayweather and Pacquiao and I fell out with my mum, dad and [trainer] Billy Graham.
      “I was suicidal. It ate away at me. I didn’t care if I lived or died.
      “I thought to myself, ‘It’s over for me, no boxing, no parents to talk to, no Billy Graham to talk to, what the f*** am I doing here?’ That’s how bad it was.
      “After the Pacquiao defeat was the worst time, I knew I was past it and had to retire.
      Most read in Boxing
      “I was done. In my early 30s, I still had a lot of life to live but thought who would I celebrate this with?
      “It was terrible, absolutely terrible. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy.”
      Hatton came back for one last pro fight in 2012, getting knocked out by Vyacheslav Senchenko in his hometown.
      His difficulties with substance abuse – including alcohol and drugs – as well as depression were a serious concern but Hatton sought help and has thankfully turned his life around.
      He is now an advocate, encouraging people to talk about their mental health – after experiencing the pain of feeling unable to share in his lowest moments.
      ‘CAN’T KEEP IT IN’
      Hatton continued on the RAW: The Fight Within podcast: “Mental health is so important because I nearly wasn’t here.
      “Now [son] Campbell has gone professional and I’m a granddad.
      “I’ve made up with Mum and Dad and Billy Graham. Look at all those wonderful things. If I’d killed myself, look what I would have lost out on.
      “Jennifer my ex, I lived with her and she knew I wasn’t well but she didn’t even know how bad it was.
      “When I was on my own I’d be in tears wanting to kill myself but then when I went home.
      “I couldn’t go to my mates. They’d think, ‘Rick’s lost the plot,’ so I kept it in, that’s where the damage is done – you can’t keep it in on your own.
      Read More on The Sun
      “Ladies have it as well but I think it’s harder for men.
      “Boxers are perceived to be the toughest in the world. Ladies can’t help but tell their friends but I couldn’t go to the pub and tell the lads. Men don’t like to share.”
      Contact the Samaritans
      If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, contact The Samaritans on 116 123. They are available for free at anytime.
      Or email https://www.samaritans.org/

      Hatton struggled after his defeat to Floyd MayweatherCredit: AFP – Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Jesse Lingard admits turning to booze during darkest days of Man Utd career amid horror fan abuse and mum’s depression

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      JESSE LINGARD admits he was drinking during the darkest days of his career.The pressure of playing for Manchester United, a dip in form and abuse from fans took its toll in the 2019-20 season.
      Jesse Lingard admitted that he turned to drink to try and “take the pain away” during his darkest days at Man UtdCredit: Alamy
      Lingard revealed family issues did not help make the situation any betterCredit: Reuters
      Lingard was also looking after his siblings while his mum battled depression.
      Now at Nottingham Forest, the attacker, 30, said: “I was drinking before bed, having a nightcap. I look back now and think, ‘What was I doing that for?’
      “But I needed something to take the pain away. I was trying to forget what was going on. But it makes it ten times worse.
      “You’re getting that much abuse and I’m already down enough and I’ve got to perform.
      READ MORE ON MAN UTD
      “I was still trying to be Jesse — with banter and jokes and all that — but, of course, it’s going to affect me. I felt the world was on my shoulders.”
      Lingard’s issues meant he struggled to care for brother Jasper and sister Daisy-Boo while his mum Kirsty sought treatment.
      Speaking to The Diary Of A CEO podcast, Lingard said: “The depression was so bad she couldn’t cope and needed to get help.
      “But leaving me with my sister, who was 11, and brother, who was 15, for me, I was going through my own things as well.
      Most read in Football
      “So I wasn’t really the big brother they wanted.
      “I was on the pitch but didn’t want to be — I didn’t want to play. I just needed a break.”
      Lingard came through United’s academy and scored their winner in the 2016 FA Cup final against Crystal Palace.
      He boasts 32 England caps and was a key man as the Three Lions made the last four at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
      But as things started to unravel he turned to then Red Devils boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
      He said: “I thought I could handle it but it came to a point when I went to Ole and said, ‘This is what’s going on’.
      “We kept it close-knit but even just to have Ole say, ‘How is your mum? How is she doing?’
      “Just to have those conversations helped.”
      He had a successful loan spell at West Ham in 2020-21 before returning to United for a season.
      Read More on The Sun
      And Lingard, who joined Forest on a free in the summer, could not resist a pop at his old club.
      He said: “They’re behind on everything. You see City’s facilities, Tottenham’s facilities . . . people are miles ahead.”
      Depression… the signs to look out forWe can all do our bit to help prevent deaths from suicide during these uncertain times.
      There are several warning signs that a person is at risk of suicide. But it’s vital to know that they won’t always be obvious.
      While some people are quite visibly in pain and become withdrawn and depressed, others may continue their life as normal pretending everything is fine.
      Look out for subtle personality changes in friends and family, especially if you know they have been going through a tough time, Lorna Fraser of the Samaritans told The Sun Online.
      These are the key signs to watch out for in not just your loved ones, but yourself too…

      A change in routine, such as sleeping or eating less than normal
      Struggling to sleep, lacking energy or appearing particularly tired
      Drinking, smoking or using drugs more than usual
      Finding it hard to cope with everyday things
      Not wanting to do things they usually enjoy
      Becoming withdrawn from friends and family – not wanting to talk or be with people
      Appearing more tearful
      Appearing restless, agitated, nervous, irritable
      Putting themselves down in a serious or jokey way, for example ‘Oh, no one loves me’, or ‘I’m a waste of space’
      Losing interest in their appearance, not liking or taking care of themselves or feeling they don’t matter More

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      in Soccer

      Jadon Sancho set to miss Man Utd’s Premier League return as physical and mental fitness battle continues away from club

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      JADON SANCHO will miss Manchester United’s Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest as he continues his physical and mental recovery.The winger, 22, hasn’t featured for the Red Devils since October and was absent from their warm-weather training camp for players not at the World Cup.
      Jadon Sancho hasn’t featured for Manchester United since OctoberCredit: GETTY
      The winger missed United’s recent warm-weather training campCredit: Getty
      Erik ten Hag has revealed the winger is unlikely to feature against ForestCredit: Getty
      Sancho has been training alone in Holland with coaches recommended by United boss Erik ten Hag, who doesn’t foresee him being available for the visit of Forest next week.
      When asked if he thinks the England international will feature in the match, Ten Hag said: “I don’t think so.”
      Ten Hag recently revealed Sancho – who has taken a break from social media – was struggling both physically and mentally.
      The Dutchman said: “I don’t think he will be back this week, no.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      “We want to bring him back as quickly as possible, but I can’t give a prognosis of when that will be.
      “Sometimes there are circumstances with fitness and mood.
      “We got a drop in quality level and sometimes you don’t know why or what is causing it.
      “That is what we are doing now to try to get him back there. It is a combination of physically and mentally.”
      Most read in Football
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      The former Ajax chief has brought in sports psychologist Rainier Koers to work with his players.
      Ten Hag said of Koers: “He is here continually the whole season working in the coaching staff, working with the squad but also with the staff and departments.
      “That’s his job to get the right spirit in the individual and the team.”
      United could find themselves six points behind fourth-placed Tottenham before they take on Forest.
      Jadon Sancho has been dealing with physical and mental issuesCredit: GETTY
      And Ten Hag admits he’s under pressure to guide the Red Devils back to the top four, saying: “I accept how it is, I accept that pressure.
      “But also for the manager of Chelsea and of Newcastle United, those clubs who have invested a lot in their squad.
      “It’s big pressure for all of us to get into the top four.
      “We want to be in the top four and fighting for trophies, that’s our aim.” More

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      in Soccer

      Rio Ferdinand reveals he has blazing rows with wife Kate – and admits it’s always over the same thing

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      RIO FERDINAND has confessed he and wife Kate have full-blown rows — and most of the time he is to blame.Though the former no-nonsense Manchester United and England footballer thanks Towie’s Kate for his reinvention, teaching him how to talk about his problems.
      Rio Ferdinand revealed he has rows with wife KateCredit: PA
      But former Man Utd footballer Rio thanks Towie’s Kate for his reinventionCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      The 44-year-old’s told of his troubles in the podcast Football Ramble, broadcast this week to mark the launch of his new three-part TV documentary series Tipping Point.
      He shared on it: “My missus will tell me a problem that she’s got going on, and I talk about it from my point of view.
      “Most men are like this, we try to help them solve the problem. And she’s going ‘I don’t want you to try and solve it’.
      “And I end up having arguments with her. We only argue about stuff like this. We get into a full-blast row because you’re trying to solve it.
      Read More on Rio Ferdinand
      “She says, ‘I don’t want you to solve my problem for me. I just want to be able to vent, and you listen, and just help me that way’.
      “As a man you’re sitting there going ‘Well why are you telling me then if it can’t be solved? Just solve it’.
      “Men feel ‘don’t discuss it if you’re not trying to make a solution’.
      “What’s the point in discussing it if there’s no solution-based foundations of why you’re making that conversation’, which is probably the wrong way to look at it.”
      Most read in Football
      Rio has become concerned about mental health in football, especially among young players.
      While playing for Queen’s Park Rangers in West London he would drive to training with team-mate Bobby Zamora.
      But Rio refused to confide to fellow players that his first wife Rebecca Ellison was dying with breast cancer.
      She passed away, aged 34, in May 2015, leaving him to look after their three children Lorenz, Tate and Tia, then aged nine, six and four respectively.
      Two years later he started dating Kate, now 31. They married in Turkey in 2019.
      But Rio said he has become a better communicator since meeting Kate, with whom he has a 23-month-old son Cree.
      He said: “I think that’s an important factor in feeling good, when you communicate how you feel to someone else or people around you that you care about.
      “It’s since I met my missus. I was never really a good communicator before that.
      “Then I met Kate. She’s really good and has got really open lines of communication, and she’s pushed me into that way of thinking.”
      Talking about why he did not tell his team-mate about Rebecca’s condition, Rio said: “A big part of my make-up as a football player was you don’t show emotion, you don’t show weakness, especially.
      “If you’re going to show any type of emotion, weakness isn’t the one you show.”
      Rio continued: “Young men in our generation, we were definitely brought up to have a stone face and a hard exterior. If you did have those feelings of vulnerability or emotions you better make sure you quash them quickly.
      Rio with Kate and dad Julian with his OBE at Windsor CastleCredit: AP
      “I very much became that, quite hardened. I had no real empathy for some people when they had issues. I wasn’t where I am today.
      “I saw people come into the dressing room who, when I look back now and I think about it, they were going through a tough time.
      “I didn’t even have any time in my headspace to even think about addressing that because I thought they were a negative impact on our team’s quest to try and win.
      “And it was such a backwards way of looking at it.
      “If you’d looked and taken an interest and spoken to those people and paid a bit more attention to those things you might have been able to help those people get back on track and then become a positive impact on your team’s chances of winning.
      “Mental health wasn’t even part of any sentence.
      “I remember Carlos Queiroz, Manchester United’s Portuguese former assistant manager, and his approach to training was very different to us English lads.
      “We were 100 miles an hour in training every day and he used to just chill in training. Come a game, he was an animal.
      “I remember one day, as we walked out to training, he was actually laying face down on the bed getting a massage.
      “I went to the coach ‘What’s going on with Carlos, what’s he doing having a massage, he’s not injured?’
      “He said ‘No, he’s not injured, he’s just had a baby and he’s a bit tired, a bit drained’.
      “Looking back now, mentally and physically, that was the right way to approach it.
      Once you open up about how you’re feeling from your mental standpoint, how light you feel after you’ve had that conversation, you can’t put into words.Rio Ferdinand
      “Whereas us English guys would just bat on, got to be hard, got to get through this, and we all kind of laughed at Carlos about that.
      “We were like ‘this is a joke’, with disbelief really, ‘we’ve all had kids mate. Jesus, what makes you special?’
      “Everyone’s case is very individual, everyone deals with things very differently.
      “My previous wife was passing away and the fella I went to training with every day in the same car, Bobby Zamora, didn’t know for a long time.
      “My team-mates, that I shared a dressing room with, didn’t know.
      “That’s football, that’s a place where I go to work and no one needs to hear that. No one needs to be a part of that.
      “I can deal with this outside. I don’t want to put any more strain and pressure on those guys, they’ve got enough pressure to win a football match. So I didn’t really feel it was a place to do it.
      “You don’t want to put an extra burden on anyone else’s shoulders when they’ve got enough going on in their life.
      “With situations like that, with hindsight, you think people would actually embrace that more.
      “They’d want to help you, they’d want to open their arms and give you a cuddle and bring you in and have a coffee together and just discuss how you’re feeling and help you along the way.”
      The angry Rio is a long way from his apparently perfect family depicted on social media.
      This week the couple were photographed outside Windsor Castle, where the once England centre back received his OBE from Prince William.
      Rio and Kate pose on the beach on holidayCredit: Instagram
      Kate gushed: “I am so proud. An inspiration to us all, my husband. I love you.”
      Tipping Point covers racism in football and sexuality and mental health in soccer academies.
      The ex-player believes many professional footballers struggle when they retire.
      He said: “I’d get up every day at 7.30, sort the kids out, drop them to nursery, go to training, get home by two o’clock. Routine, routine. All of a sudden that disappears.
      “You start seeing your missus another six, seven hours a day, ‘hold on, this is someone I don’t even know, didn’t know she was like this, didn’t know she had these habits’.”
      Rio now urges people to open up if they’re suffering mentally.
      He said: “One bit of advice I’d always give to people in workplaces, in schools or at home, is every now and again to just ask someone ‘How you doing?’ — not once, twice.
      “Because normally people can get away with going ‘I’m all right, I’m all right’.
      “And you go ‘Really, is everything all right for real?’.With that second one you might get a different answer and then a conversation could start that might help that person.
      Read More on The Sun
      “Once you open up about how you’re feeling from your mental standpoint, how light you feel after you’ve had that conversation, you can’t put into words.
      “It’s just a beautiful feeling.”

      Rio with first wife Rebecca Ellison who died from cancer in 2015Credit: Getty – Contributor
      Rio and Kate pose for a family Christmas photo on the beach More

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      in Boxing

      Ricky Hatton sheds FOUR STONE in stunning body transformation ahead of comeback fight aged 44

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      RICKY HATTON’S exhibition fight with fellow legend Marco Antonio Barrera is an exercise in mental strength and nostalgia and nothing to do with a serious comeback.Alarm bells have to ring when a 44-year-old grandfather announces a fight, ten years after his last one ended in a second consecutive defeat.
      Ricky Hatton has undergone an incredible body transformationCredit: Instagram / @rickyhitmanhatton
      Hatton, 44, lost four stone after this pointCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      But the former two-weight world champ and Manchester icon has explained how a gruelling training regime, four-stone weight loss and chance to walk out at his local arena on Saturday has hugely improved his life – not threatened it.
      The Hitman is in such a good mental space he has even treated himself to the occasional pint in the build-up and even stayed on track over a family holiday where he would usually go OTT.
      “I’ve been having a few Guinness here and there,” he said with the trademark smile fans fell in love with. “Because I’ve been able to keep on top of it.
      “I went to Tenerife for five weeks. Normally I’d put on a stone and a half but I went there and put four or five pounds on. Everyone was like “f***!”  but that’s the way it’s going to be now.
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      “It’s not gonna be ‘I’m 44, I’m gonna put my feet up, pipe and slippers’.
      “You get a little bit older, a bit wiser and things have to change – a little bit.”
      Hatton added: “When I jumped on the scales at the start of training it was 15st 4lbs.
      “And the weigh-in is this Friday which is made at 11st 7lbs. And I’m 11st 7lbs now.
      “It’s been a long way to come. I’m 44years of age, and the shape that I’ve got myself in has taken a lot of hard work.
      Most read in Boxing
      “It’s been great to give myself a target, a goal. It’s been great for my own wellbeing.
      “I’ve had so many message of support from people who have struggled with their weight. They say to see my from where I was a few years ago to where I am now is an inspiration.
      “It makes me feel very, very proud that I’m not just going to be back in the ring again, and hear the roar of the crowd again, but it’s also that it’s inspired people. That’s more important for me.”
      It was an all-too-rare TV appearance that sparked Hatton’s transformation and a clear out of his wardrobe even more ruthless than his assault on the super-lightweight division.
      “I went in and filmed A Question of Sport three weeks before I started training,” he said.
      “I’d been in camp for eight weeks when they told me it was coming on.
      “I flicked it on and went “F***ing hell!’.
      “I was alright mentally and I have been for a while but when I saw the show I emptied my entire wardrobe.
      “I’ve got a new wardrobe now, I’m a 30in waist at the minute. I’ve got a few 32s. As soon as the 32s get a bit too tight, I’m not going for the 34s again.
      “If I can’t get the button fastened, I don’t f***ing go out!”
      The dance with the 48-year-old Mexican warhorse was originally scheduled for July 2 but suffered a postponement.
      He handled the heartbreak and extended training camp with typical humour and honesty.
      He said: “Physically I’d look in the mirror at 15 stone and think, ‘Rick, you don’t look too bad’ and it never bothered me while I was fighting, because in six or seven weeks I’d be back training and it would come off anyway.
      ‘IT’S BEEN SO INSPIRING’
      “But I’m 44 now, I can’t keep dragging some poor f***er out of retirement every time I want to get some weight off!
      “I’ve enjoyed the compliments, people coming up to me with mental health and saying, ‘f***ing hell, Rick, I’ve been struggling with my weight and seeing you shift all that weight has made me want to’.
      “Then other people have said, ‘Jesus, Ricky, seeing you a few years ago with all that weight, suicidal, wanting to kill yourself, heavily drinking, heavily into drugs, the way you were, to see you now, it’s been so inspiring’.
      “So even when the original fight was postponed, I knew it had not been for nothing.
      “It was the first training camp I had in 10 years and now I’ve had two in 10 years. I’ve stayed on top of things, I do 10-rounds of sparring, I wouldn’t have been able to in the last time. Now I can.
      “Nobody can say this exhibition is a bad thing. When fighters make comebacks, you never want to see your heroes being bashed up or hurt. In an exhibition, it’s controlled.
      “You can see your heroes for one last time, showcase their skills, with the knowledge they won’t get hurt.
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      “With me, people who have struggled with their weight and depression, the shape of me now, the way I’m talking, how I’ve changed. I’m not ready for my pipe and slippers yet.
      “It’s inspired a lot of people, I’ll hear the crowd roar again and share the ring with Marco, it’s a dream. I can’t see a negative thing about it.”
      Hatton vs Barrera, November 12, Manchester Arena. Live on Sky Sports Main Event – Buy Tickets at https://www.hattonbarrera.com
      You’re Not Alone
      EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is lost to suicide.
      It doesn’t discriminate, touching the lives of people in every corner of society – from the homeless and unemployed to builders and doctors, reality stars and footballers.
      It’s the biggest killer of people under the age of 35, more deadly than cancer and car crashes.
      And men are three times more likely to take their own life than women.
      Yet it’s rarely spoken of, a taboo that threatens to continue its deadly rampage unless we all stop and take notice, now.
      That is why The Sun launched the You’re Not Alone campaign.
      The aim is that by sharing practical advice, raising awareness and breaking down the barriers people face when talking about their mental health, we can all do our bit to help save lives.
      Let’s all vow to ask for help when we need it, and listen out for others… You’re Not Alone.
      If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support:

      CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
      Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.uk
      Mind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
      Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41
      Samaritans, www.samaritans.org, 116 123
      Movember, www.uk.movember.com
      Anxiety UK www.anxietyuk.org.uk, 03444 775 774 Monday-Friday 9.30am-10pm, Saturday/Sunday 10am-8pm More

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      in Soccer

      Prince William makes awkward comment to Harry Kane ahead of World Cup

      by

      PRINCE William risked an awkward clash with Harry Kane — by saying England defeats have helped him deal with life’s disappointments.The royal sat down for a chat with the England skipper and fellow Three Lions’ ace Declan Rice, a fortnight from their opening World Cup match in Qatar.
      Prince William sat down with Harry Kane a fortnight before England’s World Cup opening matchCredit: YouTube/COPA90 Football
      William photographed with footie royalty – World Cup hopefuls Harry Kane and Declan Rice
      Discussing football’s effect on mental health, William told them that England crashing out of previous tournaments had taught him valuable life lessons.
      He also revealed he loved the “carnage” of school football matches, and how he modelled his own game on former England defender Rio Ferdinand, though far less successfully.
      Meanwhile, Rice spoke about the current England squad’s positive mindset — and revealed the Euro final loss to Italy at Wembley last year had brought them closer together.
      William, 40, told the pair: “You learn by playing a number of times, and many other things in life, that disappointment is part of life and how you handle it is crucial.
      READ MORE WORLD CUP 2022
      “Handling some of those really disappointing England results in the past, that was hard.
      “I found that really difficult, because again the same euphoria that we had comes crashing down.
      “You feel high and all together, and then normal life just gets on again.”
      William told how at school he would sometimes join in four games with 60 pupils playing at the same time.
      Most read in The Sun
      He said: “Some of the greatest friendships are born from playing games and being pushed together in slight adversity.
      “The sheer size and scale and just the fun of everyone running around chasing each other, I loved it.
      “I was a defender, I was stuck at the back and told to just tackle.”
      The prince said he looked to former Man United defender Rio for “inspiration” but joked: “He was ahead of me just a little bit as time went on.”
      He added it was a “big moment for me” when then-boy wonder Wayne Rooney made his first England appearance at the age of 17.
      West Ham captain Rice, 23, told how the heartache of losing to Italy on penalties in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley last summer was eased by manager Gareth Southgate.
      The prince said it was a ‘big moment’ for him when Wayne Rooney made his first England appearanceCredit: PA
      He said: “There was a special moment after that game, the togetherness when we all came into a huddle after we’d lost that, and Gareth said some really important words.
      “As a group, I think that brought us forward together because then we had to qualify for a World Cup in the next round of games.
      “We really overcame that setback of losing that final, showed our togetherness and our strength and I feel that we are in a really good place as a national team.”
      In the 25-minute video chat – released a fortnight before England play Iran – William praised the work of Shout, a free and confidential 24-hour text messaging service for people struggling with their mental health.
      Kane, 29, revealed his love of football began when his dad gave him a fiver after he scored his first goal aged five.
      And he was now trying to help youngsters himself, as Shout has worked with his charitable Harry Kane Foundation.
      Read More on The Sun
      The Spurs forward said: “My aim is to, especially to the younger generation, talk to them and try and provide ways of talking about mental health and wellbeing.
      “The more we talk about it and open up, it will definitely help solve and hopefully encourage people not to be afraid to ask for help, especially when you are feeling a little bit lower.”                    More