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    ‘He’d beat me until I was sick’ – Jakob Ingebrigtsen’s troubling first day in court facing his father

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    JAKOB INGEBRIGTSEN accused his father of sickening emotional and physical abuse during a harrowing first day in court.The two-time Olympic gold medallist, 24, claims that his father and former coach, Gjert, “controlled” him and his siblings.Jakob Ingrebrigtsen sits alongside his lawyer on day one of the trialCredit: AFPIngrebrigtsen, 24, has made a series of allegations against his fatherCredit: AlamyIngebrigtsen alleges that his father assaulted him several times during his childhood, and that the emotional toll of the abuse has affected him in his adult life.The middle and long-distance runner referred to his father “as the defendant” during day one of the trial – claiming his actions were “not worthy” of being called a father.Gjert, 59, denies the allegations.Recalling getting in trouble at school aged “seven or eight”, Ingebrigtsen told the courtroom in Sandnes, Norway: “I’m just standing in the kitchen and looking down at the ground.READ MORE IN SPORT”The defendant is standing over me and screaming at me. He hits me several times on the top of the head.”I try to protect myself from violence, before he takes my hands and puts them down on my side… to continue hitting me in the head.”I remember freezing and wanting it to be over. I was just paralysed.”On another alleged incident at a hotel, Ingebrigtsen added: “If I didn’t do as he did, he would come and shame me and beat me until I was sick.”Most read in AthleticsGjert Ingebrigtsen, who denies assaulting his children, in a courtroom sketchCredit: APJakob Ingrebrigtsen is a two-time Olympic gold medallistCredit: PAIt was also claimed that Gjert threatened to beat his son “to death” during an argument in a car.Ingebrigtsen has six siblings; Henrik, Filip, Kristoffer, Martin, Ingrid, and William.I was a reality TV star dubbed the ‘cardio Kim Kardashian’ – now I’m making my own way and targeting Olympic goldJakob, Henrik and Filip have gone to become professional athletes, with the family’s journey detailed in the documentary series “Team Ingebrigtsen” between 2016 and 2021.The trio split with their father as coach in 2022, and the following year made allegations against him public.During day one of the trial, Jakob claimed that they decided to do so in order to protect younger sister Ingrid, 19.He said: “The motive is to look after and help her as best we can, and take care of ourselves.”Try to get out of the difficult situations and the lives we have had. I can’t think of any other motives than that.”‘SABOTAGE’Ingebrigtsen claimed that he had witnessed Ingrid being struck in the face with a wet towel in 2022 for not wanting to become a professional athlete like her older brothers.It was alleged that Gjert threatened to “sabotage” his sons careers when they split with him as coach three years ago.Asked about the toll of his father’s behaviour by the prosecutor, Ingebrigtsen said: “I definitely think it affected the way I was able to be a child.”I always looked over my shoulder and thought about the possible consequences of what I did.When I got a girlfriend and wife, it was difficult to have a life togetherJakob Ingebrigtsen”As a teenager, I realised that the less I did, the safer I was. I became very conscious about showing emotions and ended up not doing it. To protect myself.”I now struggle a lot with letting people in and trusting me. When I got a girlfriend and wife, it was difficult to have a life together.”You have to show feelings and be there for each other. Be a person who contributes to the family. It’s difficult when I’ve lived a life with a lot of stress.”Ingebrigtsen is married to childhood sweetheart Elisabeth Asserson.When they wanted to move in together aged 18, Jakob claims that his father called them “terrorists”.Gjert did not attend their wedding in 2023, although their mother Tone was present.’CHARACTERISED BY FEAR’On how he was raised, Ingebrigtsen said: “My upbringing was very much characterised by fear.”Everything was controlled and decided for me. There was an enormous amount of manipulation.”As a teenager I felt I had no free will or say in anything.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe trial is expected to last around two months.Gjert is scheduled to give evidence next week. More

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      Gender row Olympics boxer Imane Khelif fires defiant message to Donald Trump after ‘eye-opening experience’

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      IMANE KHELIF has issued a defiant message to Donald Trump, insisting she will compete at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.The President of the United States wrongly claimed the 25-year-old, who was at the centre of a gender row along with Taiwan’s Lin Yu-Ting at the Paris Games last summer, was transgender.Imane Khelif’s participation at the 2024 Olympics caused controversy as she allegedly failed a gender eligibility test 18 months earlierCredit: APHer participation at the LA Games in 2028 was thrown into major doubt after Donald Trump signed an executive order banning transgender athletes in women’s sportsCredit: REUTERSKhelif has issued a defiant message to POTUSCredit: REUTERSKhelif’s participation at LA 2028 was thrown into major doubt last month when Trump signed an executive order banning transgender women from competing in female events.But the Algerian insists she won’t be intimidated by POTUS, telling ITV: “I am not transgender. This does not concern me and it does not intimidate me.”Of course, I defend with everything I have this gold medal… I continue my dream, my everything.”Khelif and Lin’s participation at Paris 2024 – where they won welterweight and featherweight gold respectively – sparked international outrage.READ MORE BOXING NEWSThe duo took part at the Games 18 months after being banned from the Women’s World Championships for allegedly failing a gender eligibility test.Tests administered by the discredited International Boxing Association are said to have determined that Khelif and Yu-Ting have male XY chromosomes.The IOC, however, permitted the duo to compete – much to the fury of the IBA – who have taken legal action against the Olympics’ governing body.Imane Khelif received a torrent of abuse following her 46-second victory over Angela CariniCredit: REXLin Yu-Ting was also targeted by trolls and on the receiving end of erroneous claimsCredit: AFPKhelif, in particular, was subjected to a torrent of abuse and erroneous claims she was a man after stopping Angela Carini 46 seconds into their opening bout.Most read in BoxingThe ordeal has fortified the mental strength of the Algerian, who has taken legal action against several prominent figures – including Elon Musk and JK Rowling – for alleged “aggravated cyber-harassment”.Olympics 2024 gender row boxer Imane Khelif set to turn pro after winning gold in Paris She said: “This experience has taught me a lot. “I believe that if the old Imane operated at 50% of her potential, then the Imane Khalif of today is even more motivated and determined.”I have learned so much from this campaign against me, and what happened at the Paris Olympics was an eye-opening experience. “I feel even stronger now than I was before.”Khelif believes she wouldn’t have been the victim of global abuse had she not started getting the better of her opponents.She said: “As we say in Algeria, those who have nothing to hide should have no fear.Imane Khelif insists the experience at Paris 2024 has made her stronger mentallyCredit: ALAMY”The truth became clear at the Paris Olympics.”The injustice was exposed and, later, the truth was acknowledged by the [IOC] in Paris.“I see myself as a girl, just like any other girl. I was born a girl, raised as a girl and have lived my entire life as one.”I have competed in many tournaments, including the Tokyo Olympics and other major competitions, as well as four world championships.READ MORE SUN STORIES“All of these took place before I started winning and earning titles.”But once I began achieving success, the campaigns against me started.” More

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      I’ll never forget coach’s reaction to my pregnancy… getting back to top was such a proud moment says Jessica Ennis-Hill

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      OLYMPIC golden girl Jessica Ennis-Hill dealt with many a challenge in her career, but one of the toughest was her coach’s chilling reaction when she told him she was pregnant.It was two years after she had won the heptathlon at the London 2012 Games when she broke the news to Toni Minichiello.Jessica Ennis-Hill at the BBC Sports Personality Of The Year Awards last yearCredit: GettyJessica shows off her baby bump in 2014 while pregnant with the first of her two childrenCredit: Getty Images – GettyTrainer Toni Minichiello with Jessica at 2012 GamesCredit: GettyInstead of congratulating her, he instantly began scrolling through competition dates on his laptop to work out the bombshell implications.Jessica, who was made a dame in 2017 on the back of her Team GB Olympic glory, says of her pregnancy by childhood sweetheart Andy: “It was a bit of a surprise, it all happened sooner than we expected. “It was definitely a shock to all of my team.“My coach had this plan, ‘You’re going to do the Commonwealth Games in 2014, and then Worlds, then Olympics’.READ MORE IN SPORTS“I remember going to his house and being like, ‘I’ve got something to tell you — sit down’. “I was so nervous.“I said, ‘So I’m pregnant . . .’ “He was just so shocked. Most read in Athletics“He didn’t know what to say — he just kind of sat there“And then he got his laptop out and started looking at dates. Jessica Ennis-Hill stuns in bold outfit live on BBC for Paris Olympics as fans say ‘how I have missed you’ “He didn’t even say, ‘congratulations’, he was in such a fluster. “He said, ‘When’s he or she going to be born?’“I was sat there like, ‘Congratulations, you know, anything like that would be nice’. “Eventually he said, ‘Congratulations’.”Defining momentMinichiello was later banned from UK Athletics due to allegations of inappropriate behaviour, which he denied.Following the 2022 ruling, Jessica said she was never on the receiving end of any such misbehaviour.But she will never forget his cold response to being told back in 2014 that she was to become a mum at age 28.She adds: “It was quite a challenging time because everyone at that stage thought you don’t start your family during your career.“You do all your career stuff then start your family.“I think that’s since changed. I think a lot of women feel they have the support and policies in place to come back.”Jessica was forced to withdraw from the 2014 Commonwealth Games as a result.She was then determined to get back to her best, but acknowledged her body had changed, so her coach encouraged her not to ­compare how she was before — and just focus on the comeback.She says: “There’s a mental impact when you’re at the back of the group in training — and you’re the Olympic champion.“I would compare myself to me at my best. “When I looked at those times, I was nowhere near.“Eventually I did get stronger and those times came back, but I was never the same version I was before — but that was OK because of being a mum.”Her Olympic heroics at age 26 in front of an expectant home nation had capped an already stellar rise in the heptathlon — comprising the 200 and 800 metres, 100-metre hurdles, high and long jumps, shot put and javelin throw.She says: “My coach would say, ‘These are your post- pregnancy PBs’ [personal bests].”Jessica returned to training just ten weeks after baby Reggie arrived in her life, and initially struggled to rebuild her fitness.’Challenging time’She adds: “It was quite a tricky, challenging time because everyone at that stage thought you don’t start your family during your career, you kind of do all your career stuff and then start your family.“I think that’s since changed. I think a lot of women feel they have the support and policies in place to come back.” But she was forced to withdraw from the 2014 Commonwealth Games — and after she had son Reggie, who is now ten, Minichiello would compare her performances as “before” and “post” pregnancy.She says: “My coach would say ‘These are your post-pregnancy PBs [personal bests].”Jessica returned to training just ten weeks after Reggie arrived, and struggled to rebuild her fitness. She says: “There’s mental impact when you’re at the back of the group when you’re training — and you’re Olympic champion.Jessica beams after winning gold in the heptathlon at London 2012Credit: Times Newspapers LtdJessica competing in the long jump event during the heptathlon at London 2012Credit: Getty“I would compare myself to me at my best. When I looked at those times, I was nowhere near. “Eventually I did get stronger and those times came back, but I was never the same version I was before — but that was OK because of being a mum.”There’s mental impact when you’re at the back of the group when you’re training — and you’re Olympic championJessica Ennis-HillIt was more than OK, in fact, as just 13 weeks into motherhood she stormed back to win the 2015 World Championships in Beijing — then Olympic silver a year later in Rio de Janeiro.Jessica, who would retire the following year, now admits it was crazy trying to achieve again what she had done before her pregnancy.She says: “I thought, ‘What am I doing? What am I training for? This is hard’.“Your body changes so much. “It’s the hormones that go through your body for months after, the relaxing, that makes all your ligaments relax.“So my Achilles were loose and that’s not great when you’re trying to be this coil that needs to jump as high and far as you can.“I couldn’t train like I did before 2012.”But she made it her mission to return to the top of her sport — and soon revelled in the challenge.She says: “That journey was the hardest and the best — that feeling of beating the rest of the world, and those who doubted me, was the best.Greatest achievers“Your body is never going to be the same after having a child, whether it’s coming back to exercising or doing the Olympics.”While Jessica didn’t get a second Olympic gold, she wouldn’t change a thing.She says: “I was incredibly proud of what my body was able to achieve post-natally. “And having my son was the best thing ever. “But I might just get my silver one sprayed gold!”Jessica and Andy went on to have their second child Olivia in 2017 and she is now retired.When she married construction site manager Andy 12 years ago, she was already a national treasure.Her Olympic heroics at age 26 in front of an expectant home nation had capped an already stellar rise in the heptathlon — comprising the 200 and 800 metres, 100-metre hurdles, high and long jumps, shot put and javelin.In 2009, the Sheffield-born star won gold at the World Championships in Berlin and, in 2010, gold in the World Indoor Championships in Qatari ­capital Doha, plus the European Championships in Barcelona.In 2011, she claimed silver at the World Championships in South Korea and, five years later, that was upgraded to gold after Russian star Tatyana Chernova was found to have been doping.After silver at the 2012 World Indoor Championships in Istanbul, there then followed her defining moment atop the podium in London.Today, Jessica says she still gets competitive when she laces up her running shoes. Now aged 39, she adds: “I have done parkruns a few times — my husband was doing it quite a bit at one stage.“I still don’t want to get beaten, especially by someone with a buggy!”After retiring and being ennobled in the 2017 New Year Honours, Jessica won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award that year. She has also launched her own post-natal exercise advice app, become a patron of Sheffield Children’s Hospital and is a TV sports pundit. Oh, and she is launching her own podcast, Gold Minds, where she will chat to some of the world’s greatest achievers about how they overcame real-life challengesYour body is never going to be the same after having a child, whether it’s coming back to exercising or doing the OlympicsJessica Ennis-HillIt means she can finally use the psychology degree from Sheffield University that she gained after leaving school.She says of her podcast: “I get to speak to people about their golden moment that’s changed their life.“They also bring in three items that take us on their journey to reach that moment and the aftermath. “They’ve all been fascinating. “It’s delving into the psychology and mindset.”One of her guests will be British rowing cox Erin Kennedy — a two-time Paralympic champion. Erin, 32, was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago, but has continued to win medals at the highest level, including gold at the 2024 Paris ­Paralympics.One of her guests will be British rowing cox Erin Kennedy — a two-time Paralympic champion.Erin, 32, was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago but has continued to win medals at the highest level, including gold at the 2024 Paris Paralympics,.Jessica says of their chat: “Erin was incredible. “I was sat with my mouth wide open, blown away by what she has been through.“She brought in a wig because that was a huge part of her journey to getting back to ­­winning gold in Paris.”READ MORE SUN STORIESShe adds of podcast work: “As an athlete, you’re wanting to push your-self — and this was something out of my comfort zone I wanted to try.” Jessica’s Gold Minds podcast chats with former Olympic boxer Nicola Adams and former Ireland rugby captain Johnny Sexton are on all major platforms. New episodes land on Wednesdays, the next features sports presenter Gabby LoganJessica wearing the Union Flag after her Olympic triumph in front of her home nationCredit: The Times More

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      Meet the Greta Thunberg of Team GB Athletics who has turned down events to avoid flying

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      ECO WARRIOR Innes FitzGerald is ‘gutted’ the British Athletics squad took a flight not the Eurostar to Holland for the European Athletics Indoor Championships.The Greta Thunberg of track-and-field might only be 18 years old, but she cares deeply about highlighting environmental issues.Innes Fitzgerald cares a lot about highlighting environmental issuesCredit: GettyShe prefers not to fly to eventsCredit: GettyTwo years ago, FitzGerald – who is studying Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Exeter – skipped a cross-country event in Australia in “solidarity” of the “climate breakdown”.And to attend a race in Turin, she took trains, coaches and even rode a bicycle instead of taking a straightforward, direct flight to Italy.Yet for this latest event in Apeldoorn, she reluctantly flew with teammates into Amsterdam because she did not have enough time to sort out a train schedule.FitzGerald, who hails from Beer in Devon, said: “Unfortunately, this time, I hadn’t managed to sort it out.READ MORE ON SPORT“Logistically, it’s been quite complicated. I’ve been very busy with uni stuff and other different family issues.“I do feel like I should be getting the train there and that’s definitely something I’m going to be doing in the future.“And for me, it’s quite gutting that the whole team aren’t going together on the train, considering it’s so close and so easy to do.“But I’ll continue to talk out about environmental issues in the future, because I know it’s really important. I strongly believe that we as athletes have a responsibility.Most read in AthleticsCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“There’s always more they can do, whether that’s World Athletics or British Athletics, or any other organisations.“I think there’s always more to be done and I’ll continue to campaign for that. ‘See you next week’ vows Sharlene Mawdsley as she preps for Euro Champs with ‘lots of hard work, good food & goodies’“Whenever I’m getting on a flight, it’s never easy. I’m always thinking: ‘Oh, I shouldn’t be doing this.’“But I know that I’ve got to go to these championships to fulfil my dreams as a professional athlete.“So, it’s just about balancing that and trying to do as much as I can in other areas of my life to try and make up for it – and speak out and raise awareness.“Greta is very inspirational. She has managed to mobilise so many young people.“I think it’s a compliment to be associated with her. If I can do anything near to what she’s done, then I’ll be very happy.”Her first appearance wearing a senior GB top will be on Saturday morning in the heats for the women’s 3,000 metres.A successful junior cross-country runner, FitzGerald finished third in the indoor trials in Birmingham but was selected when second-place Laura Muir suffered a calf injury.FitzGerald is coached by Gavin Pavey – the husband of five-time Olympian Jo – and she said: “There’s not too much pressure on me because of my age and it’s my first senior GB vest.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I just want to go out there and enjoy it. Hopefully I’ll get into that final. That’s where I believe I belong.“Hopefully I’ll compete for one of those medals. But just getting close, that’s the main thing.”Personal best(s)Here is a look at FitzGerald’s recent best times…1500m: 4.15:04 (Watford, 2022)3000m: 8.40:05 (Ostrava, 2025)5000m: 15:26.76 (Manchester, 2024) More

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      Three-weight boxing champion Claressa Shields under investigation and suspended after testing positive for marijuana

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      BOXING superstar Claressa Shields has been suspended after testing positive for marijuana following her last win.The three-weight undisputed champion, 29, beat fellow American Danielle Perkins to lift the heavyweight crown on February 3. Claressa Shields said earlier this month she was a ‘clean athlete’Credit: GettyShields celebrated beating Danielle Perkins earlier this monthCredit: GettyThe ex-Olympic golden girl faces an investigation after the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission suspended her from fighting in the state.Shields is said to have tested positive after providing an “oral fluid sample” following a dominant victory over Perkins on points.Marijuana is on the banned list of the World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada).The World Boxing Organisation is also looking into the case.READ MORE IN BOXINGIt’s a sanctioning body without the power to suspend fighters.But the BBC say the WBO has asked Shields for a “show notice”.That means they want her to explain the situation.Meanwhile, the Michigan Commission has launched its own probe to see if she should be the subject of disciplinary action.Most read in BoxingThe Commission said: “Ms Shields’ conduct as a licensed professional boxer constitutes an imminent threat to the integrity of professional boxing, the public interest, and the welfare and safety of professional athletes.”It comes just a week after Shields spoke out over rumours of a failed drugs test.Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender She went on social media to insist she was a “clean athlete”.Shields and Perkins were both scheduled to have been tested  by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (Vada) following their fight, due to the WBC’s clean boxing programme. More

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      Olympics to be hit by legal action over Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting after Donald Trump’s ban on trans women in sport

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      THE International Olympic Committee is facing a lawsuit for allowing boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting to compete at the 2024 Olympics.The pair were at the centre of a heated gender row that dominated the Paris Games.Imane Khelif’s participation at the 2024 Olympics caused controversy as she allegedly failed a gender eligibility test 18 months earlierCredit: APTaiwan’s Lin Yu-Ting was also said to have failed the same testCredit: AFPImane Khelif won Under-66kg goldCredit: REUTERSLin Yu-Ting won gold in the 57kg finalCredit: AFPBoth competed at the Games 18 months after being disqualified from the Women’s World Championships for allegedly failing a gender eligibility test.Tests administered by the International Boxing Association are said to have determined that Khelif and Yu-Ting have male XY chromosomes.The IOC, however, permitted the pair to compete – much to the frustration of the IBA.And in light of Donald Trump’s executive order preventing transgender women from competing in female sports in the USA, the Russian-backed organisation has decided to take legal action against the IOC.READ MORE MORE BOXING NEWSA snippet of a statement read: “In light of the gender eligibility issues surrounding boxers in 2022 and 2023, the IBA proactively conducted all necessary testing and subsequently banned individuals deemed ineligible from participating in women’s competitions.”Despite notifying the IOC about the disqualification of Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting, the IOC disregarded this critical information, allowing both athletes to compete in the Qualifiers and ultimately at the 2024 Olympics, where they secured gold medals, denying opportunities to deserving female athletes.”As a result, IBA is filing an official complaint with the Attorney General of Switzerland, Mr Stefan Blatter, regarding the IOC’s actions that facilitated the participation of these ineligible athletes in the 2024 Olympic boxing tournament in Paris.”According to the Swiss law, any action or inaction that poses a safety risk to competition participants warrants investigation and may serve as grounds for criminal prosecution.Most read in BoxingImane Khelif’s 46-second victory over Angela Carini turned into a global talking pointCredit: REX”In addition, similar complaints are to be filed with the Attorneys General of France and the USA.”IBA chief Umar Kremlev said: “President Trump’s order to ban transgender athletes from women’s sport validates IBA’s efforts to protect the integrity of female sports.Gender row boxer Imane Khelif ‘names Elon Musk & JK Rowling in Olympics cyberbullying lawsuit'”Our actions aim to ensure gender equality in boxing.”We urge other International Federations to follow IBA’s example, as we are uniquely positioned to address this issue and advocate for our athletes’ rights.”He added: “IBA will provide free-of-charge comprehensive legal support to our boxers in these lawsuits.”As this is a clear violation of human rights, an outrage towards the female boxers, and simply a crime that should be punished accordingly.”In my personal opinion, Thomas Bach should take the full responsibility for this, as he was in charge when it happened.”And he needs to compensate the damages caused, if the court or any other instance rules this.”Khelif, who won Under-66kg gold, received a barrage of hate after forcing Italy’s Angela Carini to quit a mere 46 seconds into their opening bout.Multiple erroneous reports, most from social media, claimed she was a biological man.Imane Khelif has launched legal action against Elon Musk and JK Rowling for alleged “aggravated cyber-harassment”Credit: ALAMYKhelif has taken legal action against several prominent figures for alleged “aggravated cyber-harassment”, including Elon Musk and JK Rowling.Reflecting on her ordeal, she told El Birard: “Immediately after there was a big uproar from big politicians around the world, athletes around the world.”And even artists and stars, Elon Musk, Trump.. this thing….. that affected me.”I am not lying to you, it affected me. It affected me a lot, hurt me a lot. I can’t describe to you the amount of fear I had.”The scenario was very scary. Thank god, all the people of Algeria and the Arab world knew Imane Khelif with her femininity, her courage, her will.”Honestly, I don’t like to get into politics in sports, but they got into politics in sports.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Sports and politics are two separate things. “These politicians who are oppressing me, they don’t have the right to say that I’m a transgender.” More

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      I thought I was being scammed after WWE offered me trials on Instagram… but here’s why I chose boxing instead

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      PREPARING himself for Olympic glory, boxer Delicious Orie received a suspicious Instagram message offering him trials with the WWE. But the super-heavyweight star brushed off the invite as nothing more than a scam. Delicious Orie was beaten in the opening round of the 2024 OlympicsCredit: PAOrie was on holiday in Thailand when he realised he had been offered WWE trialsCredit: @deliciousboxingIt was only after he was controversially beaten in the opening round of the 2024 Paris Games that he gave the DM a second thought. By then, Orie was on holiday in Bangkok enjoying some well-earned rest off the back of heartbreaking defeat to Armenia’s Davit Chaloyan.He did a bit more digging and realised the offer from the WWE was real – and had already been accepted on his behalf. Orie, 27, told SunSport: “So they messaged me actually on Instagram – this was during the Olympics.READ MORE IN BOXING”So I wasn’t on my social media during the Olympics. I actually saw it on holiday a few weeks after.”And I’m looking up, I’m just looking through the messages and I’m seeing the WWE – initially I thought it was just like one of those fake things trying to get scam you.”But then I opened the message, I looked into the account and I’m like, ‘This is all legit, you know, they want me out.'”So I’m in Thailand, I bell my manager because I messaged them back and said, ‘Yeah, of course, let’s talk.’Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”And they said, ‘Oh no, we’ve already been speaking with your manager and we’ve sorted everything out, you’re flying out this day.'”I’m calling my manager like, ‘What’s going on here? I’ve haven’t been told this!Former world heavyweight champion who KO’d Lennox Lewis, 59, wins second comeback fight as opponent retires “And he goes, ‘You just need to chill out, just relax, have a good time on holiday and then you can reset because your mind’s going to be going.'”And I’m like, well it’s too late now my mind’s going now. But yeah, I went out there just to have a look, see what they offer and it was a fantastic experience.”Orie did undergo a physical trial with the WWE in Florida – but stopped short of any high-flying turnbuckle moves.He said: “We did bits, it was very light, though. I’d watched a lot of the real physical jumping off the the ropes and all that stuff.”The main reason why was they were a little bit more cautious on it because as athletes and the things that we’ve got going on behind the scenes, injuries, as you may know, there’s there’s a high injury rate in wrestling, jumping off things and stuff like that.”So I got to try out a little bit, but not too much.”What Orie realised most though was the WWE stars’ talent on the microphone – something boxers rarely excel at. He said: “That’s why the likes of Tyson Fury and all them stand out so much because he’s able to do that, whereas you don’t get many in the UK that can do it.”Orie only began boxing at 18He suffered a controversial Olympic defeat to Armenia’s Davit ChaloyanCredit: PAOrie – born in Moscow to a Russian mother and Nigerian father – moved to the UK aged seven seeking a better life. He only started boxing at 18 and excelled as an amateur winning national titles as well as Commonwealth gold and European bronze. And with still so much to achieve in the professional ranks, Orie decided to politely turn down the WWE’s approach. He said: “I was thinking what’s gonna get me the most fulfilment out of my life?”I could have gone down that route, but do I wanna be a 70 year old looking back thinking what could I have been as a professional boxer?”I think there’s something quite real, raw, primal about boxing. “There’s nowhere to hide, the amount of work you put in is what shows. No matter whether it is you win, lose, it doesn’t matter.”It’s how much work you can portray and show people how much work you you’ve put in. And that’s basically what I wanted to do.I’m just looking through the messages and I’m seeing the WWE – initially I thought it was just like one of those fake things trying to get scam you.Delicious Orie”That’s the reason why I decided to sort of say, ‘Look, amazing offer, but definitely the professional boxing is for me.'”Orie has now turned pro with Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren at heavyweight with his debut set to be announced soon. And he arrives on the scene just as superstars Anthony Joshua, 35, and Tyson Fury, 36, prepare to depart leaving a gaping gap behind them. Orie said: “When I started boxing, I knew that there was a target audience that I can appeal to.”I believe that I’m quite real and I could just appeal to normal people and I can also try and inspire as many people that were or still are in my position or were in my position in the past.”So I thought to myself, there’s definitely a gap in that market for me. So from before I even thought about turning professional, I knew that.”Orie expects to fight regularly in 2025 – and promises plenty of eyeballs – whether they are booing or cheering. He said: “I’ll be very, very busy, and it’ll be very, very exciting.READ MORE SUN STORIES”There’ll be people gathering together watching Delicious Orie box, whether they don’t like me or like me, doesn’t matter. “They’ll be watching me box.”Anthony Joshua with OrieCredit: @deliciousboxing More

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      I want to be the most powerful man in world sport says British hero Lord Coe

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      LORD SEBASTIAN COE has vowed to shake-up the Olympic Movement if he becomes president, saying: There’s too much power in the hands of too few people.On Thursday, Britain’s double Olympic 1500 metres champion revealed details behind his bid to become the most powerful man in sport.Seb Coe has launched his bid to become the next IOC presidentCredit: PACoe was chairman of the organising committee that delivered the 2012 London Olympics and ParalympicsCredit: PAInternational Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, 70, steps down in 2025 after 12 years and Coe, 68, is up against six candidates to replace the German.His manifesto was launched 21 floors up The Turing Building, which overlooks Stratford in East London where the London 2012 Olympics were held – Coe was chairman of that organising committee.If elected next March in Athens, Coe has vowed to:+ Protect and promote the integrity of women’s sport (“I’ll advocate for clear, science-based policies that safeguard the female category.”)Read more on Olympics+ Revamp the Olympics commercial model after four top sponsors quit after the Paris 2024 Games.+ Possibly switch some indoor sports from the summer Olympics to the winter Games.+ Empower the 100-plus IOC membership and give them decision-making responsibility.+ Strengthen anti-doping systems by enhancing funding and use legal methods to nail dopers.Most read in Athletics+ Get more young people involved in the Olympics – but breakdancing will not return under Coe.Coe, who has been World Athletics boss since 2015, said: “It’s exciting. It’ll be the privilege and honour of my life to do this.“And I’m ready. I take absolutely nothing for granted.“But I’ll work harder for this than I’ll probably ever work for anything. Because I think ultimately the treasure at the end is really dramatic here.Coe will find out next year if he will be elected to become the most powerful man in sportCredit: ReutersSince 2015, Coe has been president of World AthleticsCredit: Sportsfile“Here in Stratford is probably the best demonstration of anything that I’ve delivered.“None of this would have happened without using the extraordinary power of the Olympic Movement.“To have built a new city inside an old city in seven years. To do it from a standing start. To leave 50,000 permanent, meaningful jobs and new houses, three universities.“That’s the power of the Movement. Every day, if I’m privileged to do this job, I’ll be squeezing every ounce of that. Fans ‘in floods of tears’ as Sir Chris Hoy gives rousing speech at BBC SPOTY despite brave cancer battle“The vision is simple. To use the inspirational power of the Olympic Movement to deliver the Greatest Show on Earth every two years.“In simple terms, I just want to use the experience that I think I’ve amassed over many years. I want to build, I want to reform and I want to deliver.”Coe, a Tory MP for five years, knows he is “not an insider” and is up against favourite Juan Antonio Samaranch Junior and Bach protégé Kirsty Coventry.The former 1500 metres world record holder said: “In the IOC room are some really smart people. Some of them have got brains the size of planets.“Some are running great chunks of the global marketplace. They’re cultural icons.“They’re coaches. Educators. Members of the Royal Family. Former Prime Ministers or presidents of countries. There’s no shortage of talent there.“But what input do I and other members have? The reality is there isn’t enough. There’s too much power in the hands of too few people.“This isn’t a broken organisation. It can be so much better. There has to be safe space for discussion.”With Saudi Arabia confirmed as hosts for the 2034 Fifa World Cup, it is inevitable they will target the Olympics over the next decade – either winter or summer.READ MORE SUN STORIESCoe, a longstanding member of Amnesty International, has “active discussions” with desert sports bosses over track-and-field and has not ruled out working with them if he gets the top job.But says he has “uncompromising conversations with governments and sometimes Heads of State” over human rights concerns when awarding tournament rights to host countries.Forty-four years ago, Coe became Olympic 1500m champion in Moscow, as he outpaced Brit Steve OvettCredit: PA More

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      Keely Hodgkinson’s SPOTY win could push Olympic superstar into the £1m-a-year bracket with sponsorships and endorsements

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      KEELY HODGKINSON’S SPOTY triumph is the crowning glory of a magnificent year.And according to financial experts, she is due to receive a cash windfall – possibly pushing her annual earnings towards the £1MILLION mark.Keely Hodgkinson scooped the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year awardCredit: PAThe gong capped off an incredible 2024 for the middle-distance runnerCredit: PAAnd it could soon lead to her raking in the cash courtesy of endorsement dealsCredit: REUTERSShe went into the Paris Olympics with an enormous weight of expectations on her shoulders as favourite for 800m gold.But Hodgkinson, still only 22, coped admirably with the pressure to deliver emphatically over 116 seconds and two laps of the Stade de France track.And now she can utilise her new-found fame with the BBC’s SPOTY award to ensure her financial security for years to come.Dr Dan Plumley, sports finance expert at Sheffield Hallam University, told casino.co.uk: “Scooping the SPOTY award will only increase her fame and status.READ MORE ON KEELY HODGKINSON“She’s already becoming one of the most recognisable faces for UK Athletics.“Her success can lead to off-track partnerships and endorsements with good relationships with brands and marketing agencies.“Off-field earnings are a key driver of financial success for individual athletes.“And it is not unusual to see athletes pursue sponsorship and commercial opportunities to boost their income.Most read in AthleticsBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKeely Hodgkinson celebrates her SPOTY win with Trevor Painter and Jenny MeadowsCredit: PA“Form and success on the track will continue to drive what happens for next for Hodgkinson.”But there is little doubt that the sponsorship opportunities will continue to come in.”Olympic winner Keely Hodgkinson soaks up the atmosphere with Man Utd fans at Old Trafford Hodgkinson stole the nation’s hearts last summer in Paris.Everybody had expected Hodgkinson – the world’s leading 800 metres runner – to storm to victory on the night of Monday, August 5 and she did just that.Her beaming smile and warm personality is why this girl from the Greater Manchester town of Atherton, who now lives in Salford, was voted last night as BBC Sports Personality of the Year.This is the fourth successive year a woman has lifted the prestigious trophy – following tennis superstar Emma Raducanu and footballers Beth Mead and Mary Earps – and that is a record.It is the 19th time in 60 years someone from track-and-field has received the main SPOTY Award, more than any other sport.Decent company that includes former winners Steve Ovett, Seb Coe, Daley Thompson, Kelly Holmes and Mo Farah.A reminder that even if some big names refuse to do media or the sport continues to suffer financial cutbacks, there is an appetite for athletics at the highest level.These days Hodgkinson, is used to winning races that she enters but that was not always the case.Keely Hodgkinson has the potential to become the face of British athleticsCredit: AlamyUntil this summer, the middle-distance heroine had to accept silver at THREE major championships – the 2021 Olympics and 2022 and 2023 World Championships.Those second-placed results really hit her hard, especially as she was defeated on each occasion by fractions of a second.Concerns that she might once again become the bridesmaid were allayed as she entered the Games having posted a personal best of 1:54.61 in London in July – the sixth-best time in history.Everything went perfectly on the track in 2024 – “the first time in a year where I’ve actually achieved everything ” – something that perhaps only happens once or twice in an athlete’s career.Yet this time 12 months ago, she was unable to run for NINE WEEKS over Christmas and the New Year due to a serious knee issue.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was all down to a freak accident where she had “torn a ligament and tendon and a little bit of my hamstring around the knee area”.Whilst she was eager to resume training early, it was only by listening to and trusting her coach Trevor Painter that she managed to rest up and then make a successful return. More