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    I was jailed for robbery aged 15 before becoming a drug dealer and rapper – but now I’m an academy scout for Arsenal

    JOSEPH BOL has gone from dealing drugs, getting stabbed by rival gangs and spending three separate stints in prison, to helping Arsenal uncover new talent as an academy scout.Bol, 39, has turned his life around, putting crime in his rear-view mirror and excelling as a football scout.Joseph Bol has turned his life around after three spells in prisonCredit: instagram @joeblackukBol is now an academy scout at ArsenalCredit: instagram @joeblackukBol works as Arsenal’s grassroots academy coordinator for East London, helping the Gunners identify the best talent across U9s to U14s level.It’s far cry from what he was doing at a similar age to the youngsters, with Bol being sent to prison for three years at just 15 years old for robbery.He also found himself wrapped up in dealing Class A drugs and ultimately being convicted for that too.Speaking to The Times, he recalled: “I wanted things my mum didn’t deem necessary, like designer clothes, trainers, and that led me down a slippery slope. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I stopped playing football and I started selling and smoking weed, and then it went on to be more Class A drugs. I was just in a bubble thinking this is going to be my career path.”After being let out of prison for the first time, Bol turned his attention to rap music – amassing millions of YouTube views for his songs about crime.He added: “I came out and got adulation from my peers, it boosts your ego, and I just started rapping about what I was going through. “It was more about selling drugs. We didn’t really have postcode wars at the time.”Most read in FootballBol releases rap music under the name ‘Joe Black’Credit: instagram @joeblackukJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesBol, who recalled taking Maths and English GCSEs in a young offenders’ institute, was still wrapped up in the world of crime for some time.And was even stabbed in the arm and leg while sitting in the front seat of his car by four members of rival gang at one point. But after turning 21 and finisng himself in an adult prison, Bol’s life changed thanks an officer who encouraged him to complete FA Level One and Community Sports Leader coaching courses.He recalled that decision helped him “break the cycle” and he started to volunteer at a local football club when he was released from prison.In 2012 he set up his own grassroots team, AC United, which snowballed into an eight-team club with performances catching the attention of top scouts.Bol continued rapping about his old life at the same time, earning a reputation under his stage name “Joe Black”, and even performed as a support act for hip-hop superstar Rick Ross.Bol turned to football coaching after his release from prisonCredit: instagram @joeblackukUnexpectedly, it was his rap career that helped Bol land his first proper job in football.A standout player at AC United, Clinton Mola, was invited for a trial at Chelsea – with Bol accompanying him to the training ground.Upon his arrival at Cobham, Bol was mobbed by a group of U14 players – including a young Reece James – who recognised him from his music videos.Recognising the sway and impact that Bol had in the local community, Chelsea decided to hire him as a member of their coaching staff.They also signed Mola, who now plays for Bristol Rovers in League One and represented England from U16 to U21 levels.Bol recalled being concerned that Chelsea would turn him away after a DBS check of his criminal history.He said to The Times: “Rightfully so, because there were obviously reservations after what showed up [on the DBS check].“I did a risk assessment and they asked me how I ended up in these situations and what I’d done to change my behaviour to ensure I wouldn’t fall back into those old patterns.”Long story short, I think the years I put in coaching unpaid went a long way to overpower the past. Clinton Mola now plays for Bristol RoversCredit: Rex”They could see I was making a big effort to make a change. I got the role and I was there for just over five years.”From there Bol’s career in football scouting has taken over and he made the switch to Arsenal’s academy in 2020 – where he has been ever since.Working alongside academy manager Per Mertesacker, Bol’s role is to manage a group of scouts and make sure they are always covering all parts of East London.Along his way he has helped unearth and develop some of of the Premier League’s most exciting young talents.Zain Silcott-Duberry, who made his Prem debut for Bournemouth this season, is just one of the youngsters he has had a hand in developing.While 14-year-old Trey Faromo, another Bol has helped identify, is thought to be one of the country’s brightest talents and recently made his debut for Chelsea Under-18.Read More on The SunNow Bol is targeting a spot as the head of recruitment at a Premier League club, but still recognises how far he has come.He said: “I feel proud of where I’m going. It’s good to reflect every once in a while to remember how far I’ve come”Zain Silcott-Duberry is a rising star at BournemouthCredit: GettyBol is rising through the ranks at ArsenalCredit: instagram @joeblackuk More

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    Aston Martin team up with rapper Dave, The Rolling Stones, Dom Dolla and more to bring new fan base in F1

    ASTON MARTIN have teamed up with the likes of Dave, The Rolling Stones, Dom Dolla and more to bring a new fanbase into F1.Drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll have been fully on board too, signing a football with rap artist Dave and a one-of-a-kind guitar for the Rolling Stones link up.Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso have been fully involved in the I / AM DROPS seriesCredit: EPAAston Martin recently launched I / AM DROPS, a series of collaborations and experiences connecting the F1 team with the world of music, fashion and sport.Their most recent move was becoming an official Partner of the 2025 Santan Cup, founded by UK rap artist Dave. The Cup aims to bring together a grassroots football community with some of the biggest names in music, football and television for a one-of-a-kind tournament during the Monaco Grand Prix.Aston Martin chief marketing officer Rob Bloom, said: “It’s about engaging that broader fan base, and giving more opportunities to be involved. “We hit the ground running at the start of the year with Tems, who really stole the show. “She was amazing to work with and she brought a fresh audience and perspective int that event. “Whether it’s about music, fashion and sports, it’s about reaching outside of that core F1 demographic, giving people the opportunity to be part of this team and the sport.” The latest drop includes a T-shirt, the signed football by Dave, Alonso and Stroll, and Two VIP tickets to the Santan Cup tournament in Monaco.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAston Martin linked up with British rock royalty the Rolling Stones for an iconic partnership last month. The team is leading the way by tapping into F1’s new audiences like young women who are taking over the fan base by storm.Sun F1 reporter Isabelle Barker tries Lewis Hamilton’s favourite spaghetti cooked by three Michelin star chef at Bahrain Grand PrixThe aim of the drops is to provide exclusive moments and experiences to fans and reach new audiences. Aston Martin have already linked up with Grammy-winning artist Tems at the F1 75 Live event and more is to come.To have a chance of winning, enter the DROP, here. More

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    Premier League star, 28, launches new music single with chart-topping British rapper Ramz

    ALEX IWOBI is putting the rave in Craven Cottage – by launching a new single with a leading rapper.The midfielder has released “Hop Out” under his music moniker of 17 – his Fulham shirt number.Alex Iwobi is hoping to break a leg, albeit only musically, with ‘Hop Out’Credit: The ex-Arsenal and Everton star, 28, teamed up with chart-topping British singer Ramz.Iwobi’s fellow Nigerian ODUMODUBLVCK is another rap sensation joining in – to complete an unorthodox front three.And the trio hope “Hop Out” will leap into the charts following its release on Thursday.The collaboration is designed to show off their varied range of talents.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe accompanying video opens with Iwobi and Co rapping amid luxury cars.If anything, the setting then becomes even more posh – afternoon tea brimming with cakes and served by a man in white gloves!The climax to the visual performance involves a game of poker.All in all, according to its makers, “the video blends traditional British backdrops alongside Afro-Caribbean culture and energy”.Most read in FootballThe 85-cap Nigerian has been at Fulham since 2023Credit: RexBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIt comes in a season where Fulham’s aces are higher than expected – sitting ninth in the Premier League.But their European chances could go bust if they lose Sunday’s London derby at home to Chelsea, who are fighting to regain a top-four spot.Myles Lewis-Skelly winds up Real Madrid fans as Arsenal knock Los Blancos out of Champions League Iwobi has already made his musical mark on the top flight.Last summer he became the first Prem player ever to release an EP.He put out a single called “Don’t Shoot” – alongside Don-EE, aka ex-England youth player Medy Elito, and Skoli, who is better known as Ajax striker Chuba Akpom – a former Arsenal team-mate of Iwobi.The song was a plea for youngsters to avoid street violence.Iwobi said at the time: “You see the weapon stuff and in London — where I grew up — you’re about to see something.”Everyone wants to be a footballer, an artist or people want to make fast money, which isn’t the greatest [thing.]”So you see things that you wouldn’t want to see at a young age and it’s just trying to stay and remain on the right path. “I’m grateful for the upbringing I had because I wouldn’t be where I am without what I’ve been through. My parents, the support system I’ve had, my friends, it’s made me the man I am.”Now Iwobi is hoping “Hop Out” gives him another leg-up in the rapping world.Read More on The SunIts video video was directed by London cinematographer Francis Boyter, with Creative Director doing the executive production.Poet and storyteller Emmanuel Speaks guided the lyrics. More

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    Who is YouTube star TBJZL? Everything we know about the internet personality starring in the Baller League?

    TBJZL – aka Tobijizzle – is a streamer, rapper, businessman, and influencer but is probably best known as a member and co-founder of the Sidemen, the hugely popular YouTube group, which includes internet personality KSI.His profile is expected to skyrocket later this month when he manages a team – VZN FC –  in the forthcoming Baller League, which begins on March 24, and features a star-studded managerial line-up, including Gary Lineker and John Terry.TBJZL, second left, with his fellow SidemenEarly life, influence and business interestsBorn Tobit John Brown in Hackney, London, on April 8, 1993, the 31-year-old’s business interests are as wide-ranging as his influence across YouTube, and include co-owning XIX Vodka, Sidemen Clothing, the restaurant chain Sides, and the cereal brand Best Breakfasts.In September 2019, he was listed as the 38th most influential online creator in the United Kingdom by The Sunday Times. As of March 2025, his main YouTube channel had more than 5 million subscribers and 567 million views.TBJZL – who is of Nigerian heritage – joined YouTube in 2011 while studying at university after seeing his friends’ success; after completing his degree he became a full-time YouTuber, before joining the Sidemen in 2013, having met future fellow Sidemen member Josh Bradley a few years earlier at Bexley Grammar School.TBJZL, far left, with his fellow Sidemen before their charity match at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, March 8Music careerIn December 2019, he released The Gift with the rest of the Sidemen, which reached number 77 on the UK singles chart, while in early 2020 he released his debut single, Destined for Greatness, with his brother Manny and featuring his sister Janellé.The song charted at number 31 on the UK Singles Chart, making it his first UK top 40 single; it also debuted at number 18 in New Zealand; that year he also featured in a remix of his fellow Sidemen member KSI’s song Wake Up Call.What is his involvement in the Baller League?He will manage a team – VZN FC – in the league.The Baller League began in Germany, created by entrepreneur Felix Starck and aided by Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski. It is a six-a-side indoor football competition, with the first UK season taking place at the Copper Box Arena in London.The influencer-led league – headlined by KSI for the UK version – sees former Premier League players, futsal players and celebrities face one another in 12 teams to win the Baller League.Most read in FootballTBJZL’s squad includes Henri Lansbury, Kurtice Herbert, Jerome Sinclair and Remy Mitchell. More

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    EFL club takeover takes major step forward after rapper A$AP Rocky is found not guilty in gun trial

    A$AP ROCKY’S shock takeover of Tranmere Rovers has moved a step closer after he was found not guilty in a gun trial.The rapper was facing two felony counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm following an incident in 2021.A$AP Rocky was found not guilty of firing a gun at a former friendCredit: GettyHe celebrated as he left an LA court with pop star wife RihannaCredit: The Mega AgencyA$AP Rocky is involved in a consortium that wants to buy Tranmere RoversCredit: GettyRocky had been accused of shooting at his former friend and rapper A$AP Relli several times after a dispute in Hollywood.The hip-hop artist, who is married and has two young kids with pop star Rihanna, was facing multiple years in prison if the prosecution was successful.But the verdict from a Los Angeles court today was that Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, was not guilty.The defence successfully argued that he fired blanks from a prop gun he got from a music video set.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was overcome with emotion when the verdict was read out, hugging his family and wife Rihanna as she burst into tears.Rocky was defended in court by renowned attorney Joe Tacopina.As SunSport exclusively revealed in October, the lawyer and rapper are both part of an American consortium interested in buying Tranmere Rovers.Rocky’s not guilty verdict is a major boost in their hopes of taking over the League Two side before the start of next season.Most read in EFLJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThe group are in talks with current owner Mark Palios about a deal.Tranmere are involved in a battle to avoid the drop at the bottom of the fourth tier and sit just two points above the relegation zone.Rihanna shares very raunchy Valentine’s Day video with A$AP RockyThe Merseyside club staying in the division is also key to the deal. A behind-the-scenes documentary on Tranmere similar to the one about Hollywood duo Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney buying Wrexham could be commissioned by a TV giant.Tacopina served as an attorney for Donald Trump in his case involving payments made to adult film star Stormy Daniels and in a civil rape, sexually assault and defamation case with E. Jean Carroll.The lawyer has previously owned shares in Italian clubs Roma, Bologna, Venezia and SPAL.Two-time Grammy nominated Rocky has had two No1 albums in the US and has a reported net worth of £15million.The rapper’s attorney Joe Tacopina [right] is involved in the Tranmere dealCredit: The Mega Agency More

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    Who is Afghan Dan? Meet rapper set to star on Misfits Boxing 20 card

    AFGHAN Dan is a grime rapper from Lancashire who is making a lucrative career-change after serving time for robbery.He is set to make his debut in the world of influencer boxing on the Misfits 20 fight card.Afghan Dan is a grime star from BlackpoolCredit: INSTAGRAMWho is Afghan Dan?Born Daniel Martin on March 8, 1996, Afghan Dan is a grime rapper from Blackpool, England.His music career took off when he became part of his hometown’s grime scene, with his tracks featuring on the YouTube channel BGMedia and rising to prominence with singles including #RingRing and TicTac.Dan’s fame was further propelled by collaborations with popular YouTubers such as WillNE.PrisonIn January 2018, Afghan Dan was remanded in custody for multiple burglaries committed on the same night at the age of 21.read more on misfits boxingHe was found guilty of stealing bank cards, electrical goods and an air rifle.Dan told Vice: “I knew it would be in the paper straight away. Daniel Martin, my mum’s address, burglary.“I was doing so many that night that I just knew that I’d have to get caught.“I was going in and trying back doors, trying sheds, trying cars without gloves on — I was very reckless.Most read in Boxing”It was proper trampy s***, proper rough, but that’s how I was living then.”I was homeless, staying at a mate’s house, and I just thought, ‘f*** this’.”Misfits stars HSTikkyTokky and Masai Warrior clash in heated scenes backstage after fight was called off at last minuteHe served a year in prison, during which time he focused on self-improvement, including reading self-help books and working in the prison laundry.Unexpected boostUpon his release, Dan faced the challenge of readjusting to public life and rebuilding his career.But he received an unexpected boost after a fan uploaded his tracks to Spotify and iTunes during his incarceration.This resulted in a lump sum of £3,000 upon his release from prison.I was homeless, staying at a mate’s house, and I just thought, ‘f*** this’Afghan DanViceOn top of his music, Dan earns income through Instagram sponsorships and streaming revenue.Misfits Boxing 20Afghan Dan is set to make his debut in the world of influencer boxing against Little T on the Misfits 20 fight card.The event is scheduled to start at 7pm GMT (2pm ET) on January 18, 2025, at the Co-op Live in Manchester.It features Darren Till v Anthony Taylor headlining, following Tommy Fury’s decision to pull out of his fight with the former UFC fighter.The former Love Island star released the following statement on Instagram: “I can’t believe I’m writing this but I am now not fighting Darren Till on January 18th 2025.”For the one simple reason being that Darren has stated over and over that he does not want to abide by professional boxing rules and that if he is losing the fight he will resort to kicking and other stupid MMA tactics.”I am a professional boxer, I have been out of the ring for over a year and I wanted this to be a great BOXING fight for the fans.”I have wasted weeks in training camp. We are working hard to get a new opponent and date.”I promise to get a better opponent and better fight for you guys.”Good news around the corner.”READ MORE SUN STORIESOther confirmed fights on the card include Wade Plemons v Masai Warrior.The full event is available to stream for all DAZN subscribers with no extra pay-per-view fees necessary. More

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    World Cup winner and Lionel Messi enforcer Rodrigo de Paul’s ex-Wag moves on with female footballer-turned-rapper

    WORLD CUP winner Rodrigo de Paul’s Wag has left him … for a female footballer-turned-rapper.Atletico Madrid star De Paul, 30, helped Argentina beat France to lift the 2022 World Cup.Rodrigo De Paul’s relationship with Tini Stoessel ended in August 2023Credit: AFPShe has since appeared to move on from the midfielderShe is now reportedly dating Young MikoCredit: GettyShe is a rapper with seven million followers on social mediaCredit: GettyThe midfielder was at the time in a relationship with Argentine singer Tini after splitting with longtime partner Camila Homs.However, Tini, a huge star in Spain and Latin America, and De Paul went their separate ways two summers ago.The 27-year-old pop star has since been romantically linked with rapper Young Miko.The Puerto Rican, also 27, played for her country’s Under-20 women’s team before switching careers to music.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA former right-back or defensive midfielder, her full name is Victoria Ramirez de Arellano Cardona.The one-time tattoo artist came out as gay a number of years ago.Now a multiple award-winning singer, she has worked with top Latin American music stars including J Balvin and Bad Bunny.Tini, born Martina Stoessel in Buenos Aires, posted pictures on social media of herself with Miko.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSEven though the rapper’s face was not visible, fans quickly recognised her from her distinctive tattoos.And footage surfaced earlier this week of the couple together in a bar.Watch Argentina star Rodrigo De Paul SLAP Lionel Messi in face in training and ask ‘are you stupid?’De Paul currently plays for Atletico MadridCredit: ReutersTini Stoessel has insisted she is ‘happier than ever’Credit: AFPRecently quizzed about her personal life, Tini said she was in a new relationship – insisting: “I’m happier now than ever.”Tini has over 21 million followers on Instagram, while Miko herself boasts seven million fans on the site.De Paul played for Racing Club, Valencia and Udinese before joining Atletico in 2021.Capped 75 times, he has helped Argentina win the Copa America twice as well as the World Cup.During his time in the national team he has often been referred to as Lionel Messi’s enforcer and bodyguard.He has two children from his 12-year relationship with Argentine model Homs.He won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022Credit: Getty More

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    Glam boxing ring girl Sydney Thomas risks wardrobe malfunction as she attends glitzy ball hosted by rapper Nelly

    SYDNEY THOMAS risked a wardrobe malfunction during an appearance at a glitzy ball.The ring girl rose to fame after going viral on social media during Jake Paul’s victory over boxing legend Mike Tyson.Sydney Thomas risked a wardrobe malfunction at a glitzy ballCredit: InstagramShe was invited to Nelly’s Black and White BallCredit: GettyShe stunned in a revealing black dressCredit: GettyShe rose to fame as a ring girlSydney, 21, stunned at the party as she wore a beautiful black dress after being invited by rapper Nelly.She posted a picture of her bold outfit on Instagram and revealed how close she was to having a wardrobe malfunction.The low-cut nature of the garment proved potentially troublesome as she risked spilling out of it.She paired the dress with pearl bracelets and matching earrings.READ MORE ON SPORTThe ring girl also shared other insights from her night which included a photo-shoot with her friends in a picture booth.A video also showed her getting interviewed by the media at the event.The Black and White ball that Sydney attended has previously hosted some big names.Celebrity attendees include the likes of former boxer Evander Holyfield, singer Janet Jackson and Garfield: The Movie star Nick Cannon.Most read in BoxingShe made her spectacular return to the ring last week as she was on ring girl duty during the bantamweight contest between Antonio Vargas and Winston Guerrero.Fans were overjoyed with Sydney’s return to the ring as they reacted on social media.Stunning Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson ring girls oil up as they share behind-the-scenes video of Netflix fight Sydney also shared a fun photo booth snap with some friendsCredit: instagramShe has racked up over 800k followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram/iamsydneythomasFans claim she stole the show at Jake Paul’s fight against Mike TysonCredit: INSTAGRAMShe was last on ring girl duty for Antonio Vargas’ win over Winston GuerreroOne posted: “People will watch for you now. I hope you’re pricing that into your fee.”A second wrote: “It’s crazy more people are gonna tune in for a ring girl than the fights.”Meanwhile, Sydney caused many of her new admirers to celebrate earlier this month.This was down to her breaking up with her boyfriend shortly before becoming famous.She also declared “I’m legal” on her 21st birthday in November.She also stunned during an appearance at the NFL fixture between Denver Broncos and the Las Vegas Raiders at the Allegiant Stadium.She has also worked as a modelCredit: Instagram/iamsydneythomas More