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      in Boxing

      Tyson Fury and UFC legend Conor McGregor compared, with one living in Morecambe and another splashing cash around world

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      TYSON FURY and Conor McGregor are two of the highest-ever paid fighters in combat sports.The duo, both 35, have raked in millions of pounds thanks to their exploits inside the boxing ring and the UFC octagon.Brit boxing champion Tyson Fury is one of the richest athletes on the planetCredit: REXUFC and MMA superstar Conor McGregor is right up there with Fury on the rich listCredit: INSTAGRAM@THENOTORIOUSMMAFury lives a relatively modest life with his wife Paris and their seven kidsCredit: SPLASHMcGregor, on the other hand, loves to splash the cashCredit: GETTYFury, who faces Oleksandr Usyk for all the heavyweight marbles on Saturday night, pocketed close to £50million for his crossover clash with Francis Ngannou last October.And McGregor memorably took home a whopping £100m for his 2017 venture into the boxing world to take on Floyd Mayweather Jr.It’s no secret that the pair – who have watched one another fight in person – are equally as loaded as each other.But when it comes to how they spend their riches, they couldn’t be any more different.READ MORE ON FURY VS USYkUFC icon McGregor lives perhaps one of the most lavish lifestyles of all athletes.The Notorious has dropped millions on plush homes in Marbella, Lamborghini yachts and an incredible car and watch collection.WBC heavyweight champion Fury, however, lives a far more modest life in the sleepy town of Morecambe.Despite boasting an impressive fleet of motors, Fury and his family lived in a modest home worth a mere £550,000 up until 2021.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTYSON FURY VS OLEKSANDR USYK: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE UNDISPUTED HEAVYWEIGHT BOUTHere’s how the two compare in the lifestyle stakes.PROPERTYThe sleepy seaside resort Morecambe is home for Tyson Fury and has been for over 13 years.Boxing legend Colin Hart has his say on Fury vs Usyk – and reveals who he thinks will winIn the last few years, he spent £1.7million on a new Lancashire home but beforehand was happy to live with wife Paris and their children in a five bedroom, £550,000 property.Speaking on a three-part ITV documentary in 2020, he said: “People say to me, ‘Why don’t you live in California or America?’ – why would I?”Why would I abandon my own country for a bit of money and some fame?”I love it. I would never leave Morecambe. It’s true beauty. If the weather was better, every house here would be a million quid.”The same can’t be said for former plumber’s apprentice Conor, who loves spending money. He told US TV host Jimmy Kimmel as much.”I mean you’ve got to enjoy it [money], right? It’s only paper,” McGregor told Kimmel on his chat show.Fury did live in a £550,000 five-bedroom home in MorecambeIn 2019 McGregor splashed £2m on this stunning home in IrelandMcGregor also spent around £1.3m on a holiday pad in Marbella in 2018Credit: The HeightsThe house is in The Heights, a luxury development that boasts wonderful views of the MediterraneanCredit: The HeightsHe added: “I need to stop fantasising about the materialistic things but I do enjoy them. I have to be honest with myself.”That’s why, when McGregor does retire, he has the pick of three homes – in Ireland, Spain and the USA.In 2019, he paid £2m for a beautiful five bedroom mansion in The Paddocks near Straffan, Co Kildare, that sits behind an elite gated Ladycastle community at the K Club, famed for being host to the Ryder Cup in 2006.The MMA star also has a £1.3million holiday home in the exclusive Marbella development called The Heights, where Cristiano Ronaldo is a neighbour.CARSWhen it comes to fast cars, McGregor has some of the best around.It is believed he has a garage worth around £3million and has been seen behind the wheel of a number of flashy motors.In the past, he’s shown off two Lamborghinis, including a £280,000 Aventador.McGregor’s also got a fleet of Rolls-Royces, like a £300,000 Phantom, a £250,000 Wraith and a £280,000 Dawn.And least we not forget McGregor’s £2.7million Lamborghini yacht, and he’s believed to own a private jet.Notorious loves luxury cars and owns a fleet of Rolls-RoycesCredit: Instagram @thenotoriousmmaMcGregor is also known to drive a Lamborghini AventadorCredit: INSTAGRAM@THENOTORIOUSMMAFury has been seen behind the wheel of a £250,000 Ferrari GTC4LussoCredit: BackGridAlthough Fury has admittedly scaled down on his car collectionFury has also been seen squeezing his 6ft 9in his frame into a £10,000 1993 Mini CooperCredit: Refer to CaptionInside the Gypsy King’s royal courtTYSON FURY is one of the biggest characters in sport.

      Fury has scaled down his car collection of late. He was seen behind the wheel of a £250,000 Ferrari GTC4Lusso, but seems to have ditched the Italian supercar.He also sold his Rolls-Royces when he suffered with depression and his life spiralled out of control.The Wythenshawe boxer even posted an emotional video on YouTube waving goodbye to a £300,000 Cullinan as it left his drive.He claimed to have swapped it for a used Volkswagen Passat that cost him £500.Fury has also been spied cruising around Morecambe Bay in a tiny Mini Cooper valued at £10,000.FASHIONWhere Fury catches up with McGregor is in the clobber he wears.The pair share a love of a bespoke statement suit. Tyson favours a Claudio Lugli number, often with a message that he shows off at press conferences before a big fight.McGregor too isn’t afraid of saying something with his whistle, once donning a suit that had ‘F*** you’ written in very small writing on it.He regularly teams up with tailor David August, who he has a fashion label with, for a new look.Fury is not afraid to wear a statement suitCredit: The Mega AgencyTyson showed off his £590 slippers and a £375 bathrobeCredit: Twitter @Tyson_FuryDapper Conor McGregor says a good suit is like wearing a plate of armourCredit: Splash NewsFamously, McGregor had a message for Floyd Mayweather on his suit before they foughtCredit: Getty”A good suit is like a plate of armour,” he once told fashion mag GQ.Amusingly, before Fury likes to go into battle, and when he’s in training camps, he lives in swanky robes.He was seen wearing a £375 Versace dressing gown before fighting Deontay Wilder in Las Vegas, matching them with £595 Gucci slippers.JEWELLERYDiamonds can also be a man’s best friend.Although he’s not as bling as McGregor, Fury has been spotted wearing a £500,000 Richard Mille Rose Gold watch, as well as a Rolex.And matching that Versace robe, wrapped around his neck, he wears a diamond-encrusted necklace.McGregor has a thing for watches too. Astonishingly, he has amassed a watch collection worth £2.2million.He has a Jacob & Co’s Astronomia Tourbillon Baguette, which is valued at a jaw-dropping £730,000.However, it’s another Jacob & Co timepiece that is his rudest. The Rasputin boasts blue hands and a naughty secret.Tyson flaunts his Richard Mille Felipe Massa Ivory Rose Gold Chronograph, which costs a staggering £500,000Credit: Instagram/gypsyking101Tyson also showed off a rainbow-themed Rolex on social mediaCredit: Twitter, @Tyson_FuryThe diamond-encrusted watch hides a naughty secret behind a shimmering doorMcGregor showed off his £730k Jacob & Co Astronomia Tourbillon Baguette watch on social mediaBehind a shimmering door of his Rasputin Jacob & Co watch that cost £1.5m is a saucy imageInside McGregor’s Notorious lifestyleWith more sides to his personality than an Octagon, Conor McGregor’s rise has been an enthralling watch.
      With the touch of a button, a hidden sex scene emerges from behind a shimmering door.How much did it cost, you ask? £1.5million.THEIR WAGSFury and McGregor were in long-term romances before they became household names.Dee Devlin met the Irishman in 2008 in a nightclub, just as he decided to go into MMA.And she’s always been supportive of him before a big fight – once revealing she prepares his meals to keep an eye on the calories he’s consuming.She also loves her designer clothing like her fiancé. When McGregor stepped into the ring to face off against Floyd Mayweather, she was spotted in the crowd wearing a £1,750 D&G leopard print dress.And like Conor, jewellery is important to Dee – who has been seen wearing Cartier, including a £31,000 watch and £40,000 bracelet.With her flowing blond locks and taste for expensive clothes, Paris Fury is glam, as well. The fashionable mum-of-six has a particular soft spot for Chanel, flashing a pair of stylish gold metallic trainers, £750, on Instagram.Paris Fury cuts a glam figure and loves designer wearCredit: InstagramParis owns SEVEN of these stylish Chanel 2.55 bags, worth £4,362 eachCredit: InstagramDee Devlin was McGregor’s side before his epic riseDevlin was snapped at the Floyd Mayweather fight wearing a £1,750 D&G leopard print dressCredit: Getty Images – GettyShe has previously dazzled followers with a £180 Moschino belt and Fendi Mama Baguette bag, worth £1,850.READ MORE SUN STORIESHer enviable handbag collection includes seven Chanel 2.55 bags in black, white, green, pink, yellow, blue and red, each of which retail for around £4,362.Clearly, it’s the Wags who are more comparable than their sporting partners. More

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      in Soccer

      Legendary manager Neil Warnock’s funniest moments, from foul-mouthed teamtalk to eyeballing a camera, as boss retires

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      WITH 43 years of experience in the dugout, Neil Warnock provided plenty of laughs as a boss.Often controversial, the Sheffield-born gaffer stepped down as Aberdeen boss last month, after just eight games in charge.Neil Warnock has provided plenty of laughs during his 43 years in the dugoutCredit: GettyBefore that, though, he managed to save Huddersfield Town from relegation last season.Warnock fancied the job at the vacant job at Plymouth, but Argyle have now put director of football Neil Dewsnip and first-team coach Kevin Nancekivell in charge until the end of the season instead.Appearing on talkSPORT, the legendary manager was asked about a return to management.”Oh I’m retired now,” he said.Read more football news”I would have [gone to Plymouth], but not now.”It’s all done and dusted now, and I’m looking forward to going round some of the Scottish islands.”Warnick is also fondly remembered by Sheffield United, Cardiff City and QPR fans for guiding them to the Premier League.He began his career all the way back in 1980 with Gainsborough Trinity.Most read in FootballBut, he is also known for outspoken personality and eccentric behaviour on the touchline,SunSport takes a look at Warnock’s funniest moments.Neil Warnock stars in hilarious Sky Sports Christmas advert with former players as fans brand him a ‘national treasure’The epic rantWhen it comes to team talks, Warnock is a chief motivator.And at Sheffield United he delivered his most powerful sermon ever, although thankfully he wasn’t at church with the amount of F bombs dropped.Questioning his players’ attitudes and ambition, he launched into his powerful tirade, insisting his players won’t care when they go off on their holidays to “Majorca” during pre-season.Outrageously, he encourages his players to “s***” their partners in the front seat of their cars.He screams: “You’re picking up a wage… that’s a load of b*******! You’ve got to f***ing die to get three points!”It was all captured, eloquently and beautifully, by a fly-on-the-wall documentary called Warnock.[embedded content]She had a dreamWhat the wife says goes in Warnock’s book, and that includes playing a defender upfront.Ex-Crystal Palace star Darren Ambrose revealed the coach’s missus Sharon dreamed that right-back Danny Butterfield scored the winner before an FA Cup replay against Wolves.So, in real life, Warnock decided to play him as a forward.Ambrose told talkSPORT: “We were playing Wolves.”He said, ‘My wife Sharon, she had a dream last night. She dreamt that my right back scores the winning goal today. So Danny Butterfield – you’re playing up front’. We all started laughing then and he was like, ‘no, I’m serious’.”Unbelievably, Palace won 3-1 – with Butterfield scoring the perfect hat-trick, left foot, right foot, and a header.Warnock snapped clapping the fans at Crystal Palace’s replay with WolvesCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdWarnock picked his team based on a dream wife Sharon hadEyeballing the cameraChannelling his inner Liam Gallagher, Warnock played up to the camera for his next trick.As manager of Cardiff City, who he was desperate to keep up during the 2018/19 season, he had some run-ins.Famously, he stared out manager Craig Pawson following a late defeat to Chelsea.However, the funniest moment came before a match with Crystal Palace as he was filmed in the dugout before kick-off.Walking towards the camera, with his hands behind his back, he pushed his face in the direction of the cameraman.Part bird pecking, part ex-Oasis lead-singer – it had a more comical effect then threatening. Forget Liam Gallagher, Neil Warnock leans towards the camera in intimidating fashionBristol City requestAs manager of Cardiff City, Warnock was somewhat of a hate-figure for their rivals Bristol City.During one memorable appearance on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday, he let it be known how he wants them to remember him when he passes away.“I joke with their fans that, when I do pass away, I hope they all have a minute’s applause for me at Ashton Gate and remember the good times I’ve given them,” Warnock explained.”I don’t want silence. I want them all to be chanting ‘Warnock’s a w*****’ over and over again. For a whole minute. That would be my ideal.”As a former boss of Cardiff City, Warnock has one request for rival Bristol City fansCredit: PA:Press AssociationTelling Lineker to f*** offWhen Match of the Day requested to interview Warnock after he oversaw a 2-0 win for his Cardiff team over Bournemouth, the manager was less than enamoured.Unaware the camera was rolling, he was caught telling MOTD host Gary Lineker to “f*** off”.It all began with Warnock annoyed by Lineker calling him an anagram of his first name, ‘Colin W*****”, as was coined by Wolves fans.”Match of the Day? Tell Gary Lineker to f*ck off,” Warnock was heard saying on BBC television in Canada when he was unaware the camera was rolling.”He calls me Colin. Can I say, ‘Colin here’?”Needless to say, the segment where Lineker spoke directly to managers was shelved for Warnock.Match of the Day host Gary Lineker is particularly disliked by WarnockCredit: BBC[embedded content]Even Thommo wasn’t safeOn the touchline, Warnock would come alive with the passion of the game.Worse was at Anfield, when temperatures were already heated on the touchline.In the 2002-2003 season, he guided Sheffield United to the semi-final of the league cup.The Blades lost the tie 3-2 on aggregate, and in his autobiography Warnock revealed a spat he had with Reds assistant Phil Thompson.During the fracas, he said: “You can f*** off Pinocchio, get back in your f***ing cupboard.”read MORE SPORT FEATURESWarnock’s frustration on the touchline often boiled overCredit: PA:Press AssociationSpot of bowlingThe art of the con was well mustered by Warnock.He used to be a bowling coach as a teenager, which is how he got his break in football when he coached a Sheffield United player’s wife, leading to a trial at Chesterfield.Amusingly, he used bowling as a team bonding exercise for his players, but took all their cash.Paul Peschisolido told the story of Warnock taking Sheffield United players bowling to SunSport.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He convinced us all to put £10 in the pot, winner take all,” he said.”We agreed for some fun, then he pulled out his own bowling shoes and custom ball, shot 250 and took all our money.”Neil Warnock’s team bonding exercises including taking his team bowlingCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      in Soccer

      Players who swapped football for fighting, including Wayne Bridge, as Wayne Rooney is ‘offered’ Misfits Boxing switch

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      FOOTBALLERS are always encouraged to think about what career path they will take when they hang up their boots.Some choose to go into coaching, others invest in property… and some decide to knock lumps out of one another.
      Wayne Rooney is a huge boxing fan and his considering switching sports
      Rooney was last seen as the boss of Birmingham City
      Marcin Wasilewski is set to begin a career in cage fightingCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Wayne Rooney is considering a shock career change, and is in talks to star in Misfits Boxing.
      According to the Mirror, the 38-year-old has held talks with the promoter of KSI’s influencer boxing series, Kalle Sauerland.
      While former Leicester defender Marcin Wasilewski was one ex-pro tipped to swap shin pads for mouth guards.
      The Pole, now 43, retired from football in November 2020 and was expected to enter the world of cage fighting.
      Read more football news
      A bout with ex-Bolton and Hearts defender Blazej Augustyn was even suggested, however he is yet to fight.
      Here, SunSport details the fighting careers of five other footballers who have turned to the ring.
      Rio Ferdinand
      England legend Ferdinand’s football career brought several glittering moments but his boxing days were over before they really started.
      Sponsored by a betting company to step into the ring in September 2017, the former defender was jarringly denied a licence.
      Most read in Football
      The British Boxing Board of Control deemed it ‘not beneficial’ to allow Ferdinand his second career.
      Marcin Wasilewski scores amazing free kick in Leicester training
      And the Manchester United hero quickly called time on his boxing comeback.
      He said: “It is with a heavy heart that I am hanging up my gloves.
      “To not be given the chance to demonstrate my ability to the BBBofC through the standard assessment afforded to others is hard to take.”
      That didn’t stop Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn revealing his desire to stage an Old Trafford showdown between Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney.
      Rio Ferdinand won a shedload of trophies as a footballerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The ex-defender was unsuccessful in his attempt at a boxing careerCredit: OnEdition
      Katie Taylor
      Arguably the world’s top female boxer, Taylor is also a former Republic of Ireland international footballer.
      The ex-winger starred for Peamount United in the late 2000s yet missed her side’s FAI Women’s Cup final in 2009 to be crowned Europe’s best amateur fighter.
      Taylor won 11 caps for her country, scoring twice, before choosing to focus on boxing a decade ago.
      Former team-mate Marie Curtin would later tell the Mirror that Taylor ‘would have excelled to the highest level’ had she stayed in football.
      Curtin added: “There were no barriers. Her mindset is so strong and you need leaders like that on your team to win.”
      And Taylor fondly remembers her playing days, even recalling a crunching tackle that was posted on Twitter a couple of years ago.
      I remember it well Derek, it was intentional haha! Thanks for sharing!!— Katie Taylor (@KatieTaylor) January 5, 2018

      Katie Taylor played a number of times for the Republic of Ireland women’s teamCredit: Sportsfile – Subscription
      Wayne Bridge
      Hardly the most aggressive left-back of his day, ex-Chelsea man Bridge showed the fire in his belly with a stint in boxing two years ago.
      A Sport Relief clash with Made In Chelsea star Spencer Matthews saw the defender take on a man nine years his junior.
      The three-round affair started tightly before Bridge unleashed a barrage of blows.
      Matthews hit the deck twice and yet made it to the final bell, at which Bridge won on points.
      The former England international, who has also appeared on I’m A Celeb, retired from football aged 33 in 2014.
      His boxing career ended with that one charity fight and he is now said to refer to himself as a ‘stay-at-home dad’ for the two kids he shares with wife Frankie.
      Wayne Bridge retired from football aged 33 due to an injury nightmareCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      He agreed to a charity contest for BBC Sport ReliefCredit: BBC
      Leon McKenzie
      A star forward for the likes of Norwich, Peterborough and Coventry on the pitch, McKenzie would later forge a decent super-middleweight career.
      Having hung up his boots in January 2013, he pulled on the gloves just six months later.
      A debut win over John Mason at Bethnal Green’s historic York Hall set him on a string of nine fights without defeat.
      An English title fight with Jahmaine Smyle saw McKenzie suffer a first defeat before he rounded off an 11-fight career with a nine-round loss to Cello Renda.
      The ex-striker also joined forces with former England cricketer Steve Harmison for a talkSPORT podcast on sports stars’ post-retirement plans.
      He said: “For a while I was trying to hold on to ‘former professional boxer and footballer’. That was my identity. I’ve accepted my position now.”
      Leon McKenzie helped Norwich win promotion to the Premier League in 2004Credit: PA:Press Association
      The 42-year-old put together an impressive 11-fight boxing careerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Curtis Woodhouse
      Few footballers have made the switch to boxing as convincingly as Woodhouse.
      Birmingham paid £1million to sign the midfielder from Sheffield United in 2001 before spells with Peterborough, Hull and more.
      Disenchanted with the game, he quit aged 26 to spark a long career in the ring.
      An assault conviction halted Woodhouse’s rise but he soon began teaming both of his sports.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Over 31 fights, he claimed 24 wins and went 12 rounds with Frankie Gavin for the WBO Intercontinental welterweight belt in 2011.
      The Driffield Destroyer won English and British level titles before retiring in 2017, and can now be found managing non-league Gainsborough Trinity.
      Birmingham once paid a seven-figure fee to sign Curtis WoodhouseCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The midfielder teamed a non-league career with a number of boxing boutsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Woodhouse lost six stone in weight when returning from a spell away from the ring More

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      in Soccer

      Weird football transfers from Jesse Lingard’s FC Seoul deal and Alves’ €1 salary… to Bendtner joining Juventus

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      NEVER underestimate football’s ability to shock.Over the years, we have witnessed some weird transfers. Players swapping their glamour days for a runout at Barnet, for example, and more.
      Andy Carroll signed for Reading in a short-term deal last year a surprising moveCredit: JASONPIX
      Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano shocked the world when they signed for West Ham in 2006Credit: PA:Press Association
      Former Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard is unveiled by FC SeoulCredit: AP
      Jesse Lingard struggled to find a Premier League club that matched his ambitions, and ended up at FC Seoul in this year.
      Back in 2021, Dani Alves returned to Barcelona at the age of 38, and will reportedly be paid just ONE EURO a month.
      And who can forget that same year, Andy Carroll coming out of the wilderness to sign for Reading on a two-month contract.
      Here are some of the weirdest transfers we’ve ever come across.
      Read more football news
      JESSE LINGARD
      In the summer of 2023, Lingard’s spell at Nottingham Forest came to an end.
      He trained with West Ham, who he previously enjoyed a loan spell with, after his City Ground departure but then decided to join up with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
      However, he was unable to sign a contract with them because they had a limit on foreign players in the Saudi League.
      The former Man Utd ace was then linked with a move to Everton and allegedly offered himself to Barcelona but neither move failed to materialise.
      Instead, he penned a two-year deal with FC Seoul reportedly worth £17,500-per-week.
      Ex-Arsenal ace Bendtner opens up on boozy parties, depression and fallout with dad after ‘letting the black wolf rule’
      It is claimed he snubbed 26 clubs to sign for the South Korean outfit.
      NICKLAS BENDTNER
      On the final day of the transfer window in August 2012, Juventus were short of a centre forward.
      But even Arsenal fans, who had grown tired of Nicklas Bendtner’s off-the-field antics, were shocked the Italian giants went for their Danish striker.
      Especially since the previous season he had failed to pull up any trees at Sunderland.
      That didn’t deter Juve gambling on the forward, but injury problems restricted him to just 11 appearances – and he failed to score.
      Unsurprisingly, the Serie A side didn’t take up an option of buying him permanently.
      Arsenal fans were left stunned when Serie A giants Juventus took troubled striker Nicklas Bendtner off their handsCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Bendtner failed to score in 11 games for the club and a permanent move was quashedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      BOJAN KRKIC
      The former Barcelona man was the epitome of the question; can he do it on a rainy Tuesday night at Stoke?
      The simple answer was no, despite Bojan having the benefit of playing for the home side too.
      Mark Hughes concluded the surprise deal for the man labelled the next Messi in 2014 for just £1.8million.
      “Anyone who knows European football will be aware of him as a player and the fact that he sees his future at Stoke City is really exciting,” Hughes beamed at the time.
      16 goals in 85 games later he was sold to MLS side Montreal Impact in 2019.
      Bojan Krcic swapped Barcelona for StokeCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      read more sport features
      STEVEN CAULKER
      Although it was only a loan move, Jurgen Klopp bringing in Caulker at Liverpool from QPR in a January transfer window in 2016 was one no-one saw coming.
      A centre-back who came through the ranks at Tottenham, the one-time England cap managed to play four games for the reds.
      What was even more unbelievable was he was asked to play upfront.
      Sadly, his Liverpool was cut short before a deal could be thrashed out, when Caulker was admitted into rehab with addictions to alcohol and gambling threatening his career.
      Steven Caulker was asked to play upfront for LiverpoolCredit: Reuters
      TEVEZ AND MASCHERANO
      Probably one of the most audacious double-signings in Premier League history.
      No wonder then West Ham boss Alan Pardew had a smile like a Cheshire cat at their unveiling back in 2006.
      The Argentinian duo were plucked from Corinthians, and only stayed with the Hammers for a season with Tevez joining Manchester United and Mascherano signing for Liverpool.
      Tevez would write his name in the history books by scoring the goal that secured the club’s Premier League safety in a 1-0 win over Man Utd.
      Later, Pardew revealed he had only asked his chief executive to buy James Milner and that his Christmas came early.
      Carlos Tevez helped save West Ham from relegationCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      LUTHER BLISSETT
      Cruelly called Luther ‘Miss it’ by away fans, Blissett is a Watford legend and their all-time top goalscorer.
      After winning the First Division Golden Boot in 1983, AC Milan paid £1million to bring him to Italy.
      But Blissett struggled to settle in Italy, scoring just five times in 30 appearances in the club.
      His dietary requirements were also unfulfilled.
      “No matter how much money you have here, you can’t seem to get Rice Krispies,” he said.
      AC Milan gambled on Watford legend Luther Blissett, who failed to settle in ItalyCredit: AP:Associated Press
      EDGAR DAVIDS
      One of the finest midfielders of his generation, it was a shock to see Edgar Davids end up at Barnet.
      After all, this was a former Dutch international who had won the Champions League with Ajax, and played for AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan and Barcelona in a star-studded career.
      Still, in 2012 – still living in North London after a spell at Spurs and then Crystal Palace – he became player manager of League Two Barnet.
      However, he struggled to keep his discipline on the pitch – getting sent off three times in his first eight games of the 2013-14 season and picking up a booking in every one of those matches.
      His bizarre managerial career took a new turn when he decided to wear the No1 jersey normally worn by goalkeepers, insisting he was setting a trend for midfielders to don that number. He resigned in 2014.
      After starring at Ajax, Juventus, AC Milan and Tottenham, Edgar Davids opted to end his career at League Two BarnetCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      FERNANDO HIERRO, YOURI DJORKAEFF AND JAY-JAY OKOCHA
      There was no doubt Sam Allardyce had big plans for Bolton Wanderers.
      Although they were in their twilight years, between 2002-2005 Real Madrid legend Fernando Hierro, France World Cup winner Youri Djorkaeff and the remarkably gifted Jay-Jay Okocha all played for the club at the same time.
      Okocha joined from PSG on a free transfer, and soon became a fans’ favourite.
      Djorkaeff scored an impressive 21 goals from 87 games from midfield, initially snubbing interest from Manchester United and Liverpool for three years with the Trotters.
      While Hierro finished his illustrious career playing for Wanderers aged 37, launching long balls from the back.
      Youri Djorkaeff and Jay-Jay Okocha were part of a dream team of foreign signings at BoltonCredit: Reuters
      Real Madrid legend Fernardo Hierro enjoyed his final year as a pro with the TrottersCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      ROBERTO MANCINI
      Mancini enjoyed a stellar career at Sampdoria, where he helped the club win Serie A, four Coppa Italia titles, as well the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
      Three years followed at Lazio, but no one could’ve envisaged what was going to happen next.
      Most read in Football
      Mancini joined Peter Taylor’s Leicester City on loan – making his debut against Arsenal in 2001 at the grand old age of 36.
      However, he failed to complete 90 minutes in his five games for the club.
      His contract was torn up in February, when Mancini decided he wanted to manage Fiorentina.
      Roberto Mancini joined Leicester City at 36 from Lazio, but failed to reach previous heightsCredit: PA:Press Association
      PHILIPPE COUTINHO
      The Villans shocked everyone when they announced the loan signing of Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona in 2022.
      The third most-expensive player of all time uprooted his life in Spain to link up with former Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard in the Midlands.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      And he made an instant impact on his debut as he came off the bench against Manchester United to score a late equaliser in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
      However, over time he looked a shadow of himself and when Unai Emery came to the club he was frozen out of the first team.
      Aston Villa signed Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho on loan from Barcelona in 2022Credit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Britain’s richest man Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is on verge of buying Man Utd and already owns Nice

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      BRITAIN’S richest man Sir Jim Ratcliffe – worth a staggering £15billion- and his Manchester United takeover is set to be announced TODAY.The billionaire businessman wants in after the Glazer family put the club up for sale – as long as it’s for the right price.

      Getty – Contributor

      Britain’s richest man, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, wants to buy Man Utd United announced last year that the Glazers were “looking to explore strategic alternatives” for the club.
      Ratcliffe, 70, is a lifelong Red Devils fan and it was revealed in the summer he was interested in taking over the club.
      He is now planning to formally launch his bid to take over the club.
      A spokesperson said: “If the club is for sale, Jim is definitely a potential buyer.
      “If something like this was possible, we would be interested in talking with a view to long-term ownership.
      “This is not about the money that has been spent or not spent.
      “Jim is looking at what can be done now and, knowing how important the club is to the city, it feels like the time is right for a reset.”
      Back in April 2022, Ratcliffe put in an offer for Chelsea after speaking with former Blues chairman Bruce Buck, when sanctions placed on Roman Abramovich triggered a fire sale.
      Ratcliffe is a petrochemicals tycoon who at his peak was worth around £21BILLION.
      He runs multi-billion-pound chemicals giant Ineos, which owns French club Nice, Swiss side Lausanne, plus a third of Formula One team Mercedes. More

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      in Soccer

      I was an England star but quit football to launch fashion brand – now I make £35m-a-year and have an Oxford Street shop

      by

      IN 2013, unfulfilled by his football career, Reece Wabara decided to set up a clothing line as a side-project.The former Man City right-back ploughed £15,000 into fashion label Maniere De Voir, after taking on advice from school pal Lewis Morgan, who co-founded leisure wear giant Gym Shark.
      Reece Wabara quit football and built a fashion empire
      Wabara was a former England under 20 international and played for Man CityCredit: AFP – Getty
      Today, Wabara is a cutting edge fashion designer with his own London storeCredit: The Times
      “I kept asking, where can I maximise my potential to be great,” he told The Times back in 2021.
      “I always had a way of dressing that was different and Lewis (Morgan, co-founder of Gymshark) said to me, ‘You should do something in fashion’.”
      Some ten years later, the company is now turning over a staggering £34.7million-per-year.
      It has clothed sports stars including Anthony Joshua and Raheem Sterling, while Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards is also a fan.
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      Better still, it has just opened its first flagship store on London’s Oxford Street – with queues forming around the block.
      Choosing a different destiny
      Football was in Reece’s blood.
      His grandfather Lawrence played for Nigeria, while his uncle Mark Walters starred for Rangers and Liverpool.
      At 16, he was scouted by Man City. Three years later, he was handed a £1million-per-year three-year contract.
      Most read in Football
      But, he had a sense he could achieve much more.
      He saved up £15,000 and launched online clothes store Maniere De Voir, inspired by a chat with his dad.
      “I signed to Manchester City at a transitional period, there was two or three managers in the time I was there and two or three owners too,” Wabara said.
      “I knew my football days at City were coming to an end and my dad always taught me I needed a second option to ensure you’re relevant and financially stable.
      “I founded MDV in late 2013 and launched a collection, the first clothing I produced was tracksuits, T-shirts, hoodies…I put them on the footballers that I knew and it took off.”
      In 2017, at the age of 26, following a spell at Bolton Wanderers, former England U20 international Wabara decided to hang up his boots and concentrate on his business.
      “The transition from footballer to fashion owner was a gradual one and only when the numbers and politics in football started to eat away at me did I need to make a choice,” he told Sports On Screen.
      “My football wasn’t progressing in the way I intended it to.
      “The business was progressing at an alarming rate and I had to choose one or the other because focus is important.”
      Wabara launched Maniere De Voir in 2013Credit: Twitter / @ManiereDevoir
      Raheem Sterling is a fan of the brandCredit: Instagram / @manieredevoir
      Success story
      Wabara, who is originally from Bromsgrove, Worcs, put his life and soul into his new project – working seven days a week.
      Initial turnover was slow. So, he had to revert to a ‘Plan B’.
      Noticing that the Sports Luxe market was male-dominated, he introduced womenswear to Maniere De Voir.
      “Men are very simple by nature,” he said.
      “There’s only so much you can do with those silhouettes.
      “Whereas women are more experimental – and they shop a lot more, typically.”
      The decision paid dividends.
      From his first year turnover of £1million, some seven years later he was raking in £30.2million.
      Wabara’s Maniere De Voir turned over £35million this yearCredit: Free for editorial use
      In 2022, Wabara was a new entry in the Sunday Times’ Young Rich ListCredit: Instagram
      Today, that number has swollen to a staggering £34.7million.
      The numbers catapulted Reece into last year’s Young Rich List in the Sunday Times – with a personal fortune of £26million, above footballer Marcus Rashford and level with rapper Stormzy’s net worth.
      And there’s more…
      Earlier in the year, Maniere De Voir signed a 10-year lease for the entire 5,189 sq ft retail space at 354 Oxford Street.
      “We are delighted to announce Oxbourne House as our London Flagship store,” Wabara revealed.
      “We strongly believe that the balance between online and physical retail space is key to growing and solidifying a brand that stands the test of time.
      “We hope to weave ourselves into the fabric of the high street’s resurgence, inspiring other successful online pure plays to become a part of the iconic location which is Oxford Street.”
      Already a buzz has been created – with queues of fashion fans lining up on the street to get a glimpse inside.
      Read more on The Sun
      Maniere De Voir has opened its first store on London’s Oxford Street
      Queues have been forming outside Maniere De Voir to get a glimpse inside the store
      Wabara is now ready to take over the high-streetCredit: Instagram
      Football may have provided Reece with a platform, but it was his business acumen and eye for fashion that earned him his enormous wealth.
      Now, he is taking over the high-street. Watch out JD Sports. More

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      in Boxing

      Deontay Wilder net worth 2023, career earnings and boxing record

      by

      DEONTAY WILDER is one of the hardest-punching heavyweights in boxing history and will return to the ring on December 23 after more than a year away.Wilder, 38, is set to face fellow former world champion Joseph Parker in Saudi Arabia, ahead of a blockbuster clash with Anthony Joshua in March – should both win.
      Deontay Wilder will fight Joseph Parker in Saudi Arabia on December 23Credit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      Wilder will fight AJ – who is also fighting on the card – in March should both men winCredit: Reuters

      AJ will fight Otto Wallin on the same card, dubbed the Day of Reckoning, which is set to be one of the richest cards in boxing history.
      Here is everything you need to know about the former WBC heavyweight world champion who is famed for his ferocious power.
      What is Deontay Wilder’s net worth?
      According to Forbes, Wilder made a massive $46.5M (£33m) in 2020 alone – despite fighting just once.
      That made him the third wealthiest boxer behind Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and Anthony Joshua.
      Wilder took home $2 million when he faced Luis Ortiz in March 2018 and made $20 million in their 2019 rematch.
      He made $10 million for his knockout victory over Dominic Breazeale in 2019.

      Read More on Net Worths
      The trilogy fight against Tyson Fury meant a huge increase in Wilder’s salary.
      He earned $10 million (£7.8m) in the first bout and around $28 million (£21.9m) in the rematch.
      For the third fight, Wilder took home a guaranteed purse of $10 million, including a share of the pay-per-view revenue.
      Wilder has only fought once since that trilogy ended in October 2021 – destroying Robert Helenius inside one round in New York City.
      The Bronze Bomber earned a reported fortune for his 2 mins 57 seconds of work that night, earning an estimated purse of $20 million (£15.68m).
      According to Forbes, Wilder has earned approximately $500,000 (£292,000) through endorsement deals.
      He has partnered with Everlast Boxing, PureKana CBD and Raising Cane’s.
      As of December 2023, Wilder has more than 3 million followers on Instagram.
      Read More on Deontay Wilder
      He owns a number of luxurious cars and expensive jewellery and plans on focusing on music once he retires from the ring.
      Whether that proves to be a massive money-maker for Wilder is yet to be seen.
      While the exact figures for his fight with Parker are not yet known, Wilder reiterated how lucrative this Saudi Arabia deal will be for Joshua – leading to claims that Wilder will also make out big.
      The American claimed AJ will make more than £50 million over his two-fight Saudi deal, which will see the Brit face Wilder should he beat Otto Wallin.
      Wilder said: “Everyone will get in the ring for the right price, especially when there is over $50m on the table.
      “Everything is going in the right direction now and the fight will happen.
      “The time is finally here and people are going to get what they have wanted for years.”
      What is Deontay Wilder’s boxing record?
      From 2015 to 2020, Wilder held the heavyweight title and successfully defended the belt on 10 occasions.
      In 2015, Wilder became the first American world heavyweight champion since 2007.
      This marked the end of the longest period in which an American had not held a heavyweight title.
      Wilder’s record today stands at 43-2-1 – the two losses and one draw all from his trilogy with Tyson Fury.
      He suffered his loss against Fury via 7th-round TKO on February 22, 2020, which ended his 42-fight win streak.
      Both of Wilder’s losses came via stoppage.
      Aside from Fury, Wilder has beaten every other man that he’s stepped into the ring with.
      He entered the professional boxing scene in November 2008 at the age of 23, securing victory in his debut with a 2nd round TKO.
      Following this, he embarked on an impressive streak of 39 more consecutive wins, including 38 via stoppage.
      Wilder’s first world title fight came in January 2015, when he faced Bermane Stiverne for the heavyweight WBC title.
      He defeated Stiverne in round 12 in a unanimous decision to become the heavyweight champion of the world.
      Some of his notable victories include winning against Robert Helenius, Dominic Breazeale, Luis Ortiz, Gerald Washington, Artur Szpilka, and Éric Molina.
      Read More in The Sun
      Despite his successful career, Wilder has faced criticism for his fighting style, with some commentators arguing that he heavily relies on his right hand and lacks versatility in his boxing approach.
      However, his fans appreciate and applaud his raw power, which has earned him the nickname “The Bronze Bomber.” More

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      in Soccer

      I played for Real Madrid and drank 10 beers a day and once turned up to training drunk but managed to hide it

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      CICINHO revealed he “drank 10 beers a day” and turned up to training drunk at Real Madrid.

      The ex-Brazil right-back spent 18 months with the Spanish giants before joining Roma in August 2007.

      Cicinho won 15 caps and played for Real between 2006-2007

      AP:Associated Press

      The Brazilian played for Madrid in their golden era alongside David Beckham

      He also won 15 caps for Brazil all between 2005 and 2006 and scored one international goal.

      The star opened up on the harrowing off-field issues he endured with Real, for whom he played 32 games.

      Speaking to Ressaca on Brazilian network EPTV, Cicinho delved into his battle with alcohol during his stint in Madrid.

      Now 43, he admitted: “If they ask if I’ve ever been drunk to train with Real Madrid, I did.

      “I drank coffee to take my breath away and showered myself with perfume.

      “In my profession, as a professional footballer, it was easy.

      “I didn’t need money to get drinks.”

      On how he fell into alcoholism, he added: “When I was 13 years old, it was when I tried alcohol for the first time, and I never stopped.

      “I lived in the countryside, and on weekends, we met with friends and went out to the squares, discos.

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      “I asked adults to go to buy and drank secretly from my parents and the police.

      “Alcohol surrounds you with people who like that lifestyle, and the people who really love you are left out.

      “When they hit a wall and tell you it’s not okay, you don’t want to hear it.

      “I have a 15-year-old son and I’m always apologising to him.

      “At that time, he was two years old and he didn’t even understand it well, but that was recorded in my head.” More