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      in Soccer

      Chelsea’s brilliant academy was nearly SHUT DOWN by ex-boss for being a ‘waste of time’, Michael Emenalo claims

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      EX-CHELSEA chief Michael Emenalo claimed a former manager tried to CLOSE the club’s academy.Frank Lampard put his trust in the youth during his debut season in 2019-20 after the club were put under a transfer embargo – and managed to guide the young Blues into the Champions League.
      Michael Emenalo claims a former Chelsea boss tried shutting down the academyCredit: PA:Press Association
      And Chelsea have continued to have impressed ever since – now under the leadership of Thomas Tuchel – with academy graduates Mason Mount, Reece James, Andreas Christensen and Callum Hudson-Odoi, to name a few, all shining.
      But things could have turned out differently had a former boss succeeded in persuading Roman Abramovich to pull the plug on his youth funding.
      Emenalo, who served as Chelsea’s technical director between 2011 and 2017 after spending the previous four years as chief scout and assistant first team coach, worked above the likes of Jose Mourinho, Antonio Conte and Roberto Di Matteo.
      He claims former supremo Abramovich was urged to ditch his academy and focus instead on pouring money into the first team.
      But the Russian did not listen to his manager, and Emenalo reckons the decision is proving to be one of his best ever.
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Ronaldo funds, Scamacca to West Ham DONE deal
      The former Monaco chief told the Telegraph: “I defended the academy when there was pressure and doubt and pessimism.
      “There was a time when there was a clamour to do more and a manager came in to make a presentation to say the academy was not necessary.
      “The argument was it takes too long, we don’t have time, we should use it to make some money here and there, and that the owner should stop pumping money into it because it seemed like a waste.
      “But that wasn’t my idea and I had to fight against it.
      “This is where I am very, very proud of the owner Roman Abramovich because of the trust he had in me and the willingness to listen to me and give the academy time.
      “He would not abandon it. He believed in it and in me, and I can’t thank him enough for that.” More

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      in Soccer

      Six amazing transfers that never happened because of Wags, including Muller’s transfer to Man Utd blocked by wife

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      FOOTBALLERS are constantly on the move, having to upheave their families.Some will even go abroad and have to settle on foreign shores unknown to them.
      Jack Rodwell revealed his move to Western Sydney Wanderers was inspired by his wife, but some Wags have scupper their partners’ transfersCredit: Getty
      Last year, Jack Rodwell signed for Western Sydney Wanderers, a move that he admits was inspired by his Aussie wife.
      But what about Wags who have scuppered their partners’ transfers?
      Here’s six who were told to stay put by their other halves.
      THOMAS MULLER TO MAN UTD
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      Ex-Man Utd boss Louis Van Gaal revealed how Thomas Muller’s wife Lisa got in the way of a proposed £84million move to Old Trafford back in 2015.
      The anecdote, that German outlet Bild learned from a new book called Bayern Insider, even explains that a £16million-per-year pay packet wasn’t enough to sway the professional equestrian’s decision.
      “In 2015 it would have been possible if his wife had been a little more open to a transfer abroad,” Van Gaal said.
      “At least that was the reason Thomas gave my assistant Marcel Bout, who had had all the conversations with him, why the transfer had been rejected.”
      Lisa Muller blocked Thomas’ move to Man Utd because she didn’t want to go abroadCredit: Instagram @lisa.mueller.official
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      MAURO ICARDI TO NEWCASTLE
      In the Icardi household you get the feeling it’s his wife Wanda who wears the trousers, except when she’s sharing racy content on Instagram.
      Famously, anyone who wants to deal with the PSG forward has to go through the Argentinian beauty, who is his agent.
      Newly moneyed Newcastle thought they’d chance their arm with an offer for the out-of-favour forward last season.
      Wanda was reportedly having none of it. “Leaving Paris is not in Mauro and Wanda’s plans, it’s the last thing they want,” a source told Gazzetta dello Sport.
      “I don’t see Mauro joining another club soon.” Certainly not for Tyneside, anyway.
      Wanda Icardi doesn’t want to swap Paris for TynesideCredit: Social Media – Refer to Source
      OLIVIER GIROUD TO EVERTON
      The summer of 2017 gave Olivier Giroud and his wife Jennifer something to think about.
      With an offer on the table from Everton, where he would get more game-time after losing his first team spot at Arsenal, his future was in the balance.
      But then-manager Sam Allardyce revealed his French fancy wasn’t interested in shifting her possessions to Liverpool.
      “He [Giroud] doesn’t want to move north of London, I don’t think. Or his wife doesn’t. It is very important to the wives you know,” said Allardyce.
      “Normally they are the bosses, I say that with experience.”
      Arsene Wenger later stuck up for Giroud and denied this to be the case.
      Jessica Giroud said ‘Non’ to a move to EvertonCredit: Getty – Contributor
      LEWANDOWSKI TO PSG
      Before the French club added Neymar and Kylian Mbappe to their side, it was Robert Lewandowski who was reportedly a primary target in 2017 to lead their line.
      But, speculation surfaced that stunning nutritionist Anna didn’t want to go to Paris and he stayed with Bayern Munich.
      The Polish striker quashed the rumours, but did admit contact with a Ligue 1 team.
      “Yes, I have already had the opportunity to sign with clubs in France in the past,” Lewandowski told Telefoot.
      “My wife does not want to go to Paris? No, I’ve never heard anything so stupid. That has nothing to do with this, sometimes there are many parameters.”
      However, she was happy to endorse his move to Barcelona – dropping a cryptic message about his future when he was in discussions over a deal to the Camp Nou.
      Robert Lewandowski shot down rumours wife Anna was against a move to PSGCredit: Getty – Contributor
      SERGIO RAMOS TO MAN UTD
      The Spanish veteran appeared destined for the Theatre of Dreams, before he eventually settled for PSG last year.
      A mega salary of around £15million-per-year for two years was, perhaps, a bigger catalyst.
      However, it also appeared Manchester didn’t appeal to gorgeous TV presenter Pilar Rubio.
      Instead, the French capital offered her and their four sons a better life.
      Sergio Ramos was convinced by Wag Pilar Rubio that Paris was better for their familyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      ZIDANE TO MAN UTD
      Even managers have to listen to their wives.
      Zinedine Zidane was linked with a move to Manchester United to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the Old Trafford hot seat last season, before Ralf Rangnick took the job on the interim and Erik ten Hag then became his successor.
      Although, that did not appeal to his dancer missus Veronique, who reportedly stood in the way of a move.
      The Daily Record said at the time, Zizou was interested in the job. But there’s one stumbling block in the way.
      The report insisted Veronique wasn’t keen on living in Manchester, and would prefer her husband to take a longer break. Code for: ‘We’re not going there!’
      Zinedine Zidane’s wife Veronique didn’t fancy a move to ManchesterCredit: EPA More

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      in Soccer

      Zlatan Ibrahimovic threatened to break Rafael van der Vaart’s legs when they played together at Ajax

      by

      ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIC threatened to break Rafael van der Vaart’s legs when they played together on the same Ajax team.The former Spurs forward, 39, announced his retirement in 2018 after suffering an injury while training with Danish club Esbjerg fB.
      Rafael van der Vaart says Zlatan Ibrahimovic threatened to break his legs when they played together at AjaxCredit: AFP – Getty
      And reflecting on his career with FourFourTwo back in 2019, he opened up on his toxic relationship with Swedish icon Ibrahimovic.
      Van der Vaart admitted it is true that former Manchester United striker Zlatan said he would snap him in two.
      And delivering a huge understatement, ex-Real Madrid man Van der Vaart confessed the two of them “didn’t get along”.
      Quizzed on whether it was true Zlatan threatened to break his legs, Van der Vaart said: “Yes, he did say that, but Zlatan said it to everyone.
      The pair enjoyed success together at the Dutch club even though they did not get onCredit: Getty – Contributor
      “It’s also true that around that time things just weren’t working between the two of us.
      “But I would rather be in a team with people who are honest, like him, even if it means there are a few arguments.
      “But there wasn’t a specific moment we fell out. We generally didn’t get along well.”
      Van der Vaart was with famed Dutch club Ajax from 2000 to 2005 having spent seven years of his youth career there from 1993.
      Ibrahimovic threatened to break everyone’s legs, according to Van der VaartCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ibrahimovic, now 40, moved to Ajax from Malmo in 2001 but left for Juventus in 2004. He now plays for AC Milan after a spell at MLS side LA Galaxy.
      It appears the pair never once saw eye-to-eye, with Holland star Van der Vaart insisting Ibrahimovic was “jealous” of him.
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}MOST READ IN FOOTBALL.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      He said: “At that time we were both young and I was the best player in Ajax. He came to the club and believed that he was the best player at Ajax.
      “Back then he did not act like he does now and I think he was a bit jealous.
      “I did not have really big problems with him. It was just two egos converging in one place. I think I was a bigger problem for him than he was for me.”

      Malmo fans try to burn statue of Zlatan Ibrahimovic after he buys shares in rival club Hammarby More

    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Why Thomas Muller is funniest man in football, from Bayern Munich team-mates’ pranks to fooling around with horse, Dave

      by

      STAND up for the funniest man in football… When Thomas Muller isn’t banging in goals for Bayern Munich, the German forward is making us laugh. Thomas Muller loves to play the class clown at Bayern MunichCredit: Instagram @esmuellert

      Bayern shared pictures of Muller in his childhood bedroom when he signed a new dealCredit: Getty

      And they also shared an image of the German in the same Bayern kit as a kidCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk

      Only this week he had the football world in hysterics when he savagely shot down a fans’ wish that he sign for Arsenal by laughing and saying a stern ‘No!’ Back in May, Muller, now 32, signed a new deal with the club that’ll keep him at Bayern till 2024. Hilariously, it was announced with a picture of the German idol sitting in a room reminiscent of his own during his childhood. Speaking about his new deal, Muller said: “I’m delighted to have extended my contract with FC Bayern Munich until 2024 today. “The journey we’ve been on since I joined the FCB academy in 2000 has been a fantastic success story up to now. “It gives me immense pleasure to hold up the red colours year after year, on and off the pitch – even if the wind blows in your face from time to time. “So, let’s keep going together!” Married to professional horse trainer Lisa, he also owns a nag called Dave, loves dressing up in Lederhosen and is always clowning around. If that’s not enough, he’s calls himself the title of managing director of carrots because of his horse stable, and his madcap antics keep him and his team-mates entertained.
      HE LOVES FANCY DRESS
      Come October, and those brilliant pictures Bayern Munich share of their players enjoying the annual Bavarian beer festival, look out for Muller. You’ll find him dressed to the nines in traditional Lederhosen, pretending to down beers and joshing with his team-mates. He’s always got a smile on his face and isn’t afraid to dance Gangnam Style. See below! And since we’re speaking of beer, Thomas once poured a cold one over German TV presenter Markus Othmer after winning the 2014 title.
      Thomas Muller loves dressing up during OktoberfestCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Thomas Muller enjoys Oktoberfest with wife Lisa MullerCredit: AFP – Getty
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4VnKQVXtFfo  
      Thomas Muller drenches TV presenter Markus Othmer in beerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Thomas Muller does love to waste a good pintCredit: Getty – Contributor
      HORSING AROUND
      A notorious prankster, Muller doesn’t have a horse called Star or Spirit or Lucky… he’s opted for the common human name Dave instead. His missus has her own stables, which Muller calls himself the managing director of carrots at because Bayern permit him from riding. Muller regularly attends events his dressage rider other half competes in and loves spending time with Dave. “I come here to watch if everything’s fine,” he once replied when asked why he loves horses. “And for the carrots. I’m the managing director of carrots! I watch the dogs. Sometimes I help a little bit but it’s her business. “I enjoy it a lot. They make me feel comfortable, the attitude and what they look like and (the way they) live their lives.
      “It’s fun. It’s easy to relax around horses.” Absolutely a-neigh-zing.
      Thomas Muller loves to horse around with his nag DaveCredit: Instagram @esmuellert

      Thomas Muller regularly attends equestrian events in Munich with DaveCredit: Rex Features
      Lisa Muller rides Dave at the Munich Indoors FEI Horse Show Jumping eventCredit: Rex Features
      FORGET THE TRANSFER TALK
      Thomas knows the best way to avoid those pesky transfer rumours… and it’s a take on the old mobile phone trick. Celebrities around the globe know the best way to avoid questions from reporters when leaving an airport is to pretend you’re on a call. Thomas took that one-step further, fooling us into thinking his passport was his mobile when he walked through a Munich terminal. Reporters tried to ask if he was moving to Manchester United, but Muller couldn’t hear them with his passport pressed up against his ear. What makes it even funnier is there was actually some truth to the rumours! It was revealed later that Muller’s wife blocked his move to Old Trafford because she did not want to move abroad. Brilliant stuff from the German.
      Thomas Muller found a novel way of avoiding questions from reportersCredit: Sky Sports
      Thomas Muller avoided answering rumours he was moving to Man UnitedCredit: Sky Sports
      Bayern Munich forward Thomas Muller scores delightful chip against Borussia Dortmund
      Thomas Muller is the joker in the pack at Bayern MunichCredit: Instagram @esmuellert
      HE KNOWS HIS AUDIENCE
      The jester of Bavaria knows exactly how to get a crowd going – and we mean that literally. The scene was set, it was a crunch Champions League quarter-final tie against Porto in 2015. Needing a 2-0 win, Bayern dismantled the Portuguese giants 6-1 in a thrilling blowout to win 7-4 on aggregate. Afterwards, the players saluted their faithful fans who were in fine voice. Realising his opportunity, Thomas ran straight into the crowd and grabbed a megaphone from one of the fans. He led the celebrations and chants, much to the delight of the home crowd and his teammates who couldn’t hide their smiles. He’s repeated the trick since, doing the same against Juventus in 2016 following an impressive win.
      Thomas Muller grabs the mic to serenade the home fans after beating PortoCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Thomas Muller leads the Bayern Munich faithful with a songCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Thomas Muller welcomes baby foal called Gameday as Bayern Munich star’s horse stable continues to grow
      A COMEDIC TROLL TO HIS TEAM-MATES
      The prankster once teased ex-team-mate Mario Gotze during a TV interview for wearing the wrong jersey the last time he won a Bundesliga before joining Bayern. He purposefully fell over during a pre-orchestrated free kick routine for Germany. And Muller also told a reporter he would wipe his backside with his Golden Boot trophy following Germany’s 2014 World Cup win. If you’re still not convinced of his comic prowess, watch the video below.
      Thomas Muller enjoys playing pranks on his teammatesCredit: Instagram @esmuellert
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyEUGxkGmHM
      BUT THEY’RE NOT ALL WINNERS…
      Muller was in jovial mood after Bayern Munich’s thumping 8-2 win over Barcelona in 2020.  But his attempt at a joke left the assembled media unamused. Speaking after his side’s triumph, he said: “We at Bayern have Robert LewanGOALski.” Seemingly confused that journalists weren’t rolling in the aisles at his brilliant play on words, he repeated: “You know, Robert LewanGOALski.” But as much as Muller thought it was a side splitter of a pun, he didn’t quite get the reaction he wanted with the room remaining deathly silent.
      Thomas Muller cracks awful Robert ‘LewanGOALski’ joke after Bayern win More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Boxing

      Watch Mike Tyson’s ice-cool reaction after crazed fan pulls out gun having approached him at comedy show

      by

      MIKE TYSON remained the coolest man in the room after a crazed fan pulled out a gun during a Hollywood comedy gig.Iron Mike, 56, was taking in an evening of laughs with friends when things turned sour at a packed rooftop bar in March.
      Mike Tyson (black jacket) sat motionless as a fan approached him in a Hollywood barCredit: BackGrid
      The reportedly tried to goad Iron Mike, who remained motionless throughoutCredit: BackGrid
      A man reported as being the gig MC tried to intervene, before a gun was pulledCredit: BackGrid
      The man reportedly challenged Tyson to a fightCredit: BackGrid
      Tyson and a number of his entourage were in attendance at the gig, with the former heavyweight champion seated front and center.
      But in a shocking video obtained by TMZ, a random member of the audience is seen approaching Tyson and reportedly asking for a rumble.
      Witnesses report the man said he wanted to ‘upgrade his status’ by challenging the champ, who recorded 44 knockouts during his glittering career.
      The Baddest Man on the Planet remained calm and collected throughout, even as things escalated further.
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      After being asked to leave Tyson alone by the gig MC, the fan reportedly threatened to shoot the stunned host and pulled a gun from his waistband.
      The MC is heard shouting: “What the f*** are you doing? Get the f*** out of here.
      “I’m not playing with you, get out of here.”
      Revelers ducked under tables as the gun was cocked, but Tyson refused to get confrontational and continued to sit unmoved at his table.
      The gun was never fired and the man returned to conversation with the boxing legend, who heard him out despite the unfolding chaos.
      ‘GET THE F*** OUT OF HERE!’
      And in a bizarre twist, after exchanging words the pair HUGGED before the man left without further incident.
      An onlooker shouted “there you go” as the boxing legend rose from his seat for the embrace.
      TMZ report LAPD were never called to the incident and Tyson left safely with his friends shortly after the man.
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      It’s not the first time Tyson has been threatened with a firearm, with former coach Teddy Atlas allegedly pointing a gun to his head when the former boxer was just 15.
      Tyson has been out of the boxing ring since his blockbuster exhibition fight with Roy Jones Jr in 2020.
      He has been linked with a bout against YouTuber Jake Paul, but revealed it would take $1billion to tempt him into the contest.
      Asked about fighting Paul, Tyson said on his podcast: “Nobody told me that.
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      “Hey, I ain’t got no f***ing money. So where’s the f***ing contract.
      “I ain’t know nothing about it. [I’d require] a billion bucks.”
      Tyson is still in training at the age of 56 and showed off his blistering skills in a viral video.
      And he was recently embroiled in a shocking altercation with a fan on a plane.
      Iron Mike repeatedly punched Melvin George Townsend III on a JetBlue flight last month but escaped criminal charges.
      Revelers ducked for cover as the man produced a gun but didn’t fireCredit: BackGrid
      Heavyweight champ Tyson remained motionless throughout the commotionCredit: BackGrid
      After putting away his weapon, the man returned to talk to Iron MikeCredit: BackGrid
      Tyson embraces the man before leaving the clubCredit: BackGrid More

    • 238 Shares149 Views

      in Boxing

      Mike Tyson reveals mountain lion was favourite pet but was left with ‘six or seven’ stitches after being bitten

      by

      MIKE TYSON revealed that mountain lions are his favourite animals.The former heavyweight king, 56, is a renowned animal lover, having previously kept three tigers as pets.
      Mike Tyson has lifted the lid on his love of animalsCredit: Getty
      Iron Mike is a huge fan of mountain lionsCredit: Getty
      While he loves all big cats, Iron Mike reckons that the cougar is the most beautiful animal.
      Appearing on an episode of Million Dollaz Worth of Game recently, Tyson was asked what his favourite animal is.
      He said: “Mountain lions. So beautiful.
      “You’ve never seen their face. They have a green face. Incredible beauty.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1h37p88{background-color:rgba(236,245,247,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-bq4915:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FART ATTACK .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Mike Tyson slept in bed with pet tigers whose farts were ‘worst thing in world’
      “It looks real plain, they look real plain when you see them. These brownish greys, you look at their eyes, they have green eyes.
      “Green beautiful face and you just wanna…”
      Asked whether he would get them as babies, Tyson continued: “Right from their mothers.
      “As they get older they don’t like the habitat they possess, so sometimes people give them to me.
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      “I’m really good with cats.”
      Tyson has been injured by a big cat, however, as he added: “I was giving one a tetanus shot and they bit me.
      “It was scared, he was scared. Six, seven stitches and it was over.
      “Then my dog bit me.”
      Tyson also revealed that he used to let his tigers sleep in his bed next to him – but that their farts were unbearable.
      He added: “They slept in my bed. The worst thing in the world – n***** farts.
      “As they get older they realise with punishment, they don’t do it anymore.
      “As soon as they hit the pool they s*** and everything, as soon as they hit the water.”
      Tyson, 56, would let his tigers share a bed with himCredit: Getty More

    • 250 Shares139 Views

      in Boxing

      George Foreman names top ten heavyweights of all time, but there’s no room for Fury as Lennox Lewis beats Tyson

      by

      JOE LOUIS has been named the greatest heavyweight of all time by George Foreman – with Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson also on the list but no Tyson Fury.Foreman, who in 1994 knocked out Michael Moorer to become the oldest heavyweight champion of all time aged 45, boxed over FOUR decades.

      And having faced legendary names such as Joe Frazier, Muhammad Ali and Evander Holyfield there is arguably no better man to rank the best of all time in the blue ribbon division.
      But it’s a figure Foreman idolised, not faced, who he believes is the No1.
      In an exclusive interview with SunSport, Foreman said: “Joe Louis is greatest of all time heavyweight as far as a boxer is concerned.
      “My number two heavyweight to leave boxing undefeated Rocky Marciano. Number three is John L Sulivan. Four is Jack Johnson. Number five Muhammad Ali.”
      George Foreman named Joe Louis as his greatest heavyweight of all time
      Ali is arguably the most popular heavyweight of all time, and Foreman ranks his influence outside the ring as his greatest gift.
      He explained: “They never even saw a boxing match in their lives, because he was a great man and the greatest personality and overall, to talk about Muhammad Ali from a pure boxing perspective is a put down.
      “He was greater than that. Everybody’s life has been better because of Ali.”
      Here is Foreman’s 10 greatest heavyweights, as SunSport details their legendary careers.10. Jack Dempsey, 68–6–11
      Dempsey reigned as champion from 1919 to 1926 and gained recognition for his punching power and aggressive fighting style.
      Such was his popularity he was the first boxer to bring in first million-dollar gate from ticket sales.
      Dempsey was a major pioneer in boxing hitting mainstream TV channels and can be thanked for his influence in heavyweight headliners going on to become the box office attractions they are today.
      Jack Dempsey reigned as champion from 1919 to 1926Credit: Getty
      9. Evander Holyfield, 44–10–2 (1)
      Holyfield was the first fighter to ever hold cruiserweight and heavyweight world titles, with Brit David Haye then becoming the only man to join him.
      The ‘Real Deal’ is also the only four-time heavyweight champion, reigning during the late 90s and early 2000s.
      Involved in great rivalries with Tyson, Lewis and Riddick Bowe, Holyfield’s explosive speed and power made him a favourite among fans.
      Evander Holyfield was the first fighter to ever hold cruiserweight and heavyweight world titlesCredit: Getty
      8. Mike Tyson, 50–6 (2)
      Tyson still sits as the youngest heavyweight champion of all time, having battered Tervor Berbick in 1986 when he was just 20.
      His devastating punch power and ruthless aggression made his fights a must-see event – but a lack of discipline led to troubles in and out of the ring.
      After being upset by Buster Douglas in 1990, Tyson went on to win the title again in 1996, but after losing key fights against Holyfield and Lewis, the passion was gone and he retired in 2005.
      Mike Tyson still sits as the youngest heavyweight champion of all timeCredit: Getty
      7. Lennox Lewis, 41–2–1
      As a heavyweight Lewis has completed it all with legendary wins over Tyson, Holyfield and Vitali Klitschko.
      The Brit star lost just twice, in shock upsets to Olivier McCall and Hasim Rahman, but avenged both – meaning he beat every man he shared the ring with.
      He is also the last undisputed heavyweight champion, but an asterisk must be be applied as he did not hold the WBO belt, at the time not recognised as a major world title.
      Lennox Lewis was the last undisputed heavyweight champion
      6. Floyd Patterson, 55–8–1
      Paterson, at 21, was the youngest heavyweight champ of all time until Tyson broke the record, but he also became the first man to lose the belt and then regain it.
      He fought but lost to both Ali and Sonny Liston and is celebrated for his softly spoken approach yet heavy hands.
      Patterson was nicknamed ‘The Gentleman of Boxing’.
      Floyd Patterson was nicknamed ‘The Gentleman of Boxing’Credit: Getty
      5. Muhammad Ali, 56–5
      Widely recognised as the most iconic fighter of all time, Ali transcended the sport and inspired generations with his talent and larger-than-life persona.
      He beat the likes of Liston, Patterson, Ken Norton, Frazier and Foreman on his run as a three-time champion that included historic events such as “The Rumble in the Jungle’ and ‘Thrilla in Manilla’
      Not only was he a genius on the mic but his footwork and combination punching qualifies him as one of the best pugilists ever to lace up the gloves.
      Muhammad Ali is widely recognised as the most iconic fighter of all timeCredit: Getty
      4. Jack Johnson, 70–11–11 (3)
      Johnson became the first African American world heavyweight after defeating Tommy Burns in 1908 having been denied a title shot due to his skin colour since turning pro in 1898.
      The “Galveston Giant” became a cultural hero having battled racism throughout his career but never got another shot at the belt after losing it to Jess Willard in 1915.
      Johnson had just 35 KO’s in 70 wins, instead relying on boxing skill and speed.
      Jack Johnson became the first African American world heavyweight after defeating Tommy Burns in 1908Credit: Getty
      3. John L Sullivan, N/A
      Sullivan is both recognised as the first gloved heavyweight champion in history and last in bare-knuckle under the London Prize Ring Rules.
      The Irish-American, known commonly as John L, became a star during the late 1800s and went on to become one of the highest paid sportsman during the era.
      His career also became a catalyst to newspapers first covering boxing and other sports.
      John L Sullivan is recognised as the first gloved heavyweight champion in historyCredit: Getty
      2. Rocky Marciano, 49-0
      Marciano remains the only heavyweight champion to have retired undefeated.
      He made six title defences and was renowned for his come-forward style, power and durable chin, proving too relentless for challengers to come, including an ageing Louis.
      But a lack of high-profile and legendary opponents unfortunately leaves Marciano usually falling short of credit his record and talent deserves.
      Rocky Marciano remains the only heavyweight champion to have retired undefeatedCredit: Getty

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       1. Joe Louis, 371-14
      Louis was heavyweight champion from 1937 to 1949 – a period in which he defended his title 25 times in the illustrious 13-year run.
      More than that, he is widely regarded as one of the first black athletes to achieve the status of national hero in the US.
      With 334 KOs in a reported 385 fights, he is regarded as one of the most destructive and hard-hitting punchers of all time.
      Joe Louis reigned as heavyweight champion for 13 consecutive years More

    • 238 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea kid Armando Broja, 20, idolised Didier Drogba as a youngster and joined the Blues from London rivals Tottenham

      by

      CHELSEA striker Armando Broja is a man in demand.The 20-year-old Albanian striker enjoyed a successful loan at Southampton last season – which has prompted interest from London rivals West Ham, who are fighting to sign him in a £30million deal.
      Chelsea striker Armando Broja is a kid in demand
      Broja signed a five-year Chelsea deal in 2021 and his highly rated at the clubCredit: Getty
      Last season Broja played his football at Southampton and excelled
      However, recent reports suggest Thomas Tuchel wants to keep his man at the club, after impressing.
      Last year, Broja signed a five-year deal with the club. He grew up idolising club legend Didier Drogba. And if that’s not enough the powerful striker was plucked from bitter rivals Spurs when he was a youngster.
      TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS
      After playing for his local club Burnham Juniors, Broja went on trial to Reading.
      He trained there, but wanted bigger and better things.
      Broja also played with the Fulham academy, and impressed coaches so much he was placed in a team with players on scholarship deals.
      But it was Premier League giants Tottenham who were the first to secure a deal with Broja.
      “I went to a tournament with Burnham Juniors and there was a Spurs scout there watching,” he told Chelseafc.com.
      “He actually came to watch another player in my team but I ended up winning Player of the Tournament and he took me on instead, so I went to Tottenham and signed for them.”
      MOVE TO THE BLUES
      In youth games, Broja starred against Chelsea.
      Immediately, the west London giants wanted the youngster to join their academy after being impressed by his ability.
      “I was at Spurs for two years from Under-8s until the end of Under-9s and in those two years, we played Chelsea a lot and they really liked me as a player and that’s when I joined the Academy,” he said.
      Broja scored 11 goals on loan at Vitesse ArnhemCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      FOOTBALL IDOLS
      Like many aspiring Chelsea star, Broja’s footballing idol is Ivory Coast hero Drogba.
      “My Chelsea idol is Didier Drogba,” he said.
      “He was a machine, very strong, a great finisher and he had an amazing career.
      “At Chelsea, he achieved so much and he was always the one to produce in the big games.”
      Broja also grew up watching clips of Brazilian legend Ronaldo.
      “My dad first introduced me to him and I watched so many of his clips,” he said.
      “He was strong, fast, two-footed, he had everything. That’s who I aspire to be like.”
      At Southampton, Broja scored nine times in all competitions
      Brazilian legend Ronaldo is another striker Broja admiresCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Broja finally made his Chelsea debut under old boss Frank Lampard in 2020.
      He then spent the 20/21 campaign on loan at Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem, where he scored 11 times.
      And last season managed nine goals in 38 games in all competitions for the Saints.
      With time still to go until the end of the transfer window, time will tell where his future lies. And it might be away from Stamford Bridge where he will have to flourish.
      Armando Broja joins a list of current Chelsea first team players who could be departing the club this summerCredit: Getty – Contributor More