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    Josh Warrington reveals row with his own team over boxing retirement before making U-turn… and calls out three rivals

    JOSH WARRINGTON was in a row with his own team over retiring from boxing – and thankfully made a U-turn before it was too late. The two-time featherweight world champion appeared to call it quits for his career after defeat to Anthony Cacace in September at Wembley.Josh Warrington snubbed retirement to make a boxing comebackCredit: GettyWarrington laid his gloves on the canvas – the universal boxing signal that a fighter is retiring. However, no confirmation followed – much to Warrington’s own frustration.But after being convinced to allow some time before confirming his decision – Warrington rediscovered his passion for the sport.He told Ring Magazine: “I wanted to put something out about retirement. READ MORE IN BOXING“I actually had a bit of an argument with my media manager, James Marshall, because I just wanted to get it out, anything out, a video or a statement of something.“But he said just to relax and to think about it. Listen, I had like two weeks of moping about, feeling sorry for myself and so I needed to let out some frustration. “I went back to the gym and felt like everything was still there; the fitness, the timing, the sharpness, a little bit of sparring, a little bit of pads.“I thought to myself ‘f***king hell! There’s loads left here’. Why didn’t it happen on the night against Cacace? Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”So then I started to delve a bit deeper to try and work out what went wrong and all of a sudden you come to the conclusion that it’s still there physically and mentally, it just needs adjusting in a few places and that’s it.”Warrington first won gold in 2018 against Lee Selby and made three defences before a shock loss to Mauricio Lara in 2021. Caoimhin Agyarko fills in on late notice to fight on Dalton Smith undercard Their rematch then ended in a draw after a clash of heads before Warrington beat Kiko Martinez to regain the title in 2022. But Warrington is without victory in his last three – losing to Luis Alberto Lopez, Leigh Wood and Cacace.The Leeds super-fan now returns on Saturday in Sheffield against Asad Asif Khan – but has bigger names in his sights.The 34-year-old said: “First of all, I just want to return, get the arm raised and dust some cobwebs off. “Then I want to be busy – I’d like to think I could get another two fights this year. There’s no reason why not. “I know I haven’t got a belt at the moment but I’ve got a big fanbase behind me and, nine times out of ten, I’m in an entertaining fight – although it was a little bit of a stinker at Wembley.“But I’m a two-time world champion with a great resume so I don’t see why I can’t walk into some big fights or at least keep active and busy.“I’d love to put the Leigh Wood one to bed and then to get the Cacace one after that would be even better. “I’m disappointed that we could never get the Wood rematch over the line in the first place.Read More on The Sun“Mick Conlan is another one where our names have always been mentioned over the years but just hasn’t come to light. “But most definitely – he has been in some entertaining fight and people just want to be entertained don’t they?”Warrington laid down his gloves after defeat to Anthony CacaceCredit: Getty More

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    Josh Warrington still holds out for US debut in Las Vegas… so travelling Leeds fans can enjoy ‘one hell of a party’

    JOSH WARRINGTON is still holding out for his dream US boxing debut – so he can reward his Leeds faithful with the trip of a lifetime. The two-time featherweight world champion has long had one of the most loyal base of supporters among British boxing.Josh Warrington is still holding out for his dream US boxing debutCredit: GettyAnd that will continue on Saturday in Sheffield when Warrington embarks on a comeback – starting against Asad Asif Khan. Warrington has fought at his beloved Elland Road and the Headingley rugby stadium. But he has never been able to give his Leeds army a Stateside away day – with Sin City still on his bucket list.Warrington, 34, told SportsBoom: “For me, selfishly, I’d choose Madison Square Garden in New York because of all the history associated with it.READ MORE IN BOXING“For the people who come to watch me, who have backed me all the way right from the beginning, I’d choose Las Vegas because I know they’d have one hell of a party over there.“I’ve always made it clear that I’ve wanted to go over there and hopefully it’s something that can still happen.”Warrington last fought on the road over a decade ago – beating Edwin Tellez in 2015. And he recalled: “That trip to Berlin spawned so many stories that people still talk about today. They make me wish I’d been there with them.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWarrington’s last win came in March 2022 – when he beat Kiko Martinez for the IBF title. But he lost in right away against Luis Alberto Lopez before two losses against Leigh Wood and Anthony Cacace. His third on the spin – against Cacace at Wembley – saw Warrington lay down his gloves – signalling the end of his career. But he changed his mind and returns for one more crack to fight Khan on Dalton Smith’s undercard. Warrington laid down his gloves in his last fight but is now making a comebackCredit: Getty More

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    Everton’s new 53,000-capacity stadium selected to host historic tournament in middle of Premier League season

    EVERTON’S new 53,000-seater stadium has been selected to host a historic tournament in the middle of the Premier League season.The Toffees will leave Goodison Park and move into their new home this summer.Everton’s new stadium will play host to a historic tournament next seasonCredit: GettyThe Toffees move into the 53,000-seater arena this summerCredit: GettyThe Everton Stadium is based at the scenic Bramley-Moore Docks.The bumper new arena will allow even more Everton fans to enjoy David Moyes’ football.And some lucky supporters have already been treated to several ‘test’ outings at their new home ground.However, the Everton Stadium will not just host the Toffees’ football matches.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt has now been confirmed that it will play host to a major tournament game during the middle of the next campaign.Everton announced that the Second Test of the Rugby League Ashes will take place at their new stadium on November 1.The historic competition between England and Australia has not taken place in 22 years.But it will finally return in a blockbuster three-series event.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThe first match takes place on October 25 at Wembley Stadium.Everton then host the Second Test a week later.Former Everton manager Sean Dyche lands new job two months after Toffees sacking The opening match of the Rugby League Ashes takes place at Wembley StadiumCredit: GettyIt then heads to Everton before ending at Leeds’ Headingley StadiumCredit: PAAnd on November 8, the Third Test will take place at Headingley Stadium in Leeds.Everton’s interim CEO Colin Chong said: “We are delighted to welcome the Rugby League Ashes series to Everton Stadium this autumn.“As well as being home to Everton, our new stadium was built to also host world-class sporting and entertainment events. “Securing an international fixture of this magnitude demonstrates Everton Stadium’s status as one of the UK’s leading venues.“The rivalry between England and Australia in rugby league has a rich history, and we are excited to welcome fans of the sport to our city and our stadium which will offer an unforgettable experience in a state-of-the-art setting on the banks of the River Mersey.” More

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    ‘He’s a cultural architect’ – Chelsea make surprise hire of rugby league legend to help turn flailing season around

    CHELSEA have made a surprise hire by naming Willie Isa in a player support role.The rugby league legend has been recruited from the Wigan Warriors.Willie Isa has started working at ChelseaCredit: GettyMatt Peet has backed Isa to make an impact at the clubCredit: GettyIsa, 36, retired from playing in January after winning four major trophies with the Warriors in 2024. During his career, he also impressed at Australian sides Penrith Panthers and Melbourne Storm.It was when he moved to England in 2011 he enjoyed a trophy filled decade which included two club world championships.Isa has been baked to make a positive impact at the club by Warriors head coach Matt Peet.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe told The Athletic: “I don’t expect the supporters to ever physically see the impact he has at Chelsea.”But he is a cultural architect.”He will make the environment better and all the individuals around the environment better.”Ignore the different shape of the ball that he is associated with, Willie’s skill set is all about high-performing teams, leadership and dealing with people.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Everyone at Wigan and in rugby league understands why Chelsea have made this move.”It’s intelligent.”‘Pressure shouldn’t be on the coach’ – Gary Neville slams Chelsea board for ‘unforgivable’ mistakeMARESC IS HISTORYENZO MARESCA is struggling again in the second half of the season – as he did at Leicester last term, despite their promotion…LEICESTER 2023-24 (All comps)Before Christmas – Games 25 Wins 21 Win rate 84%After Christmas – Games 27 Wins 15 Win rate 56%CHELSEA 2024-25 (All comps so far)Before Christmas – Games 27 Wins 18 Win rate 67%After Christmas – Games 10, Wins 3 Win rate 30%TOTAL (All comps)Before Christmas – Games 52 Wins 39 Win rate 75%After Christmas – Games 37 Wins 18 Win rate 49%Chelsea fans will be hoping that Isa has an immediate impact on Enzo Maresca’s squad.The Blues have dropped off in recent weeks, with only two Premier League wins in their last five games.This run of form has seen the club fall away in the race for the top four just two months after they were being considered as title challengers.The downturn has seen Maresca come underfire from some Chelsea legends.Former defender Frank Leboeuf took aim at the club after the defeat to Brighton as he criticised the lack of fight from the players. He said: “I saw a team that gave up after the second goal. We didn’t want to fight and didn’t know what to do.“That was so bad and so unprofessional.”William Gallas even hit out at the start of the season to claim there was not enough quality in the team.He said: “I’m looking at this squad of players and I don’t see nearly enough quality.“There is no way they’d get into the best Chelsea teams – half wouldn’t even get on the bench.“They aren’t good enough to win a title, which should always be the aim of a club like Chelsea.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Are they good enough to quality for the Champions League? I have serious doubts.“I don’t recognise this version of Chelsea anymore.” More

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    ‘Gem of a bet’ – Why Maguire is Man Utd’s dangerman & how foul play could be worth a flutter in Leicester v Arsenal game

    SUNSPORT’S Weekend Wager uses in-depth stats and cutting-edge analysis to unearth the best value bets ahead of the sporting weekend.Joining our very own Will Pugh this week is football journalist Kweku Afari and betting expert Sam Rosbottom, who will be looking for the best value on a packed two days of action.SunSport’s Weekend Wager team are finding the best value bets for this weekendCredit: SunSportThere’s plenty at stake when Tottenham host Manchester United as Ange Postecoglou looks for his THIRD win of the season over the Red Devils.There’s also some great bets to be found in Arsenal’s trip to Leicester as they pray for a new goal scorer to emerge.And punters can get some tasty tips for the Betfair Ascot Chase, as well as the winner of this season’s Super League Grand Final.Check out all our best bets for the weekend below:READ MORE IN FOOTBALLManuel Ugarte could wind up in the book once againCredit: ReutersTOTTENHAM VS MAN UTDKWEKU AFARI: “There’s two selections I like in this game. United to win by exactly one goal, 4/1.“Plus Manuel Ugarte to be carded, 9/5.“I’ve put them both together: 11/1.“Ugarte is United’s most booked player in the Premier League with eight yellows.Most read in Football“The second most in the league, and that’s from 13, so I expect him in the book.“In terms of Spurs, they have already lost 13 games this season. 12 of those 13 have been by only one goal.“They’re always in games. I expect United to win but I expect it to be close.”Harry Maguire may be United’s dangerman against SpursCredit: APWILL PUGH: “I’m going Harry Maguire to have a shot and receive a card. That’s 9/2.“If you only like one, Maguire to have a shot is 8/11.“And Maguire to receive a card is 11/5.“Maguire has had five shots in his last eight league starts and has received four yellows in his last six starts.”Spurs are hoping to beat United for the third time this seasonCredit: ReutersSAM ROSBOTTOM: “I just can’t see United beating Spurs. This will be the third time they’ve played this season, Spurs won 3-0 and 4-3 in the cup.“United have conceded at least two goals in each of their last four league games against Spurs.“For me, Spurs to score over 2.5 goals at 5/2 is a solid bet.”SunSport’s best Tottenham vs Man Utd betsMan Utd to win by exactly one goal: 4/1Manuel Ugarte to be carded: 9/5Both bets combined: 11/1Harry Maguire to have a shot: 8/11Harry Maguire to receive a card: 11/5Both bets combined: 9/2Tottenham to score over 2.5 goals: 5/2Arsenal are being backed to beat Leicester with easeCredit: GettyLEICESTER VS ARSENALKWEKU AFARI: “Pretty straightforward. I’ve got Arsenal to win to nil, 11/10.“Arsenal are unbeaten in their last seven away league games. “Leicester have lost their last four league home games to nil.”Martin Odegaard could be Arsenal’s main goal threatCredit: GettyWILL PUGH: “Havertz is out. Their only real goal hope is Martin Odegaard.“So I’ve got Odegaard goal or assist at evens.“Leicester, no clean sheets in 17 league matches. Second most goals conceded.“Of Arsenal’s available players, Odegaard has had the highest XG of 0.27 across his last 30 games.”James Justin could have a tough timeCredit: AlamySAM ROSBOTTOM: “There’s something I really like here.“James Justin to commit two-plus fouls is 11/4.“He’s committed eight fouls in his last four appearances. Trossard will play left wing, he’s been fouled 15 times in his last 10 games.“Miles Lewis-Skelly has been fouled 13 times in his last five games. I think it’s a great bet.”SunSport’s best Leicester vs Arsenal betsArsenal to win to nil: 11/10Martin Odegaard goal or assist: EvensJames Justin to commit two-plus fouls: 11/4Corbetts Cross is hoping for glory at AscotCredit: PABETFAIR ASCOT CHASESAM ROSBOTTOM: “We can’t split Corbetts Cross and Pic D’Orhy at the moment. Both market favourites at 2/1.“L’Homme Presse is at 5/2 and Blue Lord is 10/1.“Then Le Patron at 16/1 and Flegmatik at 100/1.“Pic D’Orhy won this race last time and isn’t going to Cheltenham, they’re targeting Aintree.“Corbetts Cross going for the Gold Cup at Cheltenham. It’s difficult to pick between them.”SunSport’s best Betfair Ascot Chase betsCorbetts Cross: 2/1Pic D’Orhy: 2/1L’Homme Presse: 5/2Blue Lord: 10/1Le Patron: 16/1Flegmatik: 100/1Wigan are favourites to defend their Super League titleCredit: GettySUPER LEAGUESAM ROSBOTTOM: “It’s very similar to the regular season outright.“For Grand Final winners, Wigan are up there at 11/8.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Warrington are 5/1 and St Helen’s are 5/1.“Hull KR are 11/2. It’s an interesting one, expect these outright odds to shift around as results come in.”SunSport’s best Super League betsTo win the Grand Final:Wigan: 11/8Warrington: 5/1St Helen’s: 5/1Hull KR: 11/2Leeds Rhinos: 10/1Catalans Dragons: 11/1Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGambleAware – www.gambleaware.orgFor help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More

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    Tottenham snap up England star’s son seven months after older brother signed contract in different sport

    TOTTENHAM have signed Martin Offiah’s son Phoenix.The rugby league legend scored over 500 tries throughout his career and is the top try-scoring English player ever. Phoenix Offiah has signed for TottenhamCredit: InstagramHis dad Martin is a rugby league legendCredit: Graham Hughes – The TimesHis youngest son Phoenix, 15, has been snapped up by Spurs after previously being on the books of Crystal Palace, Brentford and Queens Park Rangers. Having put pen to paper on his contract, the young striker wrote on Instagram: “Thank you to everyone who helped me along my journey.”Happy to say that I have signed for Tottenham. Grind don’t stop now.”His proud dad, who has passed his lightening quick pace down to his kids, said: “Another proud day in the Offiah household. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Phoenix signs for Spurs seven months after his older brother Tyler signed for Bath Rugby. The hard work starts now my boy.”On his journey, dad Martin previously said: “It’s been a long road for Phoenix to get this far. He played rugby union at Ealing Trailfinders, like his brother, up until the age of eight and scored a really good try at Twickenham.”After that, he said ‘Dad, I want to play football’, but he was just as good at rugby as Tyler. “It wasn’t for him, though, and I said, ‘It’s your life, I’ll support you on your journey’. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”So when he was about ten he got scouted by QPR and Fulham.”He chose QPR because it was closer to home and spent two years in their development system. Inside making of Spurs whiz Bergvall who outshone Kulusevski and Gyokeres as kid “When QPR told Phoenix that he wasn’t the finished article, he was very distraught and went away to work hard on his skills.”Phoenix’s brother Tyler, 18, is yet to make his senior rugby union debut but has featured for England’s Under-18s.Sport runs in the Offiah family as their cousin Odeluga is on the books of Brighton.The 22-year-old defender has featured ten times for the Seagulls and is currently out on loan at League One outfit Blackpool.Odeluga Offiah plays for BlackpoolCredit: Getty More

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    Rugby match called off after mass brawl which left one player with a broken jaw

    AN amateur rugby match was abandoned following a mass brawl in front of shocked spectators.The ruck was sparked when two opposing players were sent off for fighting.An amateur rugby match was abandoned following a mass brawl in front of shocked spectators (stock photo)Credit: AlamyOne, playing for Gravesend then allegedly punched opposition Reeds Weybridge’s coach, who is said to have hit him back — knocking the player out and breaking his jaw.Other players and family and friends on the touchline then piled in on Saturday afternoon, witnesses said.The Regional 2 South East match, in Hersham, Surrey, was abandoned and police called.A witness said: “Throughout the game there were punches thrown and handbags.read more on rugby“Then at the end of the game there were two red cards for fighting.“Gravesend’s player walks off, punches the Reeds coach and he hit him back and it knocked him out.”Officers arrested and later bailed a man aged 30 on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm.Another witness said: “What happened was a disgrace, especially with kids present.Most read in Football“The book should be thrown at both clubs.”A horrified dog walker said: “The match ended in a huge fight. It was absolutely disgraceful scenes.”It was a mass brawl with punches and stamps. Children were watching.”I went on a dog walk through Whitley Village. Instead I witnessed a reenactment of Passchendaele.”A South East Coast Ambulance Service spokesman said: “We attended the scene following reports of a facial injury.Eighth-tier football club move into former Rugby Premiership stadium with bigger capacity than Premier League side “One person was assessed and treated before being taken to St Peter’s Hospital in Chertsey.”A joint statement from both teams read: “An unfortunate incident occurred towards the end of the game between Reeds Weybridge RFC and Gravesend RFC which saw a Gravesend player get injured.“The incident was dealt with properly at the time by the referee and pitch-side medical support from both clubs.“We would like to reassure our supporters that the player appears to be on the road to recovery and both clubs continue to support all those involved.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The incident was subsequently reported to the relevant authorities.“The management of both clubs have and continue to work closely together but we will not be making any further statements until all investigations have been completed.”The Regional 2 South East match, in Hersham, Surrey, was abandoned and police calledCredit: Getty More

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    Alan Shearer’s glam daughter Hollie reveals engagement to rugby star by sharing brilliant pic with ‘my favourite person’

    ALAN SHEARER’S daughter Hollie has announced her engagement.England rugby star Joe Marchant, 28, popped the question to his glamorous new fiancee in Paris.Alan Shearer ‘s daughter Hollie is now engaged to England rugby star Joe MarchantThe singer proudly showed off her gorgeous diamond ring on InstagramHollie took to Instagram to share the romantic moment with her 81,000 followers.The 29-year-old posted photos taken in front of the Eiffel Tower with the world’s most romantic monument beautifully-lit.A thrilled Hollie proudly showed off her stunning diamond ring.Her jubilant caption read: “BEST DAY EVER!! 💍 Got to say yes to my favourite person ❤.”READ MORE SPORT NEWSDoting dad Alan rushed to congratulate the couple as he replied: “😍😍😍😍👏👏👏.”And England rugby No10 Marcus Smith wrote: “Congratulations buzzing for you both.”While Marchant’s team-mate Danny Care added: “Congrats guys!!”She is the second eldest of Alan and wife Lainya’s three childrenHollie and Marchant were first pictured together in DubaiFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHollie confirmed her romance with the former Harlequins ace back in April 2022 after they had started dating four months prior.Most read in FootballThe couple moved to a luxurious new home in Paris earlier this year after Marchant joined Top 14 side Stade Francais. Mick Schumacher’s model girlfriend sends clear message on engagement after being invited into ‘inner circle’Marchant was a key figure for Steve Borthwick’s England side as they finished third at last year’s World Cup.But he won’t be playing for his nation against Australia later today, as he’s currently ineligible for England as he is playing abroad.In July, Hollie took to Instagram to announce her new French abode while holding keys in front of a bright red front door with gold handles, showing sweet matching Eiffel Tower keyrings. Hollie has also shared a number of holiday snaps of herself and Marchant basking on hot beaches and on lavish yachts.Hollie is no stranger to the sporting life, with her dad being the Premier League’s top goalscorer with 260 strikes.The pair moved to Paris to follow Marchant’s rugby careerThe happy couple frequently enjoy stunning trips abroadWhen previously asked about his daughter’s romance with Marchant, Shearer quipped: “I’m just glad it’s not a footballer.”Hollie has chosen to pursue her dreams of music instead of sport, and her top single on Spotify has garnered more than 1.3 million listens.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe has had a passion for singing since an early age and is an alumnus of BIMM, a prestigious British music institute.Hollie is the second oldest of Shearer and wife Lainya’s three children, with the couple also sharing daughter Chloe, 31, and son Will, 23.Hollie is the glam daughter of Newcastle legend and World Cup pundit ShearerThe 29-year-old has become a celebrity in her own rightShe boasts almost 81,000 followers on InstagramCredit: InstagramHollie has been dating Marchant since 2022Credit: InstagramHollie often posts dazzling snaps on InstagramThe couple are engaged after two years of dating More