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    Anthony Joshua breaks silence on huge Francis Ngannou clash and appears to reveal date for Saudi showdown

    ANTHONY JOSHUA has broken his silence on his showdown with Francis Ngannou – and he’s seemingly leaked the date for their crossover clash.The former two-time unified heavyweight champion will throw down with the MMA man-mountain in a multi-million-pound Saudi showdown later this year.
    Anthony Joshua will be back in action later this yearCredit: Getty
    AJ will throw down with former UFC heavyweight champ Francis Ngannou in his firstCredit: GETTY
    The Watford warrior broke his silence on the fight on InstagramCredit: INSTAGRAM@ANTHONYJOSHUA
    Eddie Hearn shocked the combat sports world early on Saturday morning by announcing the duo’s Riyadh Rumble.
    Matchroom Boxing chief Hearn, however, stopped short of revealing the date for the fight.
    But Joshua appears to have revealed the date in his first social media post since the announcement of the contest.
    Taking to his Instagram story this morning, AJ shared the well-known Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas meme featuring main character CJ.
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    In the meme, CJ says: “Ah s**t, here we go again.”
    Joshua, 34, wrote “8/3/23” underneath the meme – seemingly alluding to the date for his clash with the Cameroonian clubber.
    It’s more than likely, however, that the pair will throw down on March 9th as the eighth is a Friday.
    Boxing fans were quick to react to AJ’s post, with one commenting: “On a Friday?”
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    ANTHONY JOSHUA VS FRANCIS NGANNOU: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE CROSSOVER BOUT
    Another said: “What happened to not being interested in Ngannou and rather be[ing a] world champion?”
    And another said: “Easy nights work to set up a big 2024 for AJ LETS GOOO.”
    One remarked: “Fact he’s gonna get maybe 50 million quid for this fight is mental.”
    Another chimed in: “Here we go again to make some f***ing money!”
    Former UFC heavyweight champion Ngannou announced himself to boxing fans around the world last October with a stunning display against Tyson Fury.
    ‘The Predator’ shocked the world with an incredible performance in his first professional boxing match, in which he DROPPED Fury.
    Fury’s blushes were saved thanks to a split decision verdict, although the rise in his stock made Ngannou the real winner of the night.
    Francis Ngannou dropped Tyson Fury in their Saudi showdown last OctoberCredit: GETTY
    Boxing fans are still digesting Joshua’s decision to throw down with Professional Fighters League pounder Ngannou.
    But long-time promoter Hearn revealed last week the fight could come to fruition if a showdown with mandatory IBF title challenger Filip Hrgovic couldn’t be made.
    He told iFL TV: “Right now, we have three fights that we’re in discussions for.
    “They’re all big and that doesn’t involve Deontay Wilder for March. Our aim, and they’ve expressed this is to fight the winner of Fury-Usyk.
    “That’s all we want to do, obviously there’s the Hrgovic fight out there for the world heavyweight title.
    “There’s a Francis Ngannou fight out there which would be absolutely colossal.
    “There’s other heavyweights as well, there’s a Zhang fight possible as well with Queensberry.”
    Hearn was critical of Ngannou’s skillset ahead of his clash with Fury, saying: “If you watch him on the pads.
    Francis Ngannou shocked fight fans with his display against Tyson FuryCredit: REUTERS
    “I don’t want to be disrespectful.
    “But there is absolutely no way in the world that Francis Ngannou could win even a Southern Area title.
    “Johnny Fisher is our guy, Southern Area champion.
    “Johnny Fisher vs Ngannou is a total mismatch, Fisher would have him out of there in a round.”
    But after watching him bamboozle Fury, he said: “I can’t believe what we were watching.
    “A complete novice in everybody’s book just beat Tyson Fury. Ngannou won that fight.
    Read more on The Sun
    “He dropped him. I mean, they did very little in the back end of the fight.
    “But Fury looked like … you’re talking about the lineal heavyweight champion of the world.” More

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    Sunderland hero’s Wag risks wrath of fans with shock comment about Newcastle as couple head back for huge FA Cup clash

    SUNDERLAND icon Fabio Borini has returned to his former home ahead of today’s Tyne-Wear derby.The Black Cats host Newcastle at the Stadium of Light this afternoon for the first time in almost eight years.
    Ex-Sunderland star Fabio Borini has returned to the North East for the Tyne-Wear derbyCredit: Arfa Griffiths – The Sun
    Borini’s wife, Erin, was heard saying that Newcastle is her favourite city

    Borini, who made 93 appearances for Sunderland from 2015 to 2018, arrived in England on Friday ahead of the match.
    But his wife, Erin Borini, caused a stir among fans after making a controversial comment.
    Erin took to Instagram to share a video of her and Fabio driving through Newcastle with a caption that read: “Haway the Lads! Ready for tomorrow!”
    However, she could be heard saying: “One of my favourite cities. I love this place. Feels like we are home!”
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    Fans took to social media to react, with one person tweeting: “Staying in Newcastle and his missus saying it’s one of her favourite cities, not been a good 48 hours for Sunderland… you love to see it.”
    A Newcastle supporter added: “Even zooms in on St James Park man, honestly it’s class.”
    While another wrote: “Driving into Newcastle. You couldn’t make this stuff up. Even their ex players love Newcastle…one of their favourite cities!!!”
    Sunderland chiefs have already come under fire this week for decorating the Black Cats Bar with Newcastle slogans.
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    They were forced to issue an apology on Thursday after receiving backlash from fans.
    An official statement read: “We acknowledge a serious error in judgement was made in relation to Black Cats Bar.
    “We apologise to our fans for the understandable concern they have fairly voiced in response.
    “The space has been returned to its original state.”
    Ex-Sunderland winger Borini is set to be in attendance among the crowd at today’s game.
    He spent three years with the Black Cats and scored 17 goals before joining AC Milan in 2018.
    The 32-year-old now plays for Sampdoria in Serie B. More

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    Michael Schumacher’s kids share throwback pics & wish F1 legend happy 55th birthday as mystery over his health remains

    MICHAEL Schumacher’s kids have wished their father happy birthday with throwback pictures and a heart touching message.The legendary F1 racer turned 55 just days after the 10th anniversary of his tragic ski accident.
    Michael Schumacher’s kids wished him on his 55th birthdayCredit: Getty
    Gina Schumacher posted a throwback picture of her and brother Mick with the Formula One legendCredit: Instagram
    Mick Schumacher posted a snap of him smiling and holding his thumb up with the legendCredit: Instagram
    He catapulted forward 11.5ft and crashed into a boulder head first that split his helmet into two and left him needing to be airlifted to hospital for two life-saving operations.
    The legendary German was left fighting for his life after suffering a severe brain injury that saw him placed in a medically induced coma.
    But since being discharged from hospital in September 2014 to receive treatment at home, his recovery has been shrouded in mystery.
    Taking to her Instagram, the German racer’s daughter Gina Schumacher, 26, posted a heartfelt birthday wish.
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    Attached to the post was a throwback picture of her and brother Mick with the Formula One legend.
    Gina wrote: “Happy Birthday Papa! throwback to one of many of our adventures.”
    Schumacher’s 24-year-old son Mick also wished his dad happy birthday on the social media platform.
    He posted a snap of them both wearing helmets, with a young Mick smiling and holding his thumb up as Michael looks lovingly towards him. 
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    Mick wrote in the captions: “Happy birthday to the best Dad ever. Love you!”
    Schumacher’s ex-Formula One team Mercedes also wished him in his birthday – and urged the German racer to “keep fighting”.
    Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the official Mercedes account wrote: “Happy Birthday, Michael. Today marks the @F1 legend’s 55th birthday. #KeepFightingMichael.”
    Attached was a photo of Schumacher celebrating in Mercedes-clad gear and standing in front of one of his former cars.
    Despite rare glimpses into his health offering little reason for optimism, the world of motorsport still holds the legendary German close to its hearts.
    December 29 marked a full decade since Schumacher crashed while skiing in the French Alps, with his family sharing an agonising message
    The Keep Fighting Foundation, founded and run by Schumacher’s family urged the “inspiration” to keep going.
    But health updates continue to be few and far between, leaving room for speculation and conflicting reports from “insiders” about his slow progress.
    Read more on The Sun
    Schumacher’s ex-Ferrari rival, Rubens Barrichello, even revealed the time he was denied a visit to the F1 legend after his fateful accident.
    Speaking to Flow Podcast in his native Brazil, Barrichello said he tried visiting his former teammate after the accident, but was declined after getting a call from Schuey’s team.
    Mercedes have urged Schumacher to ‘keep fighting’ as he celebrates his 55th birthday
    The German has been recovering from a tragic skiing accident for the past decadeCredit: AFP More

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    Shocking moment young Raith Rovers fan is punched & stamped on in horror attack by Dunfermline thugs after match

    THIS is the shocking moment a young football fan is punched and stamped on by thugs on his way home from a match. The young Raith Rovers supporter, 18, was at a bus stop waiting to go home after their 2-1 win over Dunfermline when the horror attack happened last night at around 5.30pm.
    A group of thugs attacked a fan after the Dunfermline v Raith Rovers match
    The video was shared on social media following the horror attack
    The game took place at East End Park last nightCredit: The Sun
    The lad was pounced upon by a gang of thugs – understood to be Pars fans – and brutally battered in the street.
    The horrific video was shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, and shows the group punching and kicking the young fan while he is lying on the ground.
    As he finally gets to his feet, he is then kicked again and some members of the group can be heard laughing.
    It’s understood the fan’s hearing aid was also broken after the horror attack.

    Police confirmed that the 18-year-old was taken to Victoria Hospital for treatment.
    Both clubs have since released statements blasting the ugly scenes after the match.
    Dunfermline Athletic confirmed they are aware of the video circulating on social media and said the club condemns all forms of violence.
    And any supporter found to have taken part in the attack will be banned from East End Park.
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    The statement read: “Dunfermline Athletic are aware of a video circulating on social media last night.
    “The club condemns all forms of violence in the strongest possible way and we will support the authorities in identifying any individuals involved.
    “We will work with Raith Rovers to ensure that the supporter involved receives the support they need.
    “Any supporter found to have taken part in this horrible act will be banned from KDM Group East End Park.”
    Last night, Raith Rovers posted their statement on social media which read: “We are aware of an incident involving one of our supporters being assaulted after today’s match.
    “We have contacted the supporter to check on their well-being and to see how we can provide support in any way possible.
    “The incident has been reported to the police and we will work with Dunfermline Athletic to identify the offenders.”
    The Scottish Championship tie took place last night at the KDM Group East End Park in Dunfermline.
    Raith Rovers won the game 2-1 with two goals from Daniel O’Reilly.
    The Kirkcaldy side stay top of the league following the win over their rivals.
    Inspector Neil McGurk said: “We are carrying out enquiries after an 18-year-old man was assaulted in Dunfermline around 5.30pm on Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 following the Dunfermline Athletic v Raith Rovers football fixture.  
    Read more on The Sun
    “He was taken to Victoria Hospital for treatment.
    “We would appeal to anyone who witnessed the assault to get in touch with Police Scotland on 101. This type of behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We will work with both football clubs to identify those responsible”.  More

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    Lewis Hamilton fuels fresh dating rumours as he parties with Kanye West’s model ex Juliana Nalu after ‘Shakira fling’

    F1 ACE Lewis Hamilton has been spotted relaxing with supermodel Juliana Nalu after jetting to the beauty’s homeland.The pair were snapped partying together yesterday at a pre New Year’s Eve bash in the stunning coastal resort of Transcoso, north-east of Brazil.
    Lewis Hamilton was spotted relaxing with supermodel Juliana Nalu yesterdayCredit: Twitter/@fastpitstop
    The pair were seen at a pre New Year’s Eve bash in Transcoso, north-east of BrazilCredit: Twitter/@LewisHamiltonBR
    Fans convinced Lewis Hamilton is dating stunning Kanye West’s busty ex Juliana Nalu after hot tub snap emergedCredit: Instagram
    Fans later posted photos of Hamilton and Rio de Janeiro-born Juliana at a swish restaurant in the hippie chic destination.
    The model – who has dated Kanye West -has been romantically linked on and off to the racing driver for some time.
    Videos published on social media showed the 38-year-old sportsman, who was also previously rumoured to be getting close to Shakira, in a designer shirt and baseball cap in front of 25-year-old Juliana.
    Local reports said Hamilton had been surrounded by bodyguards but seemed happy and greeted well-wishers with a broad smile.
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    Juliana, who made an appearance at the Miami Grand Prix paddock in May where Hamilton was competing, set tongues wagging in a partly-see-through black dress.
    The Brazilian beauty was first described as Lewis’ “new girlfriend” at the start of the year when F1 fans claimed she was the woman pictured next to him as he relaxed in a hot-tub in the Antarctic with former Olympic snowboarder Shaun White.
    Only part of the top half of her body including her arm was visible in the snap Shaun posted on social media, but it was enough to get Hamilton’s followers identifying the mystery female as Kanye West’s ex.
    Speaking about White and Hamilton, one person said: “Of course he’s on the same boat. Check Shaun White’s Insta, they’re in the hot tub and a girl (Juliana Nalu?) in Lewis’ arms.”
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    Another added: “JULIANA NALU WITH LEWIS HAMILTON, REALLY???”
    A third said: “Juliana Nalu with Lewis Hamilton. LOL this darling is too good.”
    A fourth replied: “The Hamilton descent can be Brazilian and it only depends on Juliana Nalu.”
    Hamilton became an honorary citizen of Brazil in November last year.
    Congressman Andre Figueiredo had first made the suggestion after the Brit won the Brazilian Grand Prix for a third time at Interlagos.
    Hamilton, who was a huge admirer of Brazilian racing icon Ayrton Senna when he was growing up, carried a green and yellow Brazilian flag on his victory lap and at the podium to celebrate with local fans.
    In his last visit to the country last month for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, he said he would return to the South American country at the end of the season.
    Beyonce shot part of her Blue video in Trancoso and her sister Solange spent her honeymoon there.
    American broadcast journalist Anderson Cooper is a also regular visitor.
    The town has also attracted the likes of Naomi Campbell, Matthew McConaughey, Gisele Bunchen and Leonardo di Caprio.
    Juliana Nalu reportedly split with rapper Kanye West in December last year after only two short months of dating.
    Read more on The Sun
    She confirmed she was single on social media on December 5 2022 in answer to a question from a fan.
    The former couple were first rumoured to be romantically linked after they were spotted out in New York in October 2022.
    Dating rumours were sparked after Hamilton fans identified the model from her arm
    Juliana Nalu is Kanye West’s exCredit: Instagram More

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    Jake Paul told how to get world title fight after YouTube star announces boxing return following Andre August KO

    JAKE PAUL has been told his change in boxing trajectory puts him on the path to challenging for a world title. The YouTuber-turned-boxer started out his career beating stars of the social media, basketball and MMA world.
    Jake Paul knocked out Andre August in one roundCredit: Most Valuable Promotions/Esther Lin

    But when he stepped up to fight unbeaten boxer Tommy Fury, 24, in February, he was beaten by split-decision in Saudi Arabia.
    He bounced back in August on points against UFC veteran Nate Diaz, 38, but it would be the last time Paul, 26, took on a non boxer.
    Paul returned against little-known 10-1-1 Andre August, 35, and knocked out the seasoned American in the first round.
    Now the American is set to return on March 2 in Puerto Rico on the undercard of Amanda Serrano’s homecoming bout.
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    No opponent has been named but all signs point towards another traditional boxer as Paul looks to build real credibility in the ring.
    Muhammad Ali’s grandson Nico – a 9-1 middleweight – has been left impressed by Paul’s change of lane.
    Nico, 23, told SunSport: “I give him a ton of respect. His last fight he fought a legitimate boxer, a no-name boxer and I heard he did well.
    “That’s what it’s going to take to get to contender status, to get to champ status, to get to a title fight.
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    “It’s going to take fighting someone that nobody knows about, not making any money from it.
    “Just building your resume and then just fighting for millions one day.”
    Nico – whose last fight was documented in an OnlyFans series called Rise & Grind – has been linked with a crossover-style spectacle bout against Paul in the past.
    But he has no interest in stepping into that realm – such is the admiration he has for his legendary grandfather.
    Nico said: “I have so much respect for this legacy, it’s bigger than me. I can’t be selfish with it because a lot of people care for it. 
    “Just going to Africa and seeing so many people chant, “Ali” just for the love and respect they have for my grandfather was crazy. 
    “So, this legacy is bigger than me. I can’t be greedy and be like, ‘I’m going to do a money-grab and start fighting YouTubers.’ 
    “That’s insane, I didn’t get into boxing for the money. I think the money will come in time and I love what I’m doing right now, taking the long road. 
    Read more on The Sun
    “I want to be champ one day, I want to get to that undisputed level and you can’t do that fighting YouTubers.” 
    *Nico’s episode of “Rise & Grind” is now available to watch on OFTV.
    Nico Ali Walsh is the grandson to Muhammad AliCredit: AP More

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    Premier League star Mario Lemina heartbroken after death of his dad as Wolves team-mates honour him in Everton game

    WOLVES paid tribute to Mario Lemina’s dad following the announcement of his tragic death this afternoon.The club broke the heartbreaking news on social media today.
    Wolves players held up Mario Lemina’s shirt during their match against EvertonCredit: Reuters
    The midfielder paid tribute to his dad on SundayCredit: Getty
    A statement read: “Our hearts go out to Mario Lemina after the passing of his father yesterday morning.
    “The whole pack send their love and sympathy to Mario and his family.
    “Mario’s teammates will wear black armbands today in honour of his father’s memory.”
    Wolves faced Everton in the Premier League this afternoon and paid tribute to Lemina’s dad by wearing black armbands and holding up the midfielder’s shirt during the game.
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    In response to the news, a tweet from the Toffees read: “Incredibly sad news. Our thoughts are with Mario and his family during this time.”
    Lemina dedicated his goal and man-of-the-match performance against Chelsea to his dad on Christmas Eve.
    In a post-match interview, the midfielder revealed that his father was in hospital surrounded by family.
    He told Sky Sports: “By the way I wanted to pass a message to my dad. He is in hospital, for two months now.
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    “He is struggling a lot and my family are around him now. I wanted to be with him, but I need to do my work. Dad – Keep pushing! We are all together.”
    Lemina travelled to France after Sunday’s game to be with his dad over the Christmas period.
    Wolves boss Gary O’Neil revealed on Friday that he was attending a “family issue”.
    O’Neil said: “Mario has gone back to France to attend a family issue, I don’t want to speak about it too much as it’s not my place.
    “Mario didn’t train today and that’s all I can say on it.
    “Around tomorrow it’s too early to say, my only thoughts are with Mario and what he needs at this moment.
    “Some things are more important than football matches.”
    Wolves currently sit 11th in the Premier League table with 25 points from 19 games. More

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    Pep Guardiola warns Man City stars criminals are watching them on social media after £1m raid on Jack Grealish’s house

    MAN City boss Pep Guardiola yesterday told his mega-wealthy stars they are always being watched on social media — so the “less the criminals know, the better”.He urged players not to flaunt their wealth online after we revealed raiders terrified Jack Grealish’s family at his new mansion.
    Concerned manager Pep Guardiola has warned players not to flaunt their wealth after a break-in at Jack Grealish’s homeCredit: Getty
    Jack, 28, and stunning influencer fiancée Sasha Attwood have been left devastated by the raidCredit: Instagram
    The City manager said they should share “not so much on social media — the less they know what you are doing the better. People are waiting. Waiting to see where you are”.
    Grealish’s partner Sasha Attwood and up to ten relatives were at his £5.6million Cheshire home on Wednesday night when they heard burglars upstairs.
    They pressed a panic alarm before the raiders fled with £1million of watches and gems, despite extensive perimeter fencing and security.
    Grealish, 28, who was playing away at Everton, had only just moved in to the property.
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    On Christmas Day he and Sasha posted a festive photo with their dog Skye, shared with more than 10 million followers.
    The England winger also posted a picture of a dining table with a Christmas Day menu.
    The Sun can reveal that detectives are speaking to the team that installed the security system at his home.
    The ordeal has also left model and influencer Sasha, 27, “absolutely devastated”.
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    Guardiola said his £100million man, expected to play today against Sheffield United, will find it “tough to process”. He added: “It is what it is today in the modern world.
    “Yes it was a bad moment for him and his family but, fortunately, the family was not hurt.”
    Guardiola compared it to the 2021 ordeal suffered by City’s defender Joao Cancelo, now on loan at Barcelona.
    The player was battered after confronting four raiders who broke into his home in Hale, Greater Manchester, while he was there with his family.
    The Spanish boss said of the spate of break-ins: “It has ­happened to Manchester United players as well. I don’t know much about London but it’s happened there.
    “They have security. But unfortunately it’s happened — it’s happened many times.
    “In the UK, in Catalonia where my family lives, many things happen. Today you have to be careful, definitely.
    “Unfortunately it happened with Joao Cancelo, which was so scary because the family was being attacked.
    “Jewellery, money, whatever — it’s tough — but the family being there is tough to process for Jack, as it was with Joao.”
    Read more on The Sun
    Last year, then-City winger Riyad Mahrez had £500,000 of items stolen from his Manchester pad, including watches he had posted pictures of on social media.
    Cheshire Police are appealing for info on the latest break-in.
    Jack and Sasha had spent Christmas together at home with their dogCredit: Instagram
    Jack had posted an image to social media of his festive dining tableCredit:
    He had also shared a Christmas Day dinner menu on InstagramCredit: Instagram
    Guardiola has warned his players not to share details of their personal lives onlineCredit: Getty
    Former City defender Joao Cancelo was assaulted in his own home in 2021Credit: Instagram @jpcancelo More