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    How Jesse Lingard has bounced back with move to South Korea by embracing Asian culture and releasing a rap song

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    MANY British footballers keep to themselves and refuse to embrace local culture when they move abroad.But not Jesse Lingard. The former Man Utd midfielder was released by Nottingham Forest in 2023, after an underwhelming time at the City Ground.Jesse Lingard is living his best life in South Korea playing for FC SeoulCredit: RexEx-Man Utd star Lingard shares his culinary experiences like eating Korean BBQ onlineCredit: InstagramBy embracing local culture, Lingard has made himself a fan favouriteCredit: InstagramHe was stuck in a football free agent’s abyss, until he surprisingly moved to South Korean side FC Seoul in February 2024 on a two-year deal – taking a huge pay cut on £17,500-per-week. At Forest, he was was earning a whopping £180,000-per-week.Although it was a tough start professionally, with coach Kim Gi-dong publicly criticising him for his fitness and a subsequent knee injury ruling him of action early on in his career, he soon won over the fans.However, it isn’t just Lingard’s football skills that have scored him admirers in The Land of Han.The midfielder has immersed himself in Asian culture – not just indulging in Korean BBQ – but also releasing music.read more football newsWhile, his epic social media posts – in partnership with CGI firm Vertex – have made him and the K League appear cool, as well as drawn millions of eyes through social media to his experience.Asian football expert and author John Duerden has seen first hand the impact Lingard has had from his home in Seoul.He told SunSport: “Not many foreign players make the national news in South Korea for actions on and off the pitch but Jesse Lingard has not been any normal signing.”For a start, he is the biggest name import to play in the 42-year-old K League and, therefore, has had more expectations and pressure than others.Most read in Football”In the early days, it looked as if it wasn’t going to happen at FC Seoul, one of the country’s big clubs that has struggled a little in recent years.Watch Jesse Lingard score screamer as former Man Utd star proves he’s still got it in South Korean league “He took time to settle, leading to a rebuke, of sorts, from the coach but most don’t appreciate how big a cultural difference there is between South Korea and the UK both on and off the pitch.”Just take the weather, absolutely freezing in winter and very hot and very humid in the summer and then there is the rainy season.”Culture clubLingard adapted. After all, he would have been use to a rainy day or two in Manchester, so that wouldn’t have hurt.But, he seemed particularly enamoured with the local culture and has brought cool to a country that is producing award-winning TV in shows like Squid Game.No sooner had he made the move to the Far East, he was sharing his dining experiences on Instagram to his nine million followers.Lingard then realised there was a market for a video diary of his career in South Korea, and he rebooted his YouTube channel last year.On there, and on his Instagram, he has shared his epic lifestyle. From cruising on a boat to making music and creating epic CGI clips.One of those clips dropped in December shows ‘J Lingz’ performing some kick ups, before volleying a ball into the sky towards a ribbon that drops a sheet to reveal a gold statue of his famous J-L hand celebration.Another sees the ex-Three Lions winger show off his dance moves, before Moonwalking out of shot.Before the end of the year, Lingard revealed his single KamsahamnidaA CGI viral video Lingard uploaded to Instagram in December has been watch 4.5 million timesIn another clip, Lingard can be seen showing off his dance movesread more sport featuresThe former has been liked almost 4.5 million times, while the latter has drawn almost 240,000 likes since it was uploaded in November.Lingard even found time to release his first rap single before the end of last year.Kamsahamnida, which means ‘thank you’ in Korean, was well received by his fans and is incredibly catchy.Duerden explained: “It is off the pitch though that Lingard has been different to any signing in the past.”His music single Kamsahamnida was a surprise but his CGI video, released in December, attracted hundreds of millions of clicks, went down very well in Korea and made national news.”Usual interactions with foreign players have usually not progressed much past questions such as ‘do you like kimchi?’ Or ‘how good is Son Heung-min?’ and comments about chopstick wielding competence. “This is not something that has happened in the K-League before, it is a competition that is solid but seen by many, at home and abroad, as lacking a little in the excitement and coolness stakes.”Officials at Seoul and at league headquarters were delighted. Lingard may not rival some of the megastars in Saudi Arabia in terms of talent and achievements, but he has brought a certain coolness and street cred that wasn’t really thought about when Seoul decided to try and sign him.”It helps that he is here at a time when there is huge global interest in Korean music, food, television, beauty products, fashion, technology and movies and getting involved in that culture is always going to go down well.”Too many foreign players stay in their bubbles and rarely experience, let alone embrace, the culture. Lingard has shown what can be done. Like anywhere, the more you put in, the more you get out.”Lingard has been credited with bringing cool to the K LeagueWhile on his YouTube channel, Lingard has shown he’s not afraid to try new experiencesPlaying in the K LeagueIn terms of his football, Lingard is clearly loving life on and off the pitch.After scoring his first goal of the season, with the K-League running from February to November, he performed FIVE goal celebrations in the 2-1 win over Anyang.Lingard’s popularity is bigger than ever, but it’s a tough league to adapt to.Duerden explained: “Few coaches speak English and they have historically tended to be quite conservative tactically, liking to counter-attack and players who work hard, run hard and listen well.”The league is of a good standard, physical and fast but you have to work for goals and games often only open up in the latter stages. “The average league attendance was 11,000 last season but with Lingard Seoul attracted over 27,000.”The K League does not have the same central place in Korean culture as the Premier League in England but those that go are often hugely passionate and will support their players through thick and thin, if they give their all on the pitch.Lingard arrived in Asia to much fan fare and took a pay cutCredit: APEx-England star Lingard suffered a set back when he required knee surgery last yearCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/C57gyVmtuXw/?img_index=2Lingard scored his first goal of the season last weekendCredit: Rex”There is no doubt that Lingard has done this and his performances have improved. Being made captain in June and then officially getting the nod ahead of his second season was a reflection of that. Seoul coach Kim Gi-dong is not the type to hand out the armband on a whim.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The new season has started well with a goal in the first home game in front of 40,000 fans.  “It looks as if there is more to come.” More

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      Jose Mourinho’s most controversial moments, from poking a rival coach in the eye to handbags with Arsene Wenger

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      CONTROVERSY has seemed to follow Jose Mourinho throughout his career.The Special One is currently causing a stir in Turkey, where he coaches Fenerbahce.Jose Mourinho is in hot water at Fenerbahce after being accused of racismCredit: GettyMourinho has courted plenty of controversy over the years, including his respect rantFollowing a 0-0 draw with fierce rivals Galatasaray, the Portuguese tactician has been accused of making “racist statements”.Former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss Mourinho claimed after the stalemate that Galatasaray had tried to get one of his team booked early on.He told a press conference that “everyone on the opposing bench was jumping around like monkeys”.However, Galatasaray have now hit back – vowing to file a criminal complaint against the two-time Champions League winner.Read more football news It’s the latest of a long list of controversial moments that have featured Mourinho.SunSport wades through some of those below.”Respect”During a press conference in the 2018-19 season, Mourinho took umbrage to journalist’s questions following a 3-0 defeat for his Manchester United said.Holding up three fingers, Mourinho said: “What was the result? 3-0? You know what this means? 3-0.Most read in Football”But it also means three Premierships, and I’ve won more Premierships alone than the other 19 managers together. Three for me, and two for them.”‘I’m not Kurt Zouma’ – Jose Mourinho makes outrageous outburst when asked if he prefers dogs or catsHe then got out of seat, gesturing the media to calm down with the palm of his hand, before repeatedly saying ‘respect, respect man’.Fracas with WengerMourinho and Wenger already had previous, when the then Chelsea boss called the French manager a “specialist in failure”.However, handbags were flying when the legendary Arsenal manager entered his rival’s technical area and gave him a shove and angry words were exchanged.After the game, Wenger explained: “I wanted to go from A to B, and somebody confronted me before B without any sign of welcome.”Honestly, I don’t listen to what he says. Push him? You would know if I really tried to push. Come on.”Mourinho and Arsene Wenger had a tempestuous relationshipCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe pair got into a shoving match during a Chelsea vs Arsenal gameCredit: GettyWearing a wireThe conspiracy theories were really getting to Mourinho during his spell at Roma.He was convinced referees had it in for him during the 2022-2023 season, a campaign which saw him receive three red cards on the touchline.So, in true Mourinho form, he did what he could to protect himself. He became an informant and wore a wire.He revealed: “I’m not stupid, you know. Today, I went to the game with a microphone. I recorded everything. From the moment I left the locker room, to the moment I returned. I protected myself.”Mourinho lost confidence in Italian refs so he started wearing a wire to record their conversationsCredit: GettyMore touchline shenanigansWhen Mourinho revisited Stamford Bridge with his Man Utd team, it took his team to hold him back as he looked for a fight.To be fair to Jose, he was wound up by Chelsea’s coach Marco Ianni celebrating a late equaliser in front of him by the dugouts.Stewards, Phil Neville, and other Red Devils staff members had to hold him back as he tried to race down the tunnel to confront the Italian.Afterwards, Ianni and Maurizio Sarri offered their apologies.When coaching Man Utd, Mourinho was taunted by Chelsea coach Marco IanniCredit: ReutersMourinho tried to race down the tunnel to confront the Italian coachCredit: Sky SportsHiding in a laundry basketIn his first season in the Prem at Chelsea, Mourinho was handed a touchline ban for the Champions League quarter-final clash with Bayern Munich.But, there was no way he was going to let that get in the way of entering the dressing room to talk to his team.He told Sky Sports years later: “I go to the dressing room during the day so I was there from midday and the game is seven o’clock. I just want to be in the dressing room when the players arrive.”I went there and nobody saw me. The problem was to leave after. And Stewart Bannister the kit man put me in the basket. It was a little bit open so I could breathe.”But when he is taking it outside the dressing room, the UEFA guys were following and desperate to find me so he closed the box and I couldn’t breathe.”When he opened the box I was dying! I am serious! I was claustrophobic, I promise! It’s true.”After receiving a ban, Mourinho hid in a basket to speak with his team in the dressing roomCredit: GettyNo questions, pleaseOften, you can strike gold with Mourinho at press conferences – because of his wit, charm, and no-holds-barred comments.But, on this occasion, he chose to say nothing.It was a press conference that lasted just 10 seconds, when Man Utd’s press officer asked waiting journalists if they had any questions following the final league game of the 2016-2017 season.Now most of the written press weren’t in the room at this time, with Jose arriving before them.With the handful that were in the room hesitant, Mourinho took it upon himself to say “good” before marching off.Mourinho often gave journalists gold during press conferencesCredit: Getty – ContributorAssault on Tito VillanovaDuring his Real Madrid years Mourinho was especially spiky.And it was fierce rivals Barcelona, who irked him the most, with things coming to a head in El Clasico.After the game, Mourinho poked Pep Guardiola’s then-assistant Tito Villanova in the eye in an unprovoked attack and wandered off.Barcelona didn’t make an official complaint. However, the club said: “The public have given their opinion. They are very clear that what this person did wasn’t right. The (Spanish football) federation will act if they want to.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThey did, they gave Jose a two-game ban, which was later rescinded in a general amnesty on suspensions across Spanish football.Mourinho apologised a year later and has always continued to express his sorrow for the incident.Mourinho famously poked Tito Villanova in the eye following an El Clasico match More

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      Inside Man City star Erling Haaland’s car collection, from a £350k Aston Martin to a Porsche 911 GT3 worth £160k

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      MAN City star Erling Haaland has collected a fleet of astonishing motors over the years.The Norwegian star, 24, recently inked a new deal at the Etihad – earning him a whopping £500,000-per-week.Erling Haaland boasts an amazing car collectionHaaland has a stunning Porsche 911 GT3 worth £160k in his garageCredit: Supplied
      It’s a salary that allows the Cityzens’ top scorer to live a life of luxury.One of his favourite pastimes is adding to his extensive garage.Since his pay rise, Haaland has splashed the cash on two incredible new motors.In the past week, the poacher has been seen driving into City’s training ground in a stunning Porsche 911 GT3 worth around £160,000.Read more on Erling HaalandThen, just a few days later, he rocked up in a Aston Martin DBX 707 that carries a price tag of £350,000, as he left Manchester Airport.But those two stunners are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to his car collection.Join SunSport in marvelling at what Haaland enjoys to drive.Porshe 911 GT3, £160,000No sooner had he put pen to paper on his 10-year bumper contract, Haaland was seen with a flashy new set of wheels.Most read in FootballThe bold orange colour of his 911 GT3 certainly made him stand out from the crowd as autograph hunters waited for signatures outside City’s Etihad Campus.Erling Haaland falls down in training as Man City prepare for Real Madrid clash It’s one of Porsche’s greatest ever cars – since its release in 2017.Incredibly, it’s super-fast and is able to crush 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds.Aston Martin DBX 707, £350,000Upon returning to our shores, following a Champions League humbling by Real Madrid in the Champions League, Haaland was seen leaving Manchester Airport in ANOTHER new car.This time, it was a lime green Aston Martin DBX 707 – better known as a special edition Formula 1 safety car. It was the world’s most powerful SUV – producing 715bhp – until the Ferrari Purosangue came along.It’s no slouch, either, capable of hitting 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds.Aston Martin’s timeless DBX 707 is famously used by F1 as a safety carCredit: Aston MartinIt can reach 0-60 mph in an impressive 3.3 secondsCredit: Aston MartinRolls-Royce Cullinan, £300,000Costing a mega £300,000, Haaland’s also got himself a luxury Roller.The Cullinan is a favourite among sports stars, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Andy Ruiz Jr owning one.It is a giant of a car, reaching 5.3m long, 2.1m wide and 1.8m tall.But that’s not to say the 2.6 tonne Cullinan lacks any power.Its 6.75-litre twin turbo V12 engine means the giant motor is still capable of hitting 62mph in five seconds with a top speed of 155mph.The Rolls-Royce Cullinan is one of the most expensive in Haaland’s car collectionCredit: Gettyread more sport featuresRange Rover Sport, £120,000Another stereotypically footballer’s car, Haaland’s Range Rover Sport is top of the range.It features massage electric memory seats and a Meridian sound system.Back in 2018, it was the most leased car by Premier League stars.A quick glance at Man Utd’s Carrington training ground car park and you will see tons of them.Incredibly, it can manage 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 176 mph.Haaland has been seen behind the wheel of footballer’s favourite – Range Rover SportCredit: GettyAudi RS6 Avant, £120,000The RS6 is Haaland’s go-to.When he played in Germany for Borussia Dortmund, he had a red one.Now he’s playing for Man City, he’s been spotted cruising around the city in a ridiculously trendy Carbon Black performance model.A zippy vehicle, it’s capable of reaching 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.The Audi RS 6 Avant costs £120,000Credit: AlamyMercedes-AMG GLE Coupe, £90,000Just because it is the cheapest in Haaland’s fleet, it doesn’t mean it is the worst.This leg roomy Mercedes is the height of luxury in the SUV world.At 6ft4in, the forward needs to feel comfy – and with the GLE Couple he’s found his everyday runner.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt’s a car Haaland often takes to and from training every day.And he won’t be late considering it manages 0-60 in 5.2 seconds.A £90,000 Mercedes AMG GLE 63 Coupe is the cheapest car in Haaland’s car collectionCredit: Alamy More

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      Meet the Wags of the ‘Greatest Ever Fight Card’, from a Brazilian psychologist to a US rap star

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      IT’S the greatest fight card in history – and it’s coming this Saturday.Boxing’s finest have descended upon Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for a series of eagerly anticipated bouts.Meet the Wags cheering on the fighters on the greatest ever fight cardBrit star Josh Padley poses with fianceé Sylvana EmilioBrazilian beauty Raissa Fox is the rumoured girlfriend of Daniel DuboisTop of the bill is Artur Beterbiev’s rematch with Dmitry Bivol.While Daniel Dubois’ heavyweight encounter with Joseph Parker promises to be equally as intriguing.Belts are on the line, including the IBF heavyweight and WBC middleweight titles.The action is sure to bring a star-studded crowd to the Middle East.Read more boxing newsThat will include the boxers’ Wags, who will be cheering on their partners in the ring.From a Brazilian psychologist to a US rapper, SunSport invites you to meet them below…Raissa FoxBrazilian stunner Raissa is the reported girlfriend of the very private Daniel Dubois.Ahead of the Anthony Joshua fight, the British heavyweight slugger shared a picture of the pair together – captioning the snap: “Brazilian queen.”Most read in BoxingHowever, he deleted it soon and has since remained coy about his relationship status.Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis WilliamsBased in London, Raissa is a trained psychologist who has over 300,000 followers on Instagram.According to reports, the brunette beauty is expecting a baby.Laine TavitaJoseph Parker and Laine have been in a long-term relationship for more than a decade.They haven’t revealed whether they are married but Parker often refers to Laine as his wife on social media.The couple have been together since they were teenagers and initially crossed paths during their high school days at Auckland Marcellin College.The pair are parents to four daughters, with their first being born in 2016.Her professional status is unknown.Laine Tavita is the longterm partner of Joseph ParkerCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresYoung LyricShakur Stevenson, in the ultimate show of love, proposed to his rapper missus Young Lyric after he defeated Oscar Valdez in 2022.Stevenson dropped to one knee in the ring before giving her a sparkler, much to the singer’s surprise.Young Lyric, real name Michelle Ragston, made her name on reality TV hit The Rap Game, which was produced by Queen Latifah and Jermaine Dupri.The pair have a daughter together called Leilani.Rapper Young Lyric, real name Michelle Ragston, earned fame from reality TV in the USShakur Stevenson and Young Lyric share a daughter togetherCredit: InstagramRomantic Stevenson dropped to one knee to propose to Young Lyric in 2022Credit: GettySylvana EmilioSylvana is very much in the Team Padley camp as the fianceé of Josh Padley.The pair got engaged last year and often share loved up snaps together.Gorgeous Brazilian Sylvana enjoys a glam lifestyle, sharing fancy holidays to Dubai and Marbella.She is usually present to cheer Josh at his fights.Sylvana Emilio shares her glam lifestyle on social media to her followersThe Brazilian beauty will be cheering Josh Padley on in RiyadhKimberly LoveIn Callum Smith’s corner is Kimberly.They are believed to have been together for over a decade.They are said to have met when they went on holiday with pals, although that has never been confirmed.Kimberly keeps her personal life private, so very little is known about her.However, they do share two children together – a daughter called Alba and boy named River.Kimberley Love, in Callum Smith’s corner, prefers to keep a low profileReports suggest Kimberly and Smith have been together for over a decadeThe one that got awayPotentially watching proceedings between Beterbiev and Bivol will be the latter’s ex-wife, Ekaterina.The pair were together for 10 years before splitting up after accusations of domestic abuse.She has since complained that Bivol is financially neglecting their kids by paying just $1,100 per month for their two boys.READ MORE SUN STORIESEkaterina stunned the boxing world last year when she took to social media to celebrate Beterbiev’s win over her ex-husband.Will history repeat itself?Dubois vs Parker: Ring walk, TV channel and full card – everything you need to know for the massive heavyweight title fightFirebrand Ekaterina is Dmitry Bivol’s ex-wifeThe pair split up after accusations of domestic abuseLast year, Ekaterina celebrated Bivol’s loss to Beterbiev More

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      Inside Cristiano Ronaldo’s £61million private jet that boasts 4K HD TVs, leather seats and a Rolls-Royce engine

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      WHEN you’re a high flyer like Cristiano Ronaldo, you need a private jet to support your lifestyle.The Portugal legend, 40, added the flashy Bombardier Global Express 6500 to his list of means of transport last year.Cristiano Ronaldo has a new jet worth £61mCredit: Instagram @cristianoThe personalised jet is currently awaiting repairs at Manchester AirportCredit: X @manairportThe Bombardier Global Express 6500 is the height of luxury when it comes to private jetsCredit: bombardierAnd the super plane would have cost him a pretty penny – with his customised version costing around £61million.It recently touched down at Manchester Airport, although reasons are unclear.However, it won’t be leaving our shores any time soon – with reports that engineers spotted a cracked window, which will need to be fixed.That’ll be a blow to Ronaldo, missus Georgina Rodriguez, and their brood – who will have to make-do without their preferred transport for travel.Most read in FootballA glance at their social media shows they are often on board the incredible jet.SunSport takes a look inside, while telling you about its incredible features.A jet like no otherThe first thing that stands out about Ronaldo’s sensational jet is you can use for long haul.Astonishingly, it can fly for more than 18 hours without having to refuel.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt’s able to provide an impressive range of 6,600 miles, so you can fly to Hong Kong to London non-stop.Or, in this case, from Riyadh to Manchester which is around 2,800 miles.Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on ‘f—ing clueless’ coaches he’s played for, Messi relationship and calls himself the GOATPowered by a Rolls-Royce engine, it reaches up to speeds of Mach 0.90.The Global Express 6500 is a smooth ride – thanks to the patented Smooth Flex Wing, which works as an in-shock absorber to help contain turbulence.ComfortRonaldo’s jet has several suites passengers can take advantage of.The entrance and crew suite features a luxurious kitchen equipped with an oven, microwave, and even an espresso/coffee machine.,The communal bathroom features a large mirror, vanity, sink and faucet.So Ronaldo and Georgina don’t get any creases in their clothes, they have a spacious wardrobe for their personal items.Separate from the crew suite is the conference suite, that has a height adjustable table, as well as a dresser.A fully equipped kitchen features an oven and microwaveCredit: bombardierthe private suite allows VIPS to relax in styleCredit: bombardierGeorgina Rodriguez poses in a private suite of a jet with her luggageCredit: georginagio/InstagramBathroom are plush on board the Global Express 6500Credit: bombardierThe patented Nuage zero-gravity seats offer ultimate comfortread more sport featuresThe private suite has patented Nuage zero-gravity seats that allow Ronaldo and his Wag the opportunity to sit back and relax for their flight.While there’s a separate en-suite that has another fully-equipped bathroom, large wardrobe and a separate baggage compartment.EntertainmentFor those long journeys, in-flight entertainment is a must – and luckily for Ronaldo and his family the Global Express 6500 is well-covered in that respect.First, there’s 4K UKHD TV’s to marvel over if you want to watch some movies.High-speed internet is a given, while there is wireless music streaming capability throughout the cabin.READ MORE SUN STORIESA conference room allows for fine dining on boardCredit: bombardier4K HD TV’s decorate the private jetCredit: bombardierGeorgina Rodriguez has everything she needs onboard to stay entertainedCredit: Instagram @cristianoShould your electronics be light on battery, there’s wireless charging ports too.There will be nothing to bore the Ronaldo clan on this one. More

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      Inside Jake Paul’s amazing body transformation, from scrawny YouTuber to beefy boxing heavyweight

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      JAKE PAUL has taken the boxing world by storm after literally transforming into a heavyweight star in just a few years.The social media motormouth began his journey in the sport in 2018 in a white-collar match against English YouTuber Deji Olatunji.Jake Paul, right, seen with brother Logan in 2016, when he cut a slimmer figureCredit: Getty – ContributorFor Paul’s debut fight in 2018 he weighed just 181lbCredit: ReutersIn 2019, Paul shows off his smaller frame before embarking on a pro boxing careerCredit: Getty – ContributorIn 2020, he competed in his first professional fight against AnEsonGib.While the only blemish on his record is defeat to Tommy Fury in 2023.Last year, he fought Mike Tyson that streamed live on Netflix to 100million viewers – winning by a unanimous decision.It means he boasts a very credible 11-1 record since he began his journey.Read more Jake Paul newsThe Jake that started this quest has also undergone an incredible body transformation.From skinny YouTuber to a heavyweight Goliath, here’s how Paul has changed through the years.Making his debutIn 2018, Paul defeated fellow influencer and KSI’s brother Olatunji by technical knockout in the 5th round.But, he cut a far leaner figure then.Most read in BoxingThe 6ft 1in fighter reportedly weighed in at around 181 pounds – and was a lean, mean, fighting machine.Jake Paul renovates boxing gym in Puerto Rico for charityThat fight in Manchester was the lowest he’s ever weighed.Heavier specimenTwo years later, Paul returned to the ring for his first pro fight against AnEsonGib.It was a cruiserweight contest, and the American made light work of the friend of the Sidemen – knocking him out in round one in Miami, Florida.It was a bout that lasted barely two minutes.Incredibly, Paul had put on nearly 10 pounds more of muscle – and the picture difference is very evident. He clocked in at 190 pounds.In 2020, Paul was sparring with his brother Logan and began to look leanCredit: Social Media – Refer to SourcePaul celebrates victory against AnEsonGib in his debut pro fightCredit: GettyFound his fighting weightFor his bouts against Tyron Woodley in 2021, Paul kept his weight to that same level he fought AnEsonGib with.Again, he was around the 190 pound mark – slightly heavier than the former UFC champion.Paul was bigger and better than his opponent, utilising his power to beat Woodley twice.Their first fight came to a split decision, while the second was a 6th round knockout.For his bouts against Tyron Woodley, Paul hit the 190 pound mark in weightCredit: GettyComing back downLooking for more agility against Anderson Silva, Paul actually dropped some pounds.He came down to around 186 pounds, the same as Silva – surely with the belief it would give him more speed.And he wasn’t wrong, either.Paul outboxed his rival – winning by unanimous decision.Although he cut a leaner figure, he was certainly as ripped as ever in 2022.Paul was muscular but ripped at 186 pounds in prep to defeat Anderson Silva in 2022Credit: GettyTaking on FuryAstonishingly, Paul came down more for his next fight against Tommy Fury in 2023, when it seemed possible he would bulk up.He was nearer the fighting weight from his debut all the way back in 2018 – this time tipping the scales at around 183 pounds.Again, he was hoping for a more mobile body shape to help him deal with Fury’s speed.It was his first and only loss, by split decision, and it encouraged him to beef up again.In 2023, Paul got down to 183 pounds to face off against Tommy FuryCredit: AFPSlightly heavier for DiazCertainly, Paul was already reaping the benefits of regular gym work in 2023.At this point he was all muscle, and ahead of the taunting of UFC legend Nate Diaz was expected to come in heavier than the MMA fighter.And needless to say he did, weighing in at 185 pounds – although he needed to use a towel to make weight.Diaz weighed exactly the same, which was as heavy as he’s ever been before a fight.Paul was the victor by unanimous decision after 10 hard-fought rounds.Jake Paul gained an extra two pounds before defeating Nate Diaz on points in 2023Credit: Gettyread more sport featuresCareer-highIn 2023, The Problem Child hit a career-high weight before taking on Ryan Bourland.The bout took place in Puerto Rico and lasted just the one round.No surprises that TKO’d his opponent in the opener, given his whopping weight.Weighing at almost 200 pounds, he had plenty of might behind him with every punch.Extensive gym work and a high-protein diet helped him bulk up for the occasion.Paul has worked hard in the gym to gain muscle mass over the yearsCredit: Instagram @mostvaluablepromotionsAgainst Ryan Bourland in 2024, he nearly hit the 200 pound markCredit: Getty’Iron Paul’Last time out, Paul fought Mike Tyson in an epic event on Netflix.He made short work of the much-older competitor, however it did go the distance.Paul was declared victor by unanimous decision back in November.But what was more impressive was his gargantuan size.Incredibly, he came in at 227 pounds – which piuts him safely in the heavyweight category.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat means from 2018 to today, Paul’s had a weight swing of 45 pounds.And doesn’t he look well for it?Today’s Paul, seen before his Mike Tyson fight, is now jacked at 227 poundsCredit: Getty More

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      Forget the hairdryer – Man Utd legend Sir Alex Ferguson’s ferocious reputation masks a heart of gold, say his ex-players

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      SIR Alex Ferguson ruled Manchester United with an iron first, or at least that’s the myth.Fergie, now 83, is widely regarded as the most successful manager of all-time.Sir Alex Ferguson had a reputation of having a fiery temperCredit: RexBut behind the scenes, Fergie was also kind-hearted claim many of his playersCredit: GettyDuring his Red Devils reign he won 13 Premier League titles, and lifted the Champions League twice.Often, it was perceived he struck fear into his teams to perform to the best of their abilities.Roy Keane and David Beckham have admitted to slanging matches with their old boss that resulted in the former leaving Old Trafford and the latter having a loose boot kicked in his face.But, plenty of others have also spoken about how kind-hearted the gaffer was.Read more Man Utd newsFrom former players to even a rival manager, SunSport debunks the hairdryer myth.’Nothing but positives’The great man said it himself.When he was asked if his players were scared of him and his fiery temper, he replied: “I hope not.””There’s a lot of myth attached to that. In training there’s nothing but praise for every player. Nothing but positives.”Most read in FootballSir Alex added: “The hairdryer is part of the myth and the circus. It’s completely exaggerated, like throwing the tea cups.Roy Keane reveals emotional reaction to Man Utd exit after bust-up with Sir Alex Ferguson “But I’m a confrontational character. I don’t like people arguing back to me. I think that’s where the hairdryer treatment came from.”‘He was a football father for me’Sir Alex’s relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo has been well-documented.It can’t be argued that the Scot was the making of the Portuguese superstar.And it was Ronaldo who revealed his former manager had an extremely compassionate side.Speaking on the BBC documentary, Sir Alex Ferguson: Secrets of Success, Ronaldo revealed how Fergie showed great understanding before his father’s death in 2005.”When my dad was sick in London and was in hospital — very bad, in a coma — I had a conversation with [Ferguson],” Ronaldo said. “I said, ‘Boss, I don’t feel good.'”We are in a key moment in the league and the Champions League, but I say, ‘Boss, I don’t feel good. I want to see my dad.'”[He said] ‘Cristiano, you want to go one day, two days, one week, you can go. I’m going to miss you here because you know you are important, but your dad [comes] first.'”When he told me that, I thought, ‘This guy’s unbelievable.'”Cristiano Ronaldo shares a special bond with Sir Alex FergusonCredit: GettyFergie gave Ronaldo compassionate leave before his dad’s deathCredit: AFPRonaldo has referred to Fergie as his ‘Football father’Credit: GettyRonaldo also believes Fergie was the making of himCredit: Gettyread more sport featuresRonaldo also revealed Ferguson’s success on the pitch was aided by the family atmosphere he created at United.”He invites everyone to come for lunch, come for tea… an English cup of tea!” Ronaldo added.”It was a family with him. He was a football father for me.”Ronaldo repeated that sentiment again – reiterating he got to the top thanks to his former coach.”Sir Alex is like a father in football for me,” he said.”He was the main key for me to be in the position that I am, he’s an unbelievable person.”‘He treats me like Ronaldo’Giuseppe Rossi didn’t quite have the career at Old Trafford many of expected of him.But that hasn’t stopped Fergie from reportedly helping the former Italy international out for the striker’s farewell match.Rossi has organised a ceremonial one-off game in Florence on March 22, where Sir Alex could return to the dugout.Ex-United starlet Giuseppe Rossi and Fergie will reportedly reunite for the Italian’s farewell matchCredit: Getty – ContributorRossi revealed even though he didn’t have a stellar career at Old Trafford, his old boss treats him like RonaldoCredit: GettyRossi revealed that Ferguson showed his eternal class by immediately agreeing to help out.The 38-year-old said: “I did little at United but he treats me like Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored 1,000 goals.”Ferguson will be there (at his farewell match) as a coach. He was my first coach, I signed when I was 17.”I only did three years with him and played little, but he immediately said yes and this shows what kind of person he is.”Helping out his rivalsIt’s almost unthinkable to think of Mikel Arteta picking up the phone to check on Pep Guardiola’s well-being after Man City’s recent woes.But, Sir Alex was a different breed, according to former rival David Moyes.”Sir Alex was great at phoning managers when things weren’t good and wanting to help,” Moyes once revealed.”He was competitive but also someone who thought about others.”Of course, Moyes would be Fergie’s successor at Old Trafford, upon the legend’s recommendation.David Moyes revealed when the chips were down Fergie would reach out to rival managers to offer helpCredit: Action Images – ReutersMoyes would later be recommended by Fergie as his successor at UnitedCredit: EPAFergie turned a blind eye to funAstonishingly, Nani – who played under Fergie from 2007-2013 – revealed that his former manager would, on occasion, turn a blind eye to players turning up drunk at training. “If I had the next day off, for example, then I could have some fun…on special days like Christmas or New Year – no one in England cares about that,” the ex-winger told Tribuna Expresso.”On New Year, we could even go to training drunk and the coach didn’t care about it. That’s the side of [Sir Alex] that knew how to deal with the players and had the perception to say: this day is special, I can’t make demands.”We had been playing non-stop all year long. It was a joy, a moment of relaxation, a different kind of training – clowning around. I won’t lie, I liked nights out.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFree spirit Nani also revealed he had a positive relationship with Sir AlexCredit: GettyNani claimed that Sir Alex would turn a blind eye to players turning up drunk at trainingCredit: ReutersThe Portuguese added, “It was amazing. He knows how to deal with the player, whether they are older or younger. He knows how to manage their professional career and the human being.”With him I can say that I gained a unique experience and maturity because they were very important phases of my life. I needed to grow up really fast, to learn and deal with that culture and the club culture.” More

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      My dad survived Auschwitz by boxing and winning 76 forced fights to the death before pro career and Rocky Marciano bout

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      IN 1944, aged just 16, Harry Haft was forced into a concentration camp in Nazi-occupied Poland.To survive the Holocaust, the teenager was told to, literally, fight for his life.Harry Haft was the Holocaust survivor who went on to box Rocky MarcianoInmates at concentration camps were forced into bare-knuckle fights to the deathCredit: AFPFor the ‘entertainment’ of German SS officers, emaciated Jewish inmates were put together in a ring for bare-knuckle boxing contests – fought to the death – in front of jeering troops.The winner would get an extra slop of food, to keep them fit for their next fight.The loser, should he survive, would be deemed unfit to work as a slave labourer and shot on the spot, or taken to a gas chamber or crematorium. Haft, who boasted a strong physical stature, was recruited by an SS overseer called Schneider who taught him how to be a boxer.He fought for his life in 76 bare-knuckle death matches at a camp in Jaworzno, which was situated at a coal mine north of Auschwitz, and miraculously won every single one.Haft’s escape from the Nazis near the end of the war was also remarkable. In 1945, his Jaworzno camp was dissolved as the Soviet Red Army marched into German held-territory.Thousands of inmates were transferred to other camps, which gave some the opportunity to flee. Haft was one of those fortunate enough to get away.On the run, he would encounter a bathing German soldier who he would kill before stealing his uniform and wearing it as a disguise.Once he found refuge in a Displaced Person’s Camp operated by the US Army in Munich, he had the opportunity to win an amateur championship organised by the US armed forces.That was the catalyst for Haft to launch a professional boxing career that culminated in a bout with future heavyweight world champion, Rocky Marciano in 1949.Haft, who died of cancer in 2007 aged 82, was the subject of Hollywood movie The Survivor – directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Barry Levinson.Trailer for The Survivor, the story of Harry Haft’s incredible fight to survive the Holocaust SunSport spoke with Harry’s son Alan, who revealed the horror effects of the trauma and PTSD his father suffered.”My father was a fairly violent person,” he told SunSport.”PTSD wasn’t diagnosed in that era, and what he went through led to struggles in later life with his mental health.”He had nightmares all the time, he flew into rages and broke every window in our family home.”I remember he once saw a swastika in a history book and went out to hide in the local park. We had to go out to search for him.”I’m a second generation Holocaust survivor and because of my father’s PTSD, my childhood was tough.”He sort of ruined every holiday, exploding into a rage, and I lost count of the number of suicide attempts he made.”After finding his way to the Displaced Persons Camp following the end of the war, Harry put his boxing skills to good use in 1947 to win the Amateur Jewish Heavyweight Championship in an event set up to entertain US troops in Munich.A year later, he emigrated to New Jersey, where he vowed to become a prize fighter.Alan recalled: “My father told his aunt and uncle he wanted to be a prize fighter, and she asked him, ‘Why would you want to be a boxer? Haven’t you undergone enough punishment?'”He replied, ‘After all I’ve been through, what harm can a man with boxing gloves on his hands do to me?'”When my father died I put that quote on his gravestone.”Haft’s fight record was 13 wins from 21 fights, which culminated in that 1949 bout with Rocky Marciano, who would go on to become one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.But Alan told how Harry was paid a visit by American mobsters who wanted to fix the fight.Harry Haft’s son Alan speaking to SunSport from his home in AmericaHaft’s headstone includes the words he said to his auntFrom 1948-1949 Haft fought 21 times and won 13 boutsHaft hoped fighting the legendary Rocky Marciano would help reunite him with his long lost loveCredit: Getty – Contributor”He said two gangsters came into his dressing room before the fight and told him, ‘You’re going down in the first’,” Alan revealed.”So my father said to them, ‘Well, I’ve never gone down in the first round for anybody. You don’t scare me. The Germans didn’t scare me’.”Haft would suffer a third round knockout, but there was a bigger plan in play.Underpinning Haft’s tale of survival was a story of love.He was separated from his childhood sweetheart, Leah Pablanski when the German army took their city Belchatow in 1944. By fighting Marciano, some five years later, harry hoped to get his name in the newspapers so that, if Leah was still alive, she would come and find him.The years passed by and Harry married, had children, and set up his own fruit and veg store in Brooklyn.In his later years, Harry Haft struggled with PTSD from his harrowing ordealHowever, as incredible as it seemed, Haft was destined to meet Leah one final time.In 1963, he received a call from the Belchatow survivors’ association saying his former girlfriend was living in Miami under the married surname Lieberman.Haft took his family to Florida, where he asked Alan to call every Lieberman in the phone book at their hotel.Alan, who was 14 at the time, remembered: “I finally spoke with a man who said, ‘That’s my wife’ over the phone.”My dad immediately interjected, ‘Tell her that Harry Haft from Belchatow wants to see her.'”The man was reluctant and said she wasn’t seeing anyone. “So I told him, ‘Okay, if she changes her mind we’re at the Marseille Hotel.'”About 10 minutes later the phone in the room rings and it’s the husband. He said: ‘She doesn’t want to see anybody, but you she wants to see.”The Survivor captured Haft’s heartbreaking reunion with LeahHarry and Alan drove to Coral Gables where they met Leah. But the Leah he met was different to the one he knew when they were teenagers.”She was dying of cervical cancer, she was so skinny, she looked like a Holocaust victim,” Alan said.”I watched them go out in the garden for a little while and exchange some final words together. “It was the only time I ever saw my father cry.”In 2006, Alan told his father’s story in a book called Harry Haft: Survivor of Auschwitz, Challenger of Rocky Marciano.He couldn’t find a publisher to touch it, because the material was so dark.Eventually, it was published by Syracuse University – but there was little academic value in the book, which sold just 4,000 copies.Son Alan Haft told his father’s incredible story in a book, and there has also been a graphic novelThe story became a Hollywood movie starring Ben Foster as HaftCredit: United King FilmsHowever, it gained a new lease of life in, of all places, Germany — where it was republished.Cartoonist Reinhard Kleist bought a copy and was inspired to create a graphic novel of Haft’s life story.It was called The Boxer and would go on to win countless awards. It was then published around the world, and thrust Haft’s story into the mainstream.This would encourage writer Justine Juel Gillmer to pen a script that would end up on the Black List, an annual survey of the most-liked motion picture screenplays not yet produced.There, it caught the attention of Barry Levinson, who won the Academy Award for Rain Main and was compelled to make the movie.Starring X-Men: The Last Stand actor Ben Foster in the lead role alongside Hollywood legend Danny DeVito, The Survivor was critically acclaimed.Harry Haft, left, with son Alan before his death in 2007Haft, left, winning the Amateur Jewish Heavyweight Championship in 1947Haft knocked down his opponent to win the fight and a boxing career beganThe film’s child actors Kingston Vernes, Zachary Golinger and Sophie Knapp join Alan, his brother Marty and sister Helen Haft for the film’s premiere In New YorkCredit: Getty More

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      Inside Jake Paul’s £62m lifestyle from £13million Puerto Rico mansion to romance with stunning speedskater Jutta Leerdam

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      JAKE PAUL has amassed an astonishing fortune of around £62million.His earnings stem from an impressive career as a YouTuber, as well as changing the landscape of boxing as an influencer in the sport.Jake Paul boasts an insane lifestyleCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cri1X3PORib/Most recently, Paul showed off his new private jet and Mercedes MaybachCredit: https://www.instagram.com/jakepaul/Paul shared images inside the jet, including watching ESPNCredit: https://www.instagram.com/jakepaul/The 28-year-old, nicknamed The Problem Child, recently showed off a brand new private jet to aid his already impressive lifestyle.He owns a fleet of incredible motors, including a £456,000 Ferrari SF-90 Spider and £165,00 Lamborghini Huracan.While he has resided in a stunning mansion in Puerto Rico that he splashed £13million on.Paul is also lucky in love after finding romance with stunning speedskater, Jutta Leerdam.Read more Jake Paul newsSunSport takes a look at his epic life.Amazing jetThis week, Paul told his fans he was “going global” after splashing the cash on his first private jet.Paul revealed his newest purchase to his 18.5 million followers on TikTok.Dancing on the runway with a huge bottle of champagne, a luxury £175,000 Mercedes Maybach with a giant bow could also be spotted behind the boxer.Most read in BoxingPaul then showcased the plane in action, lounging on a bed mid-flight before tucking into a plate of nachos.Jake Paul renovates boxing gym in Puerto Rico for charityHe sat back to watch some ESPN, before a flight attendant brought some hot towels.Jake captioned the clip: “Bought my first jet. Went global cause I’m global. Silly me.”Impressive garageAlongside that impressive Mercedes Maybach is a fleet of supercars worth a fortune.The most expensive is a Ferrari SF-90 – that carries a £456,000 price tag.Capable of doing 0-62mph in 2.5 seconds, it’s top speed is 211 mph.It’s not the only Ferrari in his collection – with a matching 296 GTB costing nearly £330,000.In 2018, Paul treated himself to a £165,000 Lamborghini Huracan – that’s capable of reaching 0-60mph in 2.5 seconds and has a top speed of 212mph.Last year, he joined the celebs in the US who worship Tesla Cybertrucks, adding that £62,000 electric motor to his garage.While Paul has also been seen behind the wheel of a £360,000 Rolls-Royce Phantom, and a classic Ford Fairlane Skyliner worth £52,000.Paul shows off his enviable Rolls-Royce Phantom worth £360kCredit: Social Media – Refer to SourceThis stunning Lamborghini Huracan worth £165k is also in Paul’s garageCredit: InstagramThe car of the moment – Tesla Cybertruck – sits in Paul’s driveway at his homeCredit: InstagramPaul’s most expensive car is his Ferrari SF-90 with a £456k price tagCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresHot girlfriendThere was a time when Paul would jump from relationship to relationship with pretty models or fellow influencers.But now, he is smitten with beautiful speedskater Jutta Leerdam.The pair got together after they began flirting on Instagram.They went public with their romance in April 2023 , with Paul sharing a photo of them together.”I’m Dutch now”, Paul captioned the snap which featured him holding hands with Leerdam in a carousel of pictures.When Paul suffered the first loss of his career to Tommy Fury, Leerdam provided the perfect support for his battered ego.Back in January, Paul provided his support as she landed a European title – and declared they could be a Olympic power couple in 2028.Paul’s celeb brother Logan has settled down with a baby with fiancee Nina Agdal.Now he believes he will follow suit.Gorgeous Dutch beauty Jutta Leerdam is Paul’s girlfriendCredit: Instagram / @uttaleerdamJutta met Paul on Instagram – where they got to know each otherCredit: Instagram / @uttaleerdamPaul has said that he sees Jutta as wife materialCredit: Instagram / @juttaleerdamStunning Jutta has scored success as a speedskaterCredit: RexPaul said on his BS podcast: “Interestingly enough, I dream of the same thing [marriage and family] and getting to become best friends with my kids.”Just being there all the time, which is why I work so hard, is to have the financial freedom to be able to not work when they’re born and to be with them all the time.”And doing it with my wife, which I believe will be Jutta.”Huge homeNo doubt Paul’s biggest purchase is his staggering mansion.He left California after admitting there were “too many distractions” and moved to the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico.The two-storey home has eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a fitness room, a luxury swimming pool, a games room and an elevator.It also boasts a six-car garage with floral walls and high ceilings.Paul lives in a stunning £13m mansion in Puerto RicoCredit: Youtube – Jake PaulThe incredible property has undergone over £1.6m in rennovationsCredit: Youtube – Jake PaulPaul’s home boasts eight bedroomsCredit: Youtube – Jake PaulPaul often shares images of his home on social mediaCredit: Instagram @jakapaulThe Caribbean Realty Group revealed the house was initially listed at $19,995,000 (£16.1m) until Paul came to an agreement with ex-basketball star Yadier Molina, who owned the property.READ MORE SUN STORIESPaul claimed to have spent around £1.6million in renovations to taylor the house to his liking.In various YouTube clips, he has given fans a glimpse inside the mansion he likes to call “Taj MaPaul’. More