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      in Soccer

      Footballers’ amazing body transformations from Ronaldo building mass muscle to Hazard shedding excess weight

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      FOOTBALLERS today will do anything to get an edge over their opponents.And that means more work in the gym, sculpting their perfect bodies and lifting heavy weights to gain extra muscle.
      Cristiano Ronaldo is sculpted like an AdonisCredit: AFP or licensors
      But these stars didn’t always look like body builders.
      In fact, these athletes have enjoyed a remarkable body transformation over the years, even when they can’t train like they’re used to during the coronavirus lockdown.
      EDEN HAZARD
      When former Chelsea star Hazard moved to Real Madrid in a deal worth £130million, Los Blancos were delighted.
      But they wouldn’t have been happy when he turned up to training seven kilograms overweight.
      Even fans pointed out he looked chunky when he reported for preseason games.
      However, during the coronavirus lockdown Hazard took his fitness very seriously.
      “It’s complicated for me. I’m trying not to eat a lot,” he told RTBF.
      “I’m trying not to go into the pantry to eat a lot of buns, but it’s not easy.”
      It appears he laid off the buns –  impressing manager Zinedine Zidane at the club’s training centre with a more svelte figure.
      When Eden Hazard arrived at Real Madrid he was seven kilograms overweightCredit: Twitter @realmadrid
      Hazard impressed Zidane by laying off the buns during the coronavirus lockdownCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      CRISTIANO RONALDO
      As a youngster, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner was often called too skinny by his coaches.
      But through the years, Ronaldo went from lanky winger to powerhouse forward thanks to a strict exercise regime.
      “I put it in my mind that my body can improve,” Ronaldo said.
      “With dedication and hard work in the gym I improved a lot on that – at the end of the day it’s down to the person’s mindset.”
      A Pilates-based routine that focuses on resistance work to strengthen his core is also key to his success – reportedly giving the Portuguese star the body of a 23-year-old.
      Ronaldo used to be called too skinny when he was an up and coming youngsterCredit: AFP
      Thanks to a strict diet and rigorous exercise regime Ronaldo has transformed his bodyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      MARCUS RASHFORD
      When Rashford emerged on the scene in 2017 as a fresh-faced 19-year-old, his body was still developing.
      But having Cristiano Ronaldo as a role model at the club when he was a youngster was a big help.
      The striker watched Ronaldo in training closely, adding strength and conditioning work to the technical training he does at Carrington, which has given him a more muscular physique today.
      When Marcus Rashford first emerged on the scene in 2017 he was skin and boneCredit: Reuters
      Today, with added strength and conditioning training Rashford has bulked upCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI
      The Bayern Munich striker has been sensational for the Bavarian giants, and it’s all down to his nutritionist wife Anna.
      Through his diet, as well as rigorous training regime with the Bundesliga side, he is now the perfect specimen.
      “We changed our diet step by step, first cutting out sweets and then milk,” Lewandowski explained.
      “Cows’ milk and soya milk isn’t good for me. Almond milk and rice milk is OK. I don’t really drink alcohol, either. Maybe wine but only sometimes.”
      When he started his career at Lech Poznan Lewandowski was skinnyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Lewandowski now flashes killer abs thanks to a diet enforced by his nutritionist wife AnnaCredit: Instagram @_rl9
      ADAMA TRAORE
      A devastating blend of pace and power, Traore’s game has come on leaps and bounds.
      And social media blew up when snaps of the Wolves winger emerged showing off a raging bicep that would’ve put any Hollywood action hero to shame.
      But despite his rippling muscles, Traore insists he doesn’t do any weight training.
      “My training? I don’t do weights,” he told Spanish outlet La Sexta.
      “It’s hard to believe, but I don’t do weights.
      “It’s genetic. I exercise, but I gain mass very quickly.”
      Spanish winger Adama Traore was a slight winger playing for Spain’s U16 teamCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Today, blossoming at Wolves, Traore is henchCredit: Getty – Contributor
      ADEBAYO AKINFENWA
      You don’t get the nickname ‘The Beast” for nothing, as well as a 98 strength rating in FIFA 20.
      Football’s strongest man Akinfenwa ruffles defenders feathers playing for Wycombe Wanderers in League One.
      To fuel his weights sessions, the striker eats like a beast too, although his weight does go up and down.
      “Breakfast is Weetabix with honey,” he told the Daily Mail.
      “At training there will be some kind of chicken. Our chef personally does chicken for me and that makes me very happy.
      “Then a shake in the afternoon. For dinner, again it’s probably chicken, potato and coleslaw. My partner is half-Nigerian, half-Caribbean so it may be the curry goat, rice and potato. It’s the carbs I need to eat.
      “I throw in the odd Nando’s. Quarter-chicken, medium breast, chips, corn on the cob and five wings. I don’t deviate.”
      Adebayo Akinfenwa had a smaller frame during his time at NorthamptonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Akinfenwa is now nicknamed The Beast because of his enormous size
      HULK
      The aptly named Brazilian striker has always been admired for his physical stature.
      Built like a truck, Hulk is still terrorising defenders back in Brazil for  Atlético Mineiro.
      But there was a time when the former Porto star looked a little overweight, rather than chiselled.
      He has toned up now, and looks fitter than his 34-years suggest.
      At Porto Hulk was a little rounder and squarerCredit: AFP – Getty
      Now plying his trade back in Brazil, Hulk is leaner, more muscular and fit as a fiddle
      SERGIO RAMOS
      The Real Madrid defender’s Instagram account is littered with videos of high-intensity workout videos.
      When he was at Sevilla, he was just a beanpole of a defender. Now, he’s the real deal.
      “My training routines at home are usually focused on functional and isometric exercises, always ending with some cardio work,” he revealed.
      And for Sergio, a healthy breakfast is the perfect to start the day.
      He revealed: “I usually take a coffee, some whole-grain bread with protein like turkey breast or a poached egg, and a piece of fruit.”
      When he began his career at Sevilla, Ramos was a beanpole of a defenderCredit: EPA
      Ramos is now one of the most chiselled footballers around
      GEORGE ELOKOBI
      There’s no doubt about it, Elokobi is hench.
      The former Wolves star, now playing for National League side Maidstone United, was always a crowd favourite because of his size.
      At only 5ft 9inches, he isn’t the tallest. But he earned the nickname of ‘The Body’ at Molineux because he was pure muscle.
      The defender even stripped down to his smalls on the catwalk during a charity fashion show at the club.
      Former Wolves star George Elokobi was nicknamed ‘The Body’
      Elokobi even stripped down to his smalls to show off his six-pack for a charity fashion showCredit: Matthew Ashton
      MARIO BALOTELLI
      The fiery former Manchester City striker was always tall and lean.
      But after celebrating scoring for Italy against Germany in Euro 2012, he was keen to show off a ripped torso as he flexed his muscles shirtless.
      However, the normally fit Balotelli was anything but in 2018 when he returned to training for Nice reportedly two stone overweight when a move to Marseille collapsed.
      He soon dropped half a stone and was back to normal.
      When Mauro Balotelli first emerged on the scene he was leanerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      At Euro 2012 Balotelli flexes his muscles after scoring against GermanyCredit: Corbis – Getty

      ALEXIS SANCHEZ
      The Inter Milan striker takes his training very seriously.
      Former Manchester United star Sanchez enjoys working out alone, and shared a video online strutting his stuff at their Carrington training ground to the famous Rocky theme ‘Eye of the Tiger’ in 2019.
      Sanchez has also been seen in the past enjoying sprint drills on the beach. After all, even though it is pre-season you can’t down tools in the summer.
      Standing at 5ft 6in, the former Gunner knows he needs strength as an attribute for his game to thrive. And he looks the business.
      Alexis Sanchez has worked hard on building his muscle massCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Sanchez is happy to share his extra workouts on InstagramCredit: Instagram @alexis_officia1
      Wolves star Adama Traore sported a shirt on Wednesday without the club’s sponsor on the front More

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      in Soccer

      Footballers who were wealthy before they began playing, like Vialli, Lampard and the Sultan of Brunei’s nephew

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      FOOTBALLERS today make massive money.With the average Premier League wage now exceeding £50k-per-week, it’s no wonder boys grow up dreaming of making it pro.
      Gianluca Vialli has always enjoyed the high-lifeCredit: Instagram @lucavialli
      However, this lot were already from wealthy backgrounds before they made it to the big league.
      Let SunSport guide you through the football stars that were already swimming in riches and didn’t need the beautiful game.GIANLUCA VIALLI
      Chelsea and Italy legend Vialli was always recognised as a gentleman of the game.
      And it’s probably got to do with his upbringing. He was raised by his father, a self-made millionaire, in a 60-room castle called the Castello di Belgioioso in Cremona, along with four siblings.
      The Champions League and Serie A winner also loves a posh round of golf.
      He took part in the Alfred Dunhill links championship pro-am event, which is one of the richest golf tournaments played in Europe.
      Vialli grew up in a 60-room castle called the Castello di Belgioioso in CremonaCredit: Alamy
      Dignified Vialli had a far from modest upbringingCredit: Instagram @lucavialli
      Gianluca Vialli scores for Chelsea against Nottingham Forest in 1996Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      FRANK LAMPARD
      The ex-Chelsea manager didn’t have to go into football, although it was an easy step for him to make.
      Lampard came from a football family, with uncle Harry Redknapp and dad Frank Lampard Snr showing him the way at West Ham United.
      He intended the posh Brentwood School in Essex that would’ve cost a fortune in school fees.
      There, he scored 11 GCSE’s and could’ve been an accountant, according to a former teacher.
      Frank Lampard went to posh Brentwood High SchoolCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      GERARD PIQUE
      Being half of a celebrity couple (his missus is Colombian singer Shakira), Barcelona defender Pique has made his own fortune.
      However, growing up life was easy for the defender who had a spell in England at Manchester United as a youth.
      He lived a comfortable existence in Catalonia. Dad Joan is a successful attorney and businessman, while mum Montserrat is the director of a hospital in Barcelona.
      Even Pique’s grandfather Amador Bernabeu was minted – as a former director of the La Liga champions.
      Gerard Pique’s dad Joan is a successful attorney and businessman, while mum Montserrat is the director of a hospital in BarcelonaCredit: Alamy
      FAIQ BOLKIAH
      Formerly of Leicester City, currently playing for Portuguese club Marítimo, Bolkiah is the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, who has a fortune estimated to be worth £15bn.
      His dad is Jefri Bolkiah, a brother of the oil tycoon, so that makes Faiq a member of their royal family and in line to receive a nice inheritance.
      At his 50th birthday, to impress his son, he hired Michael Jackson to play a private gig just for them.
      Faiq Bolkiah is a former Leicester City trainee and nephew of the Sultan of BruneiCredit: Instagram @fjbolkiah
      AL-SAADI GADDAFI
      The third son of former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, Al-Saadi played for Perugia, Udinese and was on the books at Sampdoria.
      In 2011, he retired and became the commander of Libya’s Special Forces and led the army in the Libyan Civil War.
      In 2018, he was cleared of murder charges after he was extradited from Niger back to Libya.
      During his playing days he once employed Diego Maradona as a technical consultant, and Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson as his personal trainer.
      Al-Saadi Gaddafi was the son of Colonel GaddafiCredit: AFP – Getty
      Gaddafi played in Italy before becoming an army generalCredit: Getty – Contributor
      HUGO LLORIS
      The Spurs goalie comes from an affluent background.
      Growing up in Nice in the South of France, his mother was an attorney, while his dad was a banker.
      He took tennis lessons as a kid, and was ranked high in his age range as a youngster. It meant football played second fiddle in his life until the age of 13.
      Lloris famously played through the pain of losing his mum, refusing bereavement leave to play for Nice.
      Hugo Lloris could have been a tennis star instead of a footballerCredit: AFP – Getty
      ROBIN VAN PERSIE
      Wealthy and artisanal, Van Persie’s parents afforded the former Arsenal striker a comfortable life growing up in Rotterdam.
      His father Bob is a renowned artist and sculptor, while his mother Jose Ras is a painter, teacher and jewellery designer.
      Van Persie’s parents split up when he was younger, and he was a troublesome teen.
      His dad expected him to become an artist too.
      Robin Van Persie’s parents were artisticCredit: Instagram @robinvanpersie
      Mother Jose Ras is a painter, teacher and jewellery designerCredit: Instagram @robinvanpersie
      MARIO BALOTELLI
      The fiery Italian wasn’t born wealthy.
      Balotelli originally comes from Palermo and his parents where Ghanaian immigrants.
      But he was adopted by Francesco and Silvia Balotelli family when his mum and dad couldn’t afford him. They were a wealthy pair, who lived in an affluent part of Brescia called Concesio.
      His birth and adoptive parents fought for custody, but it was decided it was in Balotelli’s best interests to stay put.
      Mario Balotelli was adopted when he was a kidCredit: Instagram @mb459
      Francesco and Silvia Balotelli lived wealthily in BresciaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ANDREA PIRLO
      An elegant footballer and man, Pirlo learned about the finer things in life when he was a kid.
      His dad Luigi set up a steel company in Brescia in 1982, which Andrea still has a stake in.
      The former Juventus star enjoyed an upper class life, which he later put to use in his own way.
      Pirlo, who ended his career in the MLS, also owns his own vineyard, as rich people do.
      Andrea Pirlo learned about the finer things in life as a youngsterCredit: Instagram @andreapirlo21
      Today, refined Pirlo owns his own vineyardCredit: Instagram @andreapirlo21
      PATRICK BAMFORD
      He doesn’t have to play centre forward for Leeds, you know.
      Bamford isn’t your typical footballer, being a skilled violin and piano player and attended fee-paying Nottingham High School, got five A*s at GCSE and went on to study French, history and biology at A Level.
      Bamford was even offered a scholarship at Harvard in the US, who recognised his academic prowess.
      However, he’s not related to JCB founder Joseph Bamford, as was once claimed.
      Patrick Bamford went to private school and was offered a scholarship to HarvardCredit: Instagram @patrick_bamford
      Bamford is a not relative of JCB founder Joseph Bamford as was once claimedCredit: Hulton Archive – Getty
      KAKA
      Most of Brazil’s best footballers lead a life that tells a rags-to-riches tale.
      But former Ballon d’Or winner Kaka is different.

      He was raised by father Bosco Izecson Pereira Leite, who was an engineer, while his mother Simone dos Santos was a school teacher.
      It has been reported that Kaka lived comfortably, and wasn’t raised in poverty like many of his teammates for his country.
      Brazilian legend Kaka lived a comfortable existence growing upCredit: Instagram @kaka
      Kaka’s father Bosco Izecson Pereira Leite was an engineerCredit: Instagram @kaka
      Ref books Brazilian legend Kaka before taking a selfie with him during star studded charity match More

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      in Soccer

      The most dramatic final days in Premier League history, from Aguero’s last-minute winner to Everton beating the drop

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      THE Premier League is the most exciting competition in the world.And come the final day of the season, there’s plenty of permutations that can happen.
      Man City famously won the Premier League on the final day of the season, which can give us some amazing dramaCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      For example, with this campaign who will make the Champions League spots?
      And who will earn a Europa League spot?
      These questions have been answered before in seasons past, as well who have become champions or been relegated from the top flight.
      SunSport takes a look at the most dramatic final days in Premier League history – starting off with, perhaps, the most astonishing.
      AGUER-OOOO
      It looked like they had blown it.
      Manchester City needed to beat struggling QPR in 2012, and they looked like they made a real pigs ear of it when they went 2-1 down to the West Londoners with 25 minutes to go.
      Two minutes into injury time, Edin Dzeko netted an equaliser to give Roberto Mancini’s side hope – although they still needed three points to draw level with Manchester United to win the league on goal difference.
      In the 94th minute, Mario Balotelli made a nuisance of himself in the penalty area and the ball broke to Sergio Aguero who burst onto it and fired home past Paddy Kenny.
      Cue Martin Tyler’s legendary commentary and the little Argentinian whipping his top off and running a lap of the Etihad spinning it around his head.
      Aguero’s 94th-minute winner beats QPR and wins the Premier LeagueCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Manchester City win their first Premier League crown in 2012Credit: AFP
      THE GREAT ESCAPE
      In 1994, Everton’s proud record of never being relegated from the top flight was under serious threat.
      The Toffees welcomed sixth-placed Wimbledon to Goodison Park knowing that even a win might not be enough.
      Swindon were already relegated, but Oldham, Sheffield United, Ipswich Town, Southampton and Everton all went into the final weekend with their fate undetermined.
      Oldham needed a win, but their 1-1 at Norwich meant they went down. Ipswich managed to snatch a draw at title-chasers Blackburn and survived by the skin of their teeth.
      While Southampton stayed up thanks to a 3-3 draw at West Ham.
      Everton trailed 2-0 early on, but showed heart and determination to come back and win 3-2 with a winner from Graham Stuart.
      Elsewhere, Sheffield United (after leading 2-1 at Chelsea) fell to a 90th minute winner from Mark Stein. Everton were safe by one point.
      Graham Stuart celebrates giving Everton a 3-2 lead in a crucial relegation battleCredit: Rex
      Gary Ablett, left, and Graham Stuart celebrate Everton’s 3-2 win over WimbledonCredit: Getty
      LASAGNE-GATE
      Tottenham and Arsenal will be vying for North London bragging rights at the end of this campaign.
      And they did the same on the final day of the 2005-06 season. Spurs needed to match Arsenal’s result at home to Wigan for their trip to West Ham.
      The night before the game, Tottenham opted to say in a hotel and tucked into a lasagne for their evening meal.
      Players were reportedly up through the night being sick, with manager Martin Jol desperate to get the game called off by the FA.
      Worried about a points deduction, the game was played and Spurs woefully fell to a 2-1 defeat.
      Arsenal won 4-2 and qualified for the Champions League at Spurs’ expense.
      Later that month, an investigation into the food at the Marriott Hotel by the health authorities was carried out, who found no problems.
      A statement read: “None of the results or findings indicated that food poisoning was the cause. The likely cause of illness suffered by the Tottenham Hotspur FC staff and players was from a viral source.”
      Martin Jol’s Tottenham fell to lasagne-gate on the final day of the season at West HamCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Thierry Henry celebrates firing Arsenal ahead and into the Champions League on the final dayCredit: EPA
      WEST HAM AGAIN
      In 1995, Blackburn Rovers – with Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton in tow – were doing their best to hand the title to Manchester United.
      Their form in the title run-in was atrocious, in their four games before the final match of the season against Liverpool they lost two.
      Sir Alex Ferguson’s side had forced their way back in the reckoning – and knew a win at West Ham, coupled with Rovers losing at Anfield would gift them the title.
      Liverpool kept their end of the bargain – beating Blackburn 2-1 thanks to a 90-minute goal from Jamie Redknapp.
      But, try as hard as they may, United couldn’t find a winner past the Hammers, despite a few scrambles in the box in injury time.
      Blackburn were champions – by one solitary point.
      Blackburn Rovers celebrate winning the title at Anfield, despite losing 2-1 to LiverpoolCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      Former Manchester United captain Steve Bruce is left devastated at Upton ParkCredit: Allsport – Getty
      RELEGATION AND A TITLE FIGHT
      At the bottom, Roy Hodgson’s Fulham were ready to complete Mission Impossible in the 2007-08 season, especially after three wins in a row against Reading, Manchester City and Birmingham.
      On the final day, they had a difficult trip to Fratton Park against Portsmouth needing a third win away to ensure safety – something they’ve never done in their entire Premier League history.
      With the game heading for a 0-0 draw, a Jimmy Bullard set-piece landed on the head of Danny Murphy who headed home.
      They held on for a 1-0 won, staying up by virtue of a better goal-difference than Reading by just three goals.
      At the top end, the title race went down to the wire between Chelsea and Manchester United.
      Danny Murphy and Jimmy Bullard celebrate saving Fulham after the final whistle at Fratton ParkCredit: PA:Press Association
      Man Utd won the title on the last day of the season in 2007-08Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd

      United knew a win at Wigan would guarantee the title headed to Old Trafford.
      Cristiano Ronaldo settled their nerves early with a first half strike, and with news that Chelsea were winning their game at home to Bolton they needed to a second.
      Cue Ryan Giggs to make things easier with the cushion of a 2-0 lead – while the Blues’ misery was complete when Matty Taylor scored a stoppage time equaliser for Wanderers.
      Tottenham fans argue with stewards and refuse to leave as they protest after final home game of the season More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea’s Academy Player of the Season Tino Livramento is pacy attacking full-back, who has captained England youth team

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      MASON Mount, Reece James, Billy Gilmour and now Tino Livramento.All of these exciting young stars are recipients of Chelsea Academy Player of the Year Award, with the latter crowned this year’s winner for some outstanding displays for Chelsea’s U23 team.
      Chelsea youngster Tino Livramento is the club’s latest Academy Player of the YearCredit: Getty

      18-year-old Livramento is a pacy full-back, in the mould of Cafu, who is earning rave reviews from the coaching staff in Cobham.
      A regular in the Andy Myers’ U23 team, the attacking defender has also impressed first team boss Thomas Tuchel, who named the Croydon-born youngster on the bench against Arsenal and Manchester City.
      And it is fully expected that he will push Cesar Azpilicueta and Reece James for a starting berth next term.
      BLUE SINCE A BOY
      The South Londoner has been with the Blues since he was just eight years old and has risen steadily through the ranks.
      But it’s during this campaign Livramento has really stood out at right wing-back for the development squad.
      Despite only turning 18 in November, the speedster has appeared 20 times in the Premier League 2.
      His gallops forward have also led to six assists and two goals.
      And he’s certainly competitive, with four yellow cards and one red to his name already.
      Livramento is a pacy full-back with bags of potentialCredit: Getty
      In his 20 Premier League 2 games Livramento has provided six assistsCredit: Getty
      Livramento also knows how to find the net, scoring twice this campaignCredit: Getty
      EARNED A PROMOTION
      Back in January, Livramento was promoted to first team training before an FA Cup tie against Morecambe when Frank Lampard was boss.
      But new manager Thomas Tuchel didn’t want to stand in the way of the exciting talent’s progress.
      The German has continued Lampard’s philosophy of giving kids the experience of mingling with the senior stars.
      In terms of playing time, his game might be best-suited for Tuchel’s 3-4-3 system with a pushed-up high right wing-back.
      This season Livramento has been promoted to first team training and has impressed Thomas TuchelCredit: Getty
      Livramento was included in the matchday squad against ArsenalCredit: Getty
      THE FANS ARE CALLING FOR HIM
      With Chelsea still not mathematically sure of a top-four finish for Champions League football next season, it seems unlikely that Livramento will appear for the Blues in their final game away at Aston Villa.
      But that hasn’t stopped Chelsea’s supporters from begging Tuchel to give him his bow.
      Having been on the bench against both Arsenal and Manchester City, he could find himself involved in the matchday squad.
      And because of his physicality and pace, he certainly won’t look out of place on the pitch.
      CAPTAIN IN THE MAKING?
      Chelsea are famous for grooming future captains at the club – just think John Terry.
      And in Livramento, they could have another leader in the ranks.

      Livramento has captained England’s U17 team and could be a future leader for the BluesCredit: Getty

      The England youth star, who has appeared for the Three Lions at U16 level all the way through to U19, has captained his country.
      Given his meteoric rise, could we see Tino leading his club at Stamford Bridge?
      Don’t best against it.
      Chelsea’s Billy Gilmour discovers he’s in Scotland’s Euro 2020 squad More

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      in Boxing

      Former world champ Carlos Molina looking to roll back the years with ‘dominant’ performance against Sam Eggington

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      BOXING veteran, former world champion and self-professed ‘king of the ring’ Carlos Molina laughs as remembers his early days in the professional game. “I actually became a world champion without ever eating vegetables, that’s crazy,” Molina laughs in an exclusive interview with SunSport.
      Carlos Molina takes on Sam Eggington live and free on Channel 5 this SaturdayCredit: Hennessy Sports
      Carlos Molina is hoping to earn another world title shotCredit: Hennessy Sports
      “When I was younger I could stay up late, eat what I want, recuperate and not feel anything at all.
      “I feel great even at 37 years old. I put that down to always being busy and active. I don’t take time off, I’m always in the gym and this is something I love, I don’t just do it for a job.
      “I’m training smarter, much smarter than I was when I was younger.”
      And duty calls on Saturday night at the Coventry Skydome, where Molina takes on Sam Eggington in a middleweight clash for the WBC Silver title.
      Molina couldn’t pass up the opportunity to fight for another career trinket, having won the IBF super-welterweight world title against Ishe Smith back in 2013 on the Floyd Mayweather-Canelo Alvarez undercard.
      The former world champ anticipates a night of simple boxing, but the cliche that Mexican fighters like to brawl could ring true come Saturday night, particularly against a fighter like Eggington.

      Molina naturally watched Mexico’s greatest fighters growing up in and around the sport, so wants to honour their legacies too.
      “I’ve seen some of Sam’s fights,” he adds. “The opportunity popped up, it’s for the WBC Silver middleweight champion and it’s my goal to become world champion again.
      “I’m number eight now and with a win that should place me in the top five.
      “My style is different, it’s smart, I don’t like getting hit but at the same time I’ll go to that Mexican style also if I need to.
      “When I started fighting, I really got into it around the first Morales-Barrera fight. I was an amateur fighter at the time and it got me so excited.
      “And since I was a little kid we used to watch Julio Cesar Chavez fight, we’d get together as a family, have food, hang out and make a big deal about his fights.

      “But my favourite fighter of all time is Salvador Sanchez, he’s a technician. He’s my favourite by far.”
      Molina’s ‘King’ Moniker came from longtime trainer Victor Mateo, who anointed him with the nickname as a young fighter, walking around the Wisconsin gym he thought of like he owned it.
      “My first ever trainer in Wisconsin when I started boxing called me King,” he says. “I used to walk around like it the gym like it was mine, I was the king of the ring. It just stuck with me, every time I’m in the ring Im the king and I feel most comfortable with.
      “Everything my trainers said when I first started about potentially fighting for a world title came true. It all starts with the mentality, wanting it, getting it and finally achieving it.
      Sam Eggington will be looking to capture the WBC Silver title vs MolinaCredit: Getty
      Carlos Molina won his only world title in 2013 against Ishe SmithCredit: Hennessy Sports
      “The Ishe Smith fight was my greatest moment. As soon as I started boxing I wanted to go all the way and win a world title.”
      Molina isn’t sure about an exact outcome in his fight with Eggington, whose fights can be as unpredictable as it gets in the ring, but he’s completely clear on one thing.
      “I’m absolutely going to have one of my best performances,” Molina says.
      “I’m going to dominate from the beginning to the end of the fight, total domination. And if a knockout comes, I’m going to go for it, for sure. I don’t want to leave it up to the judges. But the main goal is to dominate.”
      Sam Eggington vs Carlos Molina is live and FREE on Channel 5 from 10pm on Saturday May 22. More

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      in Soccer

      Sheff Utd’s Daniel Jebbison was scouted by the Blades at a UK Football Trials event in 2018 and is now an Arsenal target

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      SHEFFIELD United’s teen Daniel Jebbison is being raved about as the next big thing, but he could’ve been one who slipped through the net.The 17-year-old Canadian exploded onto the scene on his full debut by scoring the winner against Everton at Goodison Park last weekend.
      Daniel Jebbison celebrates his first ever Premier League goal for Sheff Utd against EvertonCredit: PA
      But in 2017, a future in football looked unlikely when his family relocated from Ontario to England, as his English mother moved for work.
      A year later, Jebbison took part in the UK Football Trials – an event that’s attended by scouts from all over the country searching for a talent that may have been missed.
      There, a Blades scout found the tall, athletic forward, offered him a trial and soon he was signed on a pro contract as he rose through the ranks.
      His epic rise has seen the youngster linked with Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.
      LEARNED TO PLAY IN CANADA
      Jebbison got his football education in Oakville, a small town of around 200,000 people in the Greater Toronto area.
      He began playing for semi-professional club ANB Futbol from the age of six.
      However, in 2017 – with his mum scoring a job in the UK – the family left Canada behind.
      The Jebbison family moved to the UK from Canada in 2017 – a year before Daniel signed for the BladesCredit: Instagram / @danjebbison
      Jebbison could’ve slipped through the net after leaving his native CanadaCredit: Instagram / @danjebbison
      Jebbison was without a club – and any dreams of football stardom appeared to be squashed.
      That is until fate handed him a lucky break.
      UK FOOTBALL TRIALS
      In 2018, Jebbison attended a UK Football Trials event in Birmingham that would change his life.
      He was joined by his older brother, Micah who also showed promise as a footballer.
      Daniel revealed in a Q&A on the UK Football Trials website: “I chose to attend your event because I really wanted to play football at a higher level and I knew I had an opportunity with you.”
      After attending the UK Football Trials event in Birmingham in 2018, Jebbison was scouted by Sheffield UnitedCredit: Rex
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      And it proved to be a big success.
      Ash Foyle, Sheffield United’s former Head of Academy Recruitment, explained: “We sent a scout down to UK Football Trials and he was impressed with the two brothers so we got them in to the academy.”
      But only one would make it.
      PUT THROUGH THEIR PACES
      The pair were invited to a six-week trial with the Blades, followed by two academy matches shortly after.
      Unfortunately for Micah, it was deemed a step too far. But for Daniel the sky was the limit.
      Blessed with pace and athleticism, Jebbison gave Everton a torrid time at Goodison ParkCredit: Getty
      Jebbison’s drive and determination helped him reach the topCredit: Instagram / @danjebbison
      Foyle said: “Dan played in the UDAN tournament and did really well, he created a few goals and showed enough pace and athleticism for us to sign him.”
      Jebbison inked a deal in 2018, and his drive and determination has seen him get a first-team opportunity merely four years after arriving on our shores.
      “When I found out they wanted to sign me, it felt amazing and I just wanted to push even harder and go even further in my career,” he said.
      CAPPED BY ENGLAND YOUTH
      In recognition of his excellent form for the Sheffield United, four goals in as many games in the Youth Cup, and one in two U23 games, a chance at international arrived back in March.
      Jebbison debuted with the England U18s in a 2–0 win over the Wales U18s in a friendly.
      Discussing his call-up, he revealed: “I felt amazing. I felt so honoured and I am so thankful.”
      Jebbison is now an England youth internationalCredit: Rex
      Sheff Utd teen Jebbison made his international debut against Wales in a 2-0 friendly win back in MarchCredit: Getty

      And it was an experience he loved every minute of and won’t forget.
      “The training with England was short, sharp and they pushed us to keep fit and not fatigue,” Jebbison told UK Football Trials.
      “When I first stepped onto the pitch in the England kit I felt amazing. I was focused and ready to give it my all. I enjoyed every last second.”
      Everton v Sheffield United as it happened More

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      in Boxing

      Sam Eggington delighted with ‘better than expected’ career as he gears up for war with grizzled veteran Carlos Molina

      by

      SAM EGGINGTON is under no illusions about the direction of his storybook career so far.The Birmingham brawler just wants to continue nabbing every opportunity he can.
      The 27-year-old has already fought 36 times as a professional, topped the bill on more than one occasion for Matchroom and will be headlining his second consecutive fight night under the Mick Hennessy banner this weekend.
      Sam Eggington takes on Carlos Molina on May 22 on Channel 5Credit: Hennessy Sports
      Sam Eggington was last in the ring in December, when he beat Ashley TheophaneCredit: Hennessy Sports
      Eggington comes up against former super-welterweight champion Carlos Molina, in a fight which should see both styles blend beautifully in a middleweight clash for the WBC Silver strap.
      Having picked up the BBBofC fight of the year award last year for his clash with Ted Cheeseman, before going on to stop Floyd Mayweather stablemate Ashley Theophane in December, Eggington wants to put on a show once again.
      Molina, who has fought the likes of Ishe Smith, Erislandy Lara, James Kirland and Josh Kelly, will step into the ring at the Coventry Skydome to try to stop Eggington in his tracks.
      But Eggington will be having none of it.
      He told SunSport: “I’m obviously predicting a win. Plan A is the stoppage and if we get to plan B then fine. But I’m going for the stoppage.

      “It’s hard to say if he’s the best but he’s definitely the most experienced I’ve fought. Is he the best? I’m not sure.
      “I’ve been in with bigger punchers, I’ve been in with better boxers but it depends, I’m sure he can mix it up and he’s still probably one of the best I’ve fought.
      “But I’m always working on boxing, I’ve neglected it in the past and if it comes down to a dog-fight then I’ll bring it. I’m not going to back off and get nervous about it. I can have a tear up just fine.
      “I’ve got to win as a world title has got to be the aim, I’ve done everything else. If I’m not looking for a world title then I’m just here to get punched in the face aren’t I? So I’ve got to have that ambition of picking up a world title.
      “I’ll be very unhappy if I retired without even having the opportunity to box for a world title, that’s definitely the aim.

      “This fight is for the WBC Silver at 160lbs, it was an opportunity I couldn’t not take. I’ll win it well and then we’ll see what comes up after but I’ve always just rolled with the punches.”
      Roll with the punches Eggington certainly has. He’s endured some tough, gruelling losses in his career, none more so than his shock defeat to Hassan Mwakinyo in 2018.
      But he also has some nice, glossy wins on his resume, including one against former world champion Paulie Malignaggi on the David Haye-Tony Bellew undercard.
      Eggington admits he’s never been one to watch his previous performances, or analyse fighting styles. He doesn’t even like watching boxing on the weekends for the most-part.
      “The only way I can explain it is I can’t imagine a chef coming home from work and wanting to cook a fancy dinner,” Eggington laughs. “I’m not bothered about watching boxing at home.
      “I enjoy watching, sometimes on a weekend I’ll think ‘I can’t wait for this one’ but other times my missus will say ‘ain’t the boxing on tonight?’ And I’ll say ‘yeah but so is Coronation Street…’.
      Sam Eggington is hoping to secure a world title shot with a win over Carlos MolinaCredit: Getty
      Sam Eggington beat Paulie Malignaggi by stoppage back in 2017Credit: Getty
      “I’m not one of those that pays for all the pay-per-views, I’m a bit of a casual fan really. Some people love it and it helps them.
      “As soon as I knew the outcome, there’s no chance I’m watching it back. I’m not interested in watching it. I know it’s odd but the most boxing I’ve ever watched was the contender series when I was 12 years old. I used to love that s**t I swear to God.
      “I’ve been top of the bill and on PPV shows but it doesn’t really register with me, I’ve loved this and wanted to do this my whole life so I’m not really phased by it all and I certainly don’t need to watch fights back. It’s never affected me.”
      Eggington is as rough as they come in the ring. He knows he’ll never be polished, but the confidence remains he’ll get to fight for an elusive world title at some point down the road.
      Sam Eggington has won the British, Commonwealth and European titles in his careerCredit: Hennessy Sports
      After all, the plan when he turned professional was to show up on small-hall shows and play the journeyman part for his entire career.
      For the best, it hasn’t worked out like that. Eggington has achieved way more than he ever thought was possible, winning British, Commonwealth and European titles along the way.
      “When I turned pro I wanted to be a journeyman, I was all set to do that,” he adds. “I was never going to be a Mayweather and win 50 fights outright. It’s been rocky and there have been fights I shouldn’t have lost, but it’ll make for a great book one day.
      “My career has been better than expected. When I won the Midlands title it was better than I expected. I was a kid with little amateur background, it was all juniors then I decided to turn over so I could earn some dough.
      “If I could box like Canelo Alvarez tomorrow then I would. But that’s just not how it works. I’ll just keep on taking the opportunities presented to me.”
      Sam Eggington vs Carlos Molina is live and FREE on Channel 5 from 10pm on Saturday May 22. More