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      in Soccer

      Meet Europe’s top goalscorer Ciro Immobile’s stunning Wag Jessica Melena who studied criminology and always plays pranks

      by

      CIRO Immobile certainly has much to cheer about.
      The Lazio hitman beat Cristiano Ronaldo to the European Golden Shoe – netting an incredible 36 goals in Serie A this season.

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      Meet glamorous Italian Wag Jessica MelenaCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Jessica is married to Europe’s top scorer Ciro Immobile Credit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      A complete prankster, Melena has been with Immobile since 2012Credit: Instagram / @jessicamelena
      And off the pitch, he’s one half Italy’s most glamorous couple with Wag Jessica Melena.
      The pair met in 2012 when Immobile, 30, was plying his trade at lowly Pescara on-loan from Juventus.
      They married a few years later, and now have three children together.
      Like Immobile, Jessica is nimble with her feet – once showing off her beach football skills with her husband.

      She’s also a complete prankster.
      LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
      Ciro and Jessica met at a restaurant and immediately fell in love.
      Within a week, they were living together and the striker made his intentions clear.
      Jessica revealed: “On the third day [after meeting] he wrote to me in a message: ‘You will be the mother of my children…’

      “I said that I thought it was a bit strong, but then soon after he kept his promise. His were true words.”

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      It was love at first sight for Immobile when he met Jessica at a restaurantCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Within a week Melena and Immobile were living togetherCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Jessica had dreams of becoming a forensic scientistCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Melena fell pregnant after six months dating Immobile and gave up her studiesCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Jessica is Immobile’s NO1 supporterCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena
      DREAMS OF CSI
      When Jessica met Immobile, she had aspirations of working in crime scene investigations.
      Fascinated by the US CSI TV shows, she studied criminology and forensic sciences at the University of L’Aquila.
      However, when she met Immobile things changed.
      She fell pregnant within six months, quit her studies and moved with him to Genoa.
      They married in 2014 in Buccianico, Jessica’s hometown in the province of Chieti.
      GREAT FEET
      Back in 2018, holidaymakers in the Maldives were treated to a skills exhibition from Jessica and Ciro enjoying a kickabout on the beach.
      The loved-up pair indulged in a spot of keepie uppies, thrilling the locals.
      A bronzed Jessica used her knee and feet, knocking the ball towards her footballer beau.

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      Like her husband, Melena is nimble with her feetCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Melena boasts some cracking football skillsCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Travelling is one of Melena’s favourite hobbiesCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena
      She even pulled of Zinedine Zidane’s signature ‘roulette’ move – showing she has great feet.
      TOTAL PRANKSTER
      Football loves its jokers.
      And at home, Immobile has one in his missus.
      Jessica teamed up with Italian TV show Scherzi a Parte, which translates to Jokes Aside, to pull the wool over Immobile’s eyes.
      In the skit, she took delivery of a dozen heart-shaped balloons and pretended they were from him.
      But soon the pair got into an argument, with Ciro demanding to know who sent them.
      So incensed, he rang his mum to tell her about it all.
      After that, Jessica revealed all causing Ciro all sorts of embarrassment.

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      Jessica pranked Immobile on an Italian TV showCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      On Instagram Melena has over 945,000 followersCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Fans are drawn to Jessica’s Wag lifestyleCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena
      BEACH SCARE
      Being one of Italy’s glamour romances has its drawbacks, and can leave you open to getting robbed.
      While Ciro and Jessica were enjoying some time at the beach in Pescara with their family, they were approached by a man wielding a knife.
      Jessica said: “Ciro remained impassive, but I was very scared.
      “Fortunately, the little girls were asleep… it was clear from his eyes that he was under something.
      “At one point, he pulled out a small knife. He [sparked] a bit of panic.
      “I think that gentleman was not well.”
      PLAY WITH ME, INSTEAD
      If there’s one thing Jessica doesn’t like about Ciro it’s his love of gaming.
      The Italian beauty often shares pics of herself on Instagram lurking in the background while her husband is clutching onto his PlayStation controller.

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      When Immobile is on his PlayStation, Jessica plays second fiddleCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Jessica jokingly plays along with Immobile’s PlayStation obsessionCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Melina will be toasting Immobile’s success as Europe’s top scorerCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

      Appearing bored, she just hates being ignored while he plays another game on FIFA.
      Even a silly dance won’t distract him from his screen.
      But at least she sees the funny side.

      Lazio striker Ciro Immobile’s hot WAG performs a sexy dance around him to get his attention More

    • 175 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      The craziest contract demands revealed, including no space travel, weight clauses and cooking lessons

      by

      PLAYERS are valuable commodities.
      So when they thrash out contracts with the world’s biggest clubs, it’s important to get everything right and nothing’s left to chance.

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      SunSport looks back at seven of the wackiest stipulations requested to and by players.
      But there are times when stipulations are put in place by player and club to protect their interests, to let them fulfil their hobbies, or managers just don’t trust them.
      SunSport looks back at the wackiest requested to and by players.
      Robert Lewandowski the outdoor adventurer
      When the Polish forward was at Borussia Dortmund in the last year of his contract Bayern Munich and Real Madrid were jostling for his signature.
      And in leaked documents, Real Madrid’s offer seemed lucrative.

      Alongside a £166,000-per-week deal and a £10million signing-on fee were several requests they didn’t want daredevil Lewandowski to do while he was their property.
      Skiing, paragliding, climbing, going on a motorboat and even riding a motorbike were big ‘no-nos’ for Real Madrid’s hierarchy… so that’s why signed for Bayern.

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      Robert Lewandowski couldn’t ski, paraglide or doing anything daring if he signed for Real MadridCredit: AFP
      Giuseppe Reina toyed with

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      Giuseppe Reina in action for Arminia Bielefeld, who only joined under strict circumstances
      WHEN negotiating a contract, it’s important to be 100 per cent clear about what is being stipulated.
      When German forward Reina moved to Arminia Bielefeld in 1996, he demanded the club build him a house for every year of his contract.

      The club accepted.
      However, Reina didn’t specify what size he required.
      And Arminia provided him with a house made of Lego for the next three years.
      Fernando Redondo gets locked out

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      Fernando Redondo’s long hair cost him his international career
      FORMER Real Madrid and AC Milan midfielder was excluded from Argentina’s 1998 World Cup squad for a bizarre reason.
      Manager Daniel Passarella had refused to pick homosexuals or players with earrings and long hair.
      Redondo was ‘guilty’ of the latter.
      He said: “I was in great form. But Passarella had particular ideas about discipline and wanted me to have my hair cut.
      “I didn’t see what that had to do with playing football so I said no.”
      Rolf-Christel Guie-Mien cooks up a treat

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      Rolf-Christel Guie-Mien made it very clear to his wife he kitchen skills needed improvement
      CONGOLESE midfielder moved from Karlsruher to Eintracht Frankfurt in 1999.
      However, he had one simple request: that his new club pay for his wife to have cooking lessons.
      We’re not sure Mrs Guie-Mien took too kindly to this demand.
      Though, she was not available for comment at the time.
      Stefan Schwarz brought down to Earth

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      Stefan Schwarz is presented as a Sunderland player, alongside Peter Reid
      THE SWEDE moved to Sunderland in 1999 — but the Wearsiders had one stipulation the former Arsenal man had to adhere to.
      Schwarz was told that any potential flights into space would not be tolerated.
      The Black Cats chief exec John Flicking said at the time: “One of Schwarz’s advisers has, indeed, got one of the places on the commercial flights [into space, due to take place in 2002].
      “And we were worried that he may wish to take Stefan along with him. So we thought we’d better get things tied up now rather than at the time of the flight.”
      In fact, rather than managing to go up, his career ended when Sunderland went down in 2003.
      Neil Ruddock weighed down

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      Neil Ruddock has never been one of the slimmest footballer
      THE former defender once admitted to eating 212 steak and kidney pies every year.
      And Crystal Palace were advised Ruddock did come with some extra baggage when they signed him on a free in 2000.
      Ex-Eagles chairman Simon Jordan wrote in his autobiography: “On approaching West Ham I discovered he was a free transfer, although he did have a weighty salary — which was not the only weighty thing about him.
      “Harry Redknapp, the West Ham manager at the time, told me to put in a weight clause.
      “So I decided to put a 10 per cent penalty on the contract we were proposing to offer him if he was over the recommended weight of 99.8kg, which by the way was still frigging huge.”
      Ruddock’s Palace debut was allegedly delayed because the club couldn’t find a pair of shorts big enough for him.
      Driving a Honda

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      Keisuke Honda signed for Brazilian side Botafogo – but only after an unusual request was grantedCredit: AFP or licensors
      MORE recently Japanese legend Keisuke Honda joined Botafogo.
      But moving to Brazil’s crime-ridden city of Rio de Janeiro had the midfielder fearing for his safety.
      So he stipulated he would need an ARMOURED VEHICLE as part of the deal.
      More incredibly, Botafogo agreed. More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Hulk is bodybuilder footballer who ditched his wife to be with her gorgeous niece and now wants Premier League transfer

      by

      HE really is incredible.
      Brazilian star Givanildo Vieira de Sousa, better known as Hulk because of his bodybuilder appearance and being a Lou Ferrigno lookalike, has enjoyed a well-travelled career.

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      Hulk is attracting interest from the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      The Brazilian international is now married to his ex-wife’s niece

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      The Brazilian got his nickname because of his resemblance to bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno, who played The Incredible HulkCredit: Getty – Contributor
      After beginning his career in his homeland, the well-built forward has played in Japan, Portugal, Russia, and is now making a mint in China.
      At Shanghai SIPG he earned a whopping £16.6million-per-year, and was one of the Chinese Super League’s marquee signings in 2016.
      But now, with his contract coming to an end, Hulk is ready to come to the Premier League and reportedly has several offers to show off his talents in England.
      At 34 he’s never looked better, and after lockdown he showed off a remarkable body transformation with a more defined look.

      And back in March, Hulk caused controversy when he ditched his wife and married her stunning niece.
      KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY
      Last year, the burly striker ended his 12-year relationship with ex-missus Iran Angelo.
      Five months later, reports linked Hulk to her beautiful niece Camila Angelo, 31.
      That relationship is now said to have started in October of 2019, and in March the former Porto striker wrote on his social media bio he was “married” again.

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      Hulk divorced his wife of 12 years Iran Angelo, left, and began dating her beautiful niece Camila Angelo months later

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      The pair have posted several pictures wearing what looks like wedding rings

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      Angelo and Hulk have never confirmed their nuptials

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      According to reports, Hulk married Angelo so she could get a visa to stay in China
      The couple have posted several pictures together since wearing what appear to be wedding rings, but never confirmed their nuptials.
      Argentine newspaper Infobae later revealed “sudden marriage was also due to” the fact Camila “needed a visa to stay in the country (China)”.

      Brazil star Hulk ‘marries his ex-wife’s stunning niece in whirlwind ceremony to get visa and stay together in China’
      THE BIG MAN
      When Hulk first emerged on the scene in Europe with Porto, his staggering size always stood out on the football pitch.
      He was renowned for being built like an ox, and it was impossible to shrug him off the ball because of his strength.
      In China, especially during the lockdown period, he seems to have become supersized.
      Fans were left agasp when he returned to training with Shanghai SIPG somehow looking even more muscular.
      Hulk shared video and pics of himself staying fit by hitting his home gym.
      And the benefits were there for all to see.

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      Hulk was always renowned for his huge physiqueCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      The beefy forward was a hulking presence

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      Today’s Hulk is more defined
      HE’S GOT GOALS
      The misconception of Hulk is that he’s a novelty footballer, because of his gargantuan size.
      However, as they say, never judge a book by its cover.
      Capped 47 times by Brazil, he’s scored 11 international goals – playing mostly as a winger.
      His career took off in Japan’s second division with Tokyo Verdy in 2007, before he moved to Porto in 2008.
      It took him two seasons to find his feet in Portugal, and there was bother along the way.
      Following a tunnel brawl during a 1-0 league loss to fierce rivals Benfica, Hulk was suspended for four games.
      But in the 2010-11 season he began to push on. 35 goals in 53 games during Porto’s treble year, in which they also lifted the Europa League, elevated him to new heights.
      Trouble still followed him wherever he went, in 2014 he was forced to pay £42,000 fine for assaulting two stewards.

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      Hulk made his name in Europe at PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

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      Hulk went to Russia to play with Zenit Saint Petersburg after PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

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      In 2016 he became one of the world’s highest paid players joining Shanghai SIPGCredit: Rex Features
      PREMIER LEAGUE INTEREST
      It’s not a surprise that Hulk has been linked to a move to the Premier League, with his status as a free agent approaching soon.
      Before he moved to Zenit Saint Petersburg, he revealed Chelsea were interested in adding him to their squad.
      “In my first season at Porto, I started well and remember hearing some talk about Manchester United, but I never received anything concrete on that,” he told FourFourTwo.
      “At the time, I was too young and left those things for other people to sort out, so I didn’t get to know which offers arrived.
      “Only after I signed for Zenit was I told Chelsea had been interested, but I can’t tell you how serious they were.”
      HE’LL COST MEGA WAGES
      Although clubs will be enticed by the fact there’s no transfer fee for Hulk, he won’t come cheap.
      His salary is said to be in the region of £320,000-per-week – making him the second highest paid player in China. The first is former Chelsea star Oscar on an astonishing £400,000-per-week.

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      Hulk stands outside his private jet, which bears the striker’s signature on the outsideCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

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      Inside the aircraft there are sketches of the Brazilian scoring goals throughout his careerCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

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      At 34 Hulk still has lots to offer amid Premier League interest
      And he lives some life off the pitch, as you can imagine.
      In 2018, he was pictured on board his own private jet, which featured his signature on the side.

      Inside, the cabin was decorated with his own image.
      Hulk is also a keen art collector, spending his wages on rare paintings by renowned artists.
      The runway is clear for his arrival on our shores. More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Boxing

      Lucky Tyson Fury should have lost his unbeaten fight record to railway worker John McDermott in his early years

      by

      TYSON FURY is back on top in heavyweight boxing – but it could have been very different.
      The Gypsy King completed a sensational comeback in the sport when he battered Deontay Wilder back in February to win the WBC world title.

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      Tyson Fury had a tough night against John McDermott back in 2009 – but somehow managed to get a wide points winCredit: Rex Features
      [embedded content]
      It handed the American his first professional defeat, and also maintained his own unbeaten record.
      But back in 2009 Fury managed to keep that 0 in his losses column when he came up against slugger John McDermott.
      Fury was heralded as one of British boxing’s best talents having blitzed seven opponents in quick time.
      His team decided to step things up against ‘Big Bad’ McDermott, with the English title on the line.

      McDermott went in to the bout on the back of two losses against Danny Williams, but his 30-fight record included many KOs that would test out the new golden boy’s chin.
      And while no stoppage came for either boxer, McDermott had seemingly put the skids on Fury’s blossoming career with a messy points win.

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      Tyson Fury was the 1/6 favourite against John McDermott – but the fight didnt play out like thatCredit: Rex Features

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      Going into the later rounds Team McDermott were in confident moodCredit: Rex Features
      It was far from a spectacular performance. But McDermott snaffled and bullied the younger man, with Fury, the 1/6 favourite on the night, left relying on distance flurries.
      Going into the final round Fury’s corner were heard telling their man that he was behind on points and needed a grandstand finish – that never came.

      Referee Terry O’Connor saw things differently and somehow scored it 98-92 to Fury.
      It led to McDermott’s promoter at the time, Frank Maloney, now Kellie Maloney, slamming O’Connor as a “disgrace to boxing”.
      Guardian writer Kevin Mitchell pulled no punches in his assessment of the result, saying at the time that he “cannot remember a worse decision in the sport”.
      He wrote that Fury “got away with a robbery of the highway variety” and that the boxing community “were left outraged by the decision”.

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      It was Tyson Fury and his team who were left celebrating at the end of the 10-rounderCredit: Rex Features

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      Tyson Fury said after the controversial points win that he would have retired if he had lostCredit: Rex Features

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      Basildon boxer McDermott could barely believe the referee’s decisionCredit: Rex Features
      Boxing legend Jim Watt was commentating for Sky Sports, and his scorecard gave it to McDermott by two rounds, 96-94 with Fury only coming close after winning the final two.
      McDermott was crestfallen as he gave his post-fight interview ringside.
      He said: “What have I got to do to win it? I’m a nice gentle guy, he’s the one with the big mouth and I’ve been penalised for it.”
      Fury, 21 at the time, said that he thought he had won it, and admitted that he “would have retired” if he had lost the fight.
      The rematch was inevitable, and as luck would have it Fury came in a year later a different beast and knocked McDermott down three times on the way to a ninth-round stoppage.
      But the controversy of that first clash still lingers, with McDermott even claiming Tyson’s dad John admitted to him that his son had “lost the fight”.

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      John McDermott and his then-promoter Frank, now Kellie, Maloney could not believe the decisionCredit: Sky Sports

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      Basildon boxer McDermott believed his ‘face did not fit’ and thats why Fury got the points winCredit: Sky Sports
      Speaking to Sky Sports, the Basildon ex-boxer, who now works on the railways fixing overhead cables, admits the result still “annoys” him.
      He said: “I’m not saying I would have gone on to fight for the world title but it would have helped me, at the time.
      “A bit more money when there wasn’t much money in boxing. He’s a millionaire now and I’m struggling.
      “They thought I’d be an easy fight. They didn’t think I could dig deep.
      “I remember walking up to the punch bag and my trainer drew a line at 6’9” and said: ‘This is how tall Tyson Fury is’. I remember thinking: ‘How am I going to hit the bloke?’
      “I thought the judges were scoring it. But people were booing and I saw the referee holding Fury’s hand up. It’s just madness, I don’t know what happened. How can he score it 8-2?”

      CHEESE GREATER
      Cheeseman beats Eggington in brilliant, brutal war at Hearn’s Fight Camp

      IT’S ALL IN THE HEAD
      Mike Tyson claims ‘ego is f***ing with him’ ahead of comeback fight

      Revealed

      TY-ME IS UP
      Tyson Fury named ahead of Anthony Joshua in Ring Magazine’s top 10 heavyweights

      IRON MAN
      Roy Jones Jr thinks Mike Tyson, 54, is ‘still just as dangerous as ever’

      FOUGHT KNOX
      Inside Wilder’s £1m Alabama mansion with lake view, hot tub & iconic panic room

      After the rematch McDermott, now 40 , only had four more fights before retiring on a victory against Matt Skelton in 2013.
      Fury, 31, meanwhile has completed a real fairytale by dethroning Wilder and putting himself in a prime position to become undisputed heavyweight king.
      But things could have panned out very differently had the contentious result of 2009 been reversed.

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      Tyson Fury is on top of the heavyweight boxing world while John McDermott is fixing up the railwaysCredit: Reuters

      Tyson Fury says ‘you never get bored of beating Deontay Wilder up’ as he longs for trilogy after coronavirus crisis ends More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Boxing

      Inside the Matchroom mansion, Eddie Hearn’s former home converted into an office with a gym, pool, and helipad

      by

      THE Matchroom HQ in Essex is where boxing promoter Eddie Hearn makes all his key decisions.
      Originally bought by his dad Barry around 30 years ago, it’s was the family’s former house before it became the home of boxing, snooker and darts.

      The stunning Matchroom HQ where Eddie Hearn conducts his businessCredit: https://www.instagram.com/eddiehearn/

      Eddies dad Barry Hearn bought the property for £200,000Credit: Rex Features
      Then, it cost Hearn Sr a meagre £200,000 – and was an upgrade from the Dagenham council house he grew up in.
      The property boasts a gym and swimming pool, which Hearn’s staff and pool of fighters can use.
      While in the lush expansive garden, you’ll find a helipad and occasionally a boxer working out with pads or going for a run.
      Join SunSport for a tour inside.

      LEISURE COMPLEX
      Matchroom HQ isn’t just a place where Hearn meets his fighters, conducts media days and draws out his plans for boxing domination.
      It’s also a place that boasts a leisure complex, in which fighters can exercise with their trainers.
      “The key to a healthy mind is a healthy body,” Hearn told The Daily Mail.
      “We’ve got a pool and a gym upstairs, where the fighters come in for meetings, can have some sessions with their trainers and do some strength work in the pool.

      Originally, the Hearns lived in the stately home

      The leisure complex features a pool Hearn’s stable of fighters and staff take advantage ofCredit: Talksport

      Fight posters dominate Matchroom HQs officeCredit: Talksport

      Artwork from the first Froch v Groves fight sits pride of place in Hearn’s officeCredit: Talksport
      “This pool has been used by a number of great fighters over the years – Chris Eubank, Jim McDonnell, and Darren Barker.
      “It’s great to have this facility here, not only for our staff and our employers and our team, but also for our team of fighters.”
      INCREDIBLE GROUNDS
      Surrounding the stately property are some stunning grounds.
      It’s where Anthony Joshua and Co. love to go for a run, and even some outdoor pad work.
      “There’s some great runs in the forest,” Hearn revealed.
      “Many fighters have been seen through the years doing many a circuit.
      “In the summertime, actually, a lot of them come out here and do their pad work, circuits and strength work.
      “It’s a great feel and great to have the fighters here, when they are around.”

      Barry and Eddie Hearn pose in the lush gardensCredit: Action Images – Reuters

      Eddie Hearn is effectively in charge of the business these daysCredit: � Will Wintercross / eyevine.

      Dotted around Matchroom HQ are photographs of Hearn’s fighters’ most impressive momentsCredit: TalkSport
      THEY’VE COME A LONG WAY
      Eddie’s dad Barry has come a long way since his own childhood.
      He came from a Dagenham council estate, but made good as a promoter for the likes of Chris Eubank, Nigel Benn and Lennox Lewis.
      Although Eddie is effectively in charge of the business these days, Barry still has the better office.
      “This was the house my dad bought about 30 years ago,” he told TalkSport.
      “He was from a council house in Dagenham, did well, and this was his first major purchase.
      “I grew up here, so we feel great here and it’s been very good to us.
      “He paid two hundred grand for it at the time. Looks like a good investment now, but more than the money this has been a very lucky place for us.
      “We’re big believers in that and luck.”

      Self-confessed boxing fanatic Hearn collects the gloves of his fightersCredit: TalkSport

      Barry Hearn came from a Dagenham council estate before he made his millionsCredit: Rex Features

      Fittingly, Barry still has the better officeCredit: Rex Features
      FIGHT ISLAND
      Like Dana White has done with the UFC, Eddie has created his own ‘Fight Island’ to stage boxing matches.
      However, his plans are more personal. Hearn is turning the mansion’s garden into a fighting arena, with events starting from August 1.
      Hearn said: “Our project restart is about staging live boxing from the garden there with a canopy.
      “You’ve heard of Madison Square Garden and this is the new garden.
      “We talked about doing boxing in studios and there’s a lot of people doing it. I just feel like when you are talking about a gladiatorial sport, like boxing, you need to create that moment, that energy, not just for the viewer at home but the fighter as well.
      “We’ve got big plans. It looks fantastic. There’s still a long way to go. I think it’s 90 per cent for us. Anything could happen at any time.
      HOW IT’LL WORK
      And Hearn has really thought it through.
      “There’s a hotel at the bottom of the road that we will take over. On the Wednesday, before the Saturday, everybody will turn up. Fighters, Sky team, corners, our team will all be tested at a facility,” he continued.

      Eddie Hearn has bold plans for boxing the boxing coronavirus pandemicCredit: Talksport

      Hearn is staging boxing fights from the Matchroom HQ gardenCredit: https://www.instagram.com/eddiehearn/

      Hearn showed off his plans on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/eddiehearn/
      “You don’t enter the hotel specifically, you enter a side building and you get tested and then you get your key, go into your room and don’t leave until you get the results.

      CHEESE GREATER
      Cheeseman beats Eggington in brilliant, brutal war at Hearn’s Fight Camp

      IT’S ALL IN THE HEAD
      Mike Tyson claims ‘ego is f***ing with him’ ahead of comeback fight

      IRON MAN
      Roy Jones Jr thinks Mike Tyson, 54, is ‘still just as dangerous as ever’

      Revealed

      TY-ME IS UP
      Tyson Fury named ahead of Anthony Joshua in Ring Magazine’s top 10 heavyweights

      Comment

      COLIN HART
      Tyson vs Jones Jr should NOT be sanctioned… somebody could get seriously hurt

      ROARING BACK
      Joshua warns Tyson, 54, not to fight ‘young lions’ ahead of Jones Jr comeback

      FOUGHT KNOX
      Inside Wilder’s £1m Alabama mansion with lake view, hot tub & iconic panic room

      “Once you get a negative results, you are allowed into Matchroom Fight Camps. We create a sterile environment. No one is allowed to interact with anyone from outside fight camp during that period.
      “The problem with this virus is people are still learning. We are having a dozen calls a day with doctors and testing facilities. It’s such a mountain to climb.
      “We are going to be having around 90 people on site and everyone will be tested before they go into the facility.”

      Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn talks about future fights after coronavirus lockdown More

    • 263 Shares179 Views

      in Boxing

      ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson’s former £1.5m Las Vegas mansion used in The Hangover has an infinity pool, two spas and a waterfall

      by

      THIS is the house where Mike Tyson became a Hollywood star.
      In 2008, the 53-year-old former heavyweight champion let movie director Todd Phillips and his cameras into a stunning mansion he lived in with wife No3 Lakika.

      Inside Mike Tyson’s former £1.5m Las Vegas mansion used in The HangoverCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      The gorgeous property has an infinity pool with two spas and a waterfallCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      They filmed hilarious scenes from cult movie The Hangover, in a cameo that would go on to define him and rebuild his career after years of bankruptcy.
      Found in the beautiful gated community called Seven Hills in the suburb of Henderson, it boasts six bedrooms and six-and-a-half bathrooms, and its own private balcony.
      And golf enthusiasts will enjoy the incredible 18-hole Rio Secco Golf Club, as well as four large private parks filled with basketball courts, tennis courts and football pitches.
      ITALIAN-STYLE
      Like many new builds in Las Vegas within gated communities, the 5,740-square-feet mansion was built in an Italian style in 2001.

      Two-storeys in size, the entrance opens to a grand reception room with a 25-foot-high lit waterfall, which connects to the great room that has a wet bar and fireplace.
      You can imagine the great room is perfect for lounging, and where cannabis-advocate Tyson may possibly enjoy an occasional smoke.

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      Hit movie The Hangover starrring Bradley Cooper was filmed in Tyson’s houseCredit: Warner Bros

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      Mike Tyson in 2009 hit movie The HangoverCredit: Kobal Collection – Rex Features
      The living room has vaulted ceilings and walls of windows that offer plenty of natural light.
      Completing the look is a family room with a moon-shaped wet bar.

      While a centre-island kitchen has a another wet bar, and a wine cellar.
      For those chilly desert evenings, the home has four fireplaces.
      There’s also a garage for space for four cars.

      There are six-and-a-half bathroomsCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      The Italian-style property was built in 2001Credit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      A 25 foot waterfall awaits you in the front entranceCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      The kitchen boasts a centre islandCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      The mansion is two-storeys in sizeCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      The great room could be cannabis advocate Tyson’s smoking roomCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      OUTSIDE SPACE
      The sprawling property also has plenty of outside space.
      There’s a huge pool should ‘Iron Mike’ fancy taking a dip.
      In total, the garden boasts an infinity pool with two spas and a waterfall, as well as a large patio area, featuring a fire pit, BBQ area, bar area and pool bathroom.

      ROARING BACK
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      TY-ME IS UP
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      COLIN HART
      Tyson vs Jones Jr should NOT be sanctioned… somebody could get seriously hurt

      ‘REFRIGERATOR WON’
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      WILD CLAIM
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      FIGHTING FIT
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      FIGHTING TALK
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      FOUGHT KNOX
      Inside Wilder’s £1m Alabama mansion with lake view, hot tub & iconic panic room

      Movie fans will remember Zach Galifianakis urinating in it in The Hangover.
      However, it’s the 18-hole golf course that’s shared with other residents in the private community, as well as four large parks that have basketball courts and football pitches that make it a scenic surrounding.
      Tyson and Lakika have lived in Henderson, Nevada since 2008, moving to a property nearby in 2016. But she won’t be happy if the ‘Wolf Pack’ pop round, mind.

      The property boasts a total of four fireplacesCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      Large windows mean the property has plenty of natural lightCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      The wrought iron staircase runs through the homeCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      Tyson and his wife Lakika have lived in Henderson, Nevada since 2008Credit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas

      Mike Tyson reveals he is in boxing training ahead of shock return to the ring for four-round charity fight More

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      in Soccer

      Tottenham new signing Alfie Devine, 15, was released by Liverpool before starring for England U16 in SportChainCup

      by

      THIS week, Tottenham wrapped up the signing of promising midfield talent Alfie Devine.
      The 15-year-old England youth international was snapped up from cash-strapped Wigan, who were forced to sell after entering administration.

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      Tottenham have snapped up promising Wigan youth star Alfie DevineCredit: Instagram @alfie.devine
      But, it could’ve been a different Premier League giant helping Devine hone his skills.
      The talented star, son of former St Helens rugby player Sean Devine, remarkably began playing at Liverpool’s academy when he was just four.
      At seven it appeared he was being primed for a career at Anfield, after signing terms with the club.
      However, at 11 he was released and it wasn’t to be at his boyhood club.

      TIME FOR REFLECTION
      At a crossroads, Devine couldn’t hide his disappointment.
      He grew disillusioned with the game, and gave up playing for four months to reflect on his time at the academy.
      Then came redemption with Wigan Athletic.
      The Latics immediately offered Devine a place, and were said to be shocked that he was let go by the Reds.

      They changed his position from centre forward to central midfield, and he prospered through the youth ranks.

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      Devine was released by Liverpool before Wigan rescued his youth careerCredit: Instagram @alfie.devine

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      Devine impressed against Spurs in a FA Youth Cup game earlier this seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      And this season he has really pushed on.
      Devine became a regular for Wigan’s U18’s, and rather astonishingly, was given his U23 debut – just two months after turning 15.
      He was also invited to train with Paul Cook’s first-team this term.
      TRIUMPHS ALONG THE WAY
      With Tottenham aiming to win trophies, Devine has already steeped himself in the tradition of being a winner, albeit at a younger level.
      For Wigan’s U15’s he was the star man in the 5-0 rout of Sunderland in the Floodlit Cup final.
      While he was also part of the Latics FA Youth Cup side that beat Spurs on their way to the quarter-finals for the first time in their history this season.
      His performance that day stood out to Tottenham youth coaches, who were wowed by the youngster.
      THREE LIONS GLORY
      Every young footballer dreams of playing for their country.

      4

      At the SportChainCup Devine was voted player of the tournament Credit: Instagram @alfie.devine
      Devine is no different, having represented England’s U16 team and leading by example.
      He starred at the SportChainCup in Spain, playing in a 5-0 rout of Japan, as well as games against Mexico and the host nation.

      England eventually crashed out the tournament to Spain, but Devine took centre stage to win the player of the tournament.
      Spurs have a long history of cultivating classy midfield players, Glenn Hoddle, Paul Gascoigne, and Dele Alli spring to mind.
      In Devine it appears they may have unearthed another gem.

      Tottenham release new home kit for 2020-21 but fans slam ‘awful’ shirt More

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      in Soccer

      Hulk is bodybuilder footballer who ditched wife to date her gorgeous niece and now wants Premier League transfer

      by

      HE really is incredible.
      Brazilian star Givanildo Vieira de Sousa, better known as Hulk because of his bodybuilder appearance and being a Lou Ferrigno lookalike, has enjoyed a well-travelled career.

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      Hulk is attracting interest from the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      The Brazilian international is now married to his ex-wife’s niece

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      The Brazilian got his nickname because of his resemblance to bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno, who played The Incredible HulkCredit: Getty – Contributor
      After beginning his career in his homeland, the well-built forward has played in Japan, Portugal, Russia, and is now making a mint in China.
      At Shanghai SIPG he earned a whopping £16.6million-per-year, and was one of the Chinese Super League’s marquee signings in 2016.
      But now, with his contract coming to an end, Hulk is ready to come to the Premier League and reportedly has several offers to show off his talents in England.
      At 34 he’s never looked better, and after lockdown he showed off a remarkable body transformation with a more defined look.

      And back in March, Hulk caused controversy when he ditched his wife and married her stunning niece.
      KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY
      Last year, the burly striker ended his 12-year relationship with ex-missus Iran Angelo.
      Five months later, reports linked Hulk to her beautiful niece Camila Angelo, 31.
      That relationship is now said to have started in October of 2019, and in March the former Porto striker wrote on his social media bio he was “married” again.

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      Hulk divorced his wife of 12 years Iran Angelo, left, and began dating her beautiful niece Camila Angelo months later

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      The pair have posted several pictures wearing what looks like wedding rings

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      Angelo and Hulk have never confirmed their nuptials

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      According to reports, Hulk married Angelo so she could get a visa to stay in China
      The couple have posted several pictures together since wearing what appear to be wedding rings, but never confirmed their nuptials.
      Argentine newspaper Infobae later revealed “sudden marriage was also due to” the fact Camila “needed a visa to stay in the country (China)”.

      Brazil star Hulk ‘marries his ex-wife’s stunning niece in whirlwind ceremony to get visa and stay together in China’
      THE BIG MAN
      When Hulk first emerged on the scene in Europe with Porto, his staggering size always stood out on the football pitch.
      He was renowned for being built like an ox, and it was impossible to shrug him off the ball because of his strength.
      In China, especially during the lockdown period, he seems to have become supersized.
      Fans were left agasp when he returned to training with Shanghai SIPG somehow looking even more muscular.
      Hulk shared video and pics of himself staying fit by hitting his home gym.
      And the benefits were there for all to see.

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      Hulk was always renowned for his huge physiqueCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      The beefy forward was a hulking presence

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      Today’s Hulk is more defined
      HE’S GOT GOALS
      The misconception of Hulk is that he’s a novelty footballer, because of his gargantuan size.
      However, as they say, never judge a book by its cover.
      Capped 47 times by Brazil, he’s scored 11 international goals – playing mostly as a winger.
      His career took off in Japan’s second division with Tokyo Verdy in 2007, before he moved to Porto in 2008.
      It took him two seasons to find his feet in Portugal, and there was bother along the way.
      Following a tunnel brawl during a 1-0 league loss to fierce rivals Benfica, Hulk was suspended for four games.
      But in the 2010-11 season he began to push on. 35 goals in 53 games during Porto’s treble year, in which they also lifted the Europa League, elevated him to new heights.
      Trouble still followed him wherever he went, in 2014 he was forced to pay £42,000 fine for assaulting two stewards.

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      Hulk made his name in Europe at PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

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      Hulk went to Russia to play with Zenit Saint Petersburg after PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

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      In 2016 he became one of the world’s highest paid players joining Shanghai SIPGCredit: Rex Features
      PREMIER LEAGUE INTEREST
      It’s not a surprise that Hulk has been linked to a move to the Premier League, with his status as a free agent approaching soon.
      Before he moved to Zenit Saint Petersburg, he revealed Chelsea were interested in adding him to their squad.
      “In my first season at Porto, I started well and remember hearing some talk about Manchester United, but I never received anything concrete on that,” he told FourFourTwo.
      “At the time, I was too young and left those things for other people to sort out, so I didn’t get to know which offers arrived.
      “Only after I signed for Zenit was I told Chelsea had been interested, but I can’t tell you how serious they were.”
      HE’LL COST MEGA WAGES
      Although clubs will be enticed by the fact there’s no transfer fee for Hulk, he won’t come cheap.
      His salary is said to be in the region of £320,000-per-week – making him the second highest paid player in China. The first is former Chelsea star Oscar on an astonishing £400,000-per-week.

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      Hulk stands outside his private jet, which bears the striker’s signature on the outsideCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

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      Inside the aircraft there are sketches of the Brazilian scoring goals throughout his careerCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

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      At 34 Hulk still has lots to offer amid Premier League interest
      And he lives some life off the pitch, as you can imagine.
      In 2018, he was pictured on board his own private jet, which featured his signature on the side.

      Inside, the cabin was decorated with his own image.
      Hulk is also a keen art collector, spending his wages on rare paintings by renowned artists.
      The runway is clear for his arrival on our shores. More