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      in Boxing

      Inside Tyson Fury’s amazing family dynasty with NINE pro boxers including Love Island star brother and dad John

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      TYSON FURY lives at the top of the heavyweight boxing world.But while he is the Fury family’s most famous name, he is one part of a family dynasty in the industry.
      Tyson Fury heads a family full of fightersCredit: AFP
      Dad John Fury is one of nine fighters in the Fury fighting dynastyCredit: Alamy
      The Fury’s live and breathe boxing, with a staggering NINE members of the family involved in the industry in some capacity.
      Below SunSport takes a look at each member of the Fury’s fighting empire.
      Tyson Fury
      STARTING out with the creme of the crop, The Gypsy King stands at the pinnacle of heavyweight boxing.
      Tyson has been in the sport since he was eight years old.
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      Tyson won the WBC belt in 2019Credit: AP
      He went on to win the WBA, IBF, IBO and WBO heavyweight titles from Wladimir Klitschko in 2015.
      Tyson was stripped the IBF belt just ten days after winning it after he refused to fight mandatory challenger Vyacheslav Glazkov.
      The remaining three belts were vacated in 2016 pending an investigation over anti-doping and medical issues.
      Most recently he won the WBC title from his epic trilogy with Deontay Wilder.
      Most read in Boxing
      Tommy Fury
      Tommy Fury is Tyson’s half brother and an ex-Love Island starCredit: Alamy
      TOMMY FURY has thrust himself into the spotlight with his high-profile fights in influencer boxing.
      In October 2023 he beat KSI, which followed a split-decision win over Jake Paul in February.
      Tommy is Tyson’s half brother, sharing the same father but different mothers.
      TNT saw a large part of his fame come from appearing on Love Island in 2019.
      While on the reality TV show he met fiancee and mother of his daughter, Bambi, Molly-Mae Hague.
      He featured prominently in Netlfix’s At Home With The Fury’s documentary.
      Roman Fury
      Rowan Fury previously had a scholarship as a rugby star before swapping to boxing when his weight increasedCredit: PA
      ROMAN FURY is Tommy’s brother, Tyson’s half-brother, and fights at cruiserweight.
      He has been described by the Gypsy King as “an aspiring cruiserweight champion of the future.”
      Roman previously held a scholarship to become a rugby player before his weight shot up to 19 stone.
      After starting training with Tyson and Tommy during lockdown Roman shed six stone before having his first pro boxing fight in October 2022.
      John Fury
      Fury Sr fought former WBO champ Henry Akinwade during his pro careerCredit: Alamy
      FATHER to Tyson, Tommy and Roman, the often explosive John Fury had his own noteworthy career in the ring with 13 pro fights under his belt between 1987 to 1995.
      John’s career however, was far less illustrious than his son’s would prove to be.
      Born in 1964, he was beaten on his boxing debut by rugby league player Adam Fogerty before going on to win his next six fights on the bounce.
      A 1989 draw with David Hopkins would end this streak, before he had a shot at the Central Area title with Neil Malpass which he lost on points.
      Wins against future British and Italian title challengers would follow, before he was brutally KO’d against future WBO champion Henry Akinwade which sparked a four-year ring absence.
      He would return against 1995 but was knocked out inside four rounds. After hanging up his gloves he would train son Tyson, which has gone on to yield great success.
      John was raised as a Gypsy and still keeps up with traveller tradition.
      Hughie Fury
      Hughie Fury suffers from a rare skin condition but previously challenged for a heavyweight titleCredit: Getty
      HUGHIE FURY has been out of the ring after suffering from acne conglobate, but has an impressive record in the ring.
      He is the cousin of Tyson and has a pro record of 26 wins (15 KOs) and three defeats.
      Hughie challenged for the WBO heavyweight title in 2017 and previously asserted he would be able to beat Anthony Joshua.
      Born in 1994, Hughie was the first British boxer to win gold in the super-heavyweight division at the 2012 Youth World Championships.
      Nathan Gorman
      Nathan Gorman is the great-nephew of bare-knuckle fighter Bartley GormanCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      NATHAN GORMAN is Tyson’s cousin and fights in the heavyweight division.
      Born in 1996, he has 21 fights under his belt, winning 19 – 13 via KO – and losing two.
      Gorman has fighting in his blood not just from the Fury family, being the great-nephew of undefeated bare-knuckle fighter Bartley Gorman.
      Hosea Burton
      Hosea Burton challenged for the British light-heavyweight belt in 2021Credit: PA:Press Association
      ANOTHER cousin, Hosea Burton fights at light-heavyweight or cruiserweight level.
      He held English national championships in Sheffield in 2009 and London in 2010.
      Burton’s overall pro record is 32 fights, 28 wins – 12 by KO – and four defeats.
      In 2021 Tyson, John and Hughie all watched on at Wembley as Burton was defeated in seven rounds by Dan Azeez for the vacant British light-heavyweight title.
      In May 2023, Burton suffered another defeat to Ellis Zorro for the vacant WBO European cruiserweight title.
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      Andy Lee
      Andy Lee held the WBO middleweight title in 2014Credit: Sportsfile
      LEE is the second cousin of Tyson and cousin to Tommy.
      Born in 1984, the Irish southpaw has fought across three weight classes, holding the WBO middleweight title for a year in 2014.
      His pro record stands at 39 fights, 35 wins – 24 by KO – three defeats and one draw.
      Lee’s last fight was in 2017, citing family reasons for his retirement. Since then he has become a trainer and boxing pudit.
      He was assistant to SugarHill Steward for Tyson’s rematch will Deontay Wilder and has trained Joseph Parker.
      Peter Fury
      FATHER to Hughie, Peter Fury has a murky past.
      Peter was a criminal gang kingpin that covered the North East before he was slapped with a ten year jail sentence in 1995 for heading up a supply chain of illegal amphetamine which made him millions.
      He was forced to give around £1million back to authorities before he was released.
      In 2008 he was then thrown back in prison for money laundering.
      Read More on The Sun
      Peter has been involved in the training of both Tyson and Tommy from their younger days.
      He has also been a trainer for Hughie.
      Peter Fury has been involved in Tyson, Tommy and Hughie’s training but was is also a former gang leaderCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      I’m a former Premier League star and now I own a five-star hotel with spectacular ocean views of the Mediterranean

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      SASA Ilic is best remembered by Charlton fans for a match-winning penalty shootout save against Sunderland in the 1998 Playoff final.But today the 51-year-old is a hotelier, owning a breathtaking five-star boutique hotel in Montenegro.
      Charlton legend Sasa Ilic is now a hotelier
      Ilic owns the stunning Monte Bay Retreat in Perast, Montenegro
      The boutique hotel offers six unique bedrooms
      Ilic was inspired to open the luxurious Monte Bay Retreat in 2013, after a series of unfortunate events led him heading towards a downward spiral.
      In the space of a year, his father passed away, his first marriage crumbled, and a house he owned burned down.
      A visit to a detox retreat gave him the idea to open up his own boutique hotel.
      He sold his South East London pad, hopped on his motorbike and rode it all the way to the Balkans.
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      Ilic then converted a home he had in the beautiful old town of Perast into the stunning resort that is perched on the Mediterranean ocean.
      “Due to certain circumstances in my life, between 2009-12 I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do with myself after football,” he told SunSport.
      “The Monte Bay Retreat was a bit of a lifesaver. In 2009, I went through a divorce, my business collapsed because of the credit crunch in London, my father passed away and a house I had in Montenegro burn down.
      “For three years I was a lost soul. But I went to a detox retreat and that cleansed my mind, my body and soul.
      Most read in Football
      “I already had another property in Montenegro, and I came up with the idea just after I finished my final day of detoxing.
      “I was very unhappy in London. I wasn’t doing anything at all, I didn’t have an occupation and getting back into football was difficult.
      “I sold my place in Blackheath, jumped on my motorbike and rode all the way to Montenegro to start this new journey of mine.
      “I followed my gut instinct. I was living with plenty of  a sorrow because of my father’s passing and getting used to being single again.
      “I didn’t have a focus in my life. I was cruising through life and didn’t have anything that would get me out of bed in the morning.
      “If I didn’t make a change, I think I would have been another statistic. I would’ve had nothing and been bankrupt.
      “I would’ve spent all the earnings I made in football, I’m sure of that, so I needed to make that life-altering decision.”
      Original plan
      Australian-born Ilic was keen on initially launching Monte Bay Retreat as a detox centre.
      However, he scrapped those plans later on because he wanted it to be open to anyone looking for a quiet home away from home.
      Prices at Monte Bay Retreat start at around £170-per-night
      Facilities include an infinity pool
      Prices start at around £170-per-night, with access to an infinity pool, sauna, and jacuzzi.
      “Because the detox route was a niche market, that would’ve taken me another three or four years to get the word out,” Ilic said.
      “So I converted it to a boutique hotel. It now has an intimate feel with just six bedrooms and it’s completely closed off.
      “All the guests that come, they have sole usage of the bar, restaurant, infinity pool… the difference is its hands on deck, me as the host and people don’t feel like they’re in a hotel.
      “We provide a five star service that you would see in one of the bigger hotels, but with a more intimate feel.
      “I greet everybody, see them off. I usually will welcome them with the local drink, rakija and then we see them off with a big hug and a kiss.
      “When they come to Monte Bay, that’s the service we try and provide for all our clients.
      All the hotels I’ve been in, all around the world, you tend to know what people like.
      “And the basic concept of not allowing anyone else from the outside to come in, and make it completely exclusive for the people staying in the six room. I think that adds to the flavour.
      “It’s a very happy, relaxed mood and people enjoy that atmosphere. I’m also really lucky to have wonderful staff.”
      Healthy food is available for guests to chow down on
      The hotel boasts incredible views of the Mediterranean ocean
      The luxury Monte Bay Retreat has become the social media influencers resort of choice
      Celeb haven
      With its luxurious rooms, glorious views and secluded setting – it’s the perfect setting for any celebrity or social media influencer looking for peace and quiet in private.
      Over the years, Ilic has had a few footballer pals come and visit him, including Dutch legend Ronald de Boer and ex-Charlton teammate Gary Nelson.
      He revealed: “I’ve had a couple of footballers visit.
      “Gary Nelson, who used to play for Charlton. And I had Ronald de Boer, who is a friend of mine too, who came as well.
      “But I’ve not really tapped into my contacts. I just want people to come because they want to come, rather than seeing big-name superstars and all that kind of stuff.
      “Ronald is a friend of mine, and he was in Montenegro so he popped down to see me. And with Gary, he saw pictures on the website when I was down at Charlton for an event, so he came with his wife.
      Monte Bay Retreat offers peace and tranquility for its guests
      Activities including yoga and pilates can be enjoyed at Monte Bay Retreat
      Sasa, pictured with son Sava, now enjoys a blissful life
      Ilic was a hero for Charlton in the 1998 Play Off final – saving a penalty in a shootoutCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      “It’s one of those places that if you were a superstar, nobody will see you. So you get that intimacy that you wouldn’t necessarily get anywhere else.”
      Next year, the ex Addicks shotstopper is opening up his own football school, Sasa Ilic Soccer Academy.
      The aim is to provide a top notch education, thanks to partnerships with the University of Donja Gorica and Arizona State University Prep, alongside first class coaching, with facilities including a FIFA certified pitch and state-of-the-art gym.
      For now, though, life as a hotel owner is bliss.
      It’s a beautiful lifestyle, we eat fresh food practically every day. We go out in speedboats or I’ll go out with the clients.
      Read More on The Sun
      “I’m living the dream on the Mediterranean coast and we’re only open for seven months of the year.
      “I purposefully lock it up for 5 months and go away on holiday with my wife and kids.” More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Francis Ngannou’s amazing car collection, including a £421k Rolls-Royce Phantom and £127k Mercedes-Benz G Class

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      FRANCIS Ngannou knows a fine motor when he sees one.The MMA legend, 37, is gearing up for the fight of his life when he takes on Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Saturday.
      Francis Ngannou shows off his stunning Rolls-RoyceCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      Ngannou has built a staggering garage of motors from his wealthCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      A stunning £421k Rolls-Royce Phantom is the most expensive motor in Ngannou’s collectionCredit: Getty
      Already he has built up a reputation as a fierce competitor in the UFC, where he was crowned heavyweight champion.
      Ngannou, who is believed to be worth around £5million, has enjoyed the trappings of fame after a tough start to life in Cameroon.
      He now has a garage of luxury cars to envy.
      Rolls-Royce Phanton VII, £421,000
      The most expensive car Francis has been seen with is this beautiful Rolls-Royce Phantom VII.
      read more boxing news
      Under the hood, it boasts a powerful 6.75 litre V12 engine that produces 453 horse power.
      It’s the ultimate in luxury saloon, and able to reach 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds.
      With a top speed of 149mph, it’s not the quickest.
      But, it is one of the most expensive cars available on the market.
      Most read in Boxing
      Rolls-Royce Ghost, £270,600
      The Ghost is so-called because it’s so quiet when you drive.
      However, it’s not lacking in punch -with its 6.6-liter V12 engine producing a whopping 563 horsepower and 575 lb-ft of torque.
      That means it is quicker than the Phantom, and can reach 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds.
      This fancy car is also faster – with a top speed of 155 mph.
      The Rolls-Royce Ghost starts at £270,600Credit: wilsonsauctions.com
      Ngannou has come a long way since growing up in CameroonCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
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      Mercedes-Benz G Class, £127,000
      As status symbols go for sports stars, the Mercedes-Benz G class is up there.
      Footballers love them, and celebrities too – with Kylie Jenner credited with starting the early trend back in 2016.
      Officially called the G63 AMG, it is spacious and leggy enough for Ngannou to stretch his 6ft4in frame.
      Performance-wise, it has a 5.5-liter Biturbo V8 engine that produces  563 horsepower and 560 lb-ft of torque.
      It can reach 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds.
      Ngannou has a stunning G Wagon in his garage worth around £127kCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      The spacious G63 AMG is roomy enough for Ngannou’s giant frameCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      Ferrari 488 GTB, £184,000
      Back in 2021, Ngannou paid a visit to Exotics Racing in Las Vegas, Nevada.
      They offer a supercar driving experience on a large race track, where you can pick from an astonishing fleet.
      The sports star squeezed himself into a Ferrari 488 GTB, possibly with a plan to try it for size for a future buy or as recommended by pal Cristiano Ronaldo.
      Francis would have found that this Ferrari is capable of reaching 0-60 in a meagre three seconds.
      It is propelled by a 3.9 litre V8 engine, 661bhp and 560lb ft of torque.
      Francis Ngannou squeezes into his FerrariCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      Francis Ngannou tries out the Ferrari on the trackCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      Toyota Outlander, £57,000
      As part of a promotional visit, Ngannou dropped into Las Vegas’ Johnny Legends Mitsubishi dealership.
      There, he took a particular shine to their popular SUV, the Outlander.
      In a cute video online, Ngannou and a little girl talk about the car and why its ideal for them.
      Now, the Outlander is known as the Highlander on our shores.
      Read More on The Sun
      The reliable SUV is seen as a cheaper competitor to the Land Rover Discovery and Volvo XC90.
      It’s unknown if Ngannou walked away from the showroom with one, but he certainly seemed impressed.
      Ngannou, pictured with his mum Mamma, in front of a ToyotaCredit: Instagram @francisngannou More

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      Inside Tyson Fury’s property empire, from £550k Morecambe home to Vegas mansion he let coach live in rent free

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      TYSON FURY has worked his way to the top of the boxing world. The Gypsy King has fame, glory and heavyweight championship belts to his name thanks to his exploits in the ring.
      Tyson Fury owns a number of stunning propertiesCredit: @tysonfury
      Some estimates place Fury’s net worth at £130millionCredit: PA
      His properties range from Morecambe to VegasCredit: Netflix
      With those accolades has also come a vast sum of wealth.
      He is estimated to have a net worth of around £50million.
      However, following his fight against Dillian Whyte in April 2023, some estimates put that figure as high as £130m.
      Fury has put this wealth to good use, investing in a number of luxury assets.
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      Cars are one of the main items Fury’s money has gone towards, with his garage featuring a pair of Rolls Royce, a Porsche Taycan and a Ferrari to name but a few.
      But chief among his assets are his houses.
      Fury is said to own a number of properties, including the £1.7m pad featured in his Netflix documentary At Home With The Furys and a Las Vegas home where he is said to have let his coach stay cost free.
      Below we will take a look at some of the stunning properties.
      Most read in Boxing
      £550k family home
      The Fury family lived in a £550k home for yearsCredit: ITV
      The home featured five bedrooms
      For years Fury and his family lived in a beautiful five-bed home in Morecambe.
      Tyson has remained adamant he would never uproot his home from Morecambe telling ITV doc Tyson Fury: The Gypsy King in 2020: “Why would I abandon my own country for a bit of money and some fame?
      “I love it… It’s true beauty. If the weather was better, every house here would be a million quid.”
      And considering the Fury’s former house, it’s clear to see why he would not want to leave.
      In 2021, the five-bed, four-bathroom Lancashire home of Fury that overlooked Morecambe Bay was estimated to be worth £550,000.
      Fury’s wife Paris often gave fans a sneak peek into their home
      The home was suitably decked out inside as well, as shown thanks to the snaps Fury’s wife Paris often shared to her social media pages.
      Oil paintings, large photos of Fury in action and a trophy cabinet were all present in the property.
      There were even gold curtains and a huge gold-framed Versace mirror.
      A walk in wardrobe was also a frequent sight on Paris’ stories, featuring designer handbags and glamorous outfits to rival the Kardashian’s of the world.
      £1.7million Morecambe mansion
      Fury brought a £1.7m home in 2020Credit: Netflix
      The home includes Paris’ £50,000 collection of shoesCredit: Instagram @parisfury1
      True to his word, Fury snubbed a move elsewhere in order to remain by his beloved Morecambe.
      In December 2020, Fury brought a new seaside mansion which, according to Land Registry documents obtained by The Mirror, set Tyson Fury Ltd. back a cool £1,695,000, and is mortage-free.
      With seven children in tow – after welcoming their seventh in September 2023 – the new property gave the Furys a new lease of Morecambe life.
      Paris was given free reign on the interior design of the stunning property, which features gold chandeliers, marble-topped counters and a grand piano.
      The home featured heavily in the Netflix show At Home With The Furys, which offered fans a glimpse inside the chaotic and full-on life of Britian’s top heavyweight boxer.
      There is a castellated front wall and wrought-iron black and gold fence and CCTV warning signs for security as well as lion motifs and four eagle sculptures to keep up appearances.
      A water fountain can also be seen at the front of the property, while there is also a mini-playground with the “Gypsy King” logo painted on the floor outside.
      The Gypsy King logo is plastered on the floor outsideCredit: @tysonfury
      It featured heavily in the Netflix series At Home With The FurysCredit: Instagram @parisfury1
      Fortunately, Paris has upgraded her walk-in wardrobe for her amazing shoe collection – estimated to be worth a cool £50,000.
      Speaking to loose women in 2020, Paris – who tied the knot with Fury in 2009 – explained the move came from them deciding to prioritise their children’s safety.
      She said: “We get people around the house. It’s not good, we actually have to because of that.
      “We’re in the process of moving house because we’ve had too many people at the door – too many strangers knocking.
      “And we have five children here, it’s not like me and Tyson’s here, two adults who can sort of deal with situations.
      “We have people coming to the house and the kids are opening the door and we don’t know who they’re opening the door to. It’s not what we need. It’s not the ideal situation.”
      Caravan and gypsy wagon
      Fury used to live in a caravanCredit: ITV
      Fury’s dad John still lives by the traveller lifestyleCredit: ITV
      But it hasn’t always been fancy digs for Fury, as once upon a time, he lived in a caravan on his father’s land.
      Fury was raised as a traveller and left school at 11, but never lost touch with his roots despite his fame and fortune.
      Indeed, dad John still retains that way of life as shown in the Netflix doc.
      On his ITV documentary, Fury was seen wheeling his wagon around outside his Morecambe home.
      Marbella home
      Fury is also said to own a stunning white-cobbled mansion in Marbella, Spain reportedly worth up to £6m.
      Pictures from 2018 have shown Fury in front of the property which features columns, large windows and an array of palm trees.
      After revealing the pad on his story he said: ““New house had to treat myself.
      “Been a long time coming. But the Mack in back [sic]. MTV Cribs blessed by God.”
      Fury shared a snap in front of a stunning Marbella mansion
      Sin City digs
      Fury’s property empire is not limited to this side of the Atlantic either.
      Over in Las Vegas, also known as Sin City, Fury is said to own a stunning mansion as well as one other property.
      Fury explained that he uses the pad when he fights in the United States, such as in his epic trilogy with Deontay Wilder.
      And his coach SugarHill Steward has been allowed to stay at the property rent free until he is called upon to help Fury with his fight preparation.
      Read More on The Sun
      Fury previously said ahead of his fight with Derek Chisora: “I have bought a big beautiful house out there and never really used it, one camp.
      “My trainer SugarHill is living in the house rent-free right now, sending me photos of all the fun he is having. I love it over there.”
      He is also said to own a home in Las VegasCredit: Instagram More

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      Francis Ngannou’s amazing journey from sand mines in Cameroon to being homeless in Paris and UFC heavyweight champion

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      FRANCIS Ngannou’s remarkable journey to reach the top is one of hope, courage, strength and character, and is symbolic of the fighter he is.On Saturday, the MMA legend, now 37, will take on his greatest challenge yet in Tyson Fury in a boxing contest.
      Francis Ngannou has come a long way from his days in CameroonCredit: Getty
      Tyson Fury and Ngannou are going head-to-bead in the ‘Battle of the Baddest’Credit: PA
      Ngannou was raised in Batie, Cameroon by single mum MammaCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      The pair will step in the ring at Boulevard Hall in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for a huge pay-per-view pay day which could land Ngannou an estimated £8million.
      It dwarves any event he has previously fought in, but don’t expect the 6ft4in ex-UFC champion to be daunted.
      He’s faced bigger tests in his life that prove he is as resilient as it gets.
      From a tough start in Cameroon, where he worked in the sand mines for just £1.50 a day, to being homeless in Paris, his story is the ultimate tale of survival.
      Read more boxing news
      Early years
      Francis was raised in Batie, Cameroon, by a single mum who split from his dad when he was six.
      The father was a street-fighter, renowned in the village for squaring up to gang members, four of five at a time, and giving them a hiding.
      When he was nine, he joined his 11-year-brother by working in the sand mines.
      The boys’ job was to shovel sand into piles so the men could shovel it into the back of tipping trucks.
      Most read in Boxing
      In 1994, he became engrossed in the football World Cup held in the States. But not for the game, more for the spectacle and the country.
      He gave himself a nickname amongst his peers, ‘American Boy’. Amusingly, he would sign his name as a kid as Francisco Ngannou, a nod to San Francisco.
      His family had a small TV in their home, and he would wait patiently every Saturday to get another slice of America – in the form of the cult David Hasselhoff TV show, Knight Rider.
      Francis’ pals dreamed of emigrating to France, but he thought bigger. The United States was his calling.
      From Africa to Europe
      To get to the US, Francis, who was now 26, would have to take the long way round. It took him 14 months to get to Paris.
      Getting from Cameroon to Nigeria was easy because of the open border between the two countries.
      Problems arose when he reached Niger, where he needed a visa.
      That left him open to corrupt police and border control officers. If you are caught, you have to pay a bribe or face deportation.
      Dad Emmanuel was renowned for being a street fighter in BatieCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      Ngannou’s upbringing in Cameroon was far from idealCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      read more sport features
      Not wanting to give away money he had saved all his young life, he hid some in wrapped paper or swallowed it.
      He managed to cram himself into a pick-up truck with 25 people, as they crossed the Sahara desert to get to Algeria.
      The 24-hour journey was perilous in that if the rickety vehicle broke down, the passengers on board would not have enough water to live.
      They made it, but Francis admitted he was forced to drink water that had “dead animals” in it.
      Good relations
      By now, Francis was beginning to understand the politics of each country he was passing through.
      Due to Algeria’s close relationship with Mali, who had helped them during the civil war, he understood the importance of acquiring a Malian passport.
      He managed to obtain one illegally, and attempted to cross the border from Algeria to Morocco.
      In the past, Francis has admitted he was “scared as s***” when border control officers were checking his ID.
      Miraculously, he made it through – but things were about to get much tougher in Morocco.
      When he turned 26, Ngannou embarked on a journey to EuropeCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      Ngannou showed courage and strength to surviveCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      He would have to summon up skills akin to Bear Grylls.
      Keeping a low profile, Francis lived in the woods and would eat food out of bins.
      He tried to cross the border more than once, cutting his stomach open on his first attempt on barbed wire.
      His injuries were so severe, he reluctantly went to hospital. After he was treated, police left him in the desert.
      Despite failing several times, Francis wasn’t going to give up now. He took to water, and studied the 11-mile fence that prevented him from reaching Spain and asylum.
      To avoid triggering infrared motion sensors and helicopters, he coated his boat in silver foil.
      Once he made his way to across the water, he called the Red Cross who came and saved him with Moroccan helicopters on his tail.
      Prison before fame
      Out of the frying pan and into the fire, a year after leaving Cameroon Francis found himself in a Spanish prison.
      “They bring you to this detention centre, but this is like a harsh prison. They just want to break you down mentally, at some point you go crazy in there,” he once revealed.
      After landing in Spain, Ngannou spent two months in prisonCredit: Instagram @francisngannou
      Ngannou found solace in the gym
      Because of his false passport, Spanish authorities were unable to deport Francis or keep him behind bars.
      He was released after two months, when he figured out his next plan.
      Francis pondered moving to England, although strict border controls meant he dodged a train fare and headed to France.
      He said: “From Spain to go to France, Italy or Germany, it’s easy. there is no police control, but to go to England it’s difficult. Even as a French resident.”
      A homeless Francis settled in Paris, looking for a boxing gym to train at, while sleeping in a car park.
      By chance he met Fernand Lopez, a coach at MMA Factory in Paris, and they soon hit it off.
      Lopez convinced Francis to change sports, and within two months he was competing in France’s MMA circuit.
      He won five of his first six fights, before the UFC signed him up in 2015.
      Read More on The Sun
      Six years later, he would cap his astonishing story by becoming the UFC heavyweight champion by knocking out Stipe Miocic.
      His money-spinning fight against Fury could be the fairytale ending to a remarkable adventure, or just the beginning of the next chapter as a world champion boxer.
      Ngannou knocks out Alistair Overeem in their heavyweight bout in 2017Credit: Getty
      Some six years after joining the UFC, Ngannou was crowned UFC heavyweight championCredit: Getty More

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      Ultimate sports presenters rich list as Laura Woods’ net worth revealed but she’s not the wealthiest TV host

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      TV SPORTS presenters make a mint.The biggest and best are signed up on yearly deals with the likes of the BBC, ITV and Sky for your viewing pleasure.
      Laura Woods is the most sought after sports presenter of the momentCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsy
      Glam Alex Scott rivals Woods on BBCCredit: Splash
      Kelly Somers heads up the list at No10Credit: Getty
      BBC host Somers is believed to be worth around £600kCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      Laura Woods is dominating the media landscape at the moment, leading TNT Sports’ coverage and ITV’s.
      Alex Scott and Jermaine Jenas are two of the fresher faces for the BBC’s sporting output.
      Then, it’s the old guard of Gary Lineker and Mark Chapman who also command hefty fees for their Match of the Day programmes.
      SunSport unravels who the wealthiest TV host in the UK is, starting from No10.
      Read more on sports presenters
      10. Kelly Somers, £600,00
      Kelly, 32, has appeared on talkSPORT, BBC, Premier League Productions and Optus Sport.
      She first lit up our screens during the Euros, interviewing Gareth Southgate and England’s stars, now she’s a regular host on Final Score.
      She fought back against trolls online who gave her sexist abuse by shaming them on social media.
      Back in August, Kelly revealed she is expecting her first child.
      Most read in Football
      9. Emma Paton, £650,000
      Emma, 29, hosts Sky Sports’ darts and tennis coverage, including the US Open back in September.
      Paton has been working for Sky since 2012, but has started to make a name for herself online in recent years.
      She has amassed an impressive 135,000 followers on Instagram where she gives fans a sneak peek behind the scenes of the TV coverage.
      Over the years, she has become a firm favourite with darts fans who comment online about Paton’s glam outfits.
      Emma Paton hosts Sky Sports’ darts and tennis coverageCredit: Instagram / @missemmapaton
      Gorgeous Emma has become a firm favourite with darts fans
      8. Jules Breach, £700,000
      Jules made her name on BT Sports, and also presents on Channel 4.
      The 36-year-old is a lifelong Brighton fan, who regularly shows her support for her club on Instagram.
      Breach also hosted The Football Ramble podcast.
      She works alongside Laura Woods now on TNT Sports.
      Jules Breach made her name on BT Sports and now presents on TNT SportsCredit: Instagram / @makeupartistglo
      Breach is a lifelong Brighton fan
      7. Alex Scott, £1.5million
      Alex, 39, has become a staple on the BBC.
      She regularly turns heads with her daring outfit outfits on Football Focus.
      While she went head-to-head with Woods at the Women’s World Cup with the Beeb’s coverage.
      Scott also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2019.
      Alex Scott has shone at the BBC in recent yearsCredit: Alamy
      Scott is now a bonafide celeb – invited to showbiz bashesCredit: Splash
      6. Laura Woods, £2million
      Woods, 36, worked her way to the top by starting as a runner on Sky Sports.
      But she became a household name thanks to her brilliant talkSPORT breakfast show.
      Woods is now the leading host for TNT Sports’ Champions League coverage.
      She also is the face of ITV’s football coverage.
      Laura Woods worked her way to the top by starting out as a runner at SkyCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsy
      TNT Sports hired Woods to lead their Champions League coverageCredit: Getty
      5. Jermaine Jenas, £3million
      Seen by many as the heir to Gary Lineker’s throne as MOTD host, Jenas began life as a footballer.
      Following a career starring for Newcastle and Spurs, the 40-year-old went into broadcasting.
      MOTDX was, sadly, canned.
      But, he’s still hosting the popular One Show.
      Jermaine Jenas is a rising star at the BBCCredit: PA
      read more sport features
      3. Gabby Logan, £4million
      Seasoned pro Gabby scored her first presenting gig back in 1996 at Sky Sports.
      From there he career grew, she joined ITV when they gained Premier League rights and then hosted their Champions League coverage, including the finals in 2005 and 2006,
      She left ITV for BBC Sport in 2007, has presented Final Score, Olympics coverage four times, and much more.
      It’s no wonder she’s the top earner for women in the category.
      Gabby Logan is the highest placed female hostCredit: Getty
      Logan has worked for Sky, ITV and the BBCCredit: Getty
      3. David Jones, £4million
      David Jones fronts the live coverage of Super Sunday and Monday Night Football.
      Over the years, he’s kept tempers in check with pundits like Roy Keane and Graeme Souness, although he had on-screen spats with the latter.
      Jones, 49, is a Sky Sports News OG – joining the channel for their launch in 1998 alongside Georgie Thompson.
      Outside of presenting, he has a role as non-executive director of his beloved Sunderland AFC.
      Sky Sports presenter David Jones joined the channel in 1Credit: PA
      2. Mark Chapman, £5million
      ‘Chappers’ is the purist’s host for BBC.
      He famously works the Match of the Day 2 show on a Sunday
      Chapman, 49, also hosts Sports Report on BBC 5 Live, one of the longest-running programmes on British radio, and the world’s longest-running sports radio programme, plus The Monday Night Club.
      Recently, she joined Sky Sports to present their Carabao Cup output.
      Mark Chapman is BBC’s pay rollCredit: Getty
      Chapman’s mostly seen on Match of the Day 2 and Radio 5 LiveCredit: Getty
      1. Gary Lineker, £30million
      The winner, by some way, is BBC’s highest paid presenter.
      Lineker, 62, began his TV journey on comedy quiz show They Think It’s All Over as a team captain.
      Read More on The Sun
      In 1999, he replaced Des Lynam as the anchorman for all football coverage and he fronts Match of the Day.
      According to the latest figures, Lineker is paid £1.35million yearly by the BBC.
      Gary Lineker tops the list of highest paid sports TV presentersCredit: Doug Seeburg
      Gary Lineker has fronted BBC’s football coverage since 1999Credit: BBC More

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      I’m 21 and get paid to plan Premier League footballers’ luxury lifestyles, like booking private jets for £12k an hour

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      WHEN Edward Somner Bogard was still in sixth form, he came up with a business plan to sell designer shoes to the elite and fashionable.Some four years later, that entrepreneurial drive has seen the 21-year-old build his own company, EMJ Exclusive – who pride themselves on making sure the rich and famous live their lives to the full.
      Edward Somner Bogard, 21, is the founder of lifestyle management company EMJ
      Somner Bogard began his business selling shoes, including these exclusive Dior x Air Jordan trainers that cost between £5k-£10k
      Somner Bogard helps Premier League footballers, wealthy influencers, Royal Family members and more live a lavish lifestyle.
      From sourcing designer clothes by Christian Dior to Chanel handbags for Wags, Lamborghini supercars, Patek Philippe watches to now aviation, the young businessman runs a full lifestyle management business.
      He told SunSport how it all began. “The business started pre-Covid, when I was still at school,” he said.
      “I resold designer shoes and over time, through various connections I made, my clients became footballers, boxers, and YouTubers.

      “At that point it was about building a client list, so I did things for free.
      “Then I would get asked by a client if I could get them a watch or a car. We gradually evolved with the services we could offer and now boast clients who are very high-profile people who have lots of money.”
      EMJ Exclusive keep their services discreet, so you will rarely see Ed lauding their offerings.
      Nor will you see those spending that kind of money showing off their riches on social media.
      Most read in Football
      Most recently, he’s added a Boeing Business Jet that is available to charter from around £12,000-per-hour.
      He continued: “In under four years we’ve gone from shoes to aviation. We can supply helicopters and jets for a clients.
      “We are the only business who could sell you designer shoes or a jet!
      “If you are wealthy and famous, we cover everything you need to have and do.
      “And we always operate with a high level of discretion to suit our clients.”
      Growing up London, Ed admitted having an intrinsic interest in luxury items.
      It’s his go-getting attitude that has allowed EMJ Exclusive to grow – gaining partners in a variety of spheres the super rich splash the cash in.
      “There’s no harm picking up the phone to someone who is respected in a particular industry to partner up,” Ed revealed.
      EMJ offers a Boeing private jet for charter at around £12k-per-hour
      Footballers and the rich and famous take advantage of EMJ’s connections, adding cars like a £160k Lamborghini Urus to their garage
      Patek Philippe watches, like this £150k beauty, was sold to an EMJ client
      Chanel handbags costing around £10k are snapped up by footballer’s Wags
      “We have partners who can get us travel packages, yachts, chartering jets, insurance and finance.
      “When it comes to watches and jewellery, we’re sort that out ourselves.
      “We have also built so much trust with our partners, so we make sure everyone gets a good deal.
      “Some of our clients will spend between £100,000 to £2million per-year.
      “We even have clients who will spend £30million on one jet in one go.
      “You have footballers who will buy a car for around £100,000 through us, or a watch for around £10,000 to a £100,000.
      “We will sell an entry level Rolex to a high-level Patek Philippe timepiece.
      “We have a wide variety of customers and spends. The footballers go for more medium purchases often.
      “Where as we’ve got some clients who will spend £250,000 in a day.”
      When the football season ends, Ed’s phone doesn’t stop ringing.
      Footballers can charter a stunning jet during the off season
      EMJ’s aviation offerings extend to a helicopter service
      Somner Bogard thrives in his hectic lifestyle
      read more SPORT FEATURES
      If he’s not organising players to travel for medicals when transferring clubs, he is making sure they get the five-star treatment on holiday.
      “During transfer season, we get all sorts of requests from agents and players to organise players’ moves,” he explained.
      “We also organise holidays, hotels, and entrance to clubs and high-end restaurants.
      “And luxury chalets in Val Disere to stays in the Maldives, Dubai, Ibiza, and Marbella with exclusive access to these villas through owners
      “In terms of the clubs and restaurants, people might think that if you are famous you can just turn up and you’ll get a table, but that isn’t always the case, especially when its abroad.
      “A security guard in Ibiza might not know who that person is. But we have a relationship with the owners and managers, so we can get that exclusive access.
      “A footballer doesn’t book their holiday six months in advance. So you have to find the villas that are off market, you have to find a table at a restaurant or a table at a club.
      Ed confessed he is working his dream job. But it’s non-stop and it requires someone with plenty of energy.
      “There’s trade offs with any job,” he said.
      “The thing for me is it’s so exhilarating, your adrenaline never goes.
      Luxury holidays are also source by EMJ
      Expensive jewellery, including this £130k ring are custom designed and made by EMJ
      “If I could have built my dream job, this is bang on. The hours are non-stop. If my phone goes at 2am, I am getting up and taking it.
      “With high-profile people they need high-intensity people to work with them to get stuff done.
      “If they have a problem with their villa or their flight, they want to know if they call me they will get through to someone and we can help them sort out their issue fast.
      ‘It’s my job to be there, especially if someone is spending that kind of money.
      “We make sure we everything we offer is done with the best people and best service.
      “EMJ is a full lifestyle management business. We operate with a bit of personality with what we do.
      “Our clients become friends of the business and we want them for 20 years or more, we’re more personable.”
      Read More on The Sun
      “We’re a business that will let people with money live their life how they want it to be lived
      “In short, we make it happen.”
      EMJ consider themselves a lifestyle management business for the wealthy and provide them with luxury items
      Pricey Patek Philippe watches costing £200k plus are available through EMJ More

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      I played alongside Ruud Gullit at Chelsea but now I host Denmark’s top reality TV show

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      WHEN ex Chelsea defender Jakob Kjeldbjerg retired from football aged just 27, he had to rethink his entire career.The former Denmark international, brought to Stamford Bridge by Glenn Hoddle in 1993, suffered a career-ending knee injury that forced him into retirement just four years later.
      Jakob Kjeldbjerg is a footballer turned reality TV hostCredit: Lotta Lemche
      Kjeldbjerg turned out for Chelsea in the 1990sCredit: Getty
      He suffered a knee injury which forced him to retire in 1997Credit: Lotta Lemche
      But, as fate would have it, Jakob found his true calling.
      He’s the Ant and Dec of Danish TV, presenting TV3’s most popular reality TV show, Robinson Ekspeditionen.
      Jakob has been working on the small screen for more than twenty years, also hosting I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
      In 2018 SunSport spoke exclusively with the enigmatic television personality in the South of France to discuss his new-found fame.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      He began by talking about the moment he was told his life in football was over.
      Kjeldbjerg said: “I remember it like it was yesterday. I was outside the London Independent Hospital with Mike Banks, the Chelsea physio.
      “We had just seen a massive hole in my knee and I was asked what I wanted to do after football.
      “Basically, they were saying that’s it. That was obviously horrible, but my nature was very much perhaps there are other opportunities in life.”
      Most read in Football
      Kjeldbjerg is now a TV presenter in his native DenmarkCredit: Instagram @jakobkjeldbjerg
      He was one of Glenn Hoddle’s first signings at ChelseaCredit: Instagram @jakobkjeldbjerg
      Before he became a Blue, Kjeldbjerg toyed with the idea of becoming a solicitor to have a career to fall back on.
      He said: “Throughout my life I wanted to become a lawyer, but it never worked out.
      “In 1992 I studied law in Denmark, but a few months into my studies I got called up by the national team while I was in a lesson. I haven’t read a book since!”
      In 1997, he got his first TV break delivering punditry on Premier League football in his home country while living in West London.
      “I was lucky enough to be asked to do some football commentary for Danish TV on a Chelsea match.
      “I did that, grabbed the chance, and it went from there. It was a tough time for me, but I got a lucky break.
      “When I’ve had a crisis from time-to-time with my TV job, sometimes I think I’ve got to go back to my studies.
      “Now it’ll probably never happen. But being a lawyer was more important to me than becoming a footballer before I made it as a pro.
      Kjeldbjerg has presented Robinson EkspeditionenCredit: Lotta Lemche
      He has also worked on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!Credit: Instagram @jakobkjeldbjerg
      “I wanted to help everybody get fair justice, including criminals.
      “It was never on my agenda to work in TV. But I started taking an interest in writing and TV when I was injured and I was fascinated by it.
      “I did interviews with Gianluca Vialli and Ruud Gullit for Danish TV. They knew me, so I didn’t have the journalist background but I had a foot inside the door.
      “They were horrible interviews for Danish TV, but I learned how to do it. I have to admit, my TV work happened because I played football.
      “My football career was fine, but I never really got enough years out of the game. It was certainly a stepping stone.”
      Kjeldbjerg’s transition from the pitch to TV has been seamless. He believes it was his destiny.
      He added: “My conclusion is that I was born to do TV, not born to be a footballer. I had some wonderful teammates and experiences, but I wasn’t made or destined to be a player.
      “My last years at Chelsea were difficult, I had issues with my body and that was maybe a sign I had to do something else.
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      “Also, being a footballer is quite narrow-minded, everything is taken care of for you. You have to perform on the pitch, if you don’t you’re off, then you don’t do anything.
      “In the end, there wasn’t enough in it for me. And we were paid peanuts in comparison to the guys today. The players today wouldn’t get out of bed for what I was paid back then!
      “Now, I make more money as a TV host, but I don’t make as much as Gary Lineker!”
      Since 2004, Kjeldbjerg has hosted Robinson Ekspeditionen, the Danish version of Survivor.
      “It’s a fascinating show and the longest running reality TV show in the world.
      “I’ve been working on it since 2004 and it’s been a fantastic trip. It’s by far the toughest show you can participate in.
      “I’ve been lucky enough to do I’m a Celebrity…, but that’s a walk in the park compared to Robinson Ekspeditionen.
      “We shoot in the Philippines for around 50 days a year. It’s a two-hour show, 27 contestants and three teams.
      Robinson Ekspeditionen is one of Denmark’s top rated TV ShowsCredit: Robinson Ekspeditionen
      It is the Danish version of SurvivorCredit: Lotta Lemche
      “It’s much harder to win the show than before when we had just 16 contestants.
      “We try and prepare these contestants for the worst, psychology tests and the rest. But they always get a shock.”
      Like Simon Cowell, Kjeldbjerg has developed a reputation as a tough customer. And he’s been very much part of the show’s most controversial moments.
      “We had some crazy gimics from 2007-2011, including a Guantanamo concept where I asked the contestants to run around naked.
      “I have this profile that I can be a tough guy, so they did it! But now we’ve gone back to basics and it’s still rating extremely well.”
      He added: “Robinson Ekspeditionen is under my skin, it’s been life-changing for me.”
      Kjeldbjerg admitted he would love to give British TV a shot.
      He said: “I could see myself working on British TV, that would definitely be a great challenge.
      “I am a character doing what I do, so who knows? If my company here would allow me to, I’d love to do a stint in the UK.
      “I could take over from Ant! But in truth, they were both much better than me at hosting I’m a Celeb…”
      Kjeldbjerg with wife ChristineCredit: Instagram @jakobkjeldbjerg
      Kjeldbjerg admitted his new life has come with challengesCredit: Instagram @jakobkjeldbjerg
      Presenting Denmark’s most popular reality TV show has meant that Kjeldbjerg’s fame has hit new heights.
      He confessed that it’s not something he’s totally comfortable with.
      “I like my privacy, but when I walk in Copenhagen I’m often approached by fans because it’s a high-profile TV show.
      “Families recognise me from Robinson Ekspeditionen and guys remember me from my football days. It’s not something I ever dreamed about, but it’s part of the deal.”
      Kjeldbjerg was signed by the Blues for £485,000, just a year after winning the Danish under-21 Player of the Year. He remembers his time in West London fondly.
      “I did have some great times at Chelsea. I have so much respect for Glenn Hoddle, what he did and what he wanted to do.
      “He was the man who started that revolution, if you like, of Chelsea wanting to play football and I was a part of that.
      “I don’t know how much credit he gets today, but without him Gullit would never have been there or Vialli or even Gianfranco Zola.
      “I remember when we lost that FA Cup final against Manchester United 4-0, we were still celebrated with an open top bus going down King’s Road.
      “I sometimes wonder what would’ve happened if I didn’t get injured, but I’m not so sure I would’ve been in the starting eleven.
      “Marcel Desailly was signed just a few years later, so I may not have played much. But I do treasure those moments I had with Chelsea.”
      Kjeldbjerg listed Gullit as the greatest player he’s ever played alongside.
      Kjeldbjerg starred for Chelsea in an FA Cup finalCredit: Getty – Contributor
      He named Ruud Gullit as the best player he played withCredit: Instagram @jakobkjeldbjerg
      Without hesitation, he told us: “Ruud Gullit (was the best) for his physical presence and what I call positive arrogance.
      “He was a funny guy, took the dressing room under his wing and was a leader. Ruud was so strong physically and skill-wise. I played with Brian and Michael Laudrup, but Gullit was outstanding.
      “(Zlatan) Ibrahimovic reminds me of him in terms of his character – that charm and arrogance. I loved it. He was a fantastic character.”
      And Kjeldbjerg also speaks fondly of another Chelsea great – John Terry – who was responsible for cleaning his boots.
      “I would love to have played alongside John Terry. He was one of the boot boys when I was there with Jody Morris.
      “They were wonderful kids. John was quite shy, but a lovely guy. No chip on his shoulder, he did his job.
      “I remember at the time wondering if he had the hard work required to really break through. But he was a real true leader of that football club for many years.”
      Because of his TV commitments, Kjeldbjerg rarely gets a chance to visit Stamford Bridge. But he watches all their games and was impressed with Maurizio Sarri’s approach.
      He said: “I’ve watched their first few matches, and I don’t think they’ll win the Premier League this year.
      “Their attacking football against Arsenal was sensational, but defensively there needs to be some adjustment and improvement.
      Read More on The Sun
      “I’m already a little bit in love with Sarri because of the way he stands there with his tracksuit bottoms and polo shirt.
      “He has a great approach to everything and he’s definitely got a plan. It’s clearly his way or the highway.”
      Kjeldbjerg is recognised more for his TV work than for footballCredit: Instagram @jakobkjeldbjerg More