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      in Soccer

      Jude Bellingham’s best outfits, from £6,000 Louis Vuitton threads he wore at Paris Fashion week to Ballon d’Or flares

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      MOVE over Jack Grealish, there’s a new football fashionista in town.Jude Bellingham, 20, has become a superstar of the beautiful game since moving from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in a £114million deal this summer.
      Jude Bellingham looked class at the recent Ballon d’Or awards
      Real Madrid ace Bellingham’s flared trousers were the talk of the red carpetCredit: The Mega Agency
      Bellingham wore a custom Louis Vuitton suit, while dapper team-mate Vinicius Jr went with Dolce & GabbanaCredit: Rex
      The England star has taken LaLiga by storm – scoring 13 goals in as many matches.
      While for the Three Lions, he has put on a starring show against Scotland and Italy in recent months.
      However, it’s not just on the pitch where he is standing out.
      Off it, stylish Bellingham has proved to be the height of fashion.
      Read more Bellingham news
      SunSport takes a look at his best looks – starting with bringing back flares.
      Ballon d’Or
      Not all eyes were on Lionel Messi, who scooped his eighth Ballon d’Or in Paris this week.
      While the Argentina World Cup winner looked smart in a traditional tuxedo and bow tie combo, it was Bellingham’s look that pushed the boundaries.
      He arrived with his equally dapper team-mate Vinicius Jr, who wore Dolce & Gabbana, to pose for snaps on the red carpet.
      Most read in Football
      And his Louis Vuitton ensemble turned heads for its blend of classic elegance and modern styling.
      The blazer was double-breasted and featured pearl buttons.
      But it was the trousers that proved to be the game changer.
      Flared at the bottom, the suit was custom-made for Bellingham.
      Paris Fashion Week
      Back in June, just a week after completing his transfer to Real Madrid, Bellingham was a guest at Paris Fashion Week.
      He was joined by Manchester United star Marcus Rashford and Boston Celtics baller Jaylen Brown on the front row at the launch of Pharrell Williams’ debut collection as the new creative director of menswear at Louis Vuitton.
      Bellingham was suitably dressed for the celebration of haute couture.
      He wore a pyjama suit consisting of a flocked jacket, matching monogrammed pants and heavyweight Baroque loafers.
      At Paris Fashion Week Bellingham wore a Louis Vuitton ensemble costing £6kCredit: Getty
      Marcus Rashford, Jude Bellingham and Jaylen Brown attend the the Louis Vuitton Menswear Spring/Summer 2024 showCredit: Getty
      The in vogue sportsman accessorised his outfit with a pair of LV 1.1 Millionaires Infinity Dots sunglasses and a monochrome bandana worn around his neck.
      Reports claimed his outfit cost as much as £6,000, but at least he made a saving on a shirt.
      Gucci favourite
      Last year, Bellingham took part in a fashion shoot for SWM magazine.
      Shot at the five-star The Savoy in London’s West End, it was a collaboration with Gucci.
      He donned a striped tracksuit, as well as a pink varsity jacket for the occasion.
      “I’ve done stuff for my sponsors and my brand partners in the past, but nothing for a brand like Gucci. So it was a real pleasure for me,” he told SWM.
      “And as well as the pleasure I got from putting on the clothes, it was as much a pleasure to meet the staff and meet everyone who was working on it as well, because they were brilliant with me and they made me feel so at home in the outfits.”

      The name’s Bellingham
      Back in 2021, in Dortmund, Bellingham was getting a flavour for dressing smart.
      Channelling 007 Daniel Craig, he took to Instagram to show off his attire.
      And he looked every inch like James Bond in a black tuxedo and bow tie, giving a little subtle smile to camera.
      Bellingham also went for a couple of sophisticated white polo neck and grey suit combos, as well as a long charcoal overcoat matched with a black polo neck.
      He captioned the set of photos: “Sparkles and champagne.”
      The name’s Bellingham… Jude Bellingham
      Sophisticated Bellingham rocks a polo neck and suit combo
      Bellingham remains a cool character off the pitch
      At the SPOTY awards
      At the Sports Personality of the Year Awards in 2021, the Bellingham family were all in attendance. And all were suited and booted.
      Brother Jobe, dad Mark and mum Denise looked the part, but once again it was Jude’s daring style that stood out.
      He opted for a velvet blazer by Gucci with gold button detail, costing around £2,450, with a white evening shirt, wool mohair pants, patent leather lace-ups and a Jacquard Grosgrain tie.
      Again, it was a modern take on a classic look.
      The then 18-year-old was nominated for the Young Sports Personality of the Year award.
      However, Olympic bronze skateboarder Sky Brown was the winner.
      Bellingham rocks a velvet Gucci blazer costing around £2,450Credit: PA
      Smart casual
      The elegant youngster doesn’t always go for a smart suit, though.
      When he’s in his everyday clobber, he nails a streetwear mixed with designer vibe.
      In one photo he shared on Instagram, he’s pictured alongside Real Madrid team-mate Eduardo Camavinga looking dead cool.
      While the France midfielder wears a Balenciaga summer shirt, it’s Bellingham’s £1,270 Prada poplin shirt with a floral summer theme that stands out.
      Read More on The Sun
      And his trainer selection is seemingly top class.
      In another picture on social media, he shows off Dior’s B30 Sneaker – a steal for £860.
      The Bellingham wears Prada
      Eduardo Camavinga and Bellingham cut stylish figures
      Bellingham spotted wearing Dior trainers that retail for £860 More

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      in Soccer

      I played for Man Utd but was one day away from death when a tick in my beard infected me with Lyme disease

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      IN 2016, fomer Manchester United star Karel Poborsky was settling into retirement.Some ten years after he had laced his boots for the final time for Czech side České Budějovice, he had grown a big bushy beard, travelled around the world and was seemingly loving life.
      Former Manchester United and Czech Republic footballer Karel Poborsky was loving retirement until he caught Lyme disease
      Poborsky starred for Man Utd between 1996-1998Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      But a serious health scare left the Euro 96 hero fighting for his life.
      Poborsky was hospitalised after catching Lyme disease in the most unfortunate manner possible.
      According to the Express, it was discovered the winger who famously sported long curls had a tick living in his beard.
      The nasty parasite bit and infected him, and that was the beginning of his horror ordeal.
      Read more Man Utd news
      Hospitalised and put in a coma
      Poborsky needed immediate medical care.
      He was rushed to hospital after contracting a brain infection that left his cheek paralysed and his eyes hypersensitive to light.
      Doctors put him in an induced coma to allow his body to recover.
      For three weeks he was placed in quarantine on an emergency ward before making a full recovery.
      Most read in Football
      The 118-cap footballer, who played 48 times under Sir Alex Ferguson, later reassured fans on Facebook that he was out of the worst.
      A photo he shared showed one half of face his clean shaven, the other still covered in bristles.
      Poborsky addressed his nightmare in an interview with The Guardian in 2019.
      He revealed that had he been seen one day later, he would have died.
      “If I arrived at the hospital one day later than I did, this interview would not happen,” he said.
      “I arrived at the hospital too late to find out the root of the infection; they put me straight into a coma. After I woke up, they asked me what my name was and the seven times table.
      “All of my face muscles were paralysed – it was an infection of the brain. I spent three weeks quarantined in hospital on powerful antibiotics, directly to the veins.
      “I couldn’t eat, I had to keep my eyes covered because I was so sensitive to light. I was very scared.”
      Czech Euro 96 hero Poborsky reportedly caught Lyme disease after he was bitten by a tick living in his beardCredit: Youtube – UEFA
      Poborsky was placed in an induced coma and given strong antibiotics
      Full recovery
      Thankfully, Poborsky made a full recovery from Lyme disease.
      In recent years, the midfielder has returned to Old Trafford to play in several charity games.
      Back in 2022, he turned out for Man Utd Legends against Liverpool Legends.
      Before that in 2019, he appeared alongside David Beckham for Man Utd Legends against Bayern Munich and Andy Cole in a match against Barcelona Legends.
      He even caught up with his old boss, Sir Alex Ferguson.
      Capturing the moment with a photo on Instagram, Poborsky captioned the snap: “My boss. Thanks a lot for this match!”
      However, he’ll always be remembered for starring for the Czech Republic in the 1996 European Championships in England.
      In recent years, Poborsky has strapped his boots on for Man Utd legendsCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Andy Cole appeared alongside PoborskyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Sir Alex Ferguson paid £3.6m for Poborsky after his Euro 96 exploits
      David Beckham and Karel Poborsky pose for a snap
      His infamous lob goal in the quarter finals against Portugal was one of the best of that tournament.
      It encouraged Sir Alex Ferguson to splash £3.6m on Poborsky, who despite playing second fiddle to David Beckham, managed to become a fan favourite from 1996-98.
      Not the only sports star to catch Lyme disease
      High-profile Hollywood stars including Ben Stiller and Richard Gere have been struck down with the devastating condition over the years.
      But for England rugby legend Matt Dawson, it was also nearly as devastating as when Poborsky had it.
      He had to undergo multiple heart operations and endured 18 months of treatment after being bitten by an infected tick.
      Dawson said: “I still have regular check-ups, I seem to be a lot better after my surgeries, but I still have an irregular heartbeat that I have to monitor.
      Read More on The Sun
      Karel Poborsky rose to prominence with his performances for Czech Republic at Euro 96Credit: AP:Associated Press
      Poborsky is a regular visitor to Old Trafford
      “My lifestyle has changed, I can’t do as much exercise, I can’t socialise as much as I would like to, and you just have to adapt accordingly.
      “It’s absolutely on the increase. It is incredibly scary because a lot of people will have it and they don’t realise they have it. It manifests itself in lots of different ways.” More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Tyson Fury’s amazing lifestyle, from monster car collection to £1.7m Morecambe mansion and £60k diamond Rolex

      by

      TYSON Fury is an extravagant personality at the best times.And the big character lives a life of luxury away from the ring befitting of his moniker, the Gypsy King.
      Tyson Fury lives an extravagant lifestyle away from the ring
      Tyson Fury’s amazing £1.7m home in Morecambe
      The Gypsy King logo features throughout the propertyCredit: @tysonfury
      The British boxing champ is believed to have accrued a wealth of around £130million.
      Fury is also set to make £165million from his upcoming fight with Francis Ngannou, as well as two blockbuster fights with Oleksandr Usyk.
      That sum will just improve the amazing lifestyle he leads.
      From living in a £1.7million Morecambe mansion to an astounding car collection featuring TWO Rolls-Royce motors, Fury leads an extraordinary life.
      read more boxing news
      Here’s just some things he has spent his wealth on.
      The abode
      Fury went up in the world when he swapped his £550,000 home that overlooked Morecambe Bay for a posher £1.7million mansion in the same area.
      Clearly crafted with an open cheque book, the mansion has gold curtains and radiators throughout.
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      There are huge chandeliers dangling from the ceilings, and the kitchen is decked out in red marble.
      Most read in Boxing
      Wife Paris, 33, often gives us a glimpse into her fab property.
      On Instagram, she regularly shares snaps in different rooms – dressed head-to-toe in designer clobber.
      One photo showed the blonde clutching a Chanel handbag while stood in front of a set of ornate gold curtains.
      In another, the beauty is surrounded by family in her kitchen – sipping a coffee and laughing.
      Behind her, red-topped marble decorates the surfaces. And there’s also a silver chandelier, fit for a queen, hanging from the ceiling.
      In the hallway, Paris – wearing a patterned blouse – leans on a gold radiator that’s clearly a statement piece. Next to her is an outstanding floor to ceiling mirror.
      For the musical, underneath the wood staircase is a grand black piano that sits on marble flooring.
      In terms of security, the property has a castellated front wall, and a wrought-iron black and gold fence. Of course, that boasts its own lavish decor – with lion motifs and four eagle sculptures on the gate posts.
      Unwanted burglars are warned off by signs that reveal the home is guarded by CCTV.
      Back in 2020, Tyson Fury upgraded from his £550,000 abode to a stunning £1.7million home in Morecambe.
      The Furys bought their £1.7m mansion in 2021
      His wife Paris Fury regularly shares images of the home on social media
      Sweeping gold curtains adorn the property
      A lavish gold radiator and and grand piano can be seen in the hallway
      Glam Paris shows off her gold radiator
      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.
      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.
      Of living in Morecambe, Fury said: “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.”
      The cars
      Like many of the world’s successful boxers, cars are a big deal.
      Fury has an absolute monster collection of motors he has been seen behind the wheel of.
      Most recently, he added a stunning customised Porsche GT3 RS worth over £200,000 to his car collection.
      While in 2022, he was mad for motors splashing the cash on two Rolls-Royces worth £384,000 EACH.
      In 2019, Fury showed off his red Ferrari Portofino motor, alongside pal Billy Saunders’ similar model in a car park.
      Heavyweight star Tyson Fury boasts an epic car collection
      Fury showed off a Rolls Royce motor on InstagramCredit: Instagram @tysonfury
      Fury added a £250,000 Ferrari GTC4Lusso to his car collection in 2019Credit: BackGrid
      Tyson Fury shows off his matching Ferrari Portofino with friend Billy Joe SaundersCredit: Instagram @gypsyking101
      Fury unveiled his brand-spanking new Porsche GT3 RS in 2023Credit: INSTAGRAM@TYSONFURY
      The Portofino usually retails at around £170,000 for a base model.
      He also boasts a Ferrari GTC4Lusso worth a stunning £250,000, which he was seen behind the wheel of in 2019.
      But it’s not all glam. Fury also has time for a £20,000 Vauxhall Passat and a Mini Cooper.
      The watches
      Bling is important to Fury too.
      After all, he once sparred Anthony Joshua for a brand new Rolex watch.
      The Swiss watchmaker is a favourite of Fury’s, who reportedly owns several.
      He once wagered his gold, diamond-encrusted Rolex Daytona Rainbow Sapphire watch to whoever could beat him in the ring.
      Then, when he prepared for his showdown with Dillian Whyte in 2022, he flashed another £60,000 diamond-laden 18ct timepiece from the brand.
      Others include a Richard Mille RM 011 Flyback Chronograph that costs over £100,000.
      Once upon a time, Fury offered this watch up to anyone who can beat himCredit: Twitter, @Tyson_Fury
      Fury wore his luxury gold Rolex at Wembley ahead of a fight against Dillian WhyteCredit: Reuters
      Rolex fan Fury flashed a £15k Rolex Oyster Perpetual with a red coral dial on his Netflix seriesCredit: NETFLIX
      And a Patek Philippe Nautilus Chronograph that’s worth around £90,000.
      In his Netflix series, he flashes a Rolex Oyster Perpetual with a red coral dial that’s a more modest £15,000.
      In terms of other jewellery, Fury offered to pay £25,000 for the biggest crucifix in the UK in 2022.
      Designer wardrobe
      There was a point in time when Fury used to live in Versace robes at £400.
      A fetching mustard one draped around his 6ft9in frame was seen ahead of his 2021 bout with Deontay Wilder, he donned strolling around a Las Vegas casino.
      There was a red robe that he was spotted wearing before he beat Otto Wallin.
      But Fury’s eccentric and expensive fashion style doesn’t end there.
      First, there was the infamous picture of Tyson wearing a £9,000 chinchilla coat in 2017.
      Tyson Fury shows off his Versace robe costing £400Credit: Twitter @Tyson_Fury
      Wacky fashion is part of Fury’s lookCredit: Alamy
      Fury has shown off his Louis Vuitton collection on InstagramCredit: Instagram
      Fury’s mental health suit designed by tailor Nav Salimian turned headsCredit: Splash
      Champion Fury lives a lifestyle to envyCredit: Getty
      The heavyweight is clearly a fan of the designer labels, from Louis Vuitton to Gianni Versace which he shows off on Instagram.
      And when he is prepping for a fight, he is dressed to the nines in press conferences in customised suits by personal tailor Nav Salimian.
      Read More on The Sun
      That, again infamously, included a mental health-inspired suit that gained worldwide attention in 2022.
      They set him back £500, but what else would the Gypsy King wear if it wasn’t so outlandish or pricey? More

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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.
      READ MORE IN BOXING
      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.
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      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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      in Soccer

      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.
      Read more football news
      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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      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.
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      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.
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      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.
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      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.
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      £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.
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      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.
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      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.
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      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
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      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.
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      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