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      in Soccer

      Pogba ‘wants £500,000-a-week new deal, Varane talks, Haaland contract boost, Milenkovic EXCLUSIVE

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      PAUL POGBA has demanded an incredible £500,000-a-week to stay at Manchester United, according to reports.Were the France World Cup winner to agree that figure, it would far outstrip the £375,000-a-week paid to current highest earner David de Gea.
      Meanwhile the Red Devils are reported to be holding ongoing talks with Raphael Varane’s entourage.
      Real Madrid are said to be willing to sell the Frenchman for the right price this summer.
      One of Real Madrid’s potential targets is Erling Haaland, but neither they nor Barcelona are reported to be able to meet the Norwegian’s wage demands.
      That could let United in, with the Red Devils still on a firm financial footing despite the coronavirus pandemic.
      Get all the latest Man Utd news, updates and transfer gossip with our live blog…
      SILVER-AWARE
      Jonny Evans reckons lifting a trophy with Leicester would be up there with anything he achieved at Manchester United.
      At the age of 21, Evans had already won world, European and English titles with the Red Devils and admits he probably took silverware ‘for granted’.
      Ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Southampton, the Northern Ireland star, now 33, said: “Winning something with Leicester is definitely a more difficult thing to do.
      “That’s not putting any slight on Manchester United’s achievements. You see now how difficult it has been for them to win the league and to win as many trophies as under Sir Alex Ferguson.
      “The resources and everything they’ve got, they’re a club set up to be a winning machine. But it’s something Leicester are trying to do.
      “Maybe winning something with Leicester would be an achievement up there with one of the best for me, on a personal level.”
      HELPING HEND
      Chris Wood has the ball in the net straight after kick-off but thankfully for Dean Henderson the goal is ruled out for offside.

      BETTER CALL SAUL
      Man Utd could reportedly meet Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez’s release clause in the summer.
      The Daily Star have claimed that the Red Devils are ready to activate his £43m clause as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer eyes up a new midfielder.
      Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also understood to be interested in the Spain international.
      But it has been stated that Saul could be tempted by a switch to the Premier League.
      TEAM NEWS
      Here is how Man Utd start against Burnley at Old Trafford.

      EURO MILLIONS
      Man Utd, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea have reportedly signed up for a European Super League.
      The development of the Super League is seen as a rival to Uefa’s Champions League, which is set to revamped with a new 36-team tournament to come into force in 2024.
      Sources have told The Sunday Times that five British clubs have already agreed to the plan, with only Manchester City among the ‘Big Six’ yet to do so.
      The Super League proposals include:
      – The 15 founder clubs sharing an initial 3.5billion (£3.1billion) euro “infrastructure grant” ranging from £310million to £89million per club which can be spent on stadiums, training facilities or “to replace lost stadium-related revenues due to Covid-19”.
      – The format would see two groups of 10 clubs who play home and away, with the top four from each group going through to two-legged quarter-finals, semi-finals and a one-legged final.
      Read more HERE.
      VERY GREEN
      Man Utd forward Mason Greenwood is ‘years away’ from playing as the club’s central striker, according to manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
      The Norwegian said: “Mason isn’t just a natural finisher – he’s a natural footballer. He is so smooth and he’s matured so much this season.
      “You can see his body has developed and he’s getting stronger. His consistency is getting better and better and he will start scoring more goals, that’s for sure.
      “I have been really impressed and happy with his development this season. He’s come through that difficult patch as a stronger person and a better player.
      “Maybe in the future he can play as a central striker, but I still think that’s a few years away. Being a centre-forward in the Premier League is probably the hardest position to play.
      “At the moment, I think Mason is more suited to playing that wide role, dropping into pockets, finding space and running in behind.
      “I don’t want him with his back to goal and having two centre-backs up his backside. I think we have found a good way to develop him, but he might end up as a No 9.”
      Solskjaer feels Greenwood’s style of play lends itself to him playing on the wing
      KANE IS ABLE
      Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler has urged Harry Kane to leave Tottenham, as he declared Man Utd could be a good option.
      Writing in the Mirror, he said: “He [Kane] knows he probably has one big move left in him, and if he’s to ensure he has no regrets, no ‘what might have been’ moments like me, then he has to think about his future.
      “Will he win a title at Spurs? Unlikely. They’re not going to even make the Champions League next season, so they’re a long way short.
      “And they may even be looking at a new manager again in the summer. Which could mean more years of rebuilding… and waiting.
      “There will be clubs interested too. Manchester United have been mentioned, strongly. And City too. Both would be strong options for him, no doubt.
      “Who knows, he could be the missing ingredient United need to take that final step, and if City were to sign him, then…well, it doesn’t bear thinking about if you’re a fan of any other Premier League club.”

      DOUBLE BRU
      Paul Scholes believes Manchester United’s Special Bru should be combined with the flair of the Pog to produce a devastating punch.
      He told BT Sport: “Solskjaer likes the two sitting players. I don’t think there’s a need for both of them,
      “They need to get Pogba in a linking role with Bruno. If they do, it frees up another position for a forward player.
      “The awareness and cleverness they both have allows each other to link up.
      “United’s two cleverest players are Fernandes and Pogba so if you can get them close together, they’ll score a lot and provide goals for others too.”
      Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes continue to impress for Man Utd
      NOT KEANE
      Roy Keane fears he has been overlooked for the Celtic job — despite talks with the Scottish giants.
      The Manchester United legend hoped to get a shot at his dream appointment and was backed by ex-Hoops boss Martin O’Neill.
      But Keane’s chances are now fading fast after Eddie Howe’s interview and the delay in hearing from Celtic.
      The Irishman, 49, who managed Sunderland and Ipswich, split opinions in the club’s hierarchy, with some liking his passion while others wanted a more modern coach.
      And although he is desperate for the job, Keane has told mates he feels the chance has gone.
      Former Bournemouth manager Howe remains in pole position to take over at Celtic Park.
      DEAFENING SILENCE
      Premier League clubs are set to agree a social media boycott, according to reports.
      Top-flight teams want to send a message that racism will not be tolerated and will launch a war against online hate.
      According to Daily Mail, teams are planning to go silent on social media for 24 hours either side of their game on the ‘Weekend of Action’ between May 1-3.
      And the report adds that the Premier League will also boycott social media for the duration of the round of fixtures.
      Clubs have been asked to confirm their support for the plans by 2pm on Monday 19 April, the report states.
      The move is a bid to ramp up pressure on social platforms to act against online hate and abuse after a spate of recent incidents.
      MAN UTD NEWS
      Hello and welcome to SunSport’s rolling Man Utd news blog.
      Red Devils star Paul Pogba is reportedly demanding £500,000-a-week to stay at Old Trafford.
      The French star, 28, is currently under contract until June 2022.
      And his agent, Mino Raiola is said to have told senior members of the United hierarchy his client will sign a deal, but ONLY if it’s worth a staggering half a million per week, according to the Daily Star.
      Should United agree to Pogba’s demands, it would make him the highest paid player in the club’s history.
      The Daily Star also claim that PSG, Real Madrid and Juventus have all been informed how much it would cost to secure his signature.
      Incredibly, with image rights included to that base wage Pogba could net somewhere in the region of £800,000-a-week.
      In other news, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United can still pull off a title miracle.
      He said: “Can we catch City? Stranger things have happened in football. Bigger leads have been given away.
      “They have been strong and it’s probably too much to hope and ask for. But as long as we do our job then that’s the main thing.”
      Meanwhile, Chelsea have joined Manchester United in the race for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, according to reports.
      The 27-year-old French centre-back has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford at the end of the season as he prepares to enter the final year of his contract with the Spanish giants.
      BILD journalist Christian Falk understands Chelsea are keen to acquire Varane’s signature as they look to bolster their defensive options.
      And finally, SunSport have exclusively revealed that United are on the trail of Metz teen sensation Pape Sarr.
      The Senegalese 18-year-old won his first cap for his country in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo last month.
      That came only four months after his league debut for the French club in November.
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    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal 1-1 Fulham LIVE SCORE: Nketiah’s last-gasp tap-in breaks visitors’ hearts as Maja penalty gives Cottagers lead

      by

      EDDIE NKETIAH’S last-gasp equaliser looks set to consign Fulham to relegation after they were on verge of massive win.A Josh Maja penalty has given the Cottagers a shock lead at the Emirates after Dani Ceballos had a goal ruled out by VAR.
      Then in the final seconds Nketiah turned in Alphonse Areola’s spilled save to give the relieved Gunners a point.
      Get all the reaction from the Emirates in our live blog…
      GOODBYE
      That’s all from the Emirates where Fulham’s feint survival hopes have been left in tatters by Eddie Nketiah’s equaliser deep into stoppage time.
      The result has left Scott Parker’s team with a mountain to climb if they are to now pull off the greatest of escapes, and that’s before you consider the impact of the damaging psychological blows they’ve recently been receiving.
      Nevertheless, they’ll have one eye on events at Old Trafford, and you can do the same by following our live blog of Manchester United against Burnley.
      Thanks for reading.
      IN THE NKET OF TIME
      Eddie Nketiah’s last-gasp equaliser (96:09) was Arsenal’s latest Premier League goal since Alexis Sanchez netted in the 98th minute against Burnley four years ago (97:14).
      The 21-year-old certainly made an impression off the bench, and it now means that five of his 13 Arsenal goals have come as a substitute.
      With Alexandre Lacazette injured this afternoon, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang still suffering with malaria, will the youngster get a run as a starter for the Gunners?

      THE DROPZONE
      This afternoon’s draw has left Fulham six points from Burnley and Brighton above them with their two nearest rivals both holding two games in hand.
      The first of those games in hand for the Clarets is just about to kick-off at Old Trafford.
      The game looks up for Fulham, but on the plus side for their supporters, they will finally get the chance to travel to Peterborough and Coventry next season.

      UNLUCKY FOR FULHAM
      Fulham have now dropped 13 points from winning positions away from home this season.
      What a difference those could have made to their season.
      13 – Fulham have now dropped more points from winning positions away from home than any other team in the Premier League this season. Agonising. pic.twitter.com/RaVzk3zbNB— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 18, 2021

      FULL TIME STATS
      Fulham thought they had the game won with their only shot on target, but Eddie Nketiah’s late equaliser came after goalkeeper Mat Ryan recorded one of Arsenal’s 35 touches in the opposition box.

      FT: ARSENAL 1-1 FULHAM
      An equaliser seven minutes into stoppage time from Eddie Nketiah has surely condemned Fulham to an immediate return to the Championship. The substitute pounced late to level the scores after Josh Maja had put the visitors ahead from the penalty spot earlier in the half.
      PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!THE FINAL WHISTLE GOES!
      ARSENAL 1-1 FULHAM
      90+7. At the death, Eddie Nketiah equalises!
      Up from the back, Arsenal goalkeeper Mat Ryan gets his head on the corner, flicking it towards Dani Ceballos at the far post.
      The midfielder controls and then aims a low strike back across goal which is well saved by Areola, but following it up with a poacher’s instinct is Nketiah to score.
      There’s momentary hope for the visitors as VAR check on an offside call against Rob Holding, who may have been blocking the Fulham keeper’s eyeline, but it doesn’t last long and eventually the goal is given.
      It’s more late heartbreak for Fulham!

      GOOOOOOOOOAAAAAALLLL!!EDDIE NKETIAH EQUALISES!!
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      90+6. Another two Arsenal corners in quick succession, and Mat Ryan is up.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      90+5. Arsenal are getting closer!
      Xhaka’s through ball is kept under control brilliantly by Saka, who then picks out Nketiah at the near post.
      The striker hits it first time, and it’s blocked superbly by Harrison Reed.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      90+3. A brilliant defensive header again, this time by Aina – but it’s another Arsenal corner.
      Ceballos whips it in and Areola claims!
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      90+2. Tosin heads away from Smith Rowe in the six-yard box after patient build-up play involving Pepe and Martinelli.
      Can Fulham survive?
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      90. Martinelli! Beats one! Beats two! Shoots! Saved by Areola!
      The Fulham goalkeeper comes to the rescue with a stop at the near post after the Brazilian had burst past Aina and De Cordova-Reid.
      There will be SEVEN minutes of stoppage time to be played.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      89. Saka! So close!
      The Arsenal youngster nearly produces something out of nothing with a wonderful curler with his left foot from 25 yards, but it floats just wide of the top corner.

      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      88. Loftus-Cheek has found himself in a couple of good attacking positions in recent minutes but has been hampered in his progress by a lack of options available.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      86. Into the final five minutes of normal time, and Bryan concedes a free-kick 40 yards from the Fulham goal.
      Ceballos floats it in, Aina’s up to win the header and Anguissa thumps clear.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      84. Arsenal have made all three changes, and now Fulham make their final substitution.
      Joe Bryan, their play-off hero from August, is on in place of Ivan Cavaleiro.
      Cavaleiro off, Bryan on. The back seven takes shape.— Peter Rutzler (@peterrutzler) April 18, 2021

      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      82. The corner is punched clear by Areola but, in doing so, the Fulham goalkeeper has taken a whack for his troubles.
      Treatment for the Frenchman means a stoppage in play that allows Scott Parker time to rally his troop for the final minutes.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      81. And that is Andersen at his best!
      The Fulham captain stoops in to cut out a cross from Saka on the right that had Martinelli ready to pounce.
      It’s a corner to Arsenal.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      79. Andersen requires some treatment after seeing a flicked effort from Nketiah bounce out of play.
      The on-loan centre-back will need to be back and at his best to help Fulham see this fragile lead out to full time.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      77. Fulham’s penalty hero Josh Maja departs for Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
      “I’m not sure how Loftus-Cheek doesn’t get to start in this Fulham team,” ponders Alan Smith on co-commentary.
      Too many sub-par performances, Smudger.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      76. A rare Fulham foray forward with Maja and Cavaleiro edging their way along the left wing.
      It’s a bit early to be heading for the corner flag, lads.
      Just 9% of Arsenal’s goals have been scored in the last 15 minutes this season – the lowest proportion in the top flight.— Orbinho (@Orbinho) April 18, 2021

      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      74. It’s attack against defence now with Fulham bodies sat deep.
      This will be a long 16 minutes and more for Fulham fans.
      ARSENAL 0-1 FULHAM
      71. Fulham survive! Somehow!
      In skipping around Areola, Martinelli looks to have taken the ball too wide but keeps play alive with a lovely dink towards Pepe at the far post.
      The substitute meets the cross with a header, and looks certain to score until Areola blocks brilliantly before Tosin hooks clear.
      Load more entries… More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Motorsport

      F1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix LIVE: Hamilton with surge to second but can’t catch victorious Verstappen as Norris third

      by

      LEWIS HAMILTON put down an incredible surge up the field after an early mistake and finished second behind dominant Max Verstappen in Imola.Hamilton overtook Lando Norris two laps from the end, as the fellow Brit finished third, but he couldn’t catch Dutchman Verstappen.
      Follow ALL the action from Italy with our live blog below…
      MAX VERSTAPPEN WINS IN IMOLA
      He wins in Italy for the first time and crossed the line 22 seconds ahead of Hamilton, who was ninth at one point. Hamilton is second. Norris in third.
      Leclerc is fourth and Sainz fifth. Ricciardo in sixth. Stroll seventh. Gasly eighth.
      LAP 63
      Verstappen is on his way to victory here, but Hamilton has the point for the fastest lap.
      LAP 60
      Hamilton gets in to second place. He gets past Norris
      FIVE LAPS TO GO
      Verstappen still out in front. He is untroubled.
      NORRIS VERSES HAMILTON
      The McLaren man is struggling with his tyres and Hamilton is about to take full advantage.
      LAP 55
      Hamilton gets into third place. He was a lap down and in ninth place when the race was suspended.
      He is now up in to the podium places.
      EVENTFUL RACE FOR HAMILTON

      LAP 49
      Verstappen has opened up a big gap at the front. 12.3 seconds over Norris. Leclerc still close.
      Hamilton has now passed Sainz and is in fourth place. He is really going for it.
      LAP 42
      Hamilton now up to 5th. He benefited from the Red Flag and the Safety Car period as his car is now patched up following Lap 1 damage.
      LAP 39
      Hamilton gets past Stroll an in to 6th. He is on the charge.
      PEREZ SPINS
      He carelessly spins off and is down to 14th. That is a poor mistake from the Mexican.
      WORDS FROM RUSSELL
      Thanks for all the messages. I’m fine, just disappointed. At the end of the day, it’s an unfortunate incident. You’re entitled to defend your position. But at 330kph, you have to respect the speed and the conditions when doing so. Gutted for the team. They deserved more today.— George Russell (@GeorgeRussell63) April 18, 2021

      LAP 36
      Hamilton now up to 8th behind Stroll.
      RACE RESUMES
      And Norris gets past Leclerc and in to second place. That is brilliant from Norris.
      VERSTAPPEN SPINS
      He almost lost position then behind the Safety Car.
      RACE WILL RESUME WITH A ROLLING START
      Bit of a shame, but smacks of a safety concern from the Race Director.
      NINE MINUTES UNTIL THE RESTART
      The drivers will now prepare for the restart as the session resumes.
      BOTTAS VERSUS RUSSELL
      TV replays show Bottas moves to the right and that spooked Russell, who was on the outside and on to the grass.
      The lost control and slid into the Mercedes man. The two are furious with each other.
      IT WAS A RARE MISTAKE FROM THE WORLD CHAMPION
      He was out of position having lapped Russell and he was on the slippery part of the track and slid into the barriers.
      HAMILTON UPSET WITH HIMSELF

      RED FLAG – RACE STOPPED
      Too much debris on track.
      RUSSELL BLAMES BOTTAS
      The Brit moves on to the grass to overtake Bottas and he hits the Finn, sending him into the barriers.
      Both drivers are furious with each other.
      BIG CRASH BETWEEN BOTTAS AND RUSSELL
      That’s a huge one. Both drivers are ok, but that is a big, big smash
      HAMILTON CRASHES
      Drama as Lewis Hamilton spins and is in the gravel. He has hit the barrier. He has broken off his front wing
      LAP 30
      Verstappen Hamilton Leclerc Norris Perez Sainz Ricciardo StrollBottas Russell Raikkonen Tsunoda Giovinazzi Ocon Alonso Gasly Vettel Schumacher Mazepin
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    • 263 Shares149 Views

      in Boxing

      Jake Paul vs Ben Askren LIVE RESULT: Problem Child destroys rival with KO in less than a MINUTE – latest reaction

      by

      JAKE PAUL has beaten Ben Askren with a stunning first-round KO.The Problem Child lined up a jab followed by a haymaker that floored former UFC star Ben Askren in under a MINUTE.
      After allowing Askren to get to his feet the referee called a halt to the fight.
      Askren protested the stoppage despite replays showing him walking sideways after being knocked down.
      Following the fight, Jake Paul broke down in tears and dedicated his victory to his late bodyguard, Shadow.
      On the undercard, Regis Prograis was victorious against Ivan Redkach and Tyson Fury’s former tormentor Steve Cunningham defeated Frank Mir.
      Fight card results

      Jake Paul def. Ben Askren via first-round TKO (ref stoppage)
      Regis Prograis def. Ivan Redkach via unanimous decision (60-54, 60-54, 59-54)
      Steve Cunningham def. Frank Mir via unanimous decision (60-54, 60-54, 58-56)
      Joe Fournier def. Reykon via second-round TKO (corner stoppage)

      PAULING NO MORE PUNCHES
      Brit businessman Joe Fournier called out Jake Paul after demolishing Colombian musician Reykon.
      Fournier’s clash with Reykon kicked off the pay-per-view portion of the Paul vs Askren card in Atlanta, Georgia in the early hours of Sunday morning.
      The bout went as many expected, with the now 9-0 Fournier stopping the 0-1 artist in the second round following two brual knockdowns.
      And in his post-fight interview, Fournier, 38, reiterated his desire to throw down with the A-side of Triller Fight Club’s second event.
      He said: “Everyone knows I’d love Jake Paul next. I love what Triller are doing here. I want to be part of every Fight Club.
      “They’re really disrupting the industry. Thank you, Triller. I appreciate you for having me on.”
      Joe Fournier called out Jake Paul after beating Reykon
      CORM ON BEN
      Daniel Cormier hs stated Ben Askren was ‘laughing all the way to the back’ after being knocked out by Jake Paul.
      The retired UFC welterweight was stopped in two minutes following a simple one-two combination.
      Askren was captured afterwards smiling as he made his way out of the arena with his wife Amy.
      They married in 2010 and have three children together – daughters Alex and Andy and son Ozzie.
      Cormier, 41, tweeted: “Wait a minute, did Askren get us all?
      “Like this is some magician stuff he wasn’t laughing on his way to the back was he? Cmon Ben lol @Benaskren.”
      Askren was guaranteed a £360,000 purse but bonuses after the pay-per-view sales means he can expect to clear £1million.
      PAUL THE OTHER ONE
      It was another explosive night inside the ring for Jake Paul.

      DILL BREAKER
      Dillon Danis called out Jake Paul and vowed to ‘put this c*** out cold’ after the YouTuber knocked out Ben Askren.
      Paul moved to 3-0 in his professional boxing career after the first-round finish over Askren.
      And already he was challenged by 2-0 Bellator welterweight Danis, a sparring partner and gym-mate of Conor McGregor.
      He tweeted: “It’s on 100% send me the contract let’s do this i’m gonna put this c*** out cold.”
      Paul, 24, initially offered Danis, 27, the opportunity to fight him earlier in the year.
      But the jujitsu black belt was unable to accept amid a knee injury which needed surgery.
      Seemingly fit and recovered, Danis shared a private Instagram message he sent to Paul, calling the social media star out.
      He wrote: “let’s do this c*** send me the contract.”
      ON THE PAUL
      Jake Paul improved to three knockouts in as many fights by dispatching of Ben Askren in one round.
      The YouTuber knocked out Askren in two minutes of their Triller pay-per-view headliner after a brutal one-two combination.
      Paul added to his wins against online rival ‘AnEsonGib’ and retired NBA star Nate Robinson.
      Much of the conversation online turned to who the social media sensation could face next.
      Here, SunSport lists five potential opponents for Paul.
      Click HERE for more.
      ROB DA BANK
      UFC star Robert Whittaker has called out Jake Paul for a fight after the social media personality knocked out ex-MMA champ Ben Askren.
      The Aussie star, 30, was also in action on Saturday night for the ESPN 22 headliner against Kelvin Gastelum.
      In a press conference after his win in the octagon, the former UFC middleweight champion was told about Paul’s victory, which was captured by Sky Sports.
      A shocked Whittaker replied: Ben Askren’s not known for his boxing, is he?
      “But good on him (Paul). He’s doing his thing.”
      Asked if he would consider fighting the vlogger for the half a million pounds Askren is believed to have received, Whittaker happily threw his hat in the ring.
      “I’d fight him for less,” he replied with a laugh.
      LO BLOW 
      Logan Paul sent a message to Floyd Mayweather by sharing a video of his brother Jake’s brutal KO of Ben Askren.
      YouTuber Jake stopped the retired UFC welterweight with a one-two combination in round one of their Triller pay-per-view headliner.
      Ringside was big brother Logan, who was due to face Mayweather in an exhibition bout in February.
      It has since been rescheduled to allow fans to attend but no official date or venue has been announced.
      Logan, 26, attempted to strike fear into all-time great Mayweather, 44, as she shared a video of Jake’s highlight-reel KO.
      He captioned the post: “@floydmayweather you see this.”

      TOUGH ASK 
      Ben Askren admitted ‘it’s f***ing embarrassing’ as he reflected on his first-round loss to YouTuber Jake Paul.
      The former UFC welterweight was knocked out after two minutes following a one-two combination.
      Askren was subject to ridicule online as he was stopped by the social media star – but later admitted it was justifiable.
      He said: “It’s probably deserved. I got knocked out by Jake Paul, it’s f***ing embarrassing.”
      Paul moved to 3-0 in his professional boxing career, all by KO and celebrated with rapper Snoop Dogg, who also commentated.
      He said: “Just a couple of years ago, my teachers were making fun of me in class, telling me I can’t do nothing, telling me I wasn’t smart.
      “My schoolmates making fun of me. I used to landscape. I just had a dream and I chased it and I worked hard.
      “To think that I’m standing here next to these legends, these legends right here, it’s unbelievable.”
      Credit: Getty

      PAUL OVER
      Jake Paul knocked out former UFC welterweight Ben Askren with a brutal right hand.
      The YouTuber stopped Askren in round one of their Triller pay-per-view headliner.
      Paul landed a simple one-two over the top and left the retired UFC fighter unable to continue in the eyes of the referee.
      Afterwards, he said: “I told y’all I was gonna do it in the first round. I told y’all I’m a real fighter.
      “I don’t know how many times I’ve gotta prove myself that this is for real.”

      DOGG ROUNDS
      Snoop Dogg said ‘Dana White, where’s my money at?’ after Jake Paul knocked out Ben Askren – as the rapper won his $2million bet.
      YouTuber Paul closed the show with a dramatic right hand in the first round against Askren, who retired from the UFC in 2019.
      Beforehand, UFC president White told Mike Tyson he would be willing to bet $1m the social media star lost.
      Paul, 24, and rap royalty Snoop Dogg, 49, asked to up the wager to $2m – though their call was never asked.
      But it still did not stop the West Coast star from calling out the UFC boss and campaigning for his proposed winnings.
      Snoop Dogg said: “Dana White, where’s my money at?”
      Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      HARD ASK
      Ben Askren responds to his first-round knockout defeat to Jake Paul.
      He tweeted: “Sorry world :(.”
      Paul landed a simple one-two combination over the top and closed the show.

      DOGG FIGHT
      Jake Paul celebrates his biggest win to date with rap royalty Snoop Dogg.
      He said after the win: “I told y’all I was gonna do it in the first round.
      “I told y’all I’m a real fighter. I don’t know how many times I’ve gotta prove myself that this is for real.”

      POST-FIGHT INTERVIEW
      Paul said: “This is the craziest moment of my life.
      “I told y’all I was gonna do it in the first round. I told y’all I’m a real fighter.
      “I don’t know how many times I’ve got to prove myself that this is for real.
      Credit: Getty
      PAUL OVER
      Jake Paul celebrates his KO win over ex-UFC star Ben Askren.
      He landed a textbook one-two, which Askren didn’t see coming, and laid out the American.
      He improves to 3-0.

      JAKE PAUL KO WIN
      Askren is clipped by a big right hand and felled.
      The former UFC fighter beats the count but the referee said he is buzzed and waves it off.
      Paul breaks down in theatrical tears on the floor.
      Askren complains the stoppage was early.
      ROUND ONE: PAUL WINS KO!
      Askren’s stance and form looks terrible and he is yet to throw a punch.
      Paul whips a right hook into Askren’s chunky body.
      Then Paul lands a massive right hand – off a textbook jab – and Askren collapses.
      Askren beat the count but was shaken and waved off.
      ROUND ONE
      Eight rounds at cruiserweight begins with referee Brain Studs in charge.
      Askren has Tyron Woodley in his corner, Paul appears to have a troupe of giant yellow Minions characters.
      The Problem Child claims to want too fight Conor McGregor but he copies all his old moves.
      FINALLY…
      Askren is in the ring and Jake Paul is making his walk.
      Can a novice fighter beat a trained mixed martial artist?
      Paul is accompanied by a dancer in a massive robot costume.
      Please Ben, nail this and end the misery…
      **GRAPHIC CONTENT**
      Exclusive x-ray image of Ivan Redkach legs and groin reveal extent of damage Regis Prograis caused.
      The Ukraine ace may never walk nor make love again…

      DIVE BAR
      This… THIS is the crippling low blow to Ivan Redkach’s ‘groin’ that folded him into the floor, demanded a stretcher carry him out and caused the fight to be waved off..
      TTTTHHHHIIIISSS:
      Prograis floors and stops Redkach. In crazy fashion, the fight goes to cards and Prograis gets the win anyway 🤷🏼‍♂️147 looks his next move and there are some real good match ups for him there.Who’s next for Regis?#Boxing pic.twitter.com/LpbpL7KbLP— Steve Boxman (@SteveBoxman) April 18, 2021

      PROGRAIS WINS DECISION
      The referee sends the fight to the cards to be decided and the judges rule: 60-54, 59-54 and 59-54.
      Almost ironic that the only genuine fight on the show ends in completely fake fashion.
      Just when the taste in your mouth could not get worse.
      Rock, rock, rock bottom.
      Oh no, wait, Justin Beiger is on now…
      ROUND SIX
      Redkach has taken a dive after getting his ribs grazed by a bodyshot.
      Just when you thought this show could not get any worse.
      Prograis is waiting for a decision while Redkach continues to feign injury.
      Redkach is getting carried out on a stretcher despite not getting punched anywhere.
      He must assume everyone has already turned off and he won’t get spotted cheating.
      ROUND SIX: REDKACH DOWN
      Prograis grazes with a body shot and Redkach collapses.
      But the blue-haired ace grabs his groin and claims it was an illegal low blow.
      The replays make it look like a fair body shot but the referee – who looks a real veteran – believes it was a groin shot.
      Redkach has five minutes to recover but he is looking for a way out. He was not even hit.

      ROUND FIVE
      Redkach is getting chinned too much by Prograis and will go over soon.
      Beautiful defensive work from the American former champion too.
      Prograis has earned 850,000 dollars for tonight’s shift and earned every penny of it buy selling his soul to this shoddy set-up.
      Bro this Regis Prograis dude can really box. He must be getting a big bag for this fight. He was a champ two years ago.— B (@___FOSTER) April 18, 2021

      ROUND FOUR
      Prograis rocks Redkach again and piles in with his booming left hand.
      The blue-barneted underdog is bleeding froma couple of places around his eyes and hairline.
      But the camera work is so bad you cannot really see.
      Cannot miss the huge shots Prograis lands there as Redkach’s legs stiffen and he is whacked again but is saved by the bell.
      Load more entries… More

    • 188 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Gary Neville calls European Super League talks CRIMINAL, Varane talks, Haaland contract boost, Milenkovic EXCLUSIVE

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED have been blasted as CRIMINAL by former great Gary Neville over talks of a European Super League.Meanwhile the Red Devils have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of Erling Haaland and are also reportedly chasing Rafael Varane.
      Stay up to date with our blog, below, for all the latest from Old Trafford…
      WE HAVE MOVED
      SunSport have a new Man Utd blog where we will be keeping you up to date with all things Red Devils related.
      Click HERE to follow.
      GOAL OF THE DAY
      What a neat finish this was from Donny van de Beek on his debut for Man Utd.
      Just a shame his goal came in a 3-1 defeat against Crystal Palace.

      SMALL PROBLEM
      Roma defender Chris Smalling is in a race to be fit to face his former club Manchester United in the Europa League semi-finals.
      The 31-year-old missed his side’s quarter-final tie against Ajax due to knee problems.
      But according to Gazetta dello Sport there is a belief one of Smalling or fellow centre-back Leonardo Spinazzola will be fit for the first leg against Man Utd on April 29.
      Roma will already be without defenders Marash Kumbulla and Gianluca Mancini through injury and suspension.
      Earlier this week, Smalling was robbed at gunpoint in front of his wife and toddler son when three hooded men broke into his home.
      The ex-England defender was sleeping when the armed thugs broke into his home and forced him to open his safe.
      DEAFENING SILENCE
      Premier League clubs are set to agree a social media boycott, according to reports.
      Top-flight teams want to send a message that racism will not be tolerated and will launch a war against online hate.
      According to Daily Mail, teams are planning to go silent on social media for 24 hours either side of their game on the ‘Weekend of Action’ between May 1-3.
      And the report adds that the Premier League will also boycott social media for the duration of the round of fixtures.
      Clubs have been asked to confirm their support for the plans by 2pm on Monday 19 April, the report states.
      The move is a bid to ramp up pressure on social platforms to act against online hate and abuse after a spate of recent incidents.
      WAYNE’S HAVANA LAUGH
      EXCLUSIVE – Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney is having a luxury whisky and cigar room built into his £20million mansion.
      The England icon, 35, is modelling it on an exclusive jazz venue he frequents.
      Wayne and wife Coleen, 34, are usually regulars at Puffin’ Rooms in Liverpool, which has an array of wines, champagnes, cocktails and more than 200 rare whiskies.
      A vast selection of Havana or New World cigars is also available.
      A source said: “The Puffin Rooms is one of those cosy intimate places where Wayne can relax in the lap of luxury. He’s been going there for years with Coleen.
      “They love it there and always go back when they’re in Liverpool.
      “They wanted the house to feature everything they’ve ever wanted — and this was at the top of Wayne’s list.”
      How Wayne Rooney may look in his luxury whisky and cigar room
      SILVER-AWARE
      Jonny Evans reckons lifting a trophy with Leicester would be up there with anything he achieved at Manchester United.
      At the age of 21, Evans had already won world, European and English titles with the Red Devils and admits he probably took silverware ‘for granted’.
      Ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final against Southampton, the Northern Ireland star, now 33, said: “Winning something with Leicester is definitely a more difficult thing to do.
      “That’s not putting any slight on Manchester United’s achievements. You see now how difficult it has been for them to win the league and to win as many trophies as under Sir Alex Ferguson.
      “The resources and everything they’ve got, they’re a club set up to be a winning machine. But it’s something Leicester are trying to do.
      “Maybe winning something with Leicester would be an achievement up there with one of the best for me, on a personal level.”
      GOOD MORNING UTD FANS
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United can still pull off a title miracle.
      The Red Devils will close the gap on Pep Guardiola’s Premier League leaders to eight points with victory over Burnley on Sunday.
      And Solskjaer has not given up hope that noisy neighbours City can be reeled in during the final six matches.
      United manager Solskjaer said: “Can we catch City? Stranger things have happened in football. Bigger leads have been given away.
      “They have been strong and it’s probably too much to hope and ask for. But as long as we do our job then that’s the main thing.”
      Meanwhile, Mason Greenwood is thriving after striking a relationship with Edinson Cavani.
      Solskjaer added: “Playing with Edinson Cavani has been a top example for him.
      “Edi leads by example even though the language barrier has made it a bit difficult.
      “But Mason and Edi have struck up a very good relationship. I can see that Edi appreciates Mason’s talent, his hunger and his willingness to learn.
      “And in Cavani, he is learning from one of the very best.
      “It’s like when I speak about having Sir Alex Ferguson as a manager. If I couldn’t learn from him then there was no point in going into management.
      “If Mason, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial can’t learn off Edinson then they can’t learn from anyone. He is a very good example to every single one of them.”
      And finally, Paul Scholes believes United’s Special Bru should be combined with the flair of the Pog to produce a devastating punch.
      He told BT Sport: “Solskjaer likes the two sitting players. I don’t think there’s a need for both of them,
      “They need to get Pogba in a linking role with Bruno. If they do, it frees up another position for a forward player.
      “The awareness and cleverness they both have allows each other to link up.
      “United’s two cleverest players are Fernandes and Pogba so if you can get them close together, they’ll score a lot and provide goals for others too.”
      GRASS IS GREENER
      Mason Greenwood is thriving after striking a relationship with Edinson Cavani.
      Solskjaer added: “Playing with Edinson Cavani has been a top example for him.
      “Edi leads by example even though the language barrier has made it a bit difficult.
      “But Mason and Edi have struck up a very good relationship. I can see that Edi appreciates Mason’s talent, his hunger and his willingness to learn.
      “And in Cavani, he is learning from one of the very best.
      “It’s like when I speak about having Sir Alex Ferguson as a manager. If I couldn’t learn from him then there was no point in going into management.
      “If Mason, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial can’t learn off Edinson then they can’t learn from anyone. He is a very good example to every single one of them.”
      TITLE TALK
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Manchester United can still pull off a title miracle.
      The Red Devils will close the gap on Pep Guardiola’s Premier League leaders to eight points with victory over Burnley on Sunday.
      And Solskjaer has not given up hope that noisy neighbours City can be reeled in during the final six matches.
      United manager Solskjaer said: “Can we catch City? Stranger things have happened in football. Bigger leads have been given away.
      “They have been strong and it’s probably too much to hope and ask for. But as long as we do our job then that’s the main thing.”
      DOUBLE BRU
      Paul Scholes believes Manchester United’s Special Bru should be combined with the flair of the Pog to produce a devastating punch.
      He told BT Sport: “Solskjaer likes the two sitting players. I don’t think there’s a need for both of them,
      “They need to get Pogba in a linking role with Bruno. If they do, it frees up another position for a forward player.
      “The awareness and cleverness they both have allows each other to link up.
      “United’s two cleverest players are Fernandes and Pogba so if you can get them close together, they’ll score a lot and provide goals for others too.”

      IRON BRU
      Paul Pogba reckons his Manchester United team-mate Bruno Fernandes can do anything and everything on the pitch – except defend.
      He told MUTV: “I enjoy playing with Bruno. He’s someone who understands the game and understands the movement that can give you a beautiful pass, he can finish too.
      “He’s all over the place, he can do everything really… except defending!
      “But really, it’s always a joy to play him, to understand him. He understands me as well, he can take my position, I can take his position as well.
      “I think he suits the team, he’s a very dominant influence in our team.”
      ‘NOT ENOUGH’
      Instagram are under fire after a user who sent England star Tyrone Mings a racist message only had his account restricted – and just “for a set period of time”.
      Football fans posted messages like “Nowhere near enough” … “Should be banned for life surely?” … and “Disable his dms”.
      Sarcastic jibes included: “That’ll sort it! Pathetic!” and “Well that taught him”.
      Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford is amongst several Premier League superstars to hit out at racist abuse abuse online after falling victim.
      SHAW THING
      Luke Shaw’s goal against rivals Manchester City was one of a hundred for the Red Devils this season.
      A goal to remember for @LukeShaw23 👏We’ve racked up a century of goals so far this season — click below to watch each and every one of them! ⬇#MUFC— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 17, 2021

      GARD UP
      Jesse Lingard made no reference to any injury on Instagram after he was forced off in West Ham’s defeat to Newcastle.

      TREBLE TALK
      Manchester United were quick to throw shade at rivals City’s FA Cup exit by retweeting this post from last year.

      NICK OF TIME
      Burnley could be without star goalkeeper Nick Pope for the game against Manchester United tomorrow.
      The Clarets will make a late call on the fitness of the England International after he missed their defeat to Newcastle last weekend.
      As quoted by Lancs Live, Sean Dyche said: “Popey is touch and go. We will have a call on that one. He has made good progress this week.”
      SARR IN THE MAKING
      SunSport revealed Manchester United are on the trail of Metz teen sensation Pape Sarr.
      Here are some of his key stats…

      FRENCH CONNECTION
      Chelsea have joined Manchester United in the race for Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, according to reports.
      The 27-year-old French centre-back has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford at the end of the season as he prepares to enter the final year of his contract with the Spanish giants.
      And Real will be keen to cash in on the World Cup winner rather than watch him leave for a free next summer.
      BILD journalist Christian Falk understands Chelsea are keen to acquire Varane’s signature as they look to bolster their defensive options.
      The Red Devils looked into signing the French centre-back three years ago but were told it would cost more than £100million.
      MIDFIELD MAESTROS
      Manchester United have been urged to play Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba together by Paul Scholes.
      And there’s already a lot of love between them…

      BRU BEAUTY
      Bruno Fernandes has lavished praise on ‘proper striker’ Edinson Cavani.
      The midfielder said after Man Utd’s win over Granada: “Everyone knows Cavani, everything he does, he is a proper striker, we know the qualities of our players.
      “It was a good game, Europa League is always difficult, they can create danger but we controlled the game, had the ball a lot.
      “I don’t think it was bad tempered, we keep moving, do the right things, 2-0 again is really good for us.
      “Now is the time to take the next step and win a semi final but we must focus on the next game which is the league.”
      PAUL TO PLAY FOR
      Paul Pogba’s praise of Bruno Fernandes comes after United legend Paul Scholes urged Solskjaer to ditch one of his two holding players and play the pair together.
      He told BT Sport: “Solskjaer likes the two sitting players, I don’t think there’s a need for both of them.
      They need to get Pogba in a linking role with Bruno. If they do, it frees up another position for a forward player.
      ‘The awareness and cleverness they both have allows each other to link up.
      “United’s two cleverest players are Fernandes and Pogba so if you can get them close together, they’ll score a lot and provide goals for others too.
      “If they have a more dominant centre back, they could have a more attacking midfield.
      “A lot of the time, United that attacking, flowing play, I think Pogba could bring that with Fernandes.
      “If you get him in there, it frees up the left for Rashford, there’s no way you’d want to play against that.
      “Discipline-wise Pogba isn’t always there at times but going forward he brings something different.”
      ON GARD
      Jesse Lingard hobbled off for West Ham against Newcastle but after the match, David Moyes allayed concerns the injury was serious.
      He told reporters: “I think it was just cramp, I don’t think it was anything serious.
      “I think the one thing about Jesse, Jesse is a really fit boy. He wants to play. I think I push all my players hard, Jesse is no different.
      “He won’t get any favoured treatment – certainly not for a Scotsman going into the Euros!
      “We’re really pleased with him.”

      STORM BRUING
      Paul Pogba reckons his Manchester United team-mate Bruno Fernandes can do anything and everything on the pitch – except defend.
      Fernandes, 26, has been a revelation for the Red Devils since his January 2020 move to Old Trafford, scoring 36 goals and providing 22 assists in 71 appearances.
      He told MUTV: “I enjoy playing with Bruno. He’s someone who understands the game and understands the movement that can give you a beautiful pass, he can finish too.
      “He’s all over the place, he can do everything really… except defending!
      “But really, it’s always a joy to play him, to understand him. He understands me as well, he can take my position, I can take his position as well.
      “I think he suits the team, he’s a very dominant influence in our team.”
      GREAT DANE
      Man Utd have joined the race for Fulham’s on-loan Lyon defender Joachim Andersen, according to reports.
      The Dane moved to Craven Cottage last summer, after finding opportunities limited with the French side.
      Despite Fulham’s struggles, he has hit the ground running in West London, earning the captain’s armband in just his fourth Premier League appearance.
      And his quick progress has not gone unnoticed by potential suitors.
      Danish outlet BT claim that the Red Devils have more than just a passing interest in the 24-year-old.
      SARR IN THE MAKING
      EXCLUSIVE – Man Utd are on the trail of Metz teen sensation Pape Sarr.
      The Senegalese 18-year-old won his first cap for his country in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo last month.
      That came only four months after his league debut for the French club in November.
      He has been watched regularly by European clubs including United.
      Reports in France this month suggested Nice sporting director Julien Fournier was pulling out all the stops to land Sarr.
      However it is believed Sarr – a box-to-box midfielder – has set his sights on joining a bigger club.
      Teenage ace Sarr is being tracked by a number of clubs in Europe
      Load more entries… More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Boxing

      Jake Paul vs Ben Askren BUILD-UP LIVE: UK start time, stream Fite.TV, channel, undercard as YouTube star fights MMA ace

      by

      JAKE PAUL is back in the ring for what is set to be the toughest fight of his fledgling career TONIGHT.The YouTube sensation, 24, faces former UFC star Ben Askren, 36, over eight rounds of boxing.
      What time does Jake Paul vs Ben Askren start?
      Jake Paul vs Ben Askren takes place TONIGHT – Saturday, April 17.
      The undercard begins at 2am UK time, with the main event at around 5am UK time through the night into Sunday morning.
      The big show will also feature musical performances by Justin Bieber, The Black Keys, Doja Cat, Saweetie, Diplo, Major Lazer and Mt. Westmore (Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Too $hort and E-40).

      (AD) WATCH JAKE PAUL vs BEN ASKREN ON FITE.TV
      What TV channel is Jake Paul vs Ben Askren on and can I live stream it?

      Jake Paul vs Ben Askren will be broadcast live on Fite.TV and the Triller app.
      The event is available to purchase for $23.99 (£17.42) on Fite.TV.

      Who is fighting on the undercard?

      Jake Paul vs. Ben Askren (Cruiserweight)
      Regis Prograis vs. Ivan Redkach (Light welterweight)
      Steve Cunningham vs. Frank Mir (Heavyweight)
      Joe Fournier vs. Reykon (Light heavyweight)
      Junior Younan vs. Jeyson Minda (Super middleweight)
      Quinton Randall vs. William Jackson (Welterweight)

      Stay up to date with every punch in our live blog…
      JOHN KAVANAGH WEIGHS IN
      SBG Ireland chief John Kavanagh, the head coach of UFC superstar Conor McGregor, has tipped Ben Askren to upset the apple cart and stop Jake Paul.
      Whats your #jakePaulvsBenAskren prediction? I think jake looks good for 2 rounds. 3 is even. 4 he’s stopped. Without jake there’s no event so fair play to him. Money generated for venue, undercard, officials etc during a time of scarcity.— Coach Kavanagh (@John_Kavanagh) April 17, 2021

      DEEP WATERS
      Ben Askren, 36, believes he’ll stop Paul, telling ESPN: “TKO [in] round seven.”
      He added: “Because I don’t have a huge amount of power. It’ll take me some time to wear him down and make him hate his life.
      “And then eventually he’s gonna say, ‘Hey look, I’m a rich celebrity.
      “I don’t need to get f–king punched anymore. I’m just gonna roll over.'”
      ‘Cause I’m about to ruinThe image and the style that ya used to I look funky. But yo I’m makin’ money, see So yo world I hope you’re ready for me. pic.twitter.com/AdD3tSfFb8— Funky (@Benaskren) April 16, 2021

      PROBLEM CHILD’S PREDICTION
      Despite only having two fights to his name, Jake Paul reckons Ben Askren won’t land a glove on him.
      He recently told ESPN: “Go Google Ben Askren’s striking. Hahaha.
      “It’s not going to go that long, it’s not going to go that long.
      “I don’t even think he’ll hit me. I haven’t been hit one time in the face in my past two fights.
      “So I haven’t even been punched as pro boxer one time. Nate Robinson landed one body shot in a clinch.
      “I don’t think Ben Askren will even hit me. That’s my prediction.”

      RED DUTIES
      Here’s a look at the referee and judges’ assignments for this morning’s fights.
      Here’s the referee and judging assignments for tonight’s #TrillerFightClub event.Brian Stutts will be the third man in the ring for Ben Askren vs. Jake Paul, with Ed Kanner, Nola Oliver and Richard Sells serving as judges. pic.twitter.com/pMkCbDqVJo— Mike Bohn (@MikeBohnMMA) April 17, 2021

      FIRST RESULT OF THE NIGHT

      CONFIRMED START TIME
      Ben Askren and Jake Paul will make their respective walks to the ring at 5:00am BST time.

      ‘YOUTUBE B**B’
      Even legendary boxing coach Freddie Roach – who Ben Askren trained with in the build-up to this morning’s fight – is getting involved in the pre-fight trash talk.
      Let’s see if the Wild Card Gym owner is right at the final bell.

      A QUICK GLIMPSE AT THE ARENA
      The Mercedes-Benz Arena in Atlanta is ready for one of the biggest fights of the year.
      Not long now until the spectators start filling it up.

      LATE ADDITION TO THE CARD
      Triller have announced a late addition to the Paul vs Askren card.
      And it involves none other than WWE legend Rick Flair. Flair, 72, won’t be boxing, however.
      No, The Nature Boy will be the special guest referee for a a slapping match.
      Yes, you read that correctly. A slapping match. As if this fight card couldn’t get any weirder.

      JOR DROPPING
      Ben Askren – who fights Jake Paul tonight – was on the wrong end of the fastest knockout in UFC history against Jorge Masvidal.
      The welterweight pair fought at UFC 239 in July 2019 after a bitter build-up, but no one could have foreseen the dramatic early stoppage.

      FIGHTING TALK
      Jake Paul has thrown down one of his final social media barbs before tonight’s fight.

      WHAT HAVE THEY SAID?
      Jake Paul: “You f****d up, Ben by taking this fight. April 17, I promised my team, my family, my brother who is there right next to you right now, I promise to make you go down as history as the world’s worst UFC fighter.
      Ben Askren: “We haven’t seen anything.
      “The level of his competition was so low that it was almost impossible to tell if he is actually good at this.
      “If there is one thing people respect about all fighters it’s the toughness to deal with adversity in battle and we have not seen that out of him.
      “I don’t think he was hit hard by either one of those guys. They were so incredibly terrible at boxing. So we haven’t seen anything out of him yet.”
      JAKE OF ALL TRADES
      Jake Paul is adamant Floyd Mayweather has ‘lost his mind’ after the legendary boxer challenged him to an exhibition fight.
      He told TMZ: “This guy is out of his mind! He just calls me out, out of nowhere — same with 50 Cent!
      “I mean, he hasn’t even fought my brother yet. It just seems like he’s losing his marbles … like what the f*** is this guy doing?!”
      PAUL TO PLAY FOR
      Logan Paul mocked Ben Askren and said anyone who thinks the retired UFC welterweight will beat his brother Jake are ‘f***ing morons’.
      He said: “I get it, guys I like Ben Askren. We like him, he’s a good guy, he’s funny, he’s entertaining, great personality.
      “But if you think for one f***ing second, that this guy is going to beat my brother tomorrow, you’re a f***ing moron.
      “Straight up. Like y’all thought and afterwards everyone’s going to be like, ‘Oh, we should have seen it coming’.
      “No s***. You’re crazy.”
      TALE OF THE TAPE
      Here’s how Jake Paul and Ben Askren compare.

      ASK AGAIN
      CM Punk warned Ben Askren is being underestimated and tipped his former training partner to surprise Jake Paul.
      The WWE legend shared the Roufusport gym with Askren while he trained for his two UFC fights, which he both lost.
      He told TMZ Sports: “I think so, but I think it’s easy to do, based on it’s easy to sit on your couch and say that Ben isn’t a striker.
      “But he’s a decelerated athlete at a very, very high level in two different sports.
      “Mindset and mentally is a big thing when you’re fighting and Ben has that in spades.
      “Is Ben gonna come out there and look like Muhammad Ali? No, probably not. But Ben knows what it takes to win a fight.
      “The skillset in boxing is different, the rules are different, so he’s going to approach it to the best of his abilities so he can win that fight.
      “And I know a lot of people are counting him out but I don’t think people should be surprised if he wins.”
      Load more entries… More

    • 225 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Athletic Bilbao 0-4 Barcelona LIVE RESULT: Messi, Griezmann, De Jong give Barca comfort in Copa del Rey final

      by

      BARCELONA have the chance to pick up their first piece of silverware this season as they face Athletic Bilbao in the Copa Del Rey final NOW.
      Start time: 8pm GMT
      TV/Live stream: Premier Sports 1
      Barcelona XI: Ter Stegen, Dest, Pique, Busquets, Griezmann, Messi, Lenglet, Pedri, Alba, De Jong, Mingueza.
      Athletic Bilbao XI: Simon, Balenziaga, Martinez, Yeray, De Marcos, Munain, Lopez, Garcia, Berenguer, Garcia, Williams.

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      THANKS FOR JOINING US
      That’s all from us tonight as four Barcelona goals in the space of twelve second half minutes swept aside Athletic Bilbao in Sevilla.
      Antoine Griezmann opened the scoring from a fine Frenkie de Jong pass, before the Dutchman got on the scoresheet himself by heading home a Jordi Alba cross.
      From there Lionel Messi took over, scoring an incredible first goal made by brilliant link up play between him and Antoine Griezmann.
      Messi then scored his second as he sidefooted a Jordi Alba pass into the back of the net from the edge of the box to secure a 31st Copa Del Rey title for Barcelona.
      Attention for Ronald Koeman and Co. now turns to La Liga where the Catalan club are currently third, two points off top spot.
      Next up for them is a home clash with Getafe on Thursday evening.
      Athletic Bilbao meanwhile have to dust themselves off after losing a second Cope Del Rey final in the space of two weeks and concentrate on breaking into the top half of La Liga.
      Their next game is away to Real Betis on Wednesday evening.
      That’s all from us for now though.
      Thanks for joining us, it’s been a pleasure.
      OLD GUARD
      Two of Barcelona’s ever-presents celebrate alongside Barcelona’s 31st Copa Del Rey title.
      Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets have almost 1,400 Barcelona appearances between them.
      That is incredible.

      FIRST OF MANY?
      Tonight’s Copa Del Rey success is also the first silverware Antoine Griezmann has got his hands on as a Barcelona player.
      He’s had his critics since arriving from Atletico but he was superb tonight and unlucky to have his late strike ruled out for offside after opening the scoring on the hour mark.
      Credit: Reuters
      HANDS ON THE PRIZE
      Lionel Messi collects the Copa Del Rey trophy and sets off towards his waiting teammates.
      They’ll be hoping to kick on from here and leapfrog the two Madrid sides in the La Liga title race that looks like it’s going to go right down to the wire.
      The celebrations begin for Barcelona! 🎉The Copa del Rey is coming back to Camp Nou 🔵🔴🏆👑 pic.twitter.com/83LLwBdJdx— Watch Rangers v Celtic live on Premier Sports 📺 (@PremierSportsTV) April 17, 2021

      DON’T DROP IT
      Lionel Messi makes his way down the stand and back onto the pitch with the Copa Del Rey trophy.
      Credit: AFP
      Credit: AFP
      ON YOUR OWN
      Lionel Messi was not joined for the trophy lift by his teammates and instead had to raise the trophy alone.
      He didn’t seem to mind though.

      GREATEST EVER?
      Lionel Messi steps forward to collect his SEVENTH Copa Del Rey trophy.
      You just run out of words to describe him.
      Some of the football he played this evening was truly special.
      Credit: Reuters
      Credit: Reuters
      CELEBRATIONS
      The Barcelona players celebrate at full time after a comfortable 4-0 win over Athletic Bilbao in the Copa Del Rey final.
      Four goals in twelve second half minutes from Antoine Griezmann, Frenkie de Jong and a Lionel Messi brace saw the Catalan club sweep aside Athletic Bilbao.
      Credit: Reuters
      TROPHY LIFT
      Lionel Messi climbs into the stands at La Cartuja to collect the trophy on his own.
      His teammates are gathered on the pitch below.
      Messi lifts the enormous trophy into the air to the cheers of his teammates and runs down to join them!
      Barcelona are 2020-21 Copa Del Rey winners!
      FIRST SILVERWARE
      Tonight’s Copa Del Rey success is Ronald Koeman’s first piece of silverware as manager of Barcelona.
      But will he still be in charge next season?

      MAN OF THE MATCH
      Lionel Messi steps forward at full time and collects the man of the match award.
      No surprises there.
      Credit: AP

      CHAMPIONS
      Here are the full time scenes as a Lionel Messi inspired Barcelona secured a 31st Copa Del Rey title.
      Barcelona are 2020-21 Copa del Rey winners! 🏆👑A 31st Copa del Rey success for the Catalan giants 🔵🔴 pic.twitter.com/GvDqnjxF0K— Watch Rangers v Celtic live on Premier Sports 📺 (@PremierSportsTV) April 17, 2021

      MASTERFUL MESSI
      As he has been so many times before Lionel Messi was by far the best player on the pitch tonight.
      His brace this evening means he’s scored in eight Copa Del Rey finals, winning seven of them.
      It’s an incredible feat from a quite incredible player.
      Credit: Reuters
      FT: ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-4 BARCELONA
      The celebrations began on the Barcelona bench well before the full time whistle blew.
      A quick fire four goals in twelve second minutes stunned Athletic and secured a record 31st Copa Del Rey title for Barcelona.

      PEEEEP! THAT’S FULL TIME!
      ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-4 BARCELONA!
      BARCELONA WIN THE COPA DEL REY!
      ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-4 BARCELONA
      90. Two minutes of injury time are signalled by the fourth official.
      ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-4 BARCELONA
      87. The disallowed goal turns out to be Griezmann’s final involvement as Martin Braithwaite is on to replace him.
      Dembele is also on for Mingueza.
      Two and a half minutes left to play.
      GOAL DISALLOWED!
      IT WON’T COUNT!
      GREIZMANN IS JUST OFFSIDE!
      ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-5 BARCELONA
      86. It’s a well taken goal.
      He’s played through by Messi and rounds Simon to bag his second of the evening.
      VAR are having a look to see if Griezmann is offside from Messi’s pass.
      GOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLL!
      THERE IS THE FIFTH!
      ANTOINE GRIEZMANN SCORES AGAIN!
      ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-4 BARCELONA
      85. Five minutes to play.
      Athletic Bilbao have accepted they’re beaten and are just letting Barcelona knock the ball around now.
      Ronald Koeman’s side are still hunting a fifth.
      ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-4 BARCELONA
      83. CLOSE!
      Raul Garcia is unmarked from a Bilbao corner and has a free effort at goal.
      His header is too powerful into the ground though and it bounces over Ter Stegen’s crossbar.
      That’s Bilbao’s best chance of the game so far.
      ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-4 BARCELONA
      81. Barca substitutions.
      The game is done so Pique and Pedri are replaced as Ronald Koeman starts to rest his players.
      Araujo and Moriba are on in their place for the last ten minutes.
      ATHLETIC BILBAO 0-4 BARCELONA
      80. Eighty minutes left to play in Sevilla.
      The scoreline now reflects Barcelona’s dominance.
      Lionel Messi has been on a different planet at times this evening.
      MAGICIAN
      Lionel Messi has now scored in EIGHT Copa Del Rey finals.
      He’s now also scored thirty goals or more in THIRTEEN consecutive seasons.
      Credit: Reuters
      Credit: Getty
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      in Soccer

      Chelsea vs Man City LIVE: Stream FREE, TV channel, team news as Kepa STARTS semi-final, Foden benched – latest updates

      by

      CHELSEA take on Manchester City this evening in a huge FA Cup semi-final, both sides’ second successive last-four clash at Wembley in the competition.The Blues beat Sheffield United in the quarter-finals while City overcame Everton at Goodison Park.

      Start time: 5.30pm GMT
      TV/Live stream: BBC One/iPlayer
      Chelsea XI: Kepa, Azpilicueta, Thiago Silva, Rudiger, James, Jorginho, Kante, Chilwell, Ziyech, Werner, Mount
      Man City XI: Steffen, Cancelo, Dias, Laporte, Mendy, Rodrigo, Fernandinho (C), De Bruyne, Torres, Sterling, Jesus

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      TUCH AND GO
      Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has a lot to prove today as he is facing a manager he has never been able to beat.
      Tuchel has faced Guardiola a total of five times throughout his coaching career and lost four of those meetings.
      All four of those victories took place while the Manchester City manager was in charge of Bayern Munich.
      The Spaniard beat Tuchel twice when he was at the helm of Mainz in the 2013-2014 season and prevailed again in their next two meetings when the German replaced Jurgen Klopp at Borussia Dortmund in the 2015-2016 season – they also had a goalless draw in between.
      This will be the first time the two men face off while in charge of an English team
      GETTY IMAGES
      LAST DANCE
      Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero has confirmed that he will be leaving the club in the summer after his contract expires.
      Aguero won’t play any part at Wembley today due to a muscle injury and that makes for quite an absence as the star striker has enjoyed a dominant past against Chelsea.
      The Argentina international has scored a staggering 15 goals in 21 matches against the Blues across all competitions ever since 2011 when he moved to Manchester from Atletico Madrid.
      The 32-year-old has also produced three assists, meaning he has been part of a whopping 18 goals against the west Londoners
      GETTY IMAGES
      LOOKING FOUR-WARD
      Manchester City are still alive for an unpresented quadruple title this season.
      City are 11 points clear at the top of the table, have made the semi-finals of the FA Cup as well as the Champions League and are also set to take on Tottenham at the Carabao Cup final on April 25.
      If the Citizens manage to win all of the aforementioned titles then they will become the first ever team to complete such a triumph.
      But if Chelsea beat Pep Guardiola’s men today then that will officially mark the end of their quadruple hopes once more
      GETTY IMAGES
      MAN CITY FORMATION
      Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola appears to have opted for a 4-3-3 formation with eight changes to the team that beat Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday in Germany.
      Zack Steffen takes Ederson’s place in goal for yet another FA Cup match.
      Joao Cancelo, who takes Kyle Walker’s place, starts at right-back with Benjamin Mendy, on for Oleksandr Zinchenko, playing on the other side, while Ruben Dias and Aymeric Laporte, who comes on for John Stones, team up in defence.
      Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne and captain Fernandinho, who takes Bernardo Silva’s place, link up in midfield.
      Raheem Sterling, Ferran Torres and Gabriel Jesus lead the attack as they replace Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden respectively
      CHELSEA FORMATION
      Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel appears to have opted for a 3-4-3 formation with three changes to the team that lost to Porto on Tuesday in Seville.
      Kepa Arrizabala takes Edouard Mendy’s place between the sticks.
      Thiago Silva, Antonio Rudiger and captain Cesar Azpilicueta link up in defence.
      Reece James plays at right wing-back with Ben Chilwell on the other side while Jorginho and N’Golo Kante team up in midfield.
      Mason Mount, Hakim Ziyech, who replaces Christian Pulisic, and Timo Werner, tho takes Kai Havertz’s place, lead the attack
      MAN CITY SUBS
      Ederson, Walker, Stones, Ake, Gundogan, Zinchenko, Bernardo, Mahrez, Foden
      CHELSEA SUBS
      Caballero, Alonso, Emerson, Zouma, Gilmour, Havertz, Hudson-Odoi, Pulisic, Giroud
      MAN CITY XI
      13 Steffen; 27 Cancelo, 3 Dias, 14 Laporte, 22 Mendy; 16 Rodri, 25 Fernandinho, 17 De Bruyne; 21 Torres, 7 Sterling, 9 Jesus
      Your semi-final squad! 🤩XI | Steffen, Cancelo, Dias, Laporte, Mendy, Rodrigo, Fernandinho (C), De Bruyne, Torres, Sterling, JesusSUBS | Ederson, Walker, Stones, Ake, Gundogan, Zinchenko, Bernardo, Mahrez, Foden⚽️ @HaysWorldwide 🔷 #ManCity | https://t.co/axa0klUGiM pic.twitter.com/G57Y7TA4BZ— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 17, 2021

      CHELSEA XI
      1 Kepa; 28 Azpilicueta, 6 Silva, 2 Rudiger; 24 James, 5 Jorginho, 7 Kante, 21 Chilwell; 22 Ziyech, 19 Mount, 11 Werner

      THE TEAM SHEETS ARE IN!!!
      CITY STATS
      Manchester City made it to the FA Cup semi-finals by eliminating Birmingham, Cheltenham Town, Swansea and Everton along the way.
      City won all of their matches and scored a whopping 11 goals, while conceding a mere two in the process.
      The Citizens have enjoyed tremendous success in the FA Cup semi-finals as they have prevailed in nine of their last 11 appearances in the final four.
      But the last time the Manchester giants made it to Wembley they lost 2-0 to Arsenal last year
      GETTY IMAGES
      CHELSEA STATS
      Chelsea made it to the FA Cup semi-finals by eliminating Morecambe, Luton Town, Barnsley and Sheffield United along the way.
      The Blues won all four games by scoring a total of 10 goals and conceding a mere one throughout the entire competition this season.
      The west Londoners are looking to win their ninth FA Cup but will have to beat a team they have only been able to defeat twice in their last nine meetings across all competitions.
      Thomas Tuchel’s men might still be feeling confident as they have won seven of their last eight FA Cup semi-final matches at Wembley Stadium
      GETTY IMAGES
      HEAD TO HEAD
      Chelsea and Manchester City’s first ever encounter took place way back in 1907 in a First Division match that ended 2-2 in London.
      Since then, the two sides have faced off a total of 164 times with the Blues amassing a mere majority of 66 wins compared to City’s 58 victories.
      But they’ve only faced off six times in the FA Cup, which saw the Citizens winning four of the exchange and only losing twice.
      However, their most recent meeting in the competition took place in 2016 when Chelsea thrashed a below-strength City team with a score of 5-1.
      This is going to be only the second time they battle at Wembley Stadium with their inaugural encounter taking place in the semi-finals of the 2012-2013 season when the Manchester giants won 2-1 thanks to goals by Samir Nasri and Sergio Aguero

      GOOD AFTERNOON FROM WEMBLEY
      Welcome to our live coverage of the FA Cup semi-final clash between Chelsea and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium.
      Both teams made it through to the Champions League semi-finals earlier this week when the Blues eliminated Porto and City offloaded Borussia Dortmund.
      Now the two Premier League sides, who could also face off in the Champions League final, are looking to make it to the FA Cup final where they will face either Leicester or Southampton.
      Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel confirmed that Mateo Kovacic is sidelined due to a hamstring injury he suffered during training.
      Tuchel will also be without Andreas Christensen, who missed the midweek Champions League clash with Porto, due to a muscle injury.
      City boss Pep Guardiola will be without club legend Sergio Aguero, who has announced he will be leaving the Citizens at the end of the season after 10 years of remarkable service.
      Aguero has been dealing with a muscular problem that will not allow him to compete at Wembley tonight against Chelsea.
      However, Guardiola could have Aymeric Laporte back into his starting line-up after the star defender overcame a hip problem.
      Stay tuned as we expect the starting line-ups from both squads in about half an hour
      GETTY IMAGES
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