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    ‘Now is the right time’ – Hughie Fury calls out three heavyweight rivals including Anthony Joshua ahead of return fight

    HUGHIE FURY says he is ready to fight the likes of Anthony Joshua. The heavyweight – cousin to ex-champion Tyson – had a hat-trick of return fights in 2024 after three years out the ring amid health issues. Hughie Fury has called out three big namesCredit: @gbmsportsNow names like Zhilei Zhang and Filip Hrgovic join AJ on the list of opponents Fury wants to face. He told The Ring Magazine: “God’s got a plan and I believe this is the destiny now and I’ve not had the easiest route – with the health issues and all of that I’ve had the hardest route in the world – but I believe now is the right time.“I’m only one fight away, just get the right fight and I’ll be there.“I’d like anyone, I’d like all these fights, I’d like the Zhang fight, I’d like the Joshua fight. READ MORE IN BOXING”Even Hrgovic, I’d like him. All of these fights, hopefully I’d get.”Fury, 30, beat Christian Thun, 33, in his last bout in September and returns on Friday night at York Hall against a yet-to be named opponent. And he said: “I believe people haven’t seen a fraction of my ability and I’m looking forward to this year to showing it.“There’s a lot different. Even with the last fight, it was just getting the cobwebs off and stuff.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“Talk’s cheap. I just can’t wait now to put it all in action. I’ve got so many different styles that people I haven’t seen and I’m looking forward now to put it all into practice.”Fury challenged for the WBO title in 2017 but lost a controversial decision to Joseph Parker in Manchester. Hughie Fury shows what he is made of in the training ring But he has six wins on the spin now and believes he is in line for big fights after signing a deal with Izzy Asif’s GBM Sports. Fury said: “Izzy’s a good friend of my dad’s as well so he’s promised us. I believe he’ll keep to his word and we’ll get these big fights in. “Yeah, I do believe in God’s got a destiny and I believe this is my right time now.”Fury beat Christian Thun in his last fightCredit: @gbmsports More

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    Chelsea set to learn Club World Cup opponents with emergency playoff after Fifa break their own rule

    CHELSEA’S opening Club World Cup replacement opponents are set to be decided by an emergency playoff – as Fifa break their own rules.And they could be handed a reunion with former Blues striker Olivier Giroud – and ex-Spurs skipper Hugo Lloris.Chelsea will discover who they will face at the Club World Cup through an emergency playoffCredit: GettyFifa are breaking their own rules to for the clashCredit: EPAFifa have confirmed it is now “considering” a one-off tie involving Mexico’s Club America and Los Angeles FC of the USA to fill the void after Leon were booted out of the tournament.Chelsea were due to play the Mexican side in their opening game in Atlanta on June 16.But Leon fell foul of Fifa’s multi-club ownership regulations as they are part of the group that also owns fellow Mexicans Pachuca, who also qualified as Concacaf Champions Cup winners.In a statement, a Zurich spokesperson said: “Fifa can confirm that it is considering a playoff match between LAFC and Club América for the right to participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, replacing Club León. “LAFC would participate in the match because they were the runners-up in the 2023 Concacaf Champions’ Cup, which León won.“America would participate because they are the highest-ranked team in Concacaf in the Fifa Club World Cup rankings. Further details will be provided in due course.”Suggestions that Fifa would open the door for Club America, the most widely supported club in Mexico, have grown in recent weeks.Mexican fans ensured sell-outs for the Concacaf Nations Cup finals in Los Angeles last week, even though Mauricio Pochettino’s USA side played the afternoon games in half-empty stadiums before the supporters arrived en masse.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeBut under the regulations Fifa announced when they confirmed the tournament, NEITHER side should be considered.Fifa rules state that no country is allowed more than two representatives UNLESS those clubs were all winners of their confederation’s major club prize in the four-year qualification period.Todd Boehly gives major Chelsea stadium update and vows to leave Stamford BridgeThose regulations meant Liverpool, who would have qualified through Uefa’s coefficient system, were among the major European sides to miss out at the expense of Austrians Salzburg.But Fifa then designated Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami as a “host” team representing Concacaf rather than the USA, whose only official club involved is Seattle Sounders.Mexico already have Monterrey as well as Pachuca, filling their quota, with the measures against Leon instigated by a complaint from Costa Rica’s Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, who argued they should be handed their place as the next eligible side in the coefficient standings.Lloris joined LAFC, part-owned by US actor and comedian Will Ferrell, in December 2023 after more than 11 seasons at Spurs while Giroud, also 38, went to the MLS when he left AC Milan last summer.Leon have already appealed Fifa’s ban decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport and any playoff cannot be scheduled until after the result of the legal proceedings are known.Chelsea’s other two opponents in Group D are Brazilians Flamengo, who they meet in Philadelphia on June 20 and Tunisian outfit Esperance, with the final group game in the same venue four days later.The Blues have already been assured of around £30m in appearance money for the inaugural version of the expanded 32-team competition, with a further £67m up for grabs in potential prize money.England’s other representatives, Manchester City, start against Morocco’s Wydad in Philadelphia on June 18.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey then meet Abu Dhabi outfit Al Ain in Atlanta before finishing against Juventus in Orlando on June 26.If they win their respective groups, the two Prem sides cannot meet until the final in New York on July 13. More

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    Arsenal and Tottenham announce historic extra North London derby at brand new stadium as fans left divided

    NORTH LONDON rivals Arsenal and Tottenham are set to clash in a pre-season friendly overseas.The two clubs will meet at the newly-opened Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong on July 31.Arsenal will face Tottenham at the the Kai Tak Stadium in Hong KongCredit: AFPIt will be the first North London Derby played outside the UKCredit: EPAIt will be the first North London Derby played outside of the United Kingdom.The fixture is scheduled to kick off at 7:30pm local time, meaning fans watching from the UK will be tuning in at lunchtime for a 12:30pm start.While fans of both teams generally look forward to the North London Derby each season, many have been left disappointed by the move.One person said: “This is a disgrace and you know it. Pathetic.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnother commented: “Travelling all that way to play our neighbours. You’ll be tweeting about zero emissions again next week.”A third wrote: “Game has officially gone.”While a Spurs fan was quick to point out: “A friendly with that lot… make it make sense.”However, some supporters were happy with the announcement.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOne said: “MY TEAM IS FINALLY BACK TO HK!”While another wrote: “I WILL BE THERE.”‘Captain on and off the pitch’ – Fans love Arsenal star Martin Odegaard’s classy gesture on international dutyArsenal beat Tottenham on both occasions this season.The Gunners managed a 1-0 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September before clinching a 2-1 victory at the Emirates in January. More

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    Anthony Joshua warned he ‘loses all credibility’ by fighting Jake Paul despite ‘huge money on the table’ for shock bout

    ANTHONY JOSHUA has been warned he “loses all credibility” by fighting Jake Paul – despite the millions on offer to do so. AJ became a shock name aligned to face Paul after the prankster-turned-prizefighter brazenly called him out on his podcast. Anthony Joshua has been warned he ‘loses all credibility’ by fighting Jake PaulCredit: GettyJake Paul called out AJ on his podcastCredit: APThe multimillionaire pair then shared a phone call where they are said to have agreed to boost their bank accounts further with a shock 2026 bout. Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn also revealed the two-time heavyweight champion is on board for the fight. But ex-European batamweight champ Spencer Oliver said on talkSPORT: “If he does it now he loses all credibility.”He’s a two-time world heavyweight champion looking to regain it for the third time.READ MORE IN BOXING”Don’t let Jake Paul get in the way of that. Follow the dream first. Once it’s over, entertain Jake Paul.”Paul moved up to heavyweight for his last fight in November when he controversially brought Mike Tyson out of retirement aged 58. He weighed 227lb (16st 2lb) which is still TWO STONE lighter than AJ, who weighed 250 (18st) before his September KO loss to Daniel Dubois. But Paul blasted that Joshua “doesn’t have a chin and he has no skill” – sparking talk of a bizarre bout next year. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnd Oliver added: “One thing that Jake Paul does is draws huge numbers.”There’s not a fighter that wouldn’t fight him because there’s huge money on the table, that’s the fact.Jake Paul claims he has agreement to fight Anthony Joshua and reveals date but brother Logan fears he’s on drugs “But do we want to see it? No. I don’t think we could. I think…no I’m going to rephrase that, I don’t think we could see it but later rather than sooner.”I think Anthony Joshua has to go on his journey first, he has to try and regain that world heavyweight title. “Or if he doesn’t, he’s got to try to do it, and then he can entertain Jake Paul.”Spencer Oliver, right, warned AJ against fighting Jake Paul More

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    ‘Really getting on my nerves’ – Roy Keane blasts Erling Haaland for ‘smiling’ during Man City’s win over Bournemouth

    ROY KEANE was unimpressed by Erling Haaland smiling during Manchester City’s FA Cup quarter-final win over Bournemouth.The Norwegian missed a penalty in the first half of the Vitality Stadium clash before squandering another good chance a few moments later.Erling Haaland missed a penalty in the first half of Manchester City’s FA Cup quarter-final clash with BournemouthCredit: REUTERSHe missed another golden chance a few moments laterCredit: GETTYITV pundit Roy Keane was far from impressed by the smile the Norwegian cracked after his second missCredit: ITVA frustrated Haaland cracked a wry smile after his second straight miss, which well and truly irked Keane.The ITV pundit said: “Haaland missing a penalty, very lackadaisical.”Then, he missed another chance and he’s smiling.”Man City strolling around the pitch are really getting on my nerves, not a good sign.”READ MORE ON KEANEKeane’s sentiment on City was echoed by fellow pundit Ian Wright, who said: “We know Bournemouth are going to force them wide and make them make mistakes.”That’s exactly what Nunes did. This could have been very comfortable.”They don’t seem in the vibe. They don’t seem up for it.”Haaland would eventually get his name on the scoresheet in the 49th minute to level the tie.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKErling Haaland would leave the Vitality Stadium on crutches after suffering an injury in the second halfCredit: TIKTO@CELEBSTARCLIPSHe was subbed in the 61st minute after sustaining an injury, with City new boy Omar Marmoush replacing him.And the Egypt international struck in the 63rd minute to seal a 2-1 win for City and send them to the semi-finals.Man City launched probe into Erling Haaland after he ‘left club’s mascot with whiplash’ after hit to back of headIt’s currently unclear what injury Norway international Haaland is suffering from.But he sparked serious cause for concern from the Etihad faithful by leaving the Vitality on crutches and in a protective boot.City’s reward for beating Bournemouth is a semi-final clash with Nottingham Forest on April 26. More

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    Pep Guardiola hit with touchline ban after Man City boss is booked during FA Cup win over Bournemouth

    PEP GUARDIOLA has been hit with a touchline ban after being booked against Bournemouth.The Manchester City boss masterminded a comeback against the Cherries after going 1-0 down before half-time, with Erling Haaland and super sub Omar Marmoush scoring to turn the tie around.Pep Guardiola will miss Man City’s next game after picking up a yellow card against BournemouthCredit: GettyThe win booked City a spot in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley with the Cityzens to face Nottingham Forest for a chance to appear in their third final in a row in the competition.Indeed, this season marks a record seventh semi-final in a row for Guardiola’s side.But during the second half of the clash, referee Stuart Atwell booked the Spanish manager for dissent.It came when Guardiola complained after talisman Haaland had gone down with injury in the second half following a challenge from Lewis Cook.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDespite Haaland signalling for a change, Bournemouth carried on playing which sparked an angry reaction from City, with Kevin De Bruyne seen confronting Cook as Guardiola made his thoughts clear.Guardiola, 54, had previously been booked against Arsenal and Fulham.And his third booking of the campaign now means Guardiola won’t be on the touchline for City’s next game, a Premier League tie against Leicester City on Wednesday.City look set to also be without Haaland after he was forced off when he appeared to stutter his knee.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe Norwegian ace, who has now scored 30 goals in all competitions this season, was later pictured leaving the Vitality Stadium in a protective boot and crutches.When asked about the seriousness of the injury, Guardiola said: “I don’t know yet.Man City launched probe into Erling Haaland after he ‘left club’s mascot with whiplash’ after hit to back of head”I saw him on the massage table but I didn’t speak with him or the doctors. We will have to see.”Haaland missed two games with a knee injury earlier this campaign but has otherwise been in lethal goal-scoring form.City are heading to the revamped Club World Cup this summer, with Guardiola hoping to put a dismal 2024/25 firmly behind him.But he claims his squad wouldn’t deserve the £100million prize money on offer – after their poor Premier League title defence.Guardiola said: “We don’t deserve it this season. We don’t deserve a bonus this season. The bonus, if you win, I don’t know how much.”You go there, (winning) it’s for the club. The managers, the backroom staff, the players we don’t deserve, not even a watch.” More

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    Jake Paul lines himself up for shock WWE role alongside brother Logan and teases major £11.5m career change

    JAKE PAUL is lining himself up for a WWE role alongside brother Logan – but not to wrestle himself. Logan joined the WWE in 2022 and has since held the United States Championship. Logan Paul with younger brother JakeCredit: GettyYounger brother Jake is meanwhile 11-1 as a boxer but has talked up a WWE switch to manage Logan – like Paul Heyman famously did for Brock Lesnar. He told Newsweek: “I would be down to be Logan’s manager. “Paul Heyman-style in WWE, but I don’t think my body is cut out for the athleticism and the madness that the WWE takes. “I feel like I would break my back.” READ MORE IN BOXINGJake also teased a switch to MMA for a rematch with ex-UFC star Nate Diaz, who he beat over ten boxing rounds in August 2023. He said: “I definitely want to do MMA. Nate Diaz, still to this day, has not accepted the $15million (£11.5m) deal that we have for him. “For me in MMA, it’s just about finding the right opponent.” Jake’s only loss in the boxing ring came against Tommy Fury in February 2023, with the two recently talking up a rematch online. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe American also saw a May 3 Las Vegas mega-fight against Mexican great Canelo Alvarez collapse. It came after Canelo, 34, instead signed a bumped four-bout deal with Saudi Arabia’s Turki Alsheikh. Jake Paul claims he has agreement to fight Anthony Joshua and reveals date but brother Logan fears he’s on drugs Jake, 28, said: “He went with the money play versus the legacy play of doing one of the biggest fights ever. “Now he’s fighting some random guy in Saudi. He snaked his fans and chose the money because they were threatening to pull his contract. “The people over there don’t want to see me to be the biggest name in boxing. “So, that’s the nature of the sport and the politics of the sport. At the end of the day, all of these rats want a bite of cheese. “So, he’s going to come back around and want to fight me again when he realises his fights over there don’t have any hype behind them.”Tommy Fury and Jake Paul have been teasing a rematchCredit: Reuters More

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    ‘Leaving Man Utd works wonders’ – Fans love Antony’s wild Real Betis celebrations as he goes topless and waves huge flag

    MANCHESTER UNITED flop Antony celebrated wildly as he helped Real Betis make it six league wins in a row.The Brazilian joined the Spanish side on loan during the winter transfer window.Antony celebrated Real Betis winning the Seville derby by waving the club’s flag aroundCredit: GettyThe win also marked six league wins in a rowCredit: GettyOne of Antony’s team-mates said the club need to ‘crowdfund’ to sign him permanentlyCredit: EPAAfter failing to impress across two-and-a-half years at Man Utd following an £86million move from Ajax, Antony has found a new lease of life with Real.The 25-year-old has scored four goals and assisted four in 12 games. His performances have earned him widespread praise.But after playing the full match in a 2-1 win over Sevilla to ensure his side won the Seville derby, it was what he did after the game which really caught the eye.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs fans celebrated a sixth La Liga win on the bounce by staying behind at the Villamarin Stadium, Antony was seen waving the club’s flag around.The winger had taken his top off while doing so.Later on he was lifted up by goalkeeper Adrian, who joined the club for free last summer after leaving Liverpool.Speaking after the game, Antony’s team-mate Isco urged the club to do all they could to land him and even joked they should do some “crowdfunding”.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe former Real Madrid star said: “We need to do crowdfunding or something so that Antony can stay at least one more year. “He has surprised us with the humility he’s brought.”Ex-Man Utd star Memphis Depay sparks mass brawl with cheeky trick as four red cards are handed out in derby clash Fans reacting to Antony’s topless flag waving on social media said: “I’m crying with Antony, this guy… I hope he stays at Betis.” A second said: “Just look at how happy Antony is. Leaving United really works wonders for players.”A third added: “AURA.”Another said: “Passion like that could power the whole stadium!”Real Betis chiefs hinted in February that Antony’s deal could be extended beyond this summer.There is no transfer clause in the deal which took Antony to Spain from Manchester, but the club are covering a portion of his £105,000 a week wages.However, sporting director Manu Fajardo has now outlined the club will likely need to qualify for the Champions League to be able to afford Antony.He said: “In Betis’ sporting department, we work on ‘devalued’ players, analysing data from players who have reached very high moments and peaks, but who for various reasons have significantly decreased their performance.”We are concerned about their situation and speak with major clubs. In his case, we were able to anticipate and convince the player, and his entourage. “Today, Antony is performing immediately from minute one in the squad.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We haven’t lost our enthusiasm, we can’t rule out anything in football and hopefully Real Betis will remain in the top European positions to benefit his continuity and the arrival of other great players.”The club currently sit sixth in La Liga, six points off of the top four.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford More