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      Boxer who KO’d Lennox Lewis gets back in the ring at 59 vs 54-year-old in pro fight days after Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson

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      BOXING hero Oliver McCall returns to the ring at the age of 59, THIRTY YEARS after knocking the legendary Lennox Lewis out.Former heavyweight world champion McCall will be facing 54-year-old Stacy Frazier tonight in Nashville.Oliver McCall returns to the ring at the age of 59 to face 54-year-old Stacy FrazierThis comes four days after the controversial bout between Mike Tyson and Jake PaulCredit: ReutersMcCall knocked the legendary Lennox Lewis out in 1994Credit: GettyMcCall became WBC heavyweight champion after beating LewisCredit: AFPAnd it will be an officially sanctioned professional fight between the two boxing veterans in Tennessee.The fight takes place just four days after the controversial bout between the ageing Mike Tyson and Jake Paul.Tyson, 58, returned to the ring against a much younger Paul, 27, and the heavyweight legend was defeated by the YouTuber via unanimous decision at the AT&T Stadium in Texas.The fight received immense criticism as Iron Mike’s advanced age and ring rust were both exposed.Read More on BoxingBut that hasn’t stopped McCall getting back in the ring despite being OLDER than Tyson.The American picked up a famous victory over Lewis in 1994 as he knocked the British-Canadian star out and became WBC heavyweight champion.The Atomic Bull currently holds an impressive record of 59 wins and only 14 losses in 75 fights.But some fans were not too pleased about his return to the ring after the disappointment they witnessed between Tyson and Paul.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne boxing enthusiast tweeted: “Jake Paul will fight the winner.”Another commented: “What the hell is happening to the sport??”Stunning Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson ring girls oil up as they share behind-the-scenes video of Netflix fight And that one wrote: “Such a shame all this.”Paul vs Tyson shocking punch statsTHE punch stats from Mike Tyson’s defeat to Jake Paul made for “sad” reading.Veteran Iron Mike, 58, started strongly enough in his Netflix boxing fight with the former YouTuber.But he simply ran out of gas within the first few minutes of the eight-round contest.In the 16 minutes of action, the former undisputed heavyweight world champion landed just 18 punches – averaging just 2.25 successful hits per round.In total, he only attempted 97, meaning he made contact with just 18 per cent.By comparison, Paul, 27, threw a whopping 278 punches – nearly 200 more than his ageing opponent – but still only landed 78 for a success rate of 28 per cent despite his opponent barely moving.His most explosive round came in the third when the victorious Problem Child attempted 44 punches and connected with 16 of them.However, a woeful fifth round saw just four punches landed between the pair as the quality failed to live up to the hype and Paul refused to go for the knockout. More

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      in Soccer

      Premier League clubs fear huge delay to introducting semi-automated offsides amid concerns over major glitch

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      PREM clubs fear the promised semi-automated offside technology may not now be introduced until NEXT season.Clubs agreed to bring in the system this term at their April meeting after Prem chiefs agreed a deal with US-based Genius Sports.Semi-automated offside technology is used in the Champions LeagueThe tech utilises ‘mesh tracking’ of 10,000-plus data pointsCredit: FIFAAt the time, it was announced that the new system would not be available until after one of the autumn international breaks.That was to ensure thorough testing of Genius’ system of 28 special cameras, which utilise “mesh tracking” of 10,000-plus data points on the surface of each player rather than the limb and skeletal tracking concepts used by Uefa and Fifa.Earlier this season, it was confirmed that more testing was required before Prem bosses could give the green light, with the introduction of the technology pushed back until after Christmas.But club bosses anticipate they will be told this week that they should not expect all the remaining wrinkles to be ironed out in time for the system to run live before the end of the season.READ MORE ON SPORTAn update from PGMOL and the Prem executive is due to discuss the current state of play amid concerns about semi-automated offside technology (SAOT) which were heightened in Spain before the international break.A glitch in the system used in La Liga meant Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski was wrongly ruled offside after scoring against Sociedad when a defender’s boot was mis-identified as being worn by the Polish striker.Barca sporting director Deco spoke about the decision after the game and suggested that another system is needed as a back up.He said: “I don’t think VAR, and not just because of this game, has fixed what in theory it was going to fix.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”I don’t understand if it’s semi-automatic, not automatic, if someone has to press the button.”It’s like having a car and not knowing if it’s automatic, if it’s hybrid … someone will have to explain it to us.Fans left stunned at worst VAR offside line in history as they joke ‘absolutely NOT rigged’ – but all is not as it seemsRobert Lewandowski was failed by the technology earlier this seasonCredit: Getty”Why is it semi-automatic? I am lost. I still don’t know if the boots were yellow [Lewandowski’s] or black [Sociedad defender Nayef Aguerd’s].”We don’t want to go there because we don’t want excuses, but there’s a question: what happened?”Where’s the error occurred, if there’s an error? If not, no problem, but we need an explanation because we’re lost with what semi-automatic means.”If there’s an involvement from VAR, if the referee really can’t do anything.”If the semi-automatic system doesn’t work, then we need to return to another system. This isn’t a Barca issue, it’s about improvements for all teams.”Some things have improved, but in other areas we still have one person’s interpretation. We still have controversial decisions, like the one at (Real Sociedad’s ground) Anoeta on Sunday, which was probably incorrect.”Prem bosses want to ensure the new system is foolproof before its introduction although the delay after the pre-season promises are an embarrassment. More

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      Tommy Fury press conference descends into chaotic brawl as dad John Fury throws water over boxing rival Darren Till

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      TOMMY FURY and Darren Till threatened to kick off their fight early with a near-brawl at the press conference. The pair headline at the Co-op Live Arena on January 18 in Manchester but came face to face in London to announce the bout.Tommy Fury and Darren Till clashing at the press conferenceCredit: GettyFormer UFC star Till hurdled insults at the FurysCredit: PAJohn Fury hit back at TillCredit: GettyTommy Fury also blasted TillCredit: GettyKSI was loving the wild scenesCredit: GettyBut the mutual respect did not last long as ex-UFC star Till threatened to KICK Fury in the face during the fight. Fury’s famously volatile dad John responded by chucking water at Till – sparking the wild scenes on stage.Security desperately tried to intervene and separate the two camps as tempers flared. Till, 31, could be heard yelling: “Sit down little John.” READ MORE IN BOXINGJohn yelled: “Come on, let’s go.” Till hit back: “What are you gonna do? Get you with your security. Pair of s***houses. I’d absolutely tear you upside down. Be quiet little John.”The two headline a Misfits Boxing card on DAZN PPV. And Misfits founder KSI, who lost to Fury in October, was in hysterics in between the brawling two and shouted out: “Get your tickets.”Most read in SportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFury, 25, has not returned since beating KSI, 31, via decision in October following hand surgery. Till meanwhile crosses over for his second boxing bout after leaving UFC in 2022.The fight is set to be contested at heavyweight over eight, three-minute rounds.Jake Paul’s ex-coach reveals why he should SNUB rematch with ‘unreasonable’ and ‘delusional’ Tommy Fury More

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      Neymar buys £43million penthouse in exclusive Bugatti block in Dubai with private CAR elevator straight to his door

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      NEYMAR has given his property portfolio the ultimate lift – just as his career could be on the way down.The Brazil legend swooped to buy a £43million penthouse in Dubai – complete with a private CAR elevator to his door.Bugatti Residences offers amazing luxury, even for DubaiCredit: BugattiNeymar has splashed out on a design that stands out from the restCredit: BugattiThe former Barcelona and PSG ace is struggling to return after injuryCredit: GettyDevelopers say the site is inspired by the French RivieraCredit: BugattiNeymar’s new purchase looks unique, even in money-laden DubaiCredit: BugattiNeymar’s Al-Hilal future is in doubt as injury has reduced him to seven appearances in 15 months on a £2.5m-a-week contract.But it hasn’t stopped the Saudi Pro League flop, 32, purchasing a futuristic mega-pad in the neighbouring United Arab Emirates that is jaw-dropping even by his standards of luxury.Building developer Binghatti say the 128-cap ex-Barcelona striker has snapped up one of the so-called Sky Mansions in the exclusive Bugatti Residences block.Naturally, there’s a private swimming pool with sweeping views of downtown Dubai.READ MORE FOOTBALL STORIESAnd there’s also no need to step out of your vehicle to rise to your own mansion – thanks to personal elevators.Binghatti say the setting “pays homage to the French Riviera”.They also boast: “Floor-to-ceiling windows flood each residence with natural light supported by high ceiling and open-plan living spaces, creating an airy and spacious atmosphere.”A fitness centre and members-only club are included too.Most read in FootballNeymar has spent big, despite doubts over his Middle East futureCredit: BugattiFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOpulence and innovation are in abundance at the exclusive residenceCredit: BugattiBut Al-Hilal will be more concerned about how often Neymar can appear on the pitch than how he will get on with his new neighbours when he’s in Dubai.There’s growing speculation the Saudi top-flight leaders are looking to offload the ex-PSG star, even before his contract expires next summer.Neymar breaks down in tears and reveals ‘each day I am away is a day of suffering’ after injury hellRejoining Barcelona was mentioned at one point, but most of the current talk involves a return to his home country.However, Palmeiras ruthlessly ruled out interest due to his fitness problems, with club president Leila Pereira saying they are “not a medical department”.And Neymar’s agent dampened rumours of a move to his first club Santos.But amid all his injury issues, one thing has remained stable for the three-time Champions League winner.That’s his opulent lifestyle and habits.Just weeks ago he purchased waterfront land in Miami for £20.5m.Inevitably, it sparked transfer links with David Beckham’s Inter Miami surged, notably the possibility of recreating Barcelona’s famous “MSN” front three with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.Neymar is also now back with his model partner Bruna Biancardi, the mother of his daughter Mavie.The couple are far from coy in sharing pictures from private jets and exotic holidays.He’s reportedly lined up his own £7m private island off the coast of Brazil.The Canadian owner of the six-acre hideaway off a port town in Rio de Janeiro is said to have cut the price by more than £3m.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut that would still mean Neymar having to dig deep for about… three weeks’ pay.However, he has always insisted playing football is his greatest stimulation – so the priority is to press the button on his future and rise again.The distinctive property includes personal elevators to ‘transport vehicles’Credit: BugattiHere’s how the huge residence looks to its ‘neighbours’Credit: Bugatti More

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      in Soccer

      I’ve tried for the last three years to join Wrexham but I think my surname will stop me, admits ex-Premier League star

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      FORMER Premier League ace James Chester revealed he tried to sign for Wrexham three times but suggested he got knocked back because of his SURNAME.Chester, 35, appears to have been lured by the Red Dragons’ rise under Hollywood celebrity owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in the last four years.James Chester tried to sign for Wrexham three times but got knocked back because of his surnameCredit: GettyChester is impressed by Wrexham’s rise under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenneyCredit: GettyThe centre-back, who currently plays for Salford in League Two, seems keen to add his Premier League and international experience to the League One outfit.The-ex Wales international played for Hull, West Brom and Aston Villa in the English top flight and helped his nation make the Euro 2016 semi-finals.However, he suggested a move to Wrexham may never happen due to having the same surname as the club’s most hated rivals CHESTER FC.The Welshman got that impression when he visited the Racecourse with former club Barrow last season as he claims he received immense stick from the home fans.Read More on FootballChester told BBC’s Feast of Football podcast: “The last time I was here last season, I expected that with the Welsh connection I might get a reasonable reception.“But I think because of the name on the back of my shirt, I got more abuse than I did any niceties. “I got a bit of stick along the lines of my name and being on the pitch in Wrexham.”When asked if he ever wanted to sign for the Red Dragons, Chester added: “I’ve tried for the last three seasons.”Most read in FootballThe centre-half started out at Manchester United’s academy but only made one senior appearance in 2009.United loaned him out to the likes of Peterborough, Plymouth and Carlisle.Major A-list celebs Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney expand Wrexham empire with new breweryAfter playing for Hull, West Brom and Villa he had a brief stint with Stoke and Derby.He then moved down the divisions, first signing for Barrow and then Salford. More

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      Controversial Wrexham star James McClean has special permission to break EFL rules for his own safety

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      JAMES McCLEAN has been given special permission to break EFL rules to avoid being abused by rival fans. The Wrexham star, 35, is regularly targeted by opposition supporters when he goes off the pitch.The EFL are giving James McClean special dispensation to break football lawsCredit: RexThe Wrexham winger is regularly targetted by abuse and missiles by rival fansCredit: ReutersFootball laws since 2019-20 state a player being substituted must leave the field by the nearest sideline – rather than trudging over to the dugouts – to speed up play and reduce time wasting.However, that has sparked a series of incidents with McClean clashing with supporters when taken off.That included seeing a cup of Bovril thrown at him against Birmingham and he appeared to blow kisses at Mansfield fans earlier this month. Now the EFL have stepped in to allow McClean and any other players at similar risk an exemption help them avoid further flashpoints.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHaving liaised with Wrexham and the PGMOL – the body of referees – the EFL have circulated a letter advising clubs of the measure put in place for stars – including but not exclusively the former Sunderland, Wigan, West Brom and Stoke winger.As reported by the Daily Mail, the new directive came in an email to club safety officers as the EFL wrote: “You will be aware that James McClean is often on the receiving end of abuse from some sections of support.”This has, in the past, resulted in FA sanctions against the Club due to the chanting becoming racially, or religiously motivated and therefore, classed as a hate crime. “Missiles have also been thrown.Most read in EFL”It has now been agreed that on occasions in the future when Mr McClean has to leave the field of play, for whatever reason, he will leave by the shortest route towards the tunnel. “This process will help to reduce these incidents and also help to manage Mr McClean’s departure from the pitch without incident.”Chelsea and Wrexham stars Levi Colwill and James McClean fight just two minutes into pre-season friendly McClean has never shied away from controversy during his career and hit the headlines once again in recent weeks over his poppy stance.The 103-cap Ireland international decides not to wear a poppy on his shirt in the fixtures leading up to Remembrance Day each year.That is because his hometown of Derry was the site of the 1972 Bloody Sunday massacre which saw 14 unarmed civilians killed by British soldiers.And he feels wearing a poppy shows disrespect to those who died during the Troubles.However, he has stated he would be willing to join the majority of footballers by having the red flower on his jersey if it was solely to show respect to those who died during the World Wars. McClean stood apart from his Wrexham team-mates for the minute of silence before the 1-0 win over Mansfield. The veteran helped Wrexham win promotion last season and was seen revelling in the Welsh club’s fans’ anti-monarchy song about him – just weeks after future king Prince William visited the Racecourse Ground. McClean is, of course, not the only footballer who has been on the receiving end of abuse from opposition fans.Burnley’s Hannibal Mejbri taunted the passionate Leeds faithful in the closing stages of the Clarets’ win at Elland Road in September, leading to a furious reaction. However, the ex-Manchester United man certainly played his part in the animosity on that occasion.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd the EFL cited the “racially or religiously-motivated hate crimes” surrounding McClean prompting the unprecedented dispensation.But SunSport understands should other players be at a similar safety risk like McClean, they too would be subject to the relaxed rules for their protection. A cup of Bovril was launched at McClean at St Andrew’s in SeptemberCredit: ReutersHe stood apart from his team-mates during the minute of silence for Remembrance DayCredit: PA More

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      Chelsea slam ‘unacceptable’ homophobic comments aimed at Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis after pregnancy news

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      CHELSEA have hit out at “homophobic” remarks directed at Sam Kerr and her partner Kristie Mewis after the couple announced they are expecting a baby. On Monday, the Blues star took to Instagram to reveal that West Ham midfielder Mewis is pregnant, with their child expected in 2025. Sam Kerr is working her way back to fitness from an anterior cruciate ligament injury she sustained in JanuaryCredit: GettyKerr announced she and her partner Kristie Mewis are expecting a baby togetherCredit: Instagram / samanthakerr20Kerr and Mewis are expecting their first child together with their baby due to be born next yearCredit: PAThe post featured black and white photos of the couple with Kerr seen pointing towards her fiancee’s stomach.An accompanying message which read “Mewis-Kerr baby incoming”.The duo, who got engaged last year, were also pictured holding up an ultrasound image. While several WSL players and coaches, including West Ham boss Rehanne Skinner, took to X and Instagram to congratulate the couple, other social media accounts posted vile remarks.Read More Football StoriesAnd Kerr, who is working her way back to fitness from a knee ligament tear sustained in January, was forced to block comments on her post soon after the announcement was published. And WSL leaders Chelsea have now hit out at the “hateful homophobic” remarks.In a statement shared today, they said: “Chelsea Football Club is aware of recent unacceptable and hateful homophobic comments published across various social media platforms.”There is no place in society for any form of discrimination and we will not accept any abuse directed towards our players, staff or supporters.Most read in Football”We are extremely proud to be a diverse, inclusive club that celebrates and welcomes people from all cultures, communities and identities.”A supporters group for Blues fans in the LGBTQ community described the comments directed at Kerr as “heart-breaking and infuriating”. In a post shared via their account on X, Chelsea Pride wrote: “Homophobia has no place in football, at Chelsea, or in our society. “It’s heartbreaking and infuriating to see social media flooded with hateful comments when we should be celebrating love, pride and unity. “Over the weekend, our club was forced to shut down comments and even delete posts. England boss Sarina Wiegman says the homophobic abuse aimed Kerr and Mewis is “disappointing”Credit: Alamy”Posts that should have been shining moments of joy, from the powerful symbolism of Rainbow Laces, to the incredible news that Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis will welcome a child in 2025. “We refuse to stand by in silence. “We fight for a football world where every player, fan and family can live openly and be celebrated, without fear or prejudice.” More

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      in Soccer

      Spanish newspaper’s XI of best U18 starlets in 2016 goes viral with forgotten English prodigy and ‘9 of them top tier’

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      A 2016 best XI of wonderkids has gone viral on social media – and nine of them have hit the heights.But one English-born ace has fallen off the radar and now plies his trade with an unfashionable German outfit.Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard was among the most promising talents at the timeCredit: GettyArsenal’s Kieran Tierney was also part of the list during his success at CelticCredit: GettyMarca predicted Europe’s best Under-18 talents in 2016Spanish newspaper Marca put together the best XI of Under-18 talents in Europe back eight years ago.Among them was an unknown Monaco kid called Kylian Mbappe, who is now considered by many as the best in the world.In the 2016 version, the now-Real Madrid superstar was joined by Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal.Donnarumma had just taken football by storm with AC Milan before moving to PSG – where he played with Mbappe – in 2021.Read More on FootballRomanian Cristian Manea was at right-back with Arsenal ace Kieran Tierney on the other side, with Liverpool’s Joe Gomez and forgotten England prospect Reece Oxford at centre-back.Rapid Bucharest’s Manea was playing for Belgian outfit Mouscron, on loan from Apollon Limassol, but got lost in the shuffle as did Oxford, who was a revelation at West Ham before joining Augsburg.Gomez is a utility defender for the Reds, while Tierney’s success at Celtic has yet to be replicated at the Emirates due to a raft of injury set-backs.Renato Sanches, Youri Tielemans and Ruben Neves formed the midfield.Most read in FootballSanches was considered the next big thing during his successful stint at Benfica but failed to live up to expectations and even endured a painful loan stint at Swansea.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe midfielder is currently on PSG’s books but returned to Benfica on loan in his bid to rediscover his old form.Tielemans played for Anderlecht at the time and went on to enjoy success with Leicester – where he won the FA Cup – and current club Aston Villa, who are standing out in the Champions League.Meet Ayden Heaven: Arsenal’s next William SalibaNeves burst onto the scene with Porto and became a star at Wolves but has dropped from the spotlight after moving to Saudi Arabia for Al-Hilal.Mbappe was joined by Martin Odegaard and Dominic Solanke up-front.Odegaard was struggling for minutes at Real after his major move from Norwegian outfit Stromsgodset, where he emerged as one of the world’s most promising wonderkids.But the playmaker found his groove at Arsenal and quickly earned the captain’s armband.Solanke played for Vitesse at the time on loan from Chelsea, where he failed to earn a permanent spot and endured a disappointing stint at Liverpool.But the striker showed exactly why there was so much hype around his name with a stunning spell at Bournemouth, which led to a big move to Tottenham last summer.Mixed fan reactionMbappe dominated at Monaco and earned a big move to PSG where he quickly developed into one of the world’s biggest stars and ultimately completed a highly-anticipated move to Real.Fans were left in awe by that nostalgic post, which received some mixed reaction.One fan posted: “Pretty good tbf.”Another commented: “I miss Kieran Tierney.”A third wrote: “As a West Ham fan, Reece Oxford not fulfilling his potential was so sad.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThis fan wrote: “9 out of the 11 are top tier.”And that one stated: “Not a bad return to be fair.” More