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      in Boxing

      Joseph Parker vs Martin Bakole LIVE RESULTS: Bakole DROPPED as huge heavyweight clash ends in brutal fashion – updates

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      JOSEPH PARKER has STOPPED Martin Bakole in two-round belter in Saudi Arabia!Parker was due to face Daniel Dubois for DDD’s IBF world title, but the British champion withdrew from the fight on Thursday due to illness.In stepped Bakole in his place, who flew in from Congo on just TWO days notice .And Bakole lasted just two rounds before a Parker right saw the late replacement pulled out by his corner.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow our live blog below…Beterbiev vs Bivol – R3Beterbiev races out of the corner again to try and close the distance but Bivol counters with a two-piece to his stomach.Beterbiev is not deterred and comes in again, but Bivol again does some superb work on the back foot as he lands a clean counter.The champ is relentless in his pressure, so Bivol has to continue to make him pay.He does with a nice uppercut then a left, but Beterbiev lands a couple of nice shots himself.Bivol has some success but Beterbiev then fires in some very heavy shots at the end of the round.This is sensational quality, Bivol lands another nice combo as does the champ.A very narrow 2-1 to Bivol on my card.Copy linkCopiedBeterbiev vs Bivol – R2Beterbiev comes out positively from the corner, he perhaps agrees with me that he lost that first round.The Canadian is working behind the jab in this fight – again in stark contrast to the first meeting where he threw more than 1,000 total punches.His picking his shots much more this time round.Bivol is looking to match the work rate as he throws many more shots than he did at this stage first time out.Beterbiev keeps working the jab but Bivol then whips in a lovely right hand that lands cleanly.This is high quality stuff from these two. Beterbiev lands a lovely body shot then follows it with a quick one-two that nearly pins Bivol on the ropes.He escapes but Beterbiev stepped up the pace noticeably there – 1-1 for me.Copy linkCopiedBeterbiev vs Bivol – R1Stark difference in the opening round of the two fights so far.In the first meeting, Beterbiev was well on top and was able to pressure Bivol and get him moving backwards.Bivol is not conceding any ground here, as he stands his ground and fires a couple back at his rival.Bivol was cautious in that one but is firing away – he lands a nice left hook that catches a bit of Beterbiev’s glove on the way in.Much quicker pace about it in this round.Beterbiev lands a decent right late on, but I have that round for Bivol.Copy linkCopiedLet’s get ready to rumble!Michael Buffer says the famous words after we hear the Saudi anthem and get the introductions of both fighters.We’re only moments away now…Copy linkCopiedHere they comeDimitry Bivol gets a lukewarm response on his way to the ring while Artur Beterbiev gets a huge roar as his name is announced.It’s very clear which fighter the crowd are backing in this one.We cannot wait for this, these two are among the very best.Copy linkCopiedPromo We’ve got an elaborate promo running right now as we build-up to the mega rematch between two of the world’s very best fighters.Many people felt Dimitry Bivol was robbed in the first fight, when he finished the much stronger fighter.Will Bivol be able to gain his revenge tonight?Copy linkCopied’We want all the smoke’Eddie Hearn previewed the huge main event that is due to start any second.The Matchroom chief said: “For me [Bivol] won the first fight, it was very close.”This is about discipline and concentration.”Artur Beterbiev is a ticking time bomb, how long can you stop him from going boom.”I think Beterbiev will try and walk him down faster this time, so he has to be prepared.”Then asked about the return of 5vs5, Hearn responded: “Matchroom vs Queensbury, Matchroom vs Golden Boy – bring it on, we want all the smoke.”Copy linkCopied5vs5 returns?Boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh is being interviewed by DAZN and has dropped a few nuggets that will get boxing fans excited.He says “we have a lot of things coming this year”.That included teasing the return of 5vs5 in July, a massive fight between Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney, as well as fights in Africa and, of course, the confirmed Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn fight at Tottenham.Copy linkCopiedParker speaksJoseph Parker spoke in the ring and pleaded his case for a world title next.He was meant to fight Daniel Dubois for the IBF title tonight and he is still the WBO mandatory challenger for Oleksandr Usyk.As one of the most in-form heavyweights in boxing, he thoroughly deserves a title shot next.Parker said: “Martin Bakole thanks for accepting the challenge and flying all the way here.”I listened, stayed calm, structured composed and got the victory.”I want to fight for the world title next.”We’ve got Frank [Warren] here… I want a world title next.”When I came back to the corner, Andy [Lee] gave me instructions to be patient, when he comes in throw the overhand right.”Asked if he would prefer to fight Usyk or Dubois, Parker said: “I will fight anyone and everyone.”Copy linkCopiedQuick night’s workWell that didn’t last long at all – 5mins and 17 seconds in total.Should various reports on the internet be believed then Bakole earned around $600,000 for his short trip to Saudi Arabia.He took a massive shot but it was a no-lose situation for the Congolese star.Nice work if you can get it.Copy linkCopiedBig shot rocks BakoleIt was a massive overhand right that sent Bakole tumbling.It landed on the top of his big thick head and while Bakole didn’t tumble straight to the floor, his legs went like jelly and he went stumbling backwards.Copy linkCopiedParker vs Bakole – R2 – Parker WINS!Bakole’s trainer Billy Nelson offers us another little nugget about Bakole’s camp – he hasn’t done any sparring in weeks.Parker throws some stiff jabs to start the fight and then closes the distance on the big man.That seems dangerous as Bakole gets on the inside and lands two absolutely massive body shots.Parker continues pushing forward though and then hits pay dirt – a massive right lands on Bakole’s head and sends him tumbling to the ground!There was a delayed reaction from Bakole as he went tumbling backwards.His legs were totally wobbly as he got back up and the ref quickly waves it off.A real shame that didn’t last longer!Copy linkCopiedParker vs Bakole – R1An almost comically static start from Bakole who isn’t on his toes and is just standing waiting for Parker to come forward.The Kiwi isn’t quite prepared to do that in this first round and is content to fire out a couple of jabs.Not much action or landing so far as the two massive fighters size each other up.Parker definitely looks better, though, as he fires off a decent one-two in the final minute of the round.Bakole finally makes his move inside the final 20 seconds and lands a massive shot to end the round!Well, that certainly will have woken Parker up!Copy linkCopiedHere they comeMartin Bakole is first to the ring as he arrives draped in the Congolese flag and a plain black t-shirt.Then comes Joseph Parker – at the heaviest weight of his career – in a red gown with a glittery hoodie.This is an absolutely top quality heavyweight fight and, remember, an eliminator for the WBO title, currently held by Oleksandr Usyk.Copy linkCopiedBuffer in the buildingYou know it’s a big fight night when Michael Buffer is in the building!We’re just moments away now, ring walks are expected very shortly…Copy linkCopied’Everything should favour Joe’Promoter Frank Warren has just had another quick word with TNT Sports and said: “Joseph Parker has come in heavy, which is better.”Joe has to create the pace and keep moving.”Everything should favour Joe with a last-minute opponent.”But there’s so many times we’ve seen big upsets.”Copy linkCopiedAnother late callLike Josh Padley, Martin Bakole was another late call-up to this fight.The heavyweight only landed in Saudi Arabia at 2am yesterday local time – 23hrs later he’s about to step into a massive title eliminator against Joseph Parker.It’s unclear how much training Bakole has had in recent weeks, with reports stating that he’s going to be entering the ring at a massive 310lbs.At his last fight he weighed in at 285lbs.The fight is also interesting because of Parker’s mindset – he was expecting to fight Daniel Dubois for the heavyweight title tonight.Copy linkCopiedWhat a performance by both!Shakur Stevenson ended that fight with clinical excellence and will get plaudits for stepping on the pace when the fight was on the line.Josh Padley has earned himself a lot of new supporters again, that was a bold and gutsy performance in incredible circumstances.Taking a fight with a pound-for-pound star and three-weight world champion on THREE DAYS notice.Sensational.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R9 – STEVENSON WINS!Stevenson starts the round with slightly more pace and starts to let his hands go a little bit more. A MASSIVE body shot rains into Padley and sends him down on one knee!Stevenson smells blood and then fires in more massive shots – another BIG body shot sends him down again!Padley continues to fight on but yet another body shot sends him down for a THIRD TIME!He beats the count once again and the bell rings.But as it does the towel comes in and it’s all over!Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R8Padley is not giving up in this fight, this is really tremendous courage from him.Stevenson continues to push out that jab with great success.Padley goes in with a three-punch combo that looks like good work but they were blocked and deflected.Three straight shots then land plum on Padley’s nose as his head rocks back. Another round for Stevenson.Copy linkCopiedParker vs Bakole – NEXTJust a reminder this is the final fight before we the massive heavyweight clash between Joseph Parker and Martin Bakole.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R7I don’t think many people would have thought Josh Padley would be seeing round seven against Shakur Stevenson.He continues to fire his shots and put pressure on Stevenson, who will knows he is in a fight.The American continues to do the better work though, with that jab pretty much unstoppable from the Yorkeshireman.A mega body shot with the left then has Padley grimacing but he continues to fire his own shots.The pair then share a little look at the end of the round.That didn’t look too friendly but this is a really gutsy performance.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R6Excellent start from Padley as he starts the round on top and puts on a couple of combos to put some pressure onto Stevenson.The champ then responds with two absolutely quality shots that just seem to monetarily hurt Padley.Stevenson has really upped the pace and unleashes a lovely combo that has Padley really hurt!Incredible stuff as Padley again bares down and fires back, incredible bravery here.Stevenson hears the roars of the crowd and smiles mid-clinch.Brave stuff from Padley but the quality work is coming from Stevenson, although he continues to fire and put in work.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R5Stevenson continues to work behind that job but Padley manages to come forward and land a nice little one-two.Stevenson’s jab is so good, though, and he is getting it to land as often as he likes. The champ is a man of few weaknesses and every time Padley looks to have let off a good shot or got into range, Stevenson uses his range to win the exchanges.Padley does then land a nice right but Stevenson still manages to fire something back to him.HUGE body shot goes in from Stevenson really hurts Padley!He felt that but then shows some guts to continue firing back.Stevenson ends the round with another one-two and an uppercut, as Padley grits his teeth and tries to throw back.Another round in the bank for the champ.Copy linkCopiedStevenson vs Padley – R4Padley trying to get in closer in round four and lay his gloves on Stevenson.He pushes him into the corner and gets a couple of shots to land but it’s good defence to stop those doing any damage.Stevenson continues to throw out his jab and a couple land, although they aren’t massive in any way.Stevenson then smashes Padley with a short right that draws another gasp.Padley is doing himself really proud in there – not just surviving but also showing some guts to try and win this fight.Another round to Stevneson, though.Copy linkCopied More

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      in Soccer

      Aston Villa 2 Chelsea 1: Jorgensen in last-minute howler as Asensio scores twice from super-sub Rashford assists

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      WHEN your Champions League hopes are fading away it’s handy to have a THREE TIMES Champions League winner to rely on.Unai Emery’s Villa were on the brink of running up the white flag on their chances of finishing in the top five as they trailed to Enzo Fernandez’s early opener.Marcus Rashford twice turned provider as Marco Asensio scored his first goals for Aston VillaCredit: ReutersThe Spaniard netted a dramatic winner infront of the Holte End and even used Rashford’s trademark celebrationCredit: GettyEnzo Fernandez gave Chelsea an early lead at Villa ParkCredit: GettyThe Argentine pounced following good work from Pedro NetoCredit: GettyBut Emery was able to get out of jail thanks to his two January jokers – and a choker in the Chelsea goal!He sent on Marcus Rashford at half-time and the on-loan Manchester United forward set up fellow January signing Marco Asensio twice for a dramatic second half double.The former Real Madrid man scrambled the ball home from a Rashford cross just before the hour to haul Villa level.Then, one minute from the end, he got on the end of another Rashford delivery to hook the ball towards goal.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt should have been a bread-and-butter save for Filip Jorgensen but somehow the blundering Dane let the ball squirm through his gloves to gift Villa all three points.Chelsea may have splurged a billion on signings in the Todd Boehly era – but their failure to sign a world class No.1 could cost them a Champions League place next season.Villa moved to within a point of the Blues who could and should have had this game in the bag.But in the end, their ambition in the January transfer market paid off as loan signings Rashford and Asensio showed their class to pull them through.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEnzo Maresca sprang a surprise with his team selection as he moved Reece James into a midfield three beside Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez.But it was his decision to play Pedro Neto as his lone striker which raised eyebrows.Marco Asensio scores a brilliant flicked goal in Real Madrid training It was a major change of position for the Portuguese winger.However, the little guy loved it and had Villa’s back four chasing shadows as he ran them ragged from the start.He wriggled free in the Villa penalty area after three minutes but his shot was desperately blocked by Tyrone Mings who slid in to block.Chelsea suffered an early blow when Trevoh Chalobah hobbled off clutching his lower back following a clash with Asensio and had to be replaced by Tosin Adarabioyo. However, Villa were sleepwalking into this crunch clash and they fell behind six minutes later after some more Neto magic.This time the winger drifted out to more familiar territory wide on the right and fronted Ian Maatsen up with the ball at his feet.A sudden shimmy and burst of acceleration saw him skin the Dutchman on the outside to get in behind the Villa defence.And when he took out Martinez and Mings with a low cut back, Enzo Fernandez came steaming in to knock the ball into the empty net from close range for his fourth goal of the season.Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah was forced off injured early in the contestCredit: ReutersFilip Jorgensen had a game to forget in the Chelsea goalCredit: GettyIt was knife-through-butter stuff for Chelsea who were calling all the early shots.Mings had to block Neto who almost wriggled through on goal again.Then Palmer picked out Fernandez’s brilliant late run between Cash and Konsa, only for the Argentine midfielder to glance his header wide when he should have hit the target at least.It took Villa almost 20 minutes to show any threat at all as Jorgensen reacted instinctively to block Ollie Watkins’ shot with his legs.Two minutes later it was Marc Cucarella’s turn to frustrate Watkins when he blocked his attempt on goal.Neto seemed to be everywhere and the wee man left towering Mings in a heap as he snapped at his ankles.Asensio bundled in Rashford’s cross to equalise early in the second halfCredit: EPAChelsea stars were left devastated after throwing away another leadCredit: GettyVilla were ragged and when Matty Cash stumbled over the ball Christopher Nkunku rolled the ball to Fernandez who curled his shot over Martinez and onto the roof of the Villa net.Watkins could only get an outstretched toe to Tielemans’s low cross and Jorgensen saved the day with his outstretched right boot.Palmer’s shot deflected off Mings to ripple the side net before Martinez got down low to smother Malo Gusto’s shot.Reece James then gave the ball away to Watkins who blasted the ball into the side net from a tight angle.Chelsea were well worth their half-time lead and Villa needed a shot in the arm.Emery turned to his bench to provide it as he sent on Rashford for Jacob Ramsey to a huge roar of approval from Villa fans.Boy, how it paid off!Rash hadn’t even been on the park for 15 minutes before he made a major impact, setting up Villa’s equaliser to send the Holte End wild.But it took a VAR check for offside before bedlam broke out.Cash’s cross from the right was aimed towards the back post where Rashford was lurking.Gusto desperately tried to clear the dropping ball but could only get a toe to it and Rashford did brilliantly to retrieve a seemingly lost cause.He managed to dig the ball back across goal and, though it fell behind Asensio, the Spaniard somehow managed to claw the ball back and screw it across the line. Standside assistant ref Stuart Burt flagged for offside.But after a lengthy wait, VAR Paul Tierney at Stockley Park decided Fernandez had played Rashford onside.Villa had to replace Mings with Lamare Bogarde on the hour after the England defender picked up another knee knock.And as the game became heated there were bookings for Fernandez and Nkunku of Chelsea and Villa’s McGinn.Chelsea thought they were going to grab a winner when Caicedo sent Palmer through on Martinez – especially when the ‘keeper lost his footing.But Palmer slipped too and when he finally got his shot off Konsa had raced back to block on the line.That turned out to be a major turning point as Asensio snatched that late winner.READ MORE SUN STORIESRashford worked a short corner with Tielemans and crossed for Asensio to test Jorgensen.Unfortunately for Chelsea, the keeper spectacularly flunked it! More

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      in Soccer

      ‘Changed the game’ – Man Utd fans tell Ruben Amorim to start wonderkid, 17, who ‘offered more than Hojlund all season’

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans have begged Ruben Amorim to start whizkid Chido Obi from now on.Fans were all on the same wavelength about the 17-year-old after his performance in United’s dramatic 2-2 draw with Everton on Saturday.Chido Obi left United fans with something to hold on to after drawing 2-2 with EvertonCredit: GettyThere have been calls for the 17-year-old to start the next gameObi replaced Hojlund inside 70 minutesCredit: AFPObi replaced Rasmus Hojlund in the 70th minute when United were 2-0 down.First-half goals from Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure left Rio Ferdinand feeling “embarrassed” for his former club.But the introductions of Alejandro Garnacho and Obi brought a much needed change of energy and impetus.Bruno Fernandes drew one back with a free-kick just two minutes after Obi’s entrance, before Manuel Ugarte’s volley levelled things soon after.READ MORE ON MAN UTDUnited looked far more threatening in the final embers after a shocking first hour.And hundreds of United fans have thanked Obi for “changing the game”.One suppoter wrote: “I wish I was joking but Chido Obi did more than Hojlund in terms of linking up play.”A second said: “Obi just provided more than Hojlund has all season.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAnother quipped: “Obi actually changed the result for us. He needs to start over Hojlund for the foreseeable.”A third said: “Hojlund has got to hold the bench. Chido Obi should be given a chance and a run of games.”Former Premier League referee Mark Halsey gives verdict on Everton’s overturned penalty against Man UtdWhile one more noted: “Would start Obi against Ipswich on Wednesday.”A final fan added: ” A 17 year old academy kid is better than £72m Hojlund ✍️.”Hojlund had just 12 touches, completed zero shots at Jordan Pickford and completed just SEVEN passes.The Dane lost eight duels before he was hauled off after another disastrous afternoon. By contrast, Obi appeared mature beyond his years in his second Prem cameo – after getting the final four minutes at Spurs last Sunday.The former Arsenal wonderkid had as many touches as Hojlund – despite playing 70 minutes less.Meanwhile, the story of the match was Everton’s overturned penalty in stoppage time.United star Harry Maguire appeared to have pulled down Ashley Young in the area.Referee Andy Madley pointed straight at the spot but VAR felt differently and advised him to check the pitchside monitor.READ MORE SUN STORIESAfter a lengthy review, the hosts were denied a late penalty and the Red Devils found themselves breathing a sigh of relief.Amorim’s side remain 15th in the Premier League table and are one point the Toffees.Man Utd ratings vs EvertonMANCHESTER UNITED fought back from two goals down to draw against Everton at Goodison ParkThe Red Devils were slammed as “embarrassing” by Rio Ferdinand after failing 2-0 down in the first half.But they fought back late on thanks to a stunning Bruno Fernandes free-kick and volley from Manuel Ugarte, who bagged his first goal since his summer arrival from PSG.Amorim’s men were then lucky to escape a penalty in the final moments after VAR overturned the decision.SunSport’s Ken Lawrence has given his ratings of the Manchester United team…Andre Onana – 7United needed him with his game-head on, and his 93rd-minute stop saved a point.Noussair Mazraoui 69′ – 4Looked seriously uncomfortable on the right side of the back three – forced there because of a defensive injury crisisHarry Maguire – 4Out-jumped by Doucoure as the midfielder grabbed Everton’s second and was generally all over the place.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Nowhere for Beto’s opener, completely missing attempted clearance and got away with a 93rd-minute penalty call.Diogo Dalot – 5At least shows willing. Which is more than could be said for some of his team mates at Goodison.Manuel Ugarte – 7Spent most of the game stranded in United’s midfield morass but salvation came with a brilliant strike.Casemiro 62′ – 2The Brazilian is beginning to look like the world’s oldest 32-year-old —he’s become a genuine irrelevance.Patrick Dorgu – 6Made a determined start down the left flank but that enthusiasm was slowly but surely sucked out of him.Bruno Fernandes – 8His free kick was genuine class and once he was dropped deeper started controlling the game.Joshua Zirkzee – 4At £36.5M you would expect an element of ball control but the Dutchman used as a joint No 10 just looks lost.Rasmus Hojlund 69′ – 3Not so much a desperate Dane, more a despairing one although it would help if he had some support.Subs:Alejandro Garnacho 62′ – 7Injected some desperately needed pace and passion. Leny Yoro 69′ – 6Should have been on much earlier.Chido Obi-Martin 69′ – 5The 17-year-old has a presence for sure. More

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      Callum Smith rushed to hospital after handing Josh Buatsi first defeat of career in fight of the year contender

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      CALLUM SMITH was rushed to hospital after handing Josh Buatsi the first defeat of his career with an age-defying performance of brilliant brutality and courage.The Liverpool light-heavyweight hero looked close to retirement after punishing losses to Canelo Alvarez and Artur Beterbiev left him beaten and adrift.Callum Smith slugged his way to a stunning win over Joshua BuatsiCredit: GettyThe unbeaten Buatsi had been favourite heading into fight nightCredit: ReutersBut Smith put on a show to seal the WBO interim light-heavyweight titleCredit: ReutersBut he stood up to the tough Ghana-born favourite, sucked up all of his best shots and won a unanimous decision.The three ringside judges had the horrible job of splitting the two marvellous men – with Steve Gray going far too wide –  and decided: 119-110, 115-113 and 116-112. FOLLOW THE ACTION FROM RIYADH WITH OUR BOXING LIVE BLOG Smith was then rushed to hospital for an injury to his eye, while Buatsi was assessed by medics at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.READ MORE ON BOXINGDespite both light-heavy beanpoles being tall and technical range-fighters, the best action of the opener was up close and personal.The pair clinched and swapped hooks like little Mexicans.Buatsi, 31, scored with a hook double to head and body but then Mundo landed a left hook to the ribs that echoed around the Riyadh arena.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMost read in BoxingSmith was bundled down once but it was rightly called a split that didn’t need a count.Smith, 34, made a bright start to the second and made his ringside family roar with clever uppercuts.But a Buatis left hook clipped his cheekbone and silenced the travelling Scousers and another even round followed.By the third round, former super-middle world champ Smith was using his superior experience and reach to score from a safe distance.But then Buatsi peppered him with body blows toward the end of the session and for a second it seemed like Smith was folding to the canvas.Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis WilliamsTypically he dug deep and held on, even landing a long right hand before the bell.In the fourth round, the two brilliant Englishmen glued their foreheads together and went to war.Hooks slashed in from both sides as their torsos took a leather but it was Smith who walked back to his corner with a cut and welt around his right eye.Smith enjoyed his best round in the fifth after Buatsi made a horrible start. The Croydon ace spent the first two minutes tucked up in his shell, absorbing blows on his tight guard.Smith battled on despite a bad cut above his right eyeCredit: GettyHis combination work earned Mundo a unanimous decision winCredit: GettyHis only respite came when a blow blew the mouthguard out of his mouth.Smith totally dominated the session and Buatsi needed a drastic change of pace.But it was Smith who raced up the gears, battering Buatsi throughout the sixth, with referee Howard Foster looking on the cusp of a stoppage.Suddenly, with ten seconds left of the one-sided beating, Buatsi landed a huge left hook and it was Smith who was buzzed and struggling and glad to hear the bell.Both warriors needed a breather in the seventh and took a break from the brutal hooks and right hands they had swapped.They exchanged long and safe jabs and recuperated, it was a well-earned rest in a superb fight that was almost impossible to split.Buatsi ate three scything right hands in the eighth that forced him backwards but, just before the bell, it was Smith who had to stagger backwards, onto the ropes, when he was tagged back with a reverse one-two.In round nine, Buatsi completely gave up defending against Smith’s right hand and was peppered with the same predictable blow to make it a clear round for the 30-2 veteran.The win extends Smith’s pro record to 31–2Credit: ReutersIn serious danger of drowning in the desert, Buatsi turned the tide in the tenth and ran away with the round with clinical combinations, thrown from angles.But when he got greedy Smith shot back with that right and bought himself another round.Smith’s daddy-long legs started to betray him in the eleventh, when Buatsi’s fresher engine started to make him look the most likely winner. But both heroes kept punching and ducking and digging deeper and deeper.They hugged before the start of the 12th, it was boxing perfection, the best of Britain.Smith was forced into the backfoot but it was from there that he landed a right hand and left hook that wobbled Buatsi.It was Smith’s turn to lose his gum shield with 50 seconds to go but there was enough time for both magnificent men to finish with a gunfight.READ MORE SUN STORIESSmith’s team, led by brother Paul, raced into the ring to celebrate and Callum climbed the corner turnbuckles to wave victoriously to the crowd.The pair embraced and waited for the judges to decide that Smith was back among the light-heavyweight world title race. More

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      in Boxing

      ‘Aura is crazy’ – Oleksandr Usyk asks where Anthony Joshua is seconds after arriving for stacked Beterbiev vs Bivol card

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      OLEKSANDR Usyk was spotted asking for Anthony Joshua just seconds after arriving for Beterbiev vs Bivol 2.Fans claimed that the heavyweight champion’s “aura is crazy” after watching his slick building entrance in Saudi Arabia.Oleksandr Usyk was spotted asking for Anthony Joshua just seconds after arriving for Beterbiev vs Bivol 2Credit: DAZNFans claimed that the heavyweight champion’s ‘aura is crazy’Credit: DAZNThe unified world champ was heard asking Eddie Hearn a questionUsyk donned flash sunglasses and a Ukrainian inspired outfit as he arrived for the blockbuster ‘Fight Card of the Century’.The 38-year-old could be seen walking in with his entourage, with many of his pals matching his yellow and blue Stone Island attire.Usyk was videoed immediately shaking hands with Liam Smith, whose brother Callum handed Joshua Buatsi the first defeat of his career in the first fight of the night.But it was Usyk’s interaction with AJ’s promoter Eddie Hearn that had everybody talking early on.READ MORE BOXINGThe unified WBC, WBA, and WBO heavyweight champ could be hearded quietly chanting: “Eddie, Eddie, Eddie” before he shook hands with Hearn.Usyk then quizzed the Matchroom owner: “Is Anthony Joshua here?”To which Hearn simply responded: “Yes”.And fans believe it could be a sign of things to come later as there’s been talks of a possible third fight between AJ and Usyk.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOne wrote: “Usyk is the man. What a gangster!”Another wrote: “Bros aura is crazy 🤣.”A third said: “AJ will probably try to call him out later. But there’s no point.”Frank Warren’s Commonwealth Gold medalist Lewis Williams builds to second pro fight | Contender Watch the full episode of Contender on Sun Sport’s YouTube channel NOW as we exclusively go behind the scenes with Lewis WilliamsAnthony Joshua is also in attendance for Beterbiev vs Bivol 2Credit: GettyThe Watford boxer was easily beaten in their first two bouts – before Usyk then did the double over Tyson Fury, who retired last month.Hearn also stated that his fighter would like “another crack at Daniel Dubois” – who holds the IBF belt.Dubois was looking to defend his IBF title on Saturday after coming off a brutal knockout win over Joshua in September.Dubois pulled out of Saturday’s co-feature heavyweight title match against Joseph Parker with illness.With Usyk and AJ both in the building, they’ll watch Congolese boxer Martin Bakole step in to fight Parker on two days notice.But everybody has truly travelled to Riyadh to watch two of the very best fighters in the world rematch as the headliner.READ MORE SUN STORIESArtur Beterbiev will rematch Dmitry Bivol for the undisputed light-heavyweight world championship on Saturday. More

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      in Soccer

      Premier League release statement on Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card vs West Ham as Arsenal’s title hopes collapse

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      ARSENAL ace Myles Lewis-Skelly was sent off once more following another VAR review.Lewis-Skelly, 18, and the rest of Mikel Arteta’s men endured a miserable afternoon at the Emirates as they lost 1-0 to London rivals West Ham following Jarrod Bowen’s winner.Arsenal ace Myles Lewis-Skelly was sent off against West HamCredit: GettyArsenal’s Lewis-Skelly fouled West Ham star Mohammed KudusCredit: Premier LeagueLewis-Skelly was initially shown a yellow card for that foulCredit: Premier LeagueLewis-Skelly was then sent off after a VAR reviewCredit: Premier LeagueThat shocking loss dealt a major blow to the Gunners’ Premier League title hopes as a victory would have seen them cut down the deficit with leaders Liverpool to five points.And things got worse for the North Londoners in the 73rd minute when their teenage defender fouled Mohammed Kudus.The Arsenal academy graduate was caught in possession on the halfway line, with the hosts pushing for an equaliser.Kudus nicked the ball off the youngster, with Arteta’s goalkeeper David Raya miles off his line.Read More on ArsenalWith the forward in the clear, Lewis-Skelly lunged in to try and poke the ball away.The versatile defender made limited contact with the ball, bringing the West Ham star down, and after an initial yellow card referee Craig Pawson upgraded it to red following a VAR review.The Premier League addressed that decision deeming the Ghana international was denied an “obvious goal-scoring opportunity”.The Prem explained: “VAR checked the referee’s call of yellow card to Lewis-Skelly for a challenge on Kudus – deeming it denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity due to the goalkeeper’s position and there being no covering defender, therefore recommended an on-field review. Most read in Football”The referee then upgraded the yellow to a red card.”This isn’t the first time Lewis-Skelly has been sent off in the Premier League.Mikel Arteta gives his reaction to Arsenal’s Champions League draw against PSV The Arsenal ace was controversially sent off against Wolves last month.He received a straight red at Molineux for a cynical foul on Matt Doherty.On that occasion, Lewis-Skelly made the tackle on the edge of the Wolves area as the hosts attempted to counter.But Arsenal later launched an appeal and the FA subsequently lifted Lewis-Skelly’s suspension. More

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      Tyson Fury ‘ages 30 years’ in bizarre Instagram post as Gypsy King declares ‘father time now’

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      TYSON FURY has given fans a bizarre glimpse into his future – after calling time on his glittering career. The Gypsy King decided to hang up his gloves last month following 16 years in the ring. Tyson Fury hung up his gloves after his loss to Oleksandr UsykCredit: GettyThe 36-year-old has called time on his career on a number of occasionsCredit: PATyson has hinted this time he may retired for good with his latest Instagram updateCredit: InstagramFury, the unified heavyweight world champion from 2015 to 2016, lost just two of his 37 pro fights.Fans are convinced that Tyson, 36, will come out of retirement to fight again.He has announced his retirement five times in total, with his last hiatus from the ring in 2022.But despite rumours he will fight again, Tyson appears to be preparing for life after boxing. READ MORE ON BOXINGTaking to Instagram on Saturday, the 36-year-old heavyweight uploaded an apparently doctored snap of him sporting a full white beard. Fury captioned the pic: “Father time now.” One fan responded: “See you in two weeks when you get bored.”Another laughed: “You aged yourself 30 years with your own hype.”Most read in SportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile a third joked, referencing Tyson’s dad: “Big Johns had a glow up.”And a fourth predicted: “Until you announce AJ [Antony Joshua] in summer…”‘Greedy Belly has been my best opponent’ – Oleksandr Usyk reveals how he really feels about Tyson Fury Fury left boxing behind again following his second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk.A blockbuster all-British bout against Anthony Joshua has been long in the making. Despite Fury’s retirement announcement, AJ’s promoter Eddie Hearn is pushing to get the fight on. Hearn told IFL TV about an ultimatum he has given Fury, saying: “Maybe there is a conversation in a week or two weeks or three weeks time.View of The Sun’s boxing expert: ‘I think it’s a ploy’By Wally Downes JrCALL ME a miserable fat little boxing cynic, but Tyson Fury’s latest retirement just doesn’t wash with me.It wasn’t too long ago we were hearing he had a ten-fight deal with Saudi Arabia, that he was gonna fight Anthony Joshua twice, then he was going to face Joseph Parker twice.He was planning on doing every fight in the world – there was even talk he’d rematch Francis Ngannou and do a better job.IF he has retired, then he goes out with an incredible career having made over £300million in boxing events alone, let alone all the extra stuff.He does so having sacrificed bundles of his own life for such success.We know his wife Paris suffered a miscarriage going into the first Olesandr Usyk fight.We know for Deontay Wilder III, his little girl was put in intensive care, he barely even trained for that fight, he was sleeping on the hospital floor.IF he has retired, IF it is genuine, then it’s been an incredible career.And for the big showman, it’s probably a nice little short sharp way to go out by just posting a video while sat inside his car.But I can’t help but think that it’s a bit of a ploy to drive AJ a little bit crazy.AJ was at the Ring Awards the other day and put out a social media post saying “Fury, where are you? I’m looking for you.”It’s the only fight that AJ wants, and Fury being wise and looking at the Floyd Mayweather playbook, knows that once you retire, you have to be coaxed out of retirement.And how do you coax someone out of retirement? Loads more readies.The fact of the matter is, Fury has always told us: I’m a prize fighter, I do it for money, I’m gonna do it for as long as I can and make as much money as I can.So the idea that he suddenly ducks out now doesn’t seem to ring quite true.As Fury made the announcement, I was with Frank Warren and he said hadn’t spoken to Tyson about it today, but that he hopes that it’s true, that Fury’s done enough and made enough money.IF it’s true, then what an incredible career.Fury and AJ have put British boxing on the map where it’s not been for decades, not since Lennox Lewis 25 years ago.So thank you, but rather than being at his leaving party, which I’m sure The Sun would be invited to, I suspect we’ll see him boxing AJ in Riyadh in a few months. “We say to Fury, ‘Just to let you know, you don’t wanna fight AJ, in the summer, August, September, because if you want to come out of retirement, now is the time to do it’.”The only things I know are AJ wants to fight Fury and he wants to fight for the world heavyweight title, that’s it.”Hearn additionally told Sky Sports: “We will ask the question.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Frank Warren was saying, ‘Well, he’s retired’.”I know but it’s still my job to say we are going to make our decision, just double-checking there’s no chance he’s going to fight.” More

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      Who is Josh Padley? Meet the former electrician fighting for world title against Shakur Stevenson

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      JOSH PADLEY will be fighting for a world title on just FOUR DAYS notice when he takes on one of the best boxers in the world.Shakur Stevenson was originally scheduled to fight Floyd Schofield but after being allegedly ‘poisoned’ just six days before the bout, Padley now steps in to what is the biggest fight of his life.Josh Padley has the fight of his lifePadley vs Stevenson will be one of SIX title fights in what fans are calling one of the greatest boxing events of all time.This isn’t the only short notice fight change this weekend with the event originally having seven title fights – however, Daniel Dubois has had to pull out of his fight vs Joseph Parker due to illness.This is set to be Padley’s first fight in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia but his second Riyadh season event – last time out he beat Mark Chamberlain at Wembley Stadium.BETERBIEV VS BIVOL 2 LIVE – LATEST UPDATESSimilar to Padley, this will be Stevenson’s first time fighting in Saudi Arabia but also his first time fighting outside of America and will be hoping to make a great impression with many fans watching the 27-year-old for the first time.Stevenson is going into this as the heavy favourite, holding a perfect record of 22 wins and zero losses.This fight marks as his second defence of the WBC World Lightweight title and has previously held the WBC and WBO World Super-Featherweight belts.Who is Josh Padley and what is his boxing record?Josh Padley is a British Lightweight boxer who has recently rose to fame after fans have found out that he is a part-time electrician. Most read in BoxingBefore his most recent fight, Padley was seen fighting on small fight events against much lesser known boxers, forcing the electrician to keep his part-time job for the much needed income.His last fight held at Wembley Stadium truly put him on the map with a huge upset after beating Turki Alalshikh’s favourite fighter, Mark Chamberlain.Padley has been a professional boxer for just six years now and with a record of 15 wins and zero losses he now takes a huge step in his career as he takes on Shakur Stevenson for the WBC World Lightweight title.With a win on Saturday night, it would be one of the biggest upsets in boxing history and one of the greatest underdog stories we have seen in recent British boxing.Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol 2 Full cardArtur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol – for the IBF, IBO, WBC and WBO light-heavyweight titlesJoseph Parker vs Martin Bakole Shakur Stevenson vs Josh Padley – for the WBC lightweight titleCarlos Adames vs Hamzah Sheeraz – for the WBC middleweight titkeVergil Ortiz Jr vs Israil Madrimov – for the interim WBC heavyweight titleZhilei Zhang vs Agit Kabayel – for the interim WBC heavyweight titleJoshua Buatsi vs Callum Smith – for the interim WBO light-heavyweight titleBradley Rea vs Constantino Nanga More