More stories

  • in

    Anthony Joshua in talks over ‘serious investment’ in former Premier League club as boxer looks for new business venture

    ANTHONY JOSHUA has revealed he’s on course to punch a serious investment in Watford.The former two-time unified heavyweight champion, who has earned over £219MILLION in his boxing career, grew up in the town and has given back to the community through his Clean Herts Community initiative over the years.Former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua grew up in WatfordCredit: ACTION IMAGESAJ has given back to the local community over the years through his Clearn Herts Community initiativeThe London 2012 Gold medallist now wants to invest in Watford Football ClubCredit: GETTYBut the Watford warrior, 35, now wants to use his millions in the bank to help get the Hornets buzzing again.He told SecondsOut: “We wanted to move into private equity, venture capital funds.”As you earn, naturally, you want to save.”So rather than me spending recklessly I’m trying to invest money into certain asset classes and that was an opportunity that presented itself.READ MORE BOXING NEWS“Nothing’s come of it yet. It’s a serious investment. If it comes off it’s one that should do well.“If they went back to the Premier League, then I’d need to get a shop on Market Street because the traffic that would be coming through Watford would be phenomenal.“If we don’t do it then good luck to them anyway because they’re a great team.”Watford ended the Championship season in 14th place, a whopping 11 points off the final play-off place.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAJ would love to be an investor at Vicarage RoadCredit: GettyJoshua has been on the sidelines since his crushing fifth-round KO defeat to Daniel Dubois in their Wembley war last September.AJ is currently eyeing a long-overdue Battle of Britain with rival Tyson Fury, who recently performed a public U-turn on his latest retirement.Eddie Hearn provides update on Anthony Joshua’s injury and Tyson Fury fightBut their mammoth domestic dust-up won’t take place any time soon as Joshua is set to go under the knife in the coming weeks to address a long-standing elbow injury.When quizzed about his ring return, he told DAZN: “I’m trying to get my body right.”I have got to actually have a little surgery on my elbow.”A small surgery sometime in May. I’m finalising the details.”That will see me out of the gym for maybe six to eight weeks, and then when I’m healed, I will be back.” More

  • in

    Devastated girlfriend of Brit Superbike rider killed in championship smash lost ex in motorcycle race horror 9 years ago

    THE DEVASTATED girlfriend of a British Superbike rider who died in a horrific pile-up lost her previous boyfriend in a tragic motorcycle crash nine years ago.Former grid girl Hannah James, 25, lost her boyfriend Shane Richardson, 29, after he died, alongside Owen Jenner, 21, in the devastating 11-bike smash on Monday.Shane Richardson, 29, tragically died in the horrific racing crash on MondayCredit: FacebookIn a gutting double tragedy, Hannah had also lost her previous boyfriend Billy Redmayne to a racing accident in 2016Credit: Facebook21-year-old Owen Jenner also died in the tragic crashCredit: UnpixsThe riders went down at the very first turn of the race at Oulton Park in Cheshire, with horrific live footage showing how one racer lost control before skidding across the tarmac into the path of other bikers.It has now been revealed that Hannah had also lost her previous boyfriend, Billy Redmayne, 25, to a horrific racing accident in 2016.On Monday, Shane, dad to two young kids, passed away after being treated for “severe chest injuries”, following the 11-man pile-up which was witnessed on live TV.21-year-old Owen was also killed following the shocking crash at the Quattro Group British Supersport Championship.Read More on MotorsportAn investigation has been launched by police into the tragic crash.Shane’s heartbroken girlfriend has since shared an emotional family photo, showing Shane proudly standing with his young daughter, Maddie, while holding his toddler son, Max.Next to a broken heart emoji, one friend wrote: “The most picture perfect family.”Your love for each other was beautiful, which will live on in beautiful Maddie and Max.Most read in Motorsport”Sending so much love to you all.”It’s the second tragedy for Hannah, following the death of Billy in 2016.Haunting final post of tragic Shane Richardson just hours before fatal crash at Superbikes eventThe paratrooper, who had been friends with Shane before his death, suffered fatal injuries in a tragic crash at the Oliver’s Mount Spring Cup in Scarborough.Despite being airlifted to hospital, his brain injuries were too severe to recover from, MailOnline reports.His life support machine was then turned off on his two-year anniversary with Hannah.Billy, of Laxey on the Isle of Man, won the Junior Manx Grand Prix in 2015 and was considered one of the sport’s hottest prospects.Hannah previously posted on Facebook: “Today was also the day that I lay in Billy’s arms whilst he took his last breath.“Words cannot describe how hard this is for us all, and to be honest it hasn’t really sunk in yet.Shane and Owen tragically died in the 11-bike crash on MondayPolice have launched an investigation into the deathsCredit: TNT SportsShane Richardson had fathered two kids with Hannah before his death on Bank Holiday MondayCredit: Instagram/shanerichardson28“Saying goodbye to him was the hardest thing I have ever done.“Happy Anniversary Billy. Sleep tight my love, until we meet again.”Billy was a serving member of the Parachute Regiment who had served in Afghanistan.In 2016, Shane had shared a photo of himself, Hannah and Billy in a tribute after the biker’s death, before going on to date her.Ahead of his tragic death on Monday, business owner Shane, originally from New Zealand, posted a video on Facebook with him geared up for the race.In one of his final posts, he said: “Race two ready! Let’s Go!”Tributes pour in for Shane and OwenRacegoer Scott Moore, who witnessed the tragic crash, described how an “eerie and unsettling” silence fell over the circuit.He posted on Facebook: “Today was an incredibly sad day for BSB Supersport.“The silence that fell over the circuit was eerie and unsettling, a stark reminder of how quickly things can change.“It’s hard to think how someone can wake up excited to race and not make it to the end of the day.“It’s just heartbreaking, and my thoughts are with all the families affected by this horrific event.”Rider Ben Currie said the loss was “hard to put into words”, adding: “Gutted for everyone involved.”Two of our finest men lost to the sport we love.”Racer Cormac Buchanan posted an emotional tribute to countryman Shane on Instagram.He said: “Shane was truly one of the best people I ever had the privilege of sharing the track with, not only a super talented rider but a down to earth person away from it.”You never failed to put a smile on all of our faces. You were someone I could look up too and learn from and I am so lucky to have had your guidance in my first year in Europe in the UK.”I cherish all of the track walks with you and Damo, the hard battles we had, bumping bars and swapping paint.”I’m grateful to have been able to consider you a competitor, rival, and a friend.”I always felt your support no matter what the situation, race, or outcome was.”To Hannah, Max, and Maddie I send you all of my love, support, and condolences.”I am always riding with you, thank you for everything Shane.”Fellow driver Glenn Irwin also shared a touching tribute to both drivers, following their tragic deaths.Writing on social media, he said: “Owen you were always smiling, just a young kid chasing your dream and having fun along the way.”Shane, I didn’t know you personally but watching videos and photos of you and your little family I can see how much of an amazing dad and partner that you are along with being a top rider.”Rest in peace boys – life can be so so cruel. We will continue to offer support to your families in the coming times ahead, my thoughts go to the entire BSB team of organisers, Marshals, medics and the wider community.”Shane, who moved to the UK in 2019, was racing for Astro-JJR Hippo Suzuki.He had finished ninth in last year’s British Supersport Championship, having previously been crowned New Zealand rider of the year. In the tragic “chain reaction” crash on Monday, multiple bikes began piling into each other, after one rider lost control and veered across their paths.One bike even caught fire in the devastating scenes as medics rushed to try and limit the damage.Tom Tunstall, 47, was quickly taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital with significant back and abdominal injuries, while five other riders were treated for minor injuries at the track.The event at Oulton Park was subsequently cancelled.Speaking out for the first time since the tragedy, fellow racer Morgan McLaren-Wood, who survived the crash, took to social media to share his sadness at the deaths.He wrote: “Struggling to find the words for what happened today. Rest in peace, Shane and Owen.”My heart goes out to both of their families during this heartbreaking time.”‘CATASTROPHIC CHAIN REACTION’Shortly after the crash, the Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing issued a statement confirming the tragic deaths of Shane and Owen.While Shane died from his “severe chest injuries”, Owen tragically passed away after suffering a “catastrophic head injury”.The statement read: “At the start of this afternoon’s Quattro Group British Supersport Championship race at Oulton Park, exiting turn one, Old Hall corner on the first lap, there was a chain reaction incident involving 11 riders falling.”The race was immediately stopped, and trackside medical services deployed.”Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention, the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled.”This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another sustaining significant injuries.”The Motorcycle Circuit Racing Control Board and MotorSport Vision Racing are investigating the full circumstances of the incident in conjunction with the Coroner and Cheshire Constabulary.”Cheshire Police also confirmed it would be investigating the two deaths.Read More on The SunA spokesman for the force said: “Police are investigating two deaths on behalf of the coroner following a multiple collision at Oulton Park this afternoon.“Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision which resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another with serious injuries.”Owen Jenner also tragically lost his life in the horrific crashCredit: Instagram/owenjenner86 More

  • in

    Chelsea vs Man Utd clash MOVED as a result of Aston Villa and Tottenham’s new fixture

    CHELSEA’S clash against Manchester United has been moved as a result of rivals Tottenham.The Blues had been set for a crunch clash against Ruben Amorim’s men on Friday May 16, with an 8pm start time.Chelsea vs Man United has been given a new kick-off timeCredit: AlamyHowever, it has now been given a new kick-off after Spurs saw their upcoming game with Aston Villa moved to the same day.Ange Postecoglou’s men were eager to switch their Sunday May 18 clash to a new date, with the Europa League final on Wednesday May 21.Tottenham are virtually there after securing a 3-1 win over Bodo/Glimt in the first leg of their semi-final.Spurs look destined to play United, who are 3-0 up against Bilbao.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd to make things fair, Tottenham’s Villa clash will now also take place on Friday May 16.The match, which takes place in the Midlands, will start at 7.30pm.But that has had a knock-on effect with United’s trip to Chelsea that same evening.It was originally due to commence at 8pm.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHowever, it will now start at 8.15pm instead to even out the gap in scheduling.And fans are now set to be treated to a bumper night of Premier League action, with both games being broadcast on Sky Sports.Should they both make it to the Europa League final, United and Spurs may decide to rest several key figures.That would be a boost for both Chelsea and Villa, who remain locked in a race for the final Champions League spots.The Blues currently occupy the fifth and final place, three points ahead of seventh-place Villa.But as well as United, Enzo Maresca’s men still have to face fourth-place Newcastle.And they end their campaign with a trip to sixth-place Nottingham Forest in a potential winner-takes-all clash. More

  • in

    Moment Ronaldo staggers out of restaurant and is helped into car under sheet with his football club’s fans left fuming

    RONALDO stumbled out of a restaurant before being bundled undercover into a waiting car, leaving fans of his relegated Spanish club furious.The legendary Brazil striker looked unsteady on his feet and appeared to slur his words as he left the Madrid eatery while fans waiting outside shouted his name.Ronaldo staggered out of a Madrid restaurantCredit: instagramFans were furious as it comes against the backdrop of Real Valladolid’s relegationCredit: instagramHe was shielded by a white sheet and bundled into a carCredit: instagramInstead of signing autographs, two-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo, 48, made a beeline for a chauffeur-driven vehicle parked outside.He was helped to the car under a white sheet then covered his face with his hand as he took a breather slumped on the back seat.The star’s striking exit sparked a backlash among Real Valladolid fans.They have made owner Ronaldo public enemy No1 after his failure to show his face at the team’s home stadium since the opening match of the season last August.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Real Valladolid Supporters Club Federation demanded Ronaldo – who watched Jack Draper in the Madrid Open tennis final on Sunday – sells the club following his weekend antics.They wrote on X, accompanying the footage from the restaurant: “This is the current president and maximum shareholder of Real Valladolid.“This video, apparently taken yesterday on the day the club he owns made history by losing eight consecutive matches for the first time in its almost 100 years of history, is doing the rounds on social media.“This is his legacy and what he cares about.Most read in Football“Let his image be seen around the world, our Real Valladolid is not dying, it is being killed and every day that goes by without a sale, the deeper the hole gets.”Leading local newspaper Diario de Valladolid said: “Ronaldo spotted in a bad way at the exit of a restaurant in Madrid.Ronaldo reveals cult hero Real Madrid team-mate was ‘very bad’ before turning to poker “The Real Valladolid president left it with problems and had to be helped by his companions.”Some diehard fans sought to defend him, though.In response to suggestions Ronaldo was “happier than usual”, one replied: “So what? How many of you who have done nothing in your life do the same?“Leave him alone.“Everyone is free to do what they want, stop judging others. He was a great player.”Another added: “He’s not driving, he’s being driven. He spends his own money and doesn’t ask for borrowed cash.“He’s already retired and he’s not playing tomorrow, so who does he have to explain himself to?”’NOT A GOOD IMAGE’But a third fan commented: “Most of us have found ourselves at one time or another in the same state as Ronaldo but if you think about the situation of the club he bought it’s not a good image.“The club has already been relegated to the second division and he’s one of the people responsible.”Angry Real Valladolid supporters threw fake €500 notes with Ronaldo’s face on them on to the pitch on Saturday during the team’s home match against Barcelona as they begged him to sell up.They also chanted “Ronaldo go home” in a 12th-minute protest which took place while the team were winning 1-0.Barcelona, though, scored twice early in the second half to win 2-1 and take another step closer to the Treble.Recent reports claimed the sale of Real Valladolid appeared to be reaching its final stages after the Brazilian signed a pre-agreement to transfer ownership.Read More on The SunBut a confidentiality clause prevented further details from being disclosed until later this month.Ronaldo has yet to comment on the video footage of him leaving the Madrid restaurant on his social media.Real Valladolid fans protested against Ronaldo’s ownershipCredit: GettyFake €500 notes were distributed for Saturday’s defeat to BarcelonaCredit: ReutersRonaldo has not been to a home game since August – but watched Jack Draper in the Madrid Open tennis finalCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Inside Leeds stars’ wild title celebrations as Bamford and Ampadu ‘leave Burnley fanbase in meltdown’ with karaoke song

    LEEDS toasted their Championship title with wild celebrations as two stars left Burnley “in meltdown” with a cheeky karaoke song.Daniel Farke pipped Scott Parker to top spot on goal difference thanks to a 91st minute winner at Plymouth on Saturday.Leeds toasted their Championship title celebrations with a raucous partyCredit: X @LUFCPatrick Bamford led the way on a special karaoke nightCredit: X @LUFCLeeds teased Burnley after pipping them to the titleCredit: X @LUFCThey sang ‘Unwritten’ after Natasha Bedingfield performed the hit at Turf MoorCredit: RexAnd Leeds celebrated their latest second-tier triumph with a parade around the city on Monday.Thousands of supporters turned up to cheer on their side ahead of next season’s Premier League return.But Leeds players continued to party into the night.And they gave Burnley a taste of their own medicine with a karaoke version of Natasha Bedingfield’s hit song ‘Unwritten’.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe pop star sang the chart-topping tune live on the Turf Moor pitch following Burnley’s final-day victory over Millwall.The Clarets had been set to clinch the Championship title before Manor Solomon’s last-gasp Leeds winner.And the Lillywhites rubbed salt in the wound as Ethan Ampadu and Patrick Bamford sang ‘Unwritten’ at an afterparty with friends and family.Fans were quick to react, with one saying: “One song for the Burnley fanbase in meltdown.”Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnother declared: “Let them enjoy themselves.”While Ampadu himself added: “OK I know I have a sore head right now. Me and Pat actually sang this song together in pre-season.”Burnley stars serenaded by chart-topping Noughties legend in surprise scenesLargie Ramazani had a dance to High School MusicalCredit: XThere were chants of ‘Champions again, ole, ole’Credit: X @LUFCBamford got his guitar out as he sang with fansCredit: X @LUFCIt was a night to remember for the LilywhitesCredit: X @LUFCMeanwhile, Belgian winger Largie Ramazani got in the party mood with a karaoke rendition of ‘We’re all in this together’ from High School Musical.He led a jubilant singalong as pals danced around him.And there was even a spot of guitar-playing from Bamford, who performed ‘Wagon Wheel’ by Darius Rucker alongside some fans.Finally, Leeds star led a chant of ‘Champions again ole, ole’ to toast their success after chairman Paraag Marathe confirmed that Farke will stay on as manager.He said: “I’m very excited to run it back with Daniel and collaborate with him.“I’m under no illusions that it is going to be easy. The past two seasons, the three promoted teams came straight back down but we have something they don’t have.“We have Daniel Farke first of all. I have ended the speculation. He is my man.”Leeds boss Daniel Farke and his players salute the crowdsCredit: AlamyLeeds fans partied hard in the city after the triumphCredit: AlamyThere are sure to be plenty of sore heads about this morningCredit: X @LUFCThe party got started after a trophy parade in the cityCredit: X @LUFCLeeds are hoping to show their worth in the top flight againCredit: X @LUFCLeeds players will now enjoy a break before returning to the Premier LeagueCredit: X More

  • in

    ‘One of the best things I’ve ever seen’ – Frank Lampard stunned as Coventry star hits 180 with first-ever three darts

    FRANK LAMPARD was blown away by Tatsuhiro Sakamoto’s incredible piece of darts wizardry in his first try EVER.The midfielder sent his Coventry team-mates into a state of pandemonium by somehow hitting a 180 with the first three darts he’d thrown in his life.Tatsuhiro Sakamoto is a beloved figure among his Coventry City team-matesCredit: GETTYThe Japanese midfielder stunned them by throwing an incredible 180 with his first three dartsThe 28-year-old was mobbed by his team-mates – who couldn’t quite believe their eyesCredit: X@COVENTRYCITYSky Blues gaffer Frank Lampard was equally as amazed by Sakamoto’s piece of wizardryThe Japanese midfielder achieved the incredible feat on a dartboard in the Sky Blues’ dressing room. The 28-year-old was mobbed by his team-mates after his masterstroke, which Coventry gaffer Lampard was in awe of. The former Chelsea and England star said: “Tatsuhiro hit a 180 and he doesn’t play and hasn’t practised.”It was amazing.” READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSSakamoto’s incredible piece of skill was witnessed by team-mate Jake Bidwell, who was equally as astounded as Lampard.He said: “[Jamie] Paterson is the oldest player in the dressing room now and he said it is one of the best things he has ever seen in football.”That tells you all you need to know.”He hit two in and then he’s got nervous so he stepped back. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSTatsuhiro Sakamoto has been a shining light for Frank Lampard’s Coventry City this seasonCredit: GETTY”And then I think it took him about two minutes to throw the last one. “It went in and the place went up. Frank Lampard tipped for England job as former Premier League manager Chris Wilder says ‘it just shines through’ “For someone of Pato’s experience to say it is one of the best things he has ever seen in a dressing room, that paints the picture of how good it was.” Sakomoto hasn’t just been a gem in the dressing room for the Sky Blues this season. The winger has scored four goals and provided six assists for his side, who ended the Championship season in fifth place and have the chance of returning to the Premier League via the play-offs. The first leg of their semi-final tie with Sunderland takes place on Friday evening. More

  • in

    Michael Schumacher’s son Mick, 26, holds ‘SECRET talks’ to make shock F1 return during Miami GP

    MICK SCHUMACHER was reportedly in secret talks during the Miami Grand Prix over a return to Formula One.Schumacher, 26, is the son of Ferrari racing legend Michael and currently competes in the FIA World Endurance Championship for Alpine.Mick Schumacher is in secret talks to return to Formula OneCredit: GettyHis dad is none other than Ferrari legend Michael SchumacherCredit: GettyHe was previously an F1 driver for Haas between 2021 and 2022.And Schumacher has also been a reserve driver for both Mercedes and McLaren.But now the German could be in line for a stunning return to the paddock with new American team Cadillac.They are entering the world of Formula One from 2026.READ MORE IN F1And during the weekend’s Miami GP, they held an event to reveal their branding for next year.However, Bild claims Cadillac chiefs also used the event as an opportunity to speak to Schumacher over a driving deal for their maiden campaign.It’s reckoned the US team has already moved for ex-Red Bull star Sergio Perez.And they now want Schumacher to compete alongside him.Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSThe Switzerland-born ace is highly favoured due to his blend of youth and experience.While the Schumacher name and brand is very well known across America.Stunning beer prices at Miami GP revealed as F1 fans face staggering cost for drinks, steak sandwiches and pizzaCadillac have reportedly already swooped for Sergio PerezCredit: GettyIndyCar star Colton Herra is also being lined upCredit: GettyHowever, Cadillac also have another option for the second seat.IndyCar Series star Colton Herta, 25, was previously in pole position for a place.But he remains without a super licence and must finish fourth this season in his current sport.Unfortunately for Herta, he is currently eighth and also has personal doubts about a switch to F1. More

  • in

    Harry Kane and Bayern pals BLOCKED from celebrating Bundesliga title in IBIZA as England star breaks 5,223-day drought

    HARRY KANE and his Bayern Munich team-mates were blocked by club officials from holding a title party in IBIZA.After 5,223 days of his career, the England captain finally clinched his first piece of silverware.Harry Kane and his Bayern Munich team-mates were denied the chance to celebrate in IbizaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/konradlaimer/?hl=enHe celebrated with Joshua Kimmich, Serge Gnabry and Eric DierCredit: https://www.instagram.com/harrykane/Max Eberl was not keen on the players taking the trip to celebrateCredit: AFPHe did so without kicking a ball as Bayer Leverkusen could only draw 2-2 with Freiburg on Sunday.Bayern could have wrapped up the title themselves the day before but were held to a 3-3 draw by RB Leipzig.Kane was given special dispensation to watch the match from the touchline despite his suspension.But the draw meant that all the effort was in vain as they were made to wait an extra day.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLKane and Co finally celebrated their Bundesliga title success in a posh Munich restaurant.And they wanted to jet off to Ibiza for the night ahead of Saturday’s home game with Borussia Monchengladbach, when they will be presented with their winners’ medals.But Munich sporting director Max Eberl insisted an island knees-up was not appropriate.Kane partied until 1.30am on Monday and mischievous Bayern stars played The Vengaboys hit ‘We’re Going to Ibiza!’ through the restaurant sound system — although it lasted just 30 seconds before someone pulled the plug.Most read in BundesligaJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSLater on social media, the striker said: “What a night and what a celebration with the players and the staff.“I am sure everyone is feeling it a little bit.Harry Kane celebrates with Bayern team-mates after FINALLY winning a trophy“It has been a long time coming after a lot of hard work and a lot of dedication and it just feels sweet to win the title, the first one of my career.”Despite not heading off to Ibiza, Kane was still able to celebrate in style.He could be seen puffing a cigar and drinking champagne on social media with his team-mates.The striker was joined by fellow ex-Tottenham star Eric Dier for the celebrations.Bayern Munich also shared a mock-up picture of Kane sipping tea next to the Bundesliga title.READ MARTIN LIPTON NOW: Harry Kane finally ending trophy ‘curse’ should silence sniggers and could open floodgates… with World Cup glory next?Kane, Kimmich and Dier puffed on cigars after the title was wrapped upCredit: xKane waited over 5,000 days for this trophyCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DJPYxLFoIgW/ More