More stories

  • in

    Boxer facing lifetime ban for knocking out opponent with illegal HEAD KICK as fans demand ‘he should be arrested’

    AN MMA fighter is facing a lifetime ban from boxing for an illegal head kick that knocked out his opponent.Undefeated Russian fighter Idris Abdurashidov made his boxing debut against Bagher Faraji in Phuket, Thailand on Saturday.Idris Abdurashidov pulled off an illegal kick in his boxing debutCredit: Instagram @idris_abdurashidovHis kick knocked out Bagher Faraji and he was disqualified from the fightCredit: Instagram @idris_abdurashidovAbdurashidov, 21, struggled in the early stages of the fight against the Iranian.Faraji was heading for a points win as the fight entered into the fourth and final round at the Ali Boxing Club.However, with just seconds left, the Russian hit him with a devasting kick to the head, which was an illegal move.As a result, Abdurashidov was disqualified from the fight but still boasted about it on social media.READ MORE ON SPORTHe wrote: “So I debuted in professional boxing.”And disqualification for life, that kick with the leg I threw away with a machine gun!”The post was filled with comments from fans demanding that he be “arrested” for the heinous act.One posted: “He should be arrested for assault and battery, and banned from doing any combat sports ever again. That is so low.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA second wrote: “He has to be banned from all the sports.”A third commented: “Tell us you suck at boxing without actually telling us that you suck at boxing.”‘Referee’s got a chin on him’ say shocked fans after official accidentally whacked in face during heavyweight clashThe two fighters have ‘made up’Credit: Instagram @idris_abdurashidovA fourth said: “Assault and banned for life is my vote.”Another added: “Should put him in jail for that.”He is facing a lifetime ban from boxing to bring his time in the sport to an abrupt end.Abdurashidov has posted again on Instagram to confirm that he has made amends with Faraji.He shared a picture of the two shaking hands and posing for a picture together.He wrote: “We shock hands between us.”Everything is fine, we made up.”Abdurashidov is a professional in MMA and currently has a record of 4-0.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe fights in the Asian promotion ONE Championship.It is not yet known if his illegal kick will have an impact on his future MMA career. More

  • in

    Fans puzzled as former Man Utd star from David Moyes era links up with football royalty for legends game

    FOUR Ballon d’Or winners, countless World Cup League heroes, and Marouane Fellaini teamed up in a star-studded legends super-side.But fans have been left puzzled after spotting former Manchester United star Fellaini playing in a clash of the titans exhibition tie in South Korea.Football legends from around the world gathered for a game in South KoreaBut a group of harsh fans have questioned why Marouane Fellaini was involved after spotting him pictured next to Brazilian Ballon d’Or winner KakaThe game saw a unique game of teams made up of attackers vs defenders, including Clarence Seedorf and Thierry HenryRetired football royalty from around the world assembled in South Korea for a spectacular attack-vs-defence showdown on Saturday.The aptly named FC Spear was made up of some of the best former forwards the game has ever seen.While Shield United featured some of the most prominent defenders and holding midfielders to have ever played the beautiful game.But it was the latter defensive outfit who emerged victorious, after thumping the attacking team 4-1.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe winning outfit was made up of Rio Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidic Yaya Toure, Andrea Pirlo, Clarence Seedorf, Carles Puyol and former Man Utd keeper Edwin van der Sar.While 2007 Ballon d’Or winner Kaka, Eden Hazard, Carlos Tevez, Michael Owen made up their ‘attacking’ competition captained by Didier Drogba and managed by Thierry Henry. But the biggest shock for many fans was the presence of ex-United and Everton midfielder Fellaini for the glittering attacking side.Football lovers were quick to call out Fellaini’s shock inclusion after spotting Alessandro Del Piero’s Instagram post.Most read in FootballEdwin van der Sar played in goal for the winning side FC SpearFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOne user wrote: “Why on earth is Fellaini there?🤣”A second said: “Wow, all those legends…and Fellaini😶.”Rio Ferdinand and Man Utd legends dress up in traditional South Korean robes While another added: “I’m sorry but how was Fellaini asked? He was good but not on their level.😂”Fellaini starred for the Red Devils between 2013 and 2019, making 177 appearances having travelled with former boss David Moyes from Everton.Before that he made the exact same appearances for the Toffees, scoring 33 goals during five years in the Merseyside, where he was a crucial leader in the team.Former United star Berbatov also appeared for FC Spear in front of 64,000 excited fans in Seoul.The winning goals came from Toure, Seedorf, Park Joo-ho and Javier Mascherano.While the only consolation FC Spear came from United legend Park Ji-Sung’s penalty.Three former Korean internationals filled in the gaps where necessary, including goalkeeper Kim Byung-ji.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe legends also participated in preliminary events that pitted players to see who is better at shooting and one-on-one situations.The game has been described as an exhibition and was organised by South Korean game company Nexon.The legends match occurred in Seoul, South Korea in front of some 64,000 fansRio Ferdinand, Carles Puyol and Ricardo Carvalho played for the defensive side Shield United More

  • in

    Football club president sacks manager on live TV in astonishing post-game interview before blaming PLAYERS for decision

    THIS is the shocking moment a top football club president sacked his manager LIVE on TV after seeing his side lose 5-0.The chief of Ligue 1 side Montpellier shocked viewers by publicly announcing that Michel Der Zakarian had been given the boot.Montpellier president publicly announced the club’s decision to sack the managerBoss Michel Der Zakarian was axed after a disastrous run of formLaurent Nicollin blamed the PLAYERS in his astonishing post-game interview after Sunday’s 5-0 pummelling against Marseille.Montpellier are languishing at rock bottom of the French top flight.The French side have lot six of their opening eight matches, taking just four points so far this term.And the club have conceded a staggering 26 goals since the opening day of the season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSMontpellier’s latest nightmare struck on Sunday as Marseille ran riot to move three points behind league leaders Paris Saint-Germain.But the biggest fireworks went off after full-time at Stade de la Mosson as club president Nicollin SACKED the club’s manager on live TV.Nicollin, 51, told DAZN France: “We can’t change 25 players, so, unfortunately, I’ve taken the initiative to stop Michel tonight.”We talked in the locker room after the game. I told him it was over tonight.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”And I said to the players that, thanks to their great job, they had fired the coach and that they need to take their responsibilities next week against Toulouse.”Der Zakarian’s public departure brings an end to the Armenian’s second spell in charge of Montpellier, whom he initially took charge of for four years between 2017 and 2021 before leaving for Brest.Mason Greenwood SIGNS for Marseille as Man Utd release brief statement after transferElye Wahi’s first-minute strike set the tone before Amine Harit and ex-Spurs loanee Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg made it three before half-time.And former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood rounded off a stunning counter attack to make it 4-0 in the 58th minute.Greenwood ended his four game streak without a goal to leave a timely reminder to new England boss Thomas Tuchel.Luis Henrique concluded the scoring, adding a fifth in the 73rd minute, which spelt doom in bold for Der Zakarian.The 61-year-old – who also represented Montpellier as a player from 1988 to 1997 – becomes the first manager to lose his job in Ligue 1 this term. More

  • in

    Is Fabrizio Romano a time traveller? Fans spot his eerie sub ‘leak’ during Liverpool’s win over Chelsea

    FORGET mystic meerkats, uncanny octopuses and even good old-fashioned crystal balls – this eerie Anfield tale might freak you out.Fans reckon Fabrizio Romano metamorphosed from transfer guru to “time traveller” – as he spooked them out with his mid-match messages in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Chelsea.Liverpool’s Diogo Jota was at the centre of a fun ‘time-travel’ conundrum after he got injured in the 2-1 victory over ChelseaCredit: APJota had to be replaced by Darwin Nunez after just 30 minutesCredit: RexThe journalist’s millions of followers already believe he is in the loop with his transfer insights – but never before in a TIME loop.Romano saw the Reds return top of the Premier League with Arne Slot’s 10th victory in 11 matches since his summer arrival as boss.But amid a new blitz of VAR dramas, the Italian sparked a conspiracy – with the mysterious timing of his posts about Diogo Jota.The Liverpool winger was caught up in a major first-half talking point.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith the score goalless, the Portuguese hero escaped through the middle but was hauled down by Tosin Adarabioyo.The Chelsea centre-back was only booked, leaving Arsenal fans furious as they claimed William Saliba’s red-card foul 24 hours earlier was identical.Jota never fully recovered from the knock, meaning he was replaced by Darwin Nunez on the half-hour.Unfortunate, you might think, but nothing untoward.Most read in FootballHere’s how Fabrizio Romano sparked a mystical mysteryFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSExcept, as one fan posted: “16:43pm: Fabrizio Romano tweets Diogo Jota has left the pitch with an injury despite him not.”17:02pm: Diogo Jota leaves the pitch with an injury. Is this brother a time traveller…?”Watch Wolves’ incredible player announcement video that savages both Chelsea and Fabrizio Romano in single strokeA second observer added: “At least now we know why he knows all the transfer news? He’s a time traveller.”A third supporter noted: “He also got the replacement correct.”And a few went even further down the “sub leak” rabbit hole with suggestions like: “This just proves that football is scripted.”But others attempted to ease the conundrum by pointing out: “He left the pitch for a few minutes earlier and Nunez was warming up.”At least Romano didn’t share extra-early details of how Jota suffered his blow.Otherwise it might have been a case of Whack to the Future.Romano baffled his millions of followers by posting as fact something that only happened 19 minutes laterCredit: Sportsfile More

  • in

    Steve Bruce’s four-month old grandson Madison tragically passes away as Blackpool release heartfelt statement

    STEVE BRUCE’s fourth-month old grandson Madison has tragically passed away.The heartbreaking news was confirmed by the manager’s club, Blackpool, on social media.Steve Bruce’s four-month old grandson has diedCredit: GettySteve Bruce’s son and Madison’s uncle, Alex Bruce, will miss Salford’s clash against CreweCredit: GettyThe club announced that Bruce will miss the clash against Barnsley following Madison’s passing.A statement read: “The club can announce that Head Coach Steve Bruce will not be in attendance at tomorrow’s fixture against Barnsley due to the tragic passing of his four-month old grandson, Madison.”Everyone at the football club send their love to Steve and his family.”We ask that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBruce’s son Alex, who is currently working as the assistant manager at Salford City, will also miss his game against Crewe.Salford released their own statement sending support to the family.A statement read: “Salford City announces that Assistant Manager Alex Bruce will not be in attendance at tomorrow’s fixture away at Crewe Alexandra due to the tragic passing of his four-month old nephew, Madison.”All at the football club send our love and full support to Alex, Matt Smith and the family.Most read in FootballWhat tributes clubs have madeClubs up and down the country have sent their condolences…Preston North End”Devastating news. Sending our thoughts and condolences to Steve and his family at this incredibly difficult time.”West Bromwich Albion”Everybody at West Bromwich Albion sends their condolences, thoughts and love to Steve Bruce’s family at this desperately sad time.”Norwich City”Heartbreaking news. We’re sending our love and support to Steve and his family at this difficult time”Birmingham City”Everyone at Blues sends their love and support to our former boss and his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”Bristol City”Everybody at Bristol City sends their condolences, thoughts and love to the family at this tragic time.”Lincoln City”Deepest condolences from everyone at the Imps to Steve and his family.”Northampton Town”Sending the condolences of everyone at Sixfields to Steve and his family.”Leeds United”Everybody at Leeds United sends their condolences and thoughts to Steve’s family at this tragic time.”Bristol Rovers”Everyone at Bristol Rovers sends our condolences, thoughts and love to Steve and the Bruce family.”Barnsley”Incredibly sad news. The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected to Barnsley Football Club are with Steve and his family.””We request that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with this sudden and unexpected loss in their family.”Tributes have flooded in for Maddison, with the footballing world in mourning.One person posted: “Horrible. We’re all with you Steve.”A second wrote: “Jesus, prayers with Steve Bruce and his family.”A third commented: “Thoughts are with Brucey and his family.”A fourth said: “Many many heartfelt condolences Steve our thoughts are with you and the family.”Another added: “Absolutely tragic, thoughts with everyone in the family.”Bruce was named Blackpool manager in September but has had a long career in management.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe has taken charge of the likes of West Brom, Newcastle United, Sheffield Wednesday, Aston Villa, Hull City, Sunderland, Wigan Athletic, Birmingham City, Crystal Palace, Huddersfield Town and Sheffield United.As a player, he made 309 league appearances for Manchester United and won the Premier League three times between 1993 and 1996. More

  • in

    Bayern Munich make TWO subtle changes to iconic badge but can you spot it?

    BAYERN MUNICH have changed their iconic badge, but traditional fans will be happy to know it’s nothing major.Bayern are one of the greatest football clubs in the history of the game having won a staggering 33 Bundesliga titles and six Champions League trophies.Bayern Munich have made changes to their iconic badge – with this the version they had been usingThis is the NEW version – can you spot the two changes?Harry Kane and his Bayern team-mates are embarking on a ‘new era’Credit: RexHowever, Harry Kane and co are set to embark on a new era with a new logo.But the Bavarians look set for a very smooth transition as the two changes imposed on their popular badge are so subtle fans can barely notice.Can you tell by looking at the before and after badges above?Spoiler: Bayern officials basically maintained the same design but adjusted the colours with the blue and red shades getting brighter and lighter respectively.Read More on FootballFans stormed social media immediately after the grand unveiling and of course many of them can’t spot any major difference.And that of course led to a series of sarcastic comments on Instagram.One fan posted: “A new era.”Another commented: “NGL, even though there’s barely a difference the new one looks worse.”Most read in BundesligaA third wrote: “Bro just turned the brightness up on his device.”BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis one said: “The designer took 3 months to create this!”That one stated: “Someone got paid a lot of money for this.”Bayern Munich kick off pre-season with huge 14-1 victory – but German giants beat same team 27-0 last yearAnd another fan used the popular meme from The Office’s US version where Jenna Fischer’s character Pam Beesly says: “They’re the same picture”.Harry Kane reveals his favourite England goalsHARRY KANE is already England’s all-time record goalscorer.But the Three Lions skipper will NOT be stopping there.To mark his 100th cap for his country, Kane spoke to SunSport’s CHARLIE WYETT about some of his special England goals….FIRST ENGLAND GOAL“My debut v Lithuania. March 2015.”There was a lot of talk in the build-up to that camp because I was playing well for Spurs.“I got a great reception and within a couple of minutes I scored a goal.“I don’t think I could have dreamed it any better.“My friends and family were there. That was a really special night.”FAVOURITE ENGLAND GOAL“It’s between two, for me.“Against Germany, the one at Wembley in Euro 2020.“Also, the header against Tunisia at the World Cup in 2018.“That moment of scoring a last-minute winner at my first World Cup was special.”BEST ENGLAND GOAL“The one I scored in Poland away in a World Cup qualifier in 2021. It was from 25 yards.”(Kane picked up the ball from Kyle Walker, advanced towards goal and put his foot through it.)“It kind of drifted away and it was a good strike, probably my furthest-out goal for England.” More

  • in

    Watch Romania U21s’ ‘disrespectfully glorious’ team goal to qualify for Euros as fans ask ‘is this Brazil?’

    ROMANIA’S Under-21 side left fans in disbelief with a “disrespectfully glorious” goal.The nation were taking on Switzerland during a Euro U21 qualification match, the winner of which would seal qualification to the tournament next year.Ianis Stoica rounded off a brilliant Romania Under-21 team goalCredit: EPARomania won the game 3-1 and secured their spot at Euro 2025Credit: EPADaniel Pancu’s side got off to a flying start after Ianis Stoica scored after 16 minutes.A red card for Vladislav Blanuta in the 29th minute threatened to undo that, but those fears were soon placated as Stoica, 21, netted again ten minutes before the break.However, it was the remarkable nature of the goal that left fans in awe.After Louis Munteanu won the ball back, Octavian Popescu picked up the loose ball on the left wing.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe then dribbled to the touchline before playing a one-two with 22-year-old Munteanu.With two defenders closing him down, Popescu, 21, then chipped the ball over the pair.Munteanu controlled the ball with his head before volleying the ball down the wing for his team-mate who had made a move.Popescu then got the ball back, beat his marker at the byline to then cut the ball back to team-mate Constantin Grameni.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe 21-year-old then back-heeled the ball to Munteanu, who then threaded a pass towards Stoica just outside of the six-yard area.He then rifled a shot into the top corner of the net to out his nation 2-0 ahead and complete the stunning sequence.Watch fan’s incredible goal in half-time competition that saw him win life-changing jackpotReacting on social media, one fan said: “Well that’s just disrespectfully glorious.”A second said: “Is this Brazil?”A third added: “That is team football!! Wonderful to watch.”Another said: “PlayStation.”A fifth said: “Am I watching at an eFootball action in real life?”Switzerland managed to rally after the break and halve the deficit through Albian Hajdari.Although just three minutes later Umit Akdag scored a third goal to give Romania some safety.Three red cards were shown throughout the game, with Pancu and a substitute from the team being sent to the stands.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe result saw Romania top Group E of the Euro 2025 qualifying campaign.However, in defeat Switzerland were eliminated as they dropped to third place as Finland recorded a win over Montenegro to climb into second. More

  • in

    Inside ‘World’s sexiest athlete’ Alica Schmidt’s jet-setting summer after amazing trips to Italy, Thailand and Maldives

    ALICA SCHMIDT had fans longing for the beach as she shared pics from her glamorous sunny holidays.Schmidt, 25, is a German runner who competed in the Paris Olympics last summer but failed to qualify for the women’s 4x400m relay final.Alica Schmidt shared pics of her glamorous sunny holidayCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt went to Italy, Thailand and the MaldivesCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of bikini snaps for her fansCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt enjoyed the crystal waters with some jet-skiingCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdSchmidt shared a series of glam pics for her followersCredit: Instagram / @alicasmdThe athlete has amassed a huge following on social media with her glamorous persona seeing her dubbed the “world’s sexiest athlete”.And she took Instagram by storm as she shared pictures of her recent trips to Italy, Thailand and the Maldives.The German posted photos and videos of her in a bikini enjoying the sun and crystal waters. She also showcased her jet-skiing skills for her fans during her time off.Read More on SportSchmidt posted: “Life is worth living.”The former Olympics competitor’s 5.8million followers were left gobsmacked as they took to the comments section.One fan wrote: “Beautiful caption & video.”Another commented: “I cannot get enough views of that gorgeous water!!!”Most read in AthleticsA third posted: “Life is beautiful and worth living – live it.”This one said: “Absolutely amazing.”Alica Schmidt gives fans glimpse behind scenes at final day at Olympic village and closing ceremony And that one gushed: “Strong and beautiful.”SEE MORE OF ALICA SCHMIDT’S GLAMOROUS LIFE…Schmidt is one of Germany’s top athletesCredit: GettyShe competes in track and field for her countryCredit: GettySchmidt was part of the relay squad for the Tokyo Olympic Games but didn’t competeCredit: ReutersSchmidt has acquired a cult following onlineShe has five million Instagram followersCredit: alicasmd/InstagramThe German is very particular about working with brands More