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BOXING

Floyd Mayweather Kicks Off 2025 With a Power Move

By Admin January 3, 2025

Reports suggest that Floyd Mayweather Jr. may be gearing up for a high-profile exhibition bout against KSI.

Although he retired from professional boxing seven years ago, Mayweather has stayed active in the exhibition scene. After the controversial clash with John Gotti III in 2023, the undefeated champion made a return in August 2024 for a rematch.

Given that he toyed around with his younger brother two years ago, KSI, reports suggest, has been eager to step into the ring with Mayweather Jr. Fans will have to wait to see if this match materializes. In the meantime, they can marvel at Mayweather’s accomplishments outside the ring. There’s a reason why the Olympic medal winner is known as ‘The Money’ Mayweather.

READ: Anthony Joshua all but confirms huge all-British clash for 2025

Despite retirement, he still remains the richest boxer in the world. Rumors surfaced suggesting that Mayweather Jr. might be facing financial difficulties. However, the former world champion’s recent moves suggest otherwise. When it comes to making money, he’s the best.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s story is legendary. Beginning with an Olympic bronze medal, the Grand Rapids-born boxer followed in the footsteps of his father and uncles. Soon he carved out a career that defined an era in boxing. Beyond defeating some of the sport’s biggest names, his unparalleled dedication earned him unprecedented wealth, making him not only the richest boxer but also one of the wealthiest athletes in history.

“But what if I told you there’s a new chapter, one where Money Mayweather isn’t throwing punches but making billion-dollar deals?” said the voice in the ‘Rich & Fabulous’ channel. Not long ago, reports suggested money gradually slipping out of ‘Money’ Mayweather’s hands. Fans may recall erstwhile friend 50 Cent‘s words. “I think he got to right now because the money’s gone,” said the ‘In Da Club’ singer while responding to a question about Mayweather Jr.’s potential return.

“Whispers echoed through the real estate world: Mayweather listed his $48 million Beverly Hills mansion, followed by his Las Vegas Palace at $12.5 million, and then that stunning $22 million waterfront mansion in Miami. Speculation ran wild: was the champ going broke?” revealed the celebrity news breaker.

But that’s not true, it seems. Floyd Mayweather Jr. is shifting his investments. He is transitioning from flashy homes to large, income-generating properties such as skyscrapers, office buildings, and affordable housing. His decisions were not driven by a need for cash but by a focus on more profitable investments.

“One of his crown jewels is a $10 billion stake in a prime office portfolio with 601 W companies. This isn’t just any real estate; we are talking about 18 buildings spanning 10 million square feet of prime urban property. Key investments include the Amazon-anchored 410 10th Avenue in Hudson Yards, New York, and the Aon Center in Chicago,” said ‘Rich & Fabulous’.

Prioritizing financial growth over appearances, Mayweather Jr.’s investments are not about showing off or being extravagant. Instead, they are smart, calculated decisions that focus on generating steady, reliable income every month. To some, his $42 million purchase of 60+ affordable housing buildings in New York City may appear a charitable cause. But, one should note, these investments generate consistent income and grow in value over time.

Take another example: the majority stake in the Versace mansion in Miami Beach. He’s not relying on luxury for show. Mayweather Jr.’s goal is to create steady cash flow and build wealth over the long term. His post-retirement journey underscores his ability to reinvent himself. Floyd Mayweather Jr. no longer throws punches, but he’s building an empire that could eclipse his boxing fortune.

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GOLF

Bizarre TGL Rumor Shows Tiger Woods’s $500M League Is Rapidly Changing Pro Golf

By Admin January 3, 2025

2025 is going to be an exciting year for the golf world.

Apart from the regular leagues commencing yet another season, the sport will also witness the advancement of technology. After several delays and setbacks, the brainchild of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy will finally launch, with January 7 being the first date of its inaugural tournament. The PGA Tour players have already begun promoting their teams ahead of the launch, and they are excited to play a completely new format.

But what makes the league so different? Well, the TGL matches will be played at the SoFi Center in Florida, and will completely be based on technology. From the putting to the witnessing. The SoFi Center is a cutting-edge, 250,000-square-foot venue located on the campus of Palm Beach State College in Florida. In TGL’s format, three players from each four-man team compete in 15-hole matches that seamlessly blend virtual and real-world golf. For longer shots, players will hit a massive 3,400-square-foot screen, approximately 24 times the size of a standard golf simulator.

JUST IN: ‘We done yet?’: Tiger Woods left red-faced after being forced to watch PGA video

Each hole features a dynamic green, with its shape changing for every shot. A 41-yard-wide rotating turntable moves the green and three strategically placed bunkers, altering approach angles for each hole. Now, this surely is different from the matches played on the greens and will require different equipment. For example, having a longer shaft can increase swing speed, which in turn can generate more distance, and having drivers that can knuckle can help the ball roll out further once it hits the ground, increasing overall distance. With this, the players are changing their gears accordingly. Taking to this, Jonathan Wall reported, “With TGL on the horizon, I’m hearing a few pros have been testing different driver builds to maximize distance for screen golf. Most common are longer shafts and drivers designed to knuckle a bit more for extra rollout.”

While the new format is seemingly exciting for the players, and they are all set to experience the tech-based league, there have been several concerns among the golf community. With the league approaching, fans have raised questions about whether it will appeal to both regular viewers and golf aficionados and, at the same time, stay true to golf ethics. Well, looks like their questions too have been answered.

Taking to the concerns of the critics and the fans, the famous YouTube channel Fore Play Golf did an in-depth video on the league and called it ‘Playing at the TGL Stadium’. The main issue addressed was the fear of losing ties with the traditional norms of golf due to the simulator and the form of the venue. Sam Riggs Bozoian, one of the hosts of the podcast, shared compliments for the venue and its perfect integration of virtual fairways. “It feels like when I watch those crazy video game tournaments that have sold-out stadium and lights and it’s this mix of what you want in a real live event but with all kinds of technology,” he said. The three hosts also highlight the course, featuring real grass and sand, while discussing the unique indoor environment of TGL.

“How are you guys getting this grass?” Trent asks, startlingly. “We have our own little Turf Nursery in here in the corner,” the TGL administrators respond. “Tanner, our head greens keeper, is rocking. He’s got to keep track of the land in a divot as this is the only place in the game where you drop the ball so you got to do your knee-high drop and then we got real sand trying to take all the stuff.” To make things clearer, they also played in the ‘outrageously different’ arena. “I mean, we play a lot of golf; it’s our life, to be able to do something this different and this outrageous,” he said. The pros will have to adjust to a hybrid setup and that was a point of concern for them. They addressed that too, and said, “I have no idea what we’re doing at the moment, but it also makes you want to keep hitting these shots, which is awesome, dude. We’ve seen everything we love in our game.” And now if TGL will be a hit or not, only the conclusion of the first match will say that.

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GOLF

‘We done yet?’: Tiger Woods left red-faced after being forced to watch PGA video

By Admin January 3, 2025

Tiger Woods was left embarrassed after being made to watch a video that showcased his PGA Tour career.

On Wednesday, the 49-year-old helped officially unveil the organisation’s new media studios, based at Ponte Vedra Beach in Florida.

And on the big screen, he was shown a montage that paid tribute to his achievements, and emphasised his 82 PGA tournament wins.

READ: Inside Tiger Woods’ relationship with ex-wife Elin after embrace 14 years on from divorce

That number makes him the joint record holder with Sam Snead, although his chances of making it 83 now appear remote given his reduced schedule.

The 15-time major champion appeared taken aback by the footage, and was left red-faced afterwards. “We done yet?” He asked awkwardly. “Golly. That’s been a career right there. That’s been a good one.”

Woods was also asked what his number of wins meant to him. “82 is a lot,” he replied, “The thing that I’m most proud of is the consistency. To have done it not just for a few years but for decades, that’s something I’m very proud of.”

The American also reflected on his favourite major win, while making a shock admission. “People are probably amazed to hear this, but most of my events I didn’t really have it,” he said.

“There were two events where I putted really well and that was at the 1997 Masters tournament and the 2000 US Open at Pebble. But the best that I ever hit it was at the 2000 British Open. I felt like I had the ball on a string and could do anything I wanted to.”

Woods famously delivered a masterclass at St Andrew’s that year. He shot four rounds in the 60s, made just three bogeys and avoided all 112 bunkers at the Old Course, finishing eight shots clear of Thomas Bjorn and Ernie Els.

The video was posted on Instagram by the official PGA Tour account, with the caption: “Hello, New World. Thank you for testing out our new digs, Tiger Woods.”

The organisation has claimed the new base will help expand its digital footprint and launch new international feeds. The PGA Tour’s current media deals run until the end of 2030.

The unveiling comes with the tour seemingly on the brink of an historic merger with LIV Golf. Talks have been ongoing between the two factions, although no official agreement has yet been reached.

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BOXING

Anthony Joshua all but confirms huge all-British clash for 2025

By Admin January 2, 2025

2025 promises to be a massive year in boxing, with some huge fights on the horizon – especially in the heavyweight division.

However, no fight will be of bigger interest than the possibility of finally seeing Anthony Joshua squaring off against Tyson Fury at some point this year.

Despite both men suffering big losses in 2024, which some have suggested could dampen the thirst for the clash, the fight could still be one of the biggest that British boxing has ever seen.

JUST IN: ‘I’m In, Easy Fight, Easy Money’: Canelo Says He Is Ready For Crawford

Fury has yet to comment on his future following his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk last month, but Joshua has claimed that he believes the encounter could finally happen in the next twelve months.

“I’ve been involved in a whole lot of fights, but this has to happen in 2025. Of course, it has to happen, and hopefully, it does happen,” he told SportsBoom.com.

Whether or not the fight happens remains to be seen, but one meeting that has been confirmed is the September clash between Efe Ajagba and Martin Bakole, which will determine the next mandatory challenger for the IBF heavyweight title.

Looking forward to the fight, Joshua – whose Mother is Nigerian – is backing Efe to come out on top in the meeting of the two Africans.

“Two giants of Africa coming together to collide. It’s going to be an interesting fight. Efe is a good boxer, and obviously, I’m going to support Efe, even though he doesn’t support me.

“I’m backing him, because we are from the same place, and I really want to see him do well.”

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BOXING

‘I’m In, Easy Fight, Easy Money’: Canelo Says He Is Ready For Crawford

By Admin January 2, 2025

Canelo Alvarez says he is ready to fight Terence Crawford following the latter’s last performance.

Canelo has been linked with a fight against Crawford at 168 pounds, which would require Bud to jump up two weight classes from 154. Alvarez initially dismissed the fight by saying he would get no credit for defeating Crawford, who would be coming up from a much smaller weight class. Canelo recently defeated Jermell Charlo, who moved up two weight classes from 154 pounds in a one-sided unanimous decision. There is a perception that the same thing could happen again if a Crawford-Canelo fight was made. But Alvarez has now changed his view by saying that if the numbers are right, he is willing to take that fight.

“I’m in. Why not? Don’t get me wrong, he’s a great fighter but for me, in my weight class, it’s an easy fight. Easy money. If the money is right, I’m in, because I don’t like to fight guys like Crawford because he moves a lot and the fight is not that great, I saw in his last fight and he don’t move that much now. So if the money is right I’m in right now … there are weight classes for a reason,” Canelo stated

JUST IN: Tyson Fury’s retirement statements, U-turns and clear stance after Oleksandr Usyk defeats

The bout is seen as an alternative to David Benavidez, someone Canelo has been accused of ducking. Benavidez was the WBC Interim Super Middleweight Champion for over two years. But the fight never happened, as Canelo demanded $150-200 million to make that fight. Benavidez ultimately moved up to 175 pounds, where he is scheduled to fight David Morrell Jr. on February 1. That has reduced any chances of Canelo facing off against Benavidez, even if the latter could come back down. That has paved the way for a Crawford fight. Crawford is coming off a victory against Israil Madrimov, which earned him the WBA Junior Middleweight Title.

It was his first fight at 154 pounds. Crawford was hit more than usual and appeared slower. But that was also due to Madrimov’s skills. But Crawford has expressed confidence about beating Canelo. He managed to dismantle Errol Spence Jr. with ease when the boxing community had Spence as the favorite. Floyd Mayweather and Bivol have shown the blueprint for beating Canelo. While Crawford is a switch hitter, capable of moving, can he handle the power? Bud did look uncomfortable when Madrimov hit him, and Canelo’s punches will have more of an impact. Crawford made it clear he was ready.

“I feel as if that’s a legacy fight. I feel as if this is the biggest fight in boxing today. I’ve been fighting bigger guys my whole life. Of course I’ll beat him. It ain’t no doubt in my mind that I won’t beat anybody that I step in the ring with,” Crawford said

But at 37 years of age, Crawford does not have too long left to secure that fight. 2025 is the right time to make this legacy-defining fight for his boxing career.

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BOXING

Tyson Fury’s retirement statements, U-turns and clear stance after Oleksandr Usyk defeats

By Admin January 2, 2025

Former world heavyweight champ Tyson Fury has made his stance on retirement crystal clear despite back-to-back losses against Oleksandr Usyk.

The Mancunian lost his pristine record to Usyk in May 2024 after a split-decision defeat. The 36-year-old boxing phenomenon then failed to get redemption in their rematch last month, with the result even more in Usyk’s favour this time.

Retirement rumours have naturally begun swirling, considering Fury’s age and dashed ambitions for undisputed glory. Still, he’s strongly hinted he’s not quite ready to hang up his gloves.

READ: EXCLUSIVE – Tyson Fury retirement fears quashed as epic Wembley superfight is coming

Shortly after his latest defeat in Saudi Arabia, Fury signalled his intent to reporters as he said: “What’s next for me? I’m going home and having some time off.” When quizzed about whether fans would see him in the ring again, he responded: “You might do, you might not. Who knows? We’ll talk about that next year.”

These comments left fans guessing at what the Wythenshawe native’s next move could be after a challenging year. But recent reports from The Sun (via The Mirror US) revealed he’s confided in friends, saying: “It’s not over.”

Fury is no stranger to stepping away from boxing; it has been over a decade since his initial retirement announcement in November 2013. ‘The Gypsy King’ cut a frustrated figure after his fight with David Haye fell through for a second time.

“Hi everyone, I have officially retired from boxing,” he posted on X (then Twitter). “There’s too many bent [crooked] people in the sport. They will have to f— someone else. Goodbye boxing.”

This declaration turned out to be fleeting as he faced Joey Abell in the ring just three months later. He maintained a steady career trajectory for some years after that, albeit with a three-year break from boxing between 2015 and 2018 amid his mental health battle.

After defeating Dillian Whyte at Wembley with a sixth-round finish in 2022, he announced his retirement again. He mentioned that he had made a promise to his wife Paris to retire after besting Whyte, stating: “I’m a two-time undisputed world champion. [I have] £150m in the bank and nothing to prove to anybody.”

Yet again, his assertion was shown to be insincere when he returned to the ring to fight Derek Chisora eight months later. Since then, he has fought thrice more, although two of those bouts resulted in losses to ‘The Cat’.

It’s not unusual for Fury to change his plans abruptly, indicating a significant change could always be around the corner. However, despite recent hiccups, all indications point towards his boxing career continuing into 2025.

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BOXING

6 Boxing Fights We Need to See Happen in 2025

By Admin December 27, 2024

2024 has been nothing short of a landmark year for boxing!

While it may not rival the Golden Era of Boxing—that unforgettable stretch from the late 1960s to the mid-1970s when legends like Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, and George Foreman captivated the world with blockbuster bouts that transcended sports—it’s undeniable that boxing is experiencing a thrilling resurgence. This revival owes much to recent shifts in how the boxing business is managed and the caliber of matchups being delivered.

These changes are reigniting the passion of fans who once fell in love with the sport’s drama and spectacle. At the heart of this resurgence is one pivotal figure, His Excellency Turki Alalshikh. Yet, even with the exciting momentum, there are still dream fights that the boxing world is yearning for. With hope and anticipation, we’ve compiled a list of matchups we’d love to see. Here’s to Alalshikh working his magic once again to turn these fantasies into reality!

JUST IN: EXCLUSIVE – Tyson Fury retirement fears quashed as epic Wembley superfight coming

Canelo Alvarez vs. David Benavidez

Canelo Alvarez is undeniably a legend of the sport—a fighter who has faced some of the finest talent boxing has to offer during his illustrious career. However, as he approaches the twilight of his journey, ‘Cinnamon’ has seemingly chosen a safer path, prioritizing lucrative paydays over high-risk challenges. Thanks to his immense name recognition and carefully cultivated leverage, he’s managed to turn this strategy into a profitable venture.

The biggest casualty of Canelo Alvarez’s selective matchmaking has been David Benavidez. For over a year, ‘The Mexican Monster’ stood as Canelo’s WBC mandatory challenger at super middleweight. Yet, Canelo repeatedly denied Benavidez the opportunity to make history—or to silence his critics by taking on one of the division’s most dangerous fighters. Frustrated and unable to secure the fight, Benavidez was forced to shift his focus to the light heavyweight division, seeking opportunities that eluded him at super middleweight.

Canelo has even gone as far as to demand an unprecedented $200 million purse to face Benavidez—a staggering figure that underscores the challenges in making this fight a reality. While not impossible, such a bout seems unlikely for now. Meanwhile, Benavidez is set to take on David Morrell on February 1st in Las Vegas. Should he emerge victorious, a shot at the undisputed light heavyweight title could be next on his horizon.

Ryan Garcia vs. Devin Haney 2

At the start of this year, Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney delivered a thrilling showdown that had fans buzzing about a potential rematch. In a shocking turn, Garcia dominated Haney, dropping him three times before securing a majority decision win. However, the celebration was short-lived as Garcia later tested positive for Ostarine.

The victory was overturned to a no-contest, Garcia was fined his entire purse, and he received a suspension lasting over a year. The fallout didn’t stop there—Haney sued Garcia, citing battery and breach of contract, escalating the tension between the two fighters.

The animosity between Garcia and Haney has deep roots, stemming from their six amateur bouts. With both fighters eager to settle the score, a rematch in 2025—potentially in Saudi Arabia—could reignite their storied rivalry, setting the stage for one of boxing’s most dramatic comebacks.

However, Turki Alalshaikh has one condition Garcia has to meet for the fight to happen. “First of all, I like Ryan Garcia, and second, I want to do a big fight with him,” Alalshikh told Charlie Parsons. “But I’ll tell you my situation now… I’m against drugs and everything, I said to Ryan Garcia ‘You must pass the test and clear yourself’ and I’m waiting for you and this is fair.”

Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford

After or before Benavidez, the fans wouldn’t really mind, Canelo Alvarez needs to face Terence Crawford. ‘Bud’ has been lobbying for the fight since he defeated Errol Spence Jr. last year, emerging as the first male boxer to achieve undisputed status in two different weight classes. The Nebraska technician even agreed to climb up to the super middleweight division.

All this in an effort to make his last fight in the sport a big payday! However, Canelo Alvarez has brushed past this potential fight, suggesting he has nothing to gain from the fight. During Crawford’s last appearance against Israil Madrimov, His Excellency had even reached out to Canelo’s team to make the fight real.

However, ‘Cinnamon’ made some absurd demands for the fight, so it quickly fell apart and produced a very public back-and-forth between Canelo and the Saudi Royal. As of the time of writing, there’s no sign of this fight actually coming to fruition. Meanwhile, Crawford remains adamant about fighting Canelo as he looks to exit the sport with a big payday.

Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua

Moving on to the heavyweight side of things, former WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury just lost his rematch against Oleksandr Usyk. Many are speculating whether the English heavyweight would call it quits after his second consecutive career loss. However, there’s a lot of money left on the table for the Brit.

The good news is, now, he has nothing to lose—his precious zero is gone, and Usyk’s win has erased the possibility of a trilogy. Similarly, former unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has suffered four losses now, and the biggest fight on the table for him would be a bout against Tyson Fury. The all-British clash would be bigger than Joshua’s bout against Daniel Dubois.

And there’s no reason for Joshua or Fury to not cash in on the fight. Even if it’s not a title fight, the British fan base has been asking for this bout for several years now and if the fight happens, it would definitely be a blockbuster. With both fighters approaching their 40s, 2025 would be the best year for them to get it out of the way.

Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury 2

Although boxing purists often refuse to consider Jake Paul a legitimate boxer—largely due to his choice of opponents, including MMA fighters and aging, out-of-prime boxers—the Cleveland native has undeniably carved out a significant name for himself in the sport. His latest performance against the legendary Mike Tyson, or more precisely, the staggering numbers the fight generated, has cemented his status as a sought-after figure in boxing.

Following the Tyson fight, Paul received several offers but has yet to announce his next opponent. Rumors are swirling about a potential bout with Conor McGregor in India, but the fight fans are clamoring for a rematch with Tommy Fury. The two first faced off in February 2023, a match that handed ‘The Problem Child’ his first professional loss.

If Paul truly wants to be taken seriously as a boxer, a rematch with Fury seems inevitable. Reports previously revealed that Paul’s team, MVP, had approached Fury for a Netflix-backed fight instead of the Tyson showdown. However, Fury and his father turned down the offer. With the success of Paul’s Netflix venture, the dynamics may have shifted, making 2025 an ideal time for this much-anticipated rematch.

Gervonta Davis vs. Shakur Stevenson

WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis is arguably the biggest name in boxing today. However, in a surprising turn of events, Davis recently announced his retirement from the sport after 2025. This revelation came shortly before he shared on social media that his March 1st bout was canceled. Interestingly, his opponent, Lamont Roach, has made conflicting statements, and tickets for the fight remain on sale.

Despite the confusion, fans appear relieved about the fight’s cancellation. Many believed Roach, who was moving up a weight class for the bout, posed little challenge to Davis. Instead, fans are calling for a showdown between Davis and Shakur Stevenson before Davis steps away from the ring. Stevenson, who shares the same weight class as Davis, has been vocal about wanting the fight for some time.

Davis, however, has largely avoided the matchup, even though most experts agree Stevenson would be his toughest challenge yet. With few legitimate contenders left in the division, 2025 seems like the perfect time for these two fighters to finally deliver the matchup fans have been waiting for. This clash has the potential to be a massive pay-per-view event and could even break existing records.

That concludes our list of fights that should happen in 2025, but we would also like to see Joseph Parker, Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, and Oleksandr Usyk in action as well.

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BOXING

EXCLUSIVE – Tyson Fury retirement fears quashed as epic Wembley superfight ‘is coming

By Admin December 27, 2024

Tony Bellew believes a Wembley showdown involving Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will definitely happen at some point before the Gypsy King hangs up his gloves.

Fury is yet to confirm his next move after losing on points to Oleksandr Usyk in their highly-anticipated rematch. The man from Morecambe was unable to gain revenge following his previous defeat in their original fight back in May.

In the days since the rematch, it has been suggested that Fury could decide to walk away from boxing. He briefly retired in 2022 but many are now wondering whether he could hang up the gloves for good in the wake of back-to-back losses.

JUST IN: Why Daniel Dubois deserves a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk

Speaking to Express Sport before the fight, Bellew admitted that he would be surprised if Fury retires without ever facing Joshua.

“I don’t think that ship will ever sail,” he said. “You’re telling me you couldn’t stick 100,000 in Wembley to watch those two fight? I think you’d get 50,000 just at the press conference. It’s coming, it is on. It’s on the charts and it’s on the board.

“Everyone wants to see it. The sad part is that it will be when both are just slightly past their sell-by date, by the looks of it. It looks like it’s going to be [Floyd] Mayweather and [Manny] Pacquiao all over again. It’s been held back and held back.

“You have to remember, the only person who has signed up to these fights and hasn’t pulled out is Anthony Joshua. He signed to fight Fury, he signed to fight [Deontay] Wilder, he’s fought Usyk twice, he’s fought [Wladimir] Klitschko.

“All these people, he signed to fight and they pulled out on him. He signed to fight Tyson Fury and Fury had to pull out because of the arbitration from Wilder. He signed to fight Wilder and Wilder pulled out because of the mess he was in with Fury.

“It is what it is. It’s a mess, really, but 100 per cent that fight will happen one day. It’s huge. It’s a massive blockbuster event and it will probably go down as the biggest domestic boxing match ever.”

A long-awaited showdown between Fury and Joshua has been discussed for many years without ever coming to fruition. A deal to host the fight in Saudi Arabia was close to being agreed in 2021, but talks ultimately fell through.

Only time will tell if Bellew’s prediction comes true despite both fighters coming off the back of defeats and holding no belts between them.

Bellew was speaking to Express Sport as an ambassador for the Men on a Mission campaign, in conjunction with DRINKiQ and Men’s Sheds, raising awareness for mental health and unhealthy drinking patterns in men aged over 50.

“We know the stats tell us that one in four men aged between 50 and 75 hardly ever think about their mental wellbeing and mental health,” he explained.

“You don’t really speak about it. It’s like a taboo subject. They don’t really want to speak about it, they don’t feel the need to. They actually think it’s weak. Those are the guys who are turning to drink.

“Before you know it, it catches up with you and it piles on and something has to be done about that. We need to be out there speaking to men of this age and letting them know there are other things to do because it’s so, so difficult.”

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BOXING

Why Daniel Dubois deserves a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk

By Admin December 27, 2024

IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois deserves a second chance at WBO, WBC, and WBA heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

While Usyk ended the first bout between the two men in August 2023 in thunderous fashion, that victory has been overshadowed at times by a controversial incident that occurred in the 5th round of that fight. That was when Usyk was brought down by a Dubois shot that was controversially ruled a low blow. The referee then made it clear he wanted Usyk take a good amount of time for himself in order to be fully recovered before returning to the action. Suffice to say, Usyk took over three minutes before resuming the fight.

There are still those who feel that the low blow that landed on Usyk wasn’t really a low blow. On top of that, the referee’s behavior, as well as the generous amount of time it took Usyk to recover, have led to raised eyebrows regarding the fight. Naturally, more people would believe Dubois got a raw deal if Usyk hadn’t gone on to stop the man in the 9th. Had the fight gone to the cards, the mere fact that Dubois had gone to the final bell would give credence to an accusation of unfair treatment. Since Usyk sent his opponent to the canvas in both the 8th and 9th, however, Usyk’s victory became more definitive.

READ: [VIDEOS] Oleksandr Usyk: The Ukrainian champion who can hold his breath longer than your average dolphin

And now many, if not most, fans are disinterested in seeing Usyk battle Dubois again. Usyk defeated Tyson Fury for the second time last weekend, and now appears to be at the zenith of his Hall of Fame caliber career. The overall opinion seems to be that Usyk-Dubois 2 would have a been-there, done-that vibe to it. That perhaps is true, but that doesn’t mean the fight shouldn’t happen.

Besides, Dubois is the IBF heavyweight champion. If Usyk bests him again, he’ll once more be undisputed. While Usyk-Dubois 2 wouldn’t generate the interest Usyk’s fights with Fury and Anthony Joshua did, it would take away any last whiff of unfinished businesses that might still be hovering over Usyk’s reputation…provided, of course, that Usyk wins. And that Dubois bests former titlist Joseph Parker when they meet in February of the coming year. It’s good to keep in mind that Usyk is now closer to thirty than he is to forty years of age. It’s doubtful that he’ll be fighting all that much longer. Should he face Dubois again, he will have truly cleaned out the heavyweight division…unless, of course, he’s bested by Dubois.

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TENNIS

“Looking Like a Snack” – Serena Williams and Naomi Osaka Gush Over American WTA Star’s Stunning Holiday Card

By Admin December 26, 2024

World No.5 in doubles and WTA pro Taylor Townsend has long admired Serena Williams.

When Serena retired in 2022 after the US Open, Townsend wrote: “@serenawilliams ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK YOU! Thank you for inspiring me to see that a dream that felt unimaginable was possible! Thank you for leading by example and showing how to deal with struggles, criticism, and adversity while the world is watching! I can go on and on, but I cannot wait to see what your next chapter brings! Love you ❤️❤️.” But, as the way she is mesmerized by Serena’s impact on Tennis, the 23x Grand Slam champion also seems to be spellbound by Townsend’s fashion outing.

2024 has been a triumphant year for Townsend as it brought her the first Grand Slam of her career at Wimbledon alongside her doubles partner Katerina Siniakova. Now, she looks to have finally got time for herself and the WTA Finals’ runner-up in doubles is leaving no chance to enjoy her tennis break. And what’s better than to embrace the holiday vibes, amid the Christmas season, by sharing her gorgeous looks on social media!

READ: [VIDEO] What President Bill Clinton said to Serena Williams after she won her first US Open title in 1999

The young American is known for keeping her Instagram updated with a lot of stylish posts. Well, she’s at it again. Taylor took to her Instagram account on Tuesday and shared a glamorous post. The 2024 US Open finalist in mixed doubles dropped a series of photos, sporting a stunning black dress. She paired it up with open-toe heels. Her light blonde hair completed the overall look. “Tay’s 2024 Holiday Card”🎁✨☝🏾” she wrote while giving a fitting caption. Indeed, she looked absolutely ready for Christmas.

A fashionista herself, this did not skip the eyes of Serena. And not only she, former World No. 1 Naomi Osaka also became a fan of her looks as they can’t get enough of Taylor’s special “Holiday card.”

Of course, the post had to invite adorable comments and appreciation from her fans. Firstly, the Japanese tennis sensation Osaka dropped her reaction as she was in complete awe of Taylor. “Oh slay 🔥” she simply wrote. Then, it was the turn of the tennis legend, who shared her reaction. “Looking like a snack. What aisle you on? 😍😍😍” she wrote. Notably, this is not the first time Serena has admired Townsend.

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A post shared by Taylor Townsend (@tay_taytownsend)

On October 18, Taylor took to Instagram to share her bridesmaid look in social media influencer April Buckles’ wedding. She donned a white dress while using products from Serena’s beauty brand Wyn for make-up. “Make up beat thanks to Wyn. @serenawilliams, you did your big one with this,” Townsend wrote. In response, Serena shared the picture on her Instagram story along with two heart emojis. While, this links Townsend with Serena, do you know she strikes a special chord with Naomi Osaka too?

In August, Osaka shared her struggles to return to the court after giving birth to her daughter earlier this year. “My biggest issue is that I don’t feel like I’m in my body. It’s a strange feeling, missing balls I shouldn’t miss, hitting balls softer than I remember I used to,” Osaka wrote, reflecting on the gap between her past and present performance. As a mother who herself made a comeback after giving birth to her son Adyn in 2021, Townsend could easily relate.

“That was the first time that I’ve seen her like in person since having her baby. All of the women who have had kids and came back could have easily been like, I’m good. Like, they’ve accomplished enough to where they didn’t need to, like, you didn’t have to come back. But you decided to, so I commend them. Be like, salute, position is hard,” Townsend said on ‘The Changeover’ podcast in solidarity with Osaka.

Townsend’s journey back to competitive tennis has been indeed inspiring. After her own struggles, she found her rhythm in the 2022 US Open, reaching the women’s doubles final. This was followed by victories in the 2023 Miami Open, French Open, and Cincinnati Open in women’s doubles. As the offseason kicks in, Taylor is also trying to spend time with Adyn, who is now three-year-old. Well, it appears Adyn is keen on taking up the sport when he grows up. In fact, his interest compelled his mother to draw a parallel with a prominent ATP star!

A few days back, Taylor Townsend discovered a special surprise when she caught Adyn trying his hands at tennis. In an Instagram story, dated December 17, the single mother revealed an adorable clip of him playing the sport. His accuracy was so good that he successfully hit a clear shot over the net!

The moment was undoubtedly special for Taylor as she wrote, “You’ve got a backhand on you. AJ Good Job!” Expressing her hopes for Adyn’s bright future in tennis, the mother gave a huge shout-out to the current World No.1, Italy’s Jannik Sinner. “My Man’s gonna have a backhand like @janniksin….I Hope,” she wrote in her caption. To her, Adyn’s stroke-making skills reminded her of Sinner’s on-court heroics he’s known for. Well, that’s a great comparison to make!

Ahead of her 2025 season, Taylor Townsend is trying to fulfill all her responsibilities of being a mother, trying to give as much time as possible to Adyn. But even her son is not behind in supporting her. In one of her recent social media updates, she revealed how he accompanies her to her tennis practice before going to his jiu-jitsu classes. “After my practice, we go jujitsu 🥳 ✨,” she wrote while reflecting on her commitment to being a mother and a professional athlete.

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