<p>The International Boxing Association (IBA) said on Wednesday it would follow the example of track and field's global federation by paying prize money for medals at the Paris Olympics.</p>

<p>The IBA has made the move despite the fact that the boxing programme at the Paris Games will be run by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) after the federation was stripped of the role because of concerns about its financial transparency.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/bundesliga-vincent-kompany-replaces-thomas-tuchel-as-bayern-munich-manager-726809">Bundesliga: Vincent Kompany replaces Thomas Tuchel as Bayern Munich manager</a></p>

<p>The IBA, which is backed by Russian gas giant Gazprom, is going further than World Athletics, which is paying $50,000 to gold medallists, but nothing to the minor medallists at this year's Games.</p>

<p>The IBA says it will pay gold, silver and bronze medallists bonuses from a total budget of $3.1 million.</p>

<p>World Athletics' move has attracted criticism from other federations and IOC president Thomas Bach has distanced himself from the move.</p>

<p>In an interview with AFP in April, Bach said: "The international federations have to treat all their member federations and their athletes on an equal basis and to try to balance this gap between the privileged and the less or under-privileged."</p>


The International Boxing Association (IBA) said on Wednesday it would follow the example of track and field's global federation by paying prize money for medals at the Paris Olympics.

The International Boxing Association (IBA) said on Wednesday it would follow the example of track and field's global federation by paying prize money for medals at the Paris Olympics. The IBA has made the move despite the fact that the boxing programme at the Paris Games will be run by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) after the federation was stripped of the role because of concerns about its financial transparency. Also Read: Bundesliga: Vincent Kompany replaces Thomas Tuchel as Bayern Munich manager The IBA, which is backed by Russian gas giant Gazprom, is going further than World Athletics, which is paying $50,000 to gold medallists, but nothing to the minor medallists at this year's Games. The IBA says it will pay gold, silver and bronze medallists bonuses from a total budget of $3.1 million. World Athletics' move has attracted criticism from other federations and IOC president Thomas Bach has distanced himself from the move. In an interview with AFP in April, Bach said: "The international federations have to treat all their member federations and their athletes on an equal basis and to try to balance this gap between the privileged and the less or under-privileged."

Paris Olympics 2024: Boxing federation announces bonus prize money for medal winners

<p>On Tuesday (May 28), Mike Tyson -- former world heavyweight champion -- insisted that he is feeling 100 per cent despite a health scare while on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday (May 26). The veteran is currently preparing for his comeback fight, at the age of 57, where he will take on YouTuber Jake Paul on July 20&nbsp;in a fight which has been sanctioned by boxing authorities in Texas.</p>

<p>The former champion reportedly needed treatment during his flight on Sunday after complaining of nausea and dizziness. As a result, paramedics boarded the plane at Los Angeles International Airport to treat the boxing legend upon landing before other passengers were allowed to exit the American Airlines flight. Tyson, however, insisted on Tuesday that he is feeling fine after the mid-flight scare.</p>

<p>He took to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, and shared a sarcastic post. He wrote, "Now feeling 100% even though I don’t need to be to beat Jake Paul."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Now feeling 100% even though I don’t need to be to beat Jake Paul.</p>
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeTyson/status/1795499113913749871?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/boxing-news-mike-tyson-suffers-medical-scare-mid-flight-ahead-of-july-20-comeback-fight-726141">Mike Tyson suffers mid-flight medical scare ahead of July 20 comeback fight</a></strong></p>

<p>Tyson, who turns 58 in June, will lock horns with 27-year-old Paul in a professional bout which will comprise eight two-minute rounds. It is to be noted that Tyson has not fought a professional bout since 2005. He did take on Roy Jones Jr. in an exhibition contest which was held in 2020.</p>

<p>Paul, a former YouTuber-turned-boxer, has a 9-1 professional record with most of his victories coming against UFC fighter-turned-boxer opponents such as Ben Askren, Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz. It will be interesting to see how he fares versus the legendary Tyson.&nbsp;</p>


On Tuesday (May 28), Mike Tyson -- former world heavyweight champion -- insisted that he is feeling 100 per cent despite a health scare while on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday (May 26).

On Tuesday (May 28), Mike Tyson -- former world heavyweight champion -- insisted that he is feeling 100 per cent despite a health scare while on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday (May 26). The veteran is currently preparing for his comeback fight, at the age of 57, where he will take on YouTuber Jake Paul on July 20 in a fight which has been sanctioned by boxing authorities in Texas. The former champion reportedly needed treatment during his flight on Sunday after complaining of nausea and dizziness. As a result, paramedics boarded the plane at Los Angeles International Airport to treat the boxing legend upon landing before other passengers were allowed to exit the American Airlines flight. Tyson, however, insisted on Tuesday that he is feeling fine after the mid-flight scare. He took to his official account on X, formerly Twitter, and shared a sarcastic post. He wrote, "Now feeling 100% even though I don’t need to be to beat Jake Paul." Now feeling 100% even though I don’t need to be to beat Jake Paul. — Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) May 28, 2024 × Also read: Mike Tyson suffers mid-flight medical scare ahead of July 20 comeback fight Tyson, who turns 58 in June, will lock horns with 27-year-old Paul in a professional bout which will comprise eight two-minute rounds. It is to be noted that Tyson has not fought a professional bout since 2005. He did take on Roy Jones Jr. in an exhibition contest which was held in 2020. Paul, a former YouTuber-turned-boxer, has a 9-1 professional record with most of his victories coming against UFC fighter-turned-boxer opponents such as Ben Askren, Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz. It will be interesting to see how he fares versus the legendary Tyson.

Former world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson feels '100 per cent' after plane health scare

<p>Veteran boxer Mike Tyson is dong great following a reported 'health scare' on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday (May 26). The former heavyweight champion is currently preparing for his comeback fight at the age of 57 against YouTuber Jake Paul on July 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As for the health scare, In Touch Weekly reported that Tyson encountered a medical issue on the flight which required paramedics to assist him on the plane upon landing.</p>

<p>Tyson's representative released a statement on the incident and said: "Thankfully Mr&nbsp;Tyson is doing great. He became nauseous and dizzy due to an ulcer flare-up 30 minutes before landing. He is appreciative to the medical staff that were there to help him."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mike-tyson-vs-jake-paul-boxing-fight-on-20-july-sanctioned-as-professional-bout-716648">Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul boxing fight on July 20 sanctioned as professional bout</a></p>

<p>The boxer's team also called out the rumours in the statement which claimed that the flight was delayed due to Tyson's medical issue.</p>

<p>"It's false reporting that his medical attention caused the flight delay," the statement stated. "This two-hour delay was due to an air conditioning issue on the aircraft."</p>

<p>Tyson would have celebrated his 58th birthday by the time he faces Paul in the July 20 fight. Earlier, the fight was promoted as an exhibition bout but subsequently has been given the status of a professional fight. It will be streamed live on Netflix.</p>

<p>Tyson, who is making a comeback after nearly two decades following his last professional fight, will be 31 years older than his opponent at the time of the bout.</p>

<p>The bout will be fought at AT&amp;T arena in Arlington, Texas and will have eight two-minute rounds with both the boxers using 14-ounce gloves.</p>

<p>Being a professional fight, the result will affect the record of both Tyson and Paul. Tyson, a former heavyweight champion, has a 50-6 professional record. The 57-year-old&nbsp;last fought in 2005 and last won in 2003.</p>

<p>Paul, a former YouTuber-turned-boxer, has a 9-1 professional record with most of his wins coming against UFC fighter-turned-boxer opponents such as Ben Askren, Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz.</p>


Veteran boxer Mike Tyson is dong great following a reported 'health scare' on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday (May 26). The former heavyweight champion is currently preparing for his comeback fight at the age of 57 against YouTuber Jake Paul on July 20.

Veteran boxer Mike Tyson is dong great following a reported 'health scare' on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday (May 26). The former heavyweight champion is currently preparing for his comeback fight at the age of 57 against YouTuber Jake Paul on July 20. As for the health scare, In Touch Weekly reported that Tyson encountered a medical issue on the flight which required paramedics to assist him on the plane upon landing. Tyson's representative released a statement on the incident and said: "Thankfully Mr Tyson is doing great. He became nauseous and dizzy due to an ulcer flare-up 30 minutes before landing. He is appreciative to the medical staff that were there to help him." Also Read: Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul boxing fight on July 20 sanctioned as professional bout The boxer's team also called out the rumours in the statement which claimed that the flight was delayed due to Tyson's medical issue. "It's false reporting that his medical attention caused the flight delay," the statement stated. "This two-hour delay was due to an air conditioning issue on the aircraft." Tyson would have celebrated his 58th birthday by the time he faces Paul in the July 20 fight. Earlier, the fight was promoted as an exhibition bout but subsequently has been given the status of a professional fight. It will be streamed live on Netflix. Tyson, who is making a comeback after nearly two decades following his last professional fight, will be 31 years older than his opponent at the time of the bout. The bout will be fought at AT&T arena in Arlington, Texas and will have eight two-minute rounds with both the boxers using 14-ounce gloves. Being a professional fight, the result will affect the record of both Tyson and Paul. Tyson, a former heavyweight champion, has a 50-6 professional record. The 57-year-old last fought in 2005 and last won in 2003. Paul, a former YouTuber-turned-boxer, has a 9-1 professional record with most of his wins coming against UFC fighter-turned-boxer opponents such as Ben Askren, Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz.

Mike Tyson suffers mid-flight medical scare ahead of July 20 comeback fight

<p>Oleksandr Usyk beat Tyson Fury by split decision to win the world's first undisputed heavyweight championship in 25 years on Sunday, an unprecedented feat in boxing's four-belt era.</p>

<p>Britain's Fury was the early aggressor but Usyk gradually took charge and the "Gypsy King" was saved by the bell in the ninth round before slumping to his first career defeat.</p>

<p>Ukraine's Usyk, who remains undefeated, joins the likes of Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis and Mike Tyson as undisputed heavyweight champion, the first since boxing recognised four major belts in the 2000s.</p>

<p>With the win, the former undisputed cruiserweight champion can legitimately claim to be the best of this heavyweight era, although a rematch expected in October could provide another twist.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-brighton-boss-roberto-de-zerbi-to-leave-at-end-of-season-722918">Premier League: Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi to leave at the end of season</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is a big opportunity for me, for my family, for my country," said Usyk, 37, who briefly served as a soldier after the Russian invasion. "It's a great time, a great day," he said, adding that he was "ready for a rematch".</p>

<p>Fury called it a "fantastic fight with Oleksandr".</p>

<p>"I believe I won that fight; I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won the majority of them," he said. "You know his country is at war, so people are siding with the country at war but make no mistake, I won that fight in my opinion and I will be back."</p>

<p>Britain's Lennox Lewis was the last man to unify the heavyweight belts -- three at the time -- after beating Evander Holyfield in 1999.</p>

<h2>- Fired-up Fury -</h2>

<p>Two judges scored it for Usyk by scores of 115-112 and 114-113 while the third gave it to Fury 114-113. The victory extended Usyk's professional record to 22-0. After his first loss, Fury stands at 34-1-1.</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, leading the war effort against Russia for more than two years, posted on social media: "Ukrainians hit hard! And in the end, all our opponents will be defeated."</p>

<p>Usyk, who adds Fury's WBC belt to his IBF, WBA and WBO titles, looks set to go down as one of the greats after dominating at amateur, cruiserweight and now the top division.</p>

<p>A fired-up Fury came running out of his corner to start the fight and the 6ft 9ins man (2.06m) man was quickly into his rhythm, keeping the shorter Usyk back with his jab and playing to the crowd.</p>

<p>Usyk got inside with some quick combinations while Fury landed some heavy body shots. By round four, the Mancunian was taunting his ever-advancing opponent and showboating, guard down.</p>

<p>Usyk called two low shots in round five and got caught with a left hook as Fury continued to look comfortable, landing a telling uppercut in the following round and bobbing and weaving to stay out of range.</p>

<p>But the Ukrainian tagged Fury with two clean lefts in the seventh and landed a punishing hook that dazed the "Gypsy King" in the eighth.</p>

<p>By the next round, a relentless Usyk barrage had Fury in serious trouble and the wobbling, bleeding Mancunian took a standing count before being saved by the bell.</p>

<p>Fury recovered his poise and with the match in the balance heading into the final round, both fighters were finding the target.</p>


Oleksandr Usyk beat Tyson Fury by split decision to win the world's first undisputed heavyweight championship in 25 years on Sunday, an unprecedented feat in boxing's four-belt era.

Oleksandr Usyk beat Tyson Fury by split decision to win the world's first undisputed heavyweight championship in 25 years on Sunday, an unprecedented feat in boxing's four-belt era. Britain's Fury was the early aggressor but Usyk gradually took charge and the "Gypsy King" was saved by the bell in the ninth round before slumping to his first career defeat. Ukraine's Usyk, who remains undefeated, joins the likes of Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis and Mike Tyson as undisputed heavyweight champion, the first since boxing recognised four major belts in the 2000s. With the win, the former undisputed cruiserweight champion can legitimately claim to be the best of this heavyweight era, although a rematch expected in October could provide another twist. ALSO READ: Premier League: Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi to leave at the end of season "It is a big opportunity for me, for my family, for my country," said Usyk, 37, who briefly served as a soldier after the Russian invasion. "It's a great time, a great day," he said, adding that he was "ready for a rematch". Fury called it a "fantastic fight with Oleksandr". "I believe I won that fight; I believe he won a few of the rounds, but I won the majority of them," he said. "You know his country is at war, so people are siding with the country at war but make no mistake, I won that fight in my opinion and I will be back." Britain's Lennox Lewis was the last man to unify the heavyweight belts -- three at the time -- after beating Evander Holyfield in 1999. - Fired-up Fury - Two judges scored it for Usyk by scores of 115-112 and 114-113 while the third gave it to Fury 114-113. The victory extended Usyk's professional record to 22-0. After his first loss, Fury stands at 34-1-1. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, leading the war effort against Russia for more than two years, posted on social media: "Ukrainians hit hard! And in the end, all our opponents will be defeated." Usyk, who adds Fury's WBC belt to his IBF, WBA and WBO titles, looks set to go down as one of the greats after dominating at amateur, cruiserweight and now the top division. A fired-up Fury came running out of his corner to start the fight and the 6ft 9ins man (2.06m) man was quickly into his rhythm, keeping the shorter Usyk back with his jab and playing to the crowd. Usyk got inside with some quick combinations while Fury landed some heavy body shots. By round four, the Mancunian was taunting his ever-advancing opponent and showboating, guard down. Usyk called two low shots in round five and got caught with a left hook as Fury continued to look comfortable, landing a telling uppercut in the following round and bobbing and weaving to stay out of range. But the Ukrainian tagged Fury with two clean lefts in the seventh and landed a punishing hook that dazed the "Gypsy King" in the eighth. By the next round, a relentless Usyk barrage had Fury in serious trouble and the wobbling, bleeding Mancunian took a standing count before being saved by the bell. Fury recovered his poise and with the match in the balance heading into the final round, both fighters were finding the target.

Boxing: Oleksandr Usyk beats Tyson Fury to win undisputed world heavyweight championship

<p>Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are all ready to fight for the undisputed heavyweight championship crown on Saturday (May 18). The fight will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is the first time since 1991 that undisputed heavyweight champion of the world fight is taking place. Here below is all you need to know about the fight:</p>

<h2><strong>When is the Fury vs Usyk fight?</strong></h2>

<p>Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight will take place on Saturday, May 18.</p>

<h2><strong>Where is the Fury vs Usyk fight?</strong></h2>

<p>Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight will take place in Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-preakness-2024-horses-winning-odds-trainers-venue-date-time-where-to-live-stream-722780">The Preakness 2024: Horses, winning odds and all you need to know</a></p>

<h2><strong>What time is Fury vs Usyk fight?</strong></h2>

<p>Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight will start at 11 p.m. British Summer Time (BST) or 3:30 a.m. IST (Sunday, May 19).</p>

<h2><strong>How many rounds are there in Fury vs Usyk fight?</strong></h2>

<p>Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight will have 12 rounds.</p>

<h2><strong>What titles are currently held by Tyson Fury?</strong></h2>

<p>Tyson Fury is currently the WBC Champion.</p>

<h2><strong>What titles are currently held by Oleksandr Usyk?</strong></h2>

<p>Usyk currently holds IBF, WBA and WBO title.</p>

<h2><strong>Where to watch Fury vs Usyk fight live?</strong></h2>

<p>Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight can be streamed live on ESPN PPV, PPV.com and DAZN PPV.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Tyson Fury's professional record?</strong></h2>

<p>Fury has a phenomenal record of 34 wins and one draw in 35 professional fights. Out of his 34 wins, 24 have been knock outs.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Oleksandr Usyk professional record?</strong></h2>

<p>Usyk has also been undefeated so far in his 21 fights. He has won all of them with 14 of them being the knock outs.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is favourite to win the Fury vs Usyk fight?</strong></h2>

<p>Tyson Fury is slight favourite with odds of -120 to win the Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight.</p>


Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are all ready to fight for the undisputed heavyweight championship crown on Saturday (May 18). The fight will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are all ready to fight for the undisputed heavyweight championship crown on Saturday (May 18). The fight will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is the first time since 1991 that undisputed heavyweight champion of the world fight is taking place. Here below is all you need to know about the fight: When is the Fury vs Usyk fight? Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight will take place on Saturday, May 18. Where is the Fury vs Usyk fight? Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight will take place in Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Also Read: The Preakness 2024: Horses, winning odds and all you need to know What time is Fury vs Usyk fight? Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight will start at 11 p.m. British Summer Time (BST) or 3:30 a.m. IST (Sunday, May 19). How many rounds are there in Fury vs Usyk fight? Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight will have 12 rounds. What titles are currently held by Tyson Fury? Tyson Fury is currently the WBC Champion. What titles are currently held by Oleksandr Usyk? Usyk currently holds IBF, WBA and WBO title. Where to watch Fury vs Usyk fight live? Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight can be streamed live on ESPN PPV, PPV.com and DAZN PPV. What is Tyson Fury's professional record? Fury has a phenomenal record of 34 wins and one draw in 35 professional fights. Out of his 34 wins, 24 have been knock outs. What is Oleksandr Usyk professional record? Usyk has also been undefeated so far in his 21 fights. He has won all of them with 14 of them being the knock outs. Who is favourite to win the Fury vs Usyk fight? Tyson Fury is slight favourite with odds of -120 to win the Fury vs Usyk undisputed heavyweight championship of the world fight.

Fury vs Usyk: All you need to know about undisputed heavyweight championship of world fight

<p>Tyson Fury's father John Fury suffered a cut on the head during a media event on Monday (May 12) of the heavyweight championship fight against Oleksandr Usyk in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Furry Sr. got involved in a head-butting incident with a member of Usyk's team which eventually resulted in him being hurt. The fight is scheduled to take place on Saturday (May 18).</p>

<p>During the event, John was standing eyes-to-eyes with a member of Usyk's entourage before being separated. He then head-butted another member and had to be carried with a wound on his head. Tyson, who wasn't at the event when the incident took place, asked his father after seeing the footage: &nbsp;"How did you cut yourself like that?"</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">John Fury headbutts the smallest guy in the room after doing nothing against bigger men.<br />
<br />
His behaviour gets more embarrassing and erratic at every event, it's absolutely pathetic.<a href="https://t.co/84aiuMk6QH">pic.twitter.com/84aiuMk6QH</a></p>
— Stephen R Power (@racingblogger) <a href="https://twitter.com/racingblogger/status/1790067945646817420?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nhl-news-avalanche-player-valeri-nichushkin-suspended-six-months-without-pay-721341">NHL: Colorado Avalanche player Valeri Nichushkin suspended six months without pay</a></p>

<p>Fury Sr., however, issued an apology for his behaviour later on Monday and said:" Sincere apologies to everybody involved. It's just the way we are. Emotions and tensions are running high. He was a very disrespectful fella. If you come close in a fighting man's space, you're gonna cop for something," he told Seconds Out Boxing.</p>

<p>"What matters to me is respect for my son, and he wasn't showing any of it. He mentioned my son and that was it, so he had to have it. It doesn't bother me [bleeding], it's what we live for, we're fighting people. That's a regular occurrence to me," he added.</p>

<p>Talking about the fighters, Fury has a phenomenal record of 34 wins and one draw in 35 professional fights. Out of his 34 wins, 24 have been knock outs.</p>

<p>Ukrainian Usyk, on the other hand, has also been undefeated so far in his 21 fights. He has won all of them with 14 of them being the knock outs. The winner of the fight will be declared the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world - the first since 1999.</p>


Tyson Fury's father John Fury suffered a cut on the head during a media event on Monday (May 12) of the heavyweight championship fight against Oleksandr Usyk in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Tyson Fury's father John Fury suffered a cut on the head during a media event on Monday (May 12) of the heavyweight championship fight against Oleksandr Usyk in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Furry Sr. got involved in a head-butting incident with a member of Usyk's team which eventually resulted in him being hurt. The fight is scheduled to take place on Saturday (May 18). During the event, John was standing eyes-to-eyes with a member of Usyk's entourage before being separated. He then head-butted another member and had to be carried with a wound on his head. Tyson, who wasn't at the event when the incident took place, asked his father after seeing the footage: "How did you cut yourself like that?" John Fury headbutts the smallest guy in the room after doing nothing against bigger men. His behaviour gets more embarrassing and erratic at every event, it's absolutely pathetic.pic.twitter.com/84aiuMk6QH — Stephen R Power (@racingblogger) May 13, 2024 × Also Read: NHL: Colorado Avalanche player Valeri Nichushkin suspended six months without pay Fury Sr., however, issued an apology for his behaviour later on Monday and said:" Sincere apologies to everybody involved. It's just the way we are. Emotions and tensions are running high. He was a very disrespectful fella. If you come close in a fighting man's space, you're gonna cop for something," he told Seconds Out Boxing. "What matters to me is respect for my son, and he wasn't showing any of it. He mentioned my son and that was it, so he had to have it. It doesn't bother me [bleeding], it's what we live for, we're fighting people. That's a regular occurrence to me," he added. Talking about the fighters, Fury has a phenomenal record of 34 wins and one draw in 35 professional fights. Out of his 34 wins, 24 have been knock outs. Ukrainian Usyk, on the other hand, has also been undefeated so far in his 21 fights. He has won all of them with 14 of them being the knock outs. The winner of the fight will be declared the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world - the first since 1999.

Tyson Fury's father head-butts Usyk team member ahead of undisputed heavyweight championship fight - WATCH

Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson is preparing for his first professional fight since 2005. He warned YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul that his life will be on the line during their July 20 bout. Watch this video for all details.

Mike Tyson all set to take on Jake Paul in comeback bout

<p>Initially billed as an exhibition match, the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul fight on July 20 has been sanctioned to be a professional boxing bout. The fight has been sanctioned by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations, confirmed ESPN on Monday (Apr 29). Paul, better known as a YouTuber, also confirmed the news on social media platform X. The fight will be streamed live on Netflix from AT&amp;T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.</p>

<p>It will have eight two-minute rounds with the boxers using 14-ounce gloves.</p>

<p>"Mike Tyson and Jake Paul signed on to fight each other with the desire to do so in a sanctioned professional fight that would have a definitive outcome," Most Valuable Promotions co-founder Nakisa Bidarian said to ESPN.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-te-travis-kelce-signs-new-two-year-contract-extension-with-kansas-city-chiefs-716524">TE Travis Kelce signs new two-year contract extension with Kansas City Chiefs</a></p>

<p>"Over the past six weeks, MVP has worked with its partners to satisfy the requirements of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR) to sanction Paul vs. Tyson, and we are grateful that we have gotten to this point," he added.</p>

<p>Being a professional fight, the result will affect the record of both Tyson and Paul. Tyson, a former heavyweight champion, has a 50-6 professional record. The 57-year-old had last fought in 2005 and last won in 2003.</p>

<p>Paul, a former YouTuber-turned-boxer, has a 9-1 professional record with most of his wins coming against UFC fighter-turned-boxer opponents such as Ben Askren, Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz.</p>

<p>Speaking about his training regime for the fight, Tyson had revealed earlier that he's practicing abstinence.</p>

<p>“Two and a half weeks, I haven’t smoked,” Tyson told The Damon Elliott Show. “And I haven’t had sex for two and a half weeks.”</p>

<p>“I’m living my life disciplined now, so I’m going to have to fight disciplined now,” he added.</p>

<p>Notably, Marijuana falls under banned substance in the state of Texas, USA.<br />
<br />
Speaking on the fight, Tyson also said: "This is a fight. I don't think he's faster than me. I've seen a YouTube of him at 16 doing weird dances. That's not the guy I'm going to be fighting."<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Initially billed as an exhibition match, the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul fight on July 20 has been sanctioned to be a professional boxing bout. The fight has been sanctioned by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations, confirmed ESPN on Monday (Apr 29).

Initially billed as an exhibition match, the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul fight on July 20 has been sanctioned to be a professional boxing bout. The fight has been sanctioned by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations, confirmed ESPN on Monday (Apr 29). Paul, better known as a YouTuber, also confirmed the news on social media platform X. The fight will be streamed live on Netflix from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. It will have eight two-minute rounds with the boxers using 14-ounce gloves. "Mike Tyson and Jake Paul signed on to fight each other with the desire to do so in a sanctioned professional fight that would have a definitive outcome," Most Valuable Promotions co-founder Nakisa Bidarian said to ESPN. Also Read: TE Travis Kelce signs new two-year contract extension with Kansas City Chiefs "Over the past six weeks, MVP has worked with its partners to satisfy the requirements of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR) to sanction Paul vs. Tyson, and we are grateful that we have gotten to this point," he added. Being a professional fight, the result will affect the record of both Tyson and Paul. Tyson, a former heavyweight champion, has a 50-6 professional record. The 57-year-old had last fought in 2005 and last won in 2003. Paul, a former YouTuber-turned-boxer, has a 9-1 professional record with most of his wins coming against UFC fighter-turned-boxer opponents such as Ben Askren, Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz. Speaking about his training regime for the fight, Tyson had revealed earlier that he's practicing abstinence. “Two and a half weeks, I haven’t smoked,” Tyson told The Damon Elliott Show. “And I haven’t had sex for two and a half weeks.” “I’m living my life disciplined now, so I’m going to have to fight disciplined now,” he added. Notably, Marijuana falls under banned substance in the state of Texas, USA. Speaking on the fight, Tyson also said: "This is a fight. I don't think he's faster than me. I've seen a YouTube of him at 16 doing weird dances. That's not the guy I'm going to be fighting." (With inputs from agencies)

Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul boxing fight on July 20 sanctioned as professional bout

<p>​Francis Ngannou, former UFC heavyweight champion and professional boxer, has shared the heartbreaking news of his 15-month-old son's demise. Ngannou posted a tribute on all his social media handles after the news broke out in his home country Cameroon on Monday (Apr 29).</p>

<p>The 37-year-old wrote: "Too soon to leave but yet he's gone. My little boy, my mate, my partner Kobe was full of life and joy. Now, he's laying without life. I shouted his name over and over but he's not responding. I was my best self next to him and now I have no clue of who I am. Life is so unfair to hit us where it hurts the most. How do you deal with such a thing? How can you live with it? Please help me if you have an idea because I really don't know what to do and how to deal with this."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-te-travis-kelce-signs-new-two-year-contract-extension-with-kansas-city-chiefs-716524">TE Travis Kelce signs new two-year contract extension with Kansas City Chiefs</a></p>

<p>Irish MMA fighter Conor McGregor also shared his condolences and posted on his social media handle X: "I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time."</p>

<p>Ngannou has had an inspirational journey as a fighter, first in MMA then in professional boxing. He had moved to Europe from Africa in his 20s. He won the 2021 UFC Championship by beating Stipe Miocic and then defended his belt as well.</p>

<p>He then left UFC to pursue a career in boxing. He took on Tyson Fury in October last year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia but lost the bout. Ngannou, however, impressed everyone with his skill as he took Fury to the edge, including landing a knockout punch in the third round before losing by split decision.</p>

<p>In the next fight, Anthony Joshua floored Ngannou in the Cameroon boxer's second professional boxing bout in March earlier this year.</p>


Francis Ngannou, former UFC heavyweight champion and professional boxer, has shared the heartbreaking news of his 15-month-old son's demise. Ngannou posted a tribute on all his social media handles after the news broke out in his home country Cameroon on Monday (Apr 29).

Francis Ngannou, former UFC heavyweight champion and professional boxer, has shared the heartbreaking news of his 15-month-old son's demise. Ngannou posted a tribute on all his social media handles after the news broke out in his home country Cameroon on Monday (Apr 29). The 37-year-old wrote: "Too soon to leave but yet he's gone. My little boy, my mate, my partner Kobe was full of life and joy. Now, he's laying without life. I shouted his name over and over but he's not responding. I was my best self next to him and now I have no clue of who I am. Life is so unfair to hit us where it hurts the most. How do you deal with such a thing? How can you live with it? Please help me if you have an idea because I really don't know what to do and how to deal with this." Also Read: TE Travis Kelce signs new two-year contract extension with Kansas City Chiefs Irish MMA fighter Conor McGregor also shared his condolences and posted on his social media handle X: "I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time." Ngannou has had an inspirational journey as a fighter, first in MMA then in professional boxing. He had moved to Europe from Africa in his 20s. He won the 2021 UFC Championship by beating Stipe Miocic and then defended his belt as well. He then left UFC to pursue a career in boxing. He took on Tyson Fury in October last year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia but lost the bout. Ngannou, however, impressed everyone with his skill as he took Fury to the edge, including landing a knockout punch in the third round before losing by split decision. In the next fight, Anthony Joshua floored Ngannou in the Cameroon boxer's second professional boxing bout in March earlier this year.

'Please help me...,' Ex-UFC champion ​Francis Ngannou shares emotional note on 15-month-old son's demise

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<p>Australian boxing head coach Jamie Pittman has admitted to sexual misconduct towards female fighters and withdrawn from the upcoming Paris Olympics. The former professional boxer allegedly committed 11 offences during three separate trips with the boxing teams between July and October last year.</p>

<p>The Combat Institute of Australia, acting on behalf of several elite boxers, levelled the accusations against Pittman and served him with a breach notice for abuse, bullying and sexual misconduct.</p>

<p>Australia's National Sports Tribunal - an independent government body, heard the case against Pittman last month, the details of which were made public on Wednesday (Apr 17).&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Once he [Pittman] considered the evidence, he didn’t want to cause any further stress or anxiety to the athletes who were preparing for the upcoming Olympic Games, withdrew his expression of interest to coach at those Games and accepted the breach,” the tribunal stated.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The body found Pittman's conduct ‘disgusting’, ‘shocking’, ‘inappropriate’, ‘gross’ and ‘offensive’.”</p>

<p>“Common to nine of the 11 instances of prohibited conduct are inappropriate comments or conduct involving the sexual objectification of women that is puerile, infantile and lacking in sensitivity or awareness. Especially by someone of Mr Pittman’s seniority and standing in the boxing community who should be leading by example."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Quizzed about the allegations, the Queenslander who represented Australia at the&nbsp;2004 Olympics and 2002 Commonwealth Games, said he&nbsp;will not attend the Paris Games in July.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's all in there for you to read," said Pittman.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-cyclists-association-chief-blasts-against-the-spirit-prize-money-policy-of-world-athletics-712184" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Paris Olympics: Cyclists association chief blast'against the spirit' prize money policy of world athletics&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Six-month ban recommended&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The tribunal has recommended a six-month ban on Pittman and written apologies to a team physiotherapist and at least two athletes. The 'disgraced' coach must also partake in a training course on anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, anti-bullying and anti-sexual misconduct within 60 days.</p>

<p>Notably, in one of the incidents, Pittman took a photo of a female fighter from behind as she bent over and later showed it to another team member.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In another shocking incident, Pittman is alleged to have said, "How&nbsp;f**king hot are some of the girls in here," at an October 2023 team camp in Italy and telling a fighter, "Yummy, yes please"&nbsp;when a female boxer walked past him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Paris Olympics are less than four months away and the scandal has the potential to severely derail the momentum of fighters, experts said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australian boxing head coach Jamie Pittman has admitted to sexual misconduct towards female fighters and withdrawn from the upcoming Paris Olympics. The former professional boxer allegedly committed 11 offences during three separate trips with the boxing teams between July and October last year.

Australian boxing head coach Jamie Pittman has admitted to sexual misconduct towards female fighters and withdrawn from the upcoming Paris Olympics. The former professional boxer allegedly committed 11 offences during three separate trips with the boxing teams between July and October last year. The Combat Institute of Australia, acting on behalf of several elite boxers, levelled the accusations against Pittman and served him with a breach notice for abuse, bullying and sexual misconduct. Australia's National Sports Tribunal - an independent government body, heard the case against Pittman last month, the details of which were made public on Wednesday (Apr 17). “Once he [Pittman] considered the evidence, he didn’t want to cause any further stress or anxiety to the athletes who were preparing for the upcoming Olympic Games, withdrew his expression of interest to coach at those Games and accepted the breach,” the tribunal stated. "The body found Pittman's conduct ‘disgusting’, ‘shocking’, ‘inappropriate’, ‘gross’ and ‘offensive’.” “Common to nine of the 11 instances of prohibited conduct are inappropriate comments or conduct involving the sexual objectification of women that is puerile, infantile and lacking in sensitivity or awareness. Especially by someone of Mr Pittman’s seniority and standing in the boxing community who should be leading by example." Quizzed about the allegations, the Queenslander who represented Australia at the 2004 Olympics and 2002 Commonwealth Games, said he will not attend the Paris Games in July. "It's all in there for you to read," said Pittman. Also read | Paris Olympics: Cyclists association chief blast'against the spirit' prize money policy of world athletics Six-month ban recommended The tribunal has recommended a six-month ban on Pittman and written apologies to a team physiotherapist and at least two athletes. The 'disgraced' coach must also partake in a training course on anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, anti-bullying and anti-sexual misconduct within 60 days. Notably, in one of the incidents, Pittman took a photo of a female fighter from behind as she bent over and later showed it to another team member. In another shocking incident, Pittman is alleged to have said, "How f**king hot are some of the girls in here," at an October 2023 team camp in Italy and telling a fighter, "Yummy, yes please" when a female boxer walked past him. The Paris Olympics are less than four months away and the scandal has the potential to severely derail the momentum of fighters, experts said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian boxing head coach Jamie Pittman quits Paris Olympics after admitting to sexual misconduct

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron, in a rare occurrence, shared his intimate images of boxing, which were described by the French media as the ultimate show of “virility”.</p>

<p>The official presidential photographer Soazig de la Moissonniere shared two black and white photographs of Macron hitting a punching bag in a gym on the social media platform Instagram.</p>

<p>In the images, Macron's bulging biceps could be seen as he strongly punched the bag.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>How French media reacted to the 'macho' images of Macron</strong></h2>

<p>Regional French daily newspaper Nice-Matin said that the images of Macron carry a message of “ultimate virility”.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, CNews said that the French president appeared “ready for battle, his gaze fixed on the punching bag as if determined to beat his opponents”.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-frances-macron-says-russia-will-be-asked-to-observe-ceasefire-during-paris-olympics-701050">Ukraine war: France's Macron says Russia will be asked to observe ceasefire during Paris Olympics</a></p>

<p>“With his features drawn, his muscles bulging and his teeth clenched, the president looks like a real warrior. A situation that echoes the tense news of recent days,” it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Some admire Macron's boxer avatar, while others wonder if it is work of AI&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The images of Macron were admired by many, however, some even raised concerns that it was AI-generated.</p>

<p>“He’s in Olympic form” four months ahead of the Paris Games, L’Essentiel wrote. Some of the users even said, “Who has more flow and virility between Emmanuel Macron and Vladimir Putin? And who would win an MMA fight?”</p>

<p>Many said that Macron must have used Photoshop to enlarge his biceps. “AI can do wonderful things,” said another commentator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m afraid of nothing, not even ridicule. Please tell me this is a montage or a sketch. What a poser lol. Everything is spin with him," wrote a user on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Green MP Sandrine Rousseau criticising Macron's images said that it is evidence of “macho codes used ad nauseam”.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: French President Macron warns against limited support to Kyiv</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-french-president-macron-warns-against-limited-support-to-kyiv-700354/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>“What political misery. What a defeat for progressivism. And what poor political communication," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, French spin doctor Gaspard Gantzer appreciated the photos and called them “interesting” both in terms of public relations and aesthetics.</p>

<p>Macron wanted to show he was “in good physical shape… and remains someone who is full of energy and motivated”, but also that he “is ready to fight”, he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In December, French first lady Brigitte Macron said that her husband spends 45 minutes twice a week&nbsp;boxing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


French President Emmanuel Macron, in a rare occurrence, shared his intimate images of boxing, which were described by the French media as the ultimate show of “virility”.

French President Emmanuel Macron, in a rare occurrence, shared his intimate images of boxing, which were described by the French media as the ultimate show of “virility”. The official presidential photographer Soazig de la Moissonniere shared two black and white photographs of Macron hitting a punching bag in a gym on the social media platform Instagram. In the images, Macron's bulging biceps could be seen as he strongly punched the bag. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Soazig de la Moissonnière (@soazigdelamoissonniere) × How French media reacted to the 'macho' images of Macron Regional French daily newspaper Nice-Matin said that the images of Macron carry a message of “ultimate virility”. Meanwhile, CNews said that the French president appeared “ready for battle, his gaze fixed on the punching bag as if determined to beat his opponents”. Also Read: Ukraine war: France's Macron says Russia will be asked to observe ceasefire during Paris Olympics “With his features drawn, his muscles bulging and his teeth clenched, the president looks like a real warrior. A situation that echoes the tense news of recent days,” it added. Some admire Macron's boxer avatar, while others wonder if it is work of AI The images of Macron were admired by many, however, some even raised concerns that it was AI-generated. “He’s in Olympic form” four months ahead of the Paris Games, L’Essentiel wrote. Some of the users even said, “Who has more flow and virility between Emmanuel Macron and Vladimir Putin? And who would win an MMA fight?” Many said that Macron must have used Photoshop to enlarge his biceps. “AI can do wonderful things,” said another commentator. “I’m afraid of nothing, not even ridicule. Please tell me this is a montage or a sketch. What a poser lol. Everything is spin with him," wrote a user on X. Green MP Sandrine Rousseau criticising Macron's images said that it is evidence of “macho codes used ad nauseam”. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: French President Macron warns against limited support to Kyiv “What political misery. What a defeat for progressivism. And what poor political communication," he said. However, French spin doctor Gaspard Gantzer appreciated the photos and called them “interesting” both in terms of public relations and aesthetics. Macron wanted to show he was “in good physical shape… and remains someone who is full of energy and motivated”, but also that he “is ready to fight”, he said. In December, French first lady Brigitte Macron said that her husband spends 45 minutes twice a week boxing. (With inputs from agencies)

Emmanuel Macron shows off bull-boxing skills 'Robert de Niro style'

<p>World Boxing will seek recognition from Olympic organisers to replace the Russian-led International Boxing Association and keep the troubled sport on the programme for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, the fledgling body said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>The International Olympic Committee (IOC) stripped the IBA of recognition last June after saying it had failed to complete reforms on governance, finance and ethical issues.</p>

<p>The boxing tournaments at the Paris Games are being organised by the IOC but sports director Kit McConnell said this week that the Executive Board had stressed the situation could not continue. "This must be the last time that such a process can be undertaken by the IOC," he said. "Following the decision by the IOC Session last year, the inclusion of boxing in the LA28 Olympic programme is on hold and not confirmed."</p>

<p>"If there is no boxing body supported and driven by the National Federations, we will not be in a position to include boxing in the Olympic programme," he added.&nbsp;McConnell said it was up to national federations to create such a body and emphasised that IBA would not be involved in the organisation of boxing at the 2028 Games, should the sport be included.</p>

<p>World Boxing, which launched in April last year, elected in November former Dutch federation head Boris van der Vorst as its first president. "The comments made by the IOC send a clear message to boxing national federations that they must join and support a new international federation immediately if boxing is to remain on the Olympic programme," it said in a statement.</p>

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<p>"World Boxing will seek recognition (from the IOC)," it added. "Should it choose to engage with us, we are committed to working constructively and collaboratively with national federations and all stakeholders to develop a pathway that will preserve boxing's place on the Olympic programme at Los Angeles 2028 and beyond."</p>

<p>The IOC said 188 boxers from 56 National Olympic Committees had so far secured their places for Paris. The final world qualifying tournament will be held in Bangkok from May 25 to June 2 with 51 quota places available. World Boxing currently has 27 national federations, covering every continent involved in Olympic-style boxing, as members including the United States.</p>


World Boxing will seek recognition from Olympic organisers to replace the Russian-led International Boxing Association and keep the troubled sport on the programme for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, the fledgling body said on Wednesday.

World Boxing will seek recognition from Olympic organisers to replace the Russian-led International Boxing Association and keep the troubled sport on the programme for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, the fledgling body said on Wednesday. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) stripped the IBA of recognition last June after saying it had failed to complete reforms on governance, finance and ethical issues. The boxing tournaments at the Paris Games are being organised by the IOC but sports director Kit McConnell said this week that the Executive Board had stressed the situation could not continue. "This must be the last time that such a process can be undertaken by the IOC," he said. "Following the decision by the IOC Session last year, the inclusion of boxing in the LA28 Olympic programme is on hold and not confirmed." "If there is no boxing body supported and driven by the National Federations, we will not be in a position to include boxing in the Olympic programme," he added. McConnell said it was up to national federations to create such a body and emphasised that IBA would not be involved in the organisation of boxing at the 2028 Games, should the sport be included. World Boxing, which launched in April last year, elected in November former Dutch federation head Boris van der Vorst as its first president. "The comments made by the IOC send a clear message to boxing national federations that they must join and support a new international federation immediately if boxing is to remain on the Olympic programme," it said in a statement. ALSO READ | Police treating tennis star Aryna Sabalenka boyfriend Konstantin Koltsov's death as 'apparent suicide' "World Boxing will seek recognition (from the IOC)," it added. "Should it choose to engage with us, we are committed to working constructively and collaboratively with national federations and all stakeholders to develop a pathway that will preserve boxing's place on the Olympic programme at Los Angeles 2028 and beyond." The IOC said 188 boxers from 56 National Olympic Committees had so far secured their places for Paris. The final world qualifying tournament will be held in Bangkok from May 25 to June 2 with 51 quota places available. World Boxing currently has 27 national federations, covering every continent involved in Olympic-style boxing, as members including the United States.

World Boxing to seek IOC recognition to replace Russian-led IBA for 2028 Olympic Games

<p>India’s Nishant Dev went down fighting 1-4 against the 2021 World Championships silver medallist Omari Jones of USA in the men’s 71kg quarter-finals at the 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy.</p>

<p>A closely fought contest witnessed contrasting first two rounds. Omari dominated the first one effectively using speed to his advantage to secure a perfect 5-0 start.</p>

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<p>However, Nishant got himself back and looked more effective as the southpaw delivered some good combinations of left hook and jab in what was an action-packed three minutes which involved a lot of holding and grappling. Omari relied on the counter attack but it was Nishant who secured the second round with a 4-1 scoreline.</p>

<p>The final round was intense as Nishant continued his aggressive display and took an early advantage. Both the boxers looked tired as the round progressed but Jones made the most use of the final 60 seconds with some effective punches, tilting the decision of the match in his favour.</p>

<p>With Nishant’s loss, India stand at four quotas for Paris Olympic Games 2024 with Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg) and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) confirming their berths with impressive performances at the Asian Games.</p>

<p>The Indian boxers will get another opportunity to secure the Paris Olympics quotas through the second World Qualification Tournament, to be held in Bangkok from May 23 to June 3.</p>


India’s Nishant Dev went down fighting 1-4 against the 2021 World Championships silver medallist Omari Jones of USA in the men’s 71kg quarter-finals at the 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy.

India’s Nishant Dev went down fighting 1-4 against the 2021 World Championships silver medallist Omari Jones of USA in the men’s 71kg quarter-finals at the 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy. A closely fought contest witnessed contrasting first two rounds. Omari dominated the first one effectively using speed to his advantage to secure a perfect 5-0 start. Also Read: Rugby: Two-time world champions Australia slump to new low in world rankings as Italy rise However, Nishant got himself back and looked more effective as the southpaw delivered some good combinations of left hook and jab in what was an action-packed three minutes which involved a lot of holding and grappling. Omari relied on the counter attack but it was Nishant who secured the second round with a 4-1 scoreline. The final round was intense as Nishant continued his aggressive display and took an early advantage. Both the boxers looked tired as the round progressed but Jones made the most use of the final 60 seconds with some effective punches, tilting the decision of the match in his favour. With Nishant’s loss, India stand at four quotas for Paris Olympic Games 2024 with Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg) and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) confirming their berths with impressive performances at the Asian Games. The Indian boxers will get another opportunity to secure the Paris Olympics quotas through the second World Qualification Tournament, to be held in Bangkok from May 23 to June 3.

India’s Nishant Dev loses to USA's Omari Jones in maiden World Olympic Boxing Qualifiers

<p>Britain's former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua demolished former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou with three knockdowns in two rounds at Riyadh's Kingdom Arena on Saturday (March 8).</p>

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<p>Joshua sent the 37-year-old Cameroon-born fighter to the canvas in the opening round of their "Knockout Chaos" fight with a straight right to the chin and then felled him twice more in round two.</p>

<p>Ngannou, in only his second professional bout after losing on a split decision to WBC champion Tyson Fury in Riyadh last October, beat the count on the second knockdown but there was no coming back from the third.</p>

<p>Joshua sent him crashing as the referee stepped in and waved the fight off.</p>


Britain's former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua demolished former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou with three knockdowns in two rounds at Riyadh's Kingdom Arena on Saturday (March 8).

Britain's former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua demolished former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou with three knockdowns in two rounds at Riyadh's Kingdom Arena on Saturday (March 8). Also Read: 'We both are competitive but don’t think there is a rivalry,' says Klopp ahead of Liverpool-Man City clash Joshua sent the 37-year-old Cameroon-born fighter to the canvas in the opening round of their "Knockout Chaos" fight with a straight right to the chin and then felled him twice more in round two. Ngannou, in only his second professional bout after losing on a split decision to WBC champion Tyson Fury in Riyadh last October, beat the count on the second knockdown but there was no coming back from the third. Joshua sent him crashing as the referee stepped in and waved the fight off.

Anthony Joshua thrashes Francis Ngannou with three knockdowns in two rounds

<p><strong>Pakistan Sports news:&nbsp;</strong>It was yet another embarrassing day for Pakistani sports on Tuesday (Mar 5) after an incident saw last year’s Asian Boxing Championships bronze medallist Zohaib Rasheed take an unwanted route to participate in the Olympic qualifiers. According to reports from Pakistani media, Rasheed stole money from his female teammate Laura Ikram to flee to Italy in order to participate in an Olympic qualifying tournament. The incident took everyone by surprise after which a senior official of the federation reported the incident to the Pakistani Embassy in Italy.</p>

<h2><strong>Zohaib Rasheed flees to Italy for qualifiers</strong></h2>

<p>With the Olympics less than six months away,&nbsp;the qualification for several events has taken centre stage. Rasheed, a rising star in the country, was determined to secure a berth at the Paris games but may face huge consequences for the theft. According to a female boxer Laura Ikram, Rasheed took the keys to her hotel room from the reception where they were training. He then went to her room and stole all the foreign currency that he is reported to have used to fund his travel to Italy for the qualifiers.</p>

<p>"It is most embarrassing for the federation and country the way Zohaib Rasheed has behaved as he had gone there as part of a five-member squad to take part in an Olympic qualifying tournament," the national federation's secretary, Colonel Nasir Ahmed said.</p>

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<p>"The police have been informed and they are now searching for him but he is not in contact with anyone," Nasir said.</p>

<p>The incident is now been investigated by the Pakistani Embassy in Rome after receiving&nbsp;a complaint from the Boxing Federation.</p>

<p>Although there is no comment from the embassy at the time of writing, it is expected that Rasheed could be deported to Pakistan. He could further face sanctions from the boxing association of the nation, while judicial action will also be on the cards for the bronze medallist of the Asian Boxing Championships.</p>


Pakistan Sports news: It was yet another embarrassing day for Pakistani sports on Tuesday (Mar 5) after an incident saw last year’s Asian Boxing Championships bronze medallist Zohaib Rasheed take an unwanted route to participate in the Olympic qualifiers.

Pakistan Sports news: It was yet another embarrassing day for Pakistani sports on Tuesday (Mar 5) after an incident saw last year’s Asian Boxing Championships bronze medallist Zohaib Rasheed take an unwanted route to participate in the Olympic qualifiers. According to reports from Pakistani media, Rasheed stole money from his female teammate Laura Ikram to flee to Italy in order to participate in an Olympic qualifying tournament. The incident took everyone by surprise after which a senior official of the federation reported the incident to the Pakistani Embassy in Italy. Zohaib Rasheed flees to Italy for qualifiers With the Olympics less than six months away, the qualification for several events has taken centre stage. Rasheed, a rising star in the country, was determined to secure a berth at the Paris games but may face huge consequences for the theft. According to a female boxer Laura Ikram, Rasheed took the keys to her hotel room from the reception where they were training. He then went to her room and stole all the foreign currency that he is reported to have used to fund his travel to Italy for the qualifiers. "It is most embarrassing for the federation and country the way Zohaib Rasheed has behaved as he had gone there as part of a five-member squad to take part in an Olympic qualifying tournament," the national federation's secretary, Colonel Nasir Ahmed said. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka selectors bank on recalled wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella's 'experience' in upcoming T20 World Cup "The police have been informed and they are now searching for him but he is not in contact with anyone," Nasir said. The incident is now been investigated by the Pakistani Embassy in Rome after receiving a complaint from the Boxing Federation. Although there is no comment from the embassy at the time of writing, it is expected that Rasheed could be deported to Pakistan. He could further face sanctions from the boxing association of the nation, while judicial action will also be on the cards for the bronze medallist of the Asian Boxing Championships.

Pakistani boxer steals money from female teammate, flees to Italy for Olympic qualifiers

<p>India’s welterweight talent Neeraj Goyat(18-4-2, 8 KOs) will be the newest signee to Most Valuable Promotions’ (MVP) expanding roster of world-class fighters. The announcement comes on the heels of Goyat’s surge to the forefront of fighter attention worldwide. Goyat campaigned to fight MVP co-founder and international superstar Jake Paul, which culminated with him traveling to San Juan, Puerto Rico to face off with Paul in person ahead of Paul’s Saturday bout.</p>

<p>Goyat born in Haryana, India, began his amateur boxing career in 2006 while attending the Army Sports Institute and quickly began his rise to the top, winning first the bronze medal in 2007 at India’s Junior National Tournament, then the gold in 2008 in the Youth National Tournament.</p>

<p>Goyat went on to become the first Indian boxer to participate in Olympic qualifiers, winning bronze in Venezuela before the 2016 Summer Games. Goyat is a three-time WBC Asia title holder and held the title in 2015, 2016, and 2017.</p>

<p>He was named “Honorary Boxer of the Year” in 2017 by WBC Asia. Goyat was hurt in a car accident in 2019, which postponed a mega fight in the works against Amir Khan, but has since resumed fighting and continues his hunt for greatness. He trains under Kuldeep Keepa.</p>

<p>"I'm truly honored to be the newest member of the Most Valuable Promotions family. MVP has been making waves in the boxing world, particularly with its commitment to showcasing and uplifting women in the sport since 2021,” said Neeraj Goyat. “In just 2.5 years, MVP has organized some of the world's most significant boxing events, and I'm excited to work with MVP to elevate the status of professional boxing in India and bring attention to boxers from India globally.”</p>

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<p>Goyat joins MVP’s elite roster of superstar athletes and up-and-coming stars including international superstar Jake Paul, boxing trailblazer and unified featherweight world champion Amanda Serrano, prolific top boxing prospect H2O Sylve, power-puncher Shadasia Green and multi-talented megastar Javon Walton, who will make his global debut alongside Serrano and Paul on Saturday, March 2 at the legendary Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, Puerto Rico. As the first international athlete signed to MVP, Goyat will continue to excel as a fighter and compete in MVP’s future marquee events.</p>

<p>"Neeraj Goyat marks a historic milestone as MVP's inaugural international athlete signee, and we couldn’t be more excited about his potential as a standout competitor and leader in the realm of boxing," said MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian.</p>


India’s welterweight talent Neeraj Goyat(18-4-2, 8 KOs) will be the newest signee to Most Valuable Promotions’ (MVP) expanding roster of world-class fighters. The announcement comes on the heels of Goyat’s surge to the forefront of fighter attention worldwide.

India’s welterweight talent Neeraj Goyat(18-4-2, 8 KOs) will be the newest signee to Most Valuable Promotions’ (MVP) expanding roster of world-class fighters. The announcement comes on the heels of Goyat’s surge to the forefront of fighter attention worldwide. Goyat campaigned to fight MVP co-founder and international superstar Jake Paul, which culminated with him traveling to San Juan, Puerto Rico to face off with Paul in person ahead of Paul’s Saturday bout. Goyat born in Haryana, India, began his amateur boxing career in 2006 while attending the Army Sports Institute and quickly began his rise to the top, winning first the bronze medal in 2007 at India’s Junior National Tournament, then the gold in 2008 in the Youth National Tournament. Goyat went on to become the first Indian boxer to participate in Olympic qualifiers, winning bronze in Venezuela before the 2016 Summer Games. Goyat is a three-time WBC Asia title holder and held the title in 2015, 2016, and 2017. He was named “Honorary Boxer of the Year” in 2017 by WBC Asia. Goyat was hurt in a car accident in 2019, which postponed a mega fight in the works against Amir Khan, but has since resumed fighting and continues his hunt for greatness. He trains under Kuldeep Keepa. "I'm truly honored to be the newest member of the Most Valuable Promotions family. MVP has been making waves in the boxing world, particularly with its commitment to showcasing and uplifting women in the sport since 2021,” said Neeraj Goyat. “In just 2.5 years, MVP has organized some of the world's most significant boxing events, and I'm excited to work with MVP to elevate the status of professional boxing in India and bring attention to boxers from India globally.” ALSO READ | Former World Cup winner and MP Gautam Gambhir requests ruling BJP for release from political duties Goyat joins MVP’s elite roster of superstar athletes and up-and-coming stars including international superstar Jake Paul, boxing trailblazer and unified featherweight world champion Amanda Serrano, prolific top boxing prospect H2O Sylve, power-puncher Shadasia Green and multi-talented megastar Javon Walton, who will make his global debut alongside Serrano and Paul on Saturday, March 2 at the legendary Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, Puerto Rico. As the first international athlete signed to MVP, Goyat will continue to excel as a fighter and compete in MVP’s future marquee events. "Neeraj Goyat marks a historic milestone as MVP's inaugural international athlete signee, and we couldn’t be more excited about his potential as a standout competitor and leader in the realm of boxing," said MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian.

Boxing: India's Neeraj Goyat signs lucrative new deal, to star along side Jake Paul

<p>A "saddened and disappointed" Manny Pacquiao conceded Monday his Olympic boxing dream was over after the ring great was denied a berth at this year's Paris games.</p>

<p>The International Olympic Committee rejected a special request for Pacquiao to take part, the Philippine Olympic Committee announced Sunday.</p>

<p>Pacquiao, 45, who hung up his gloves in 2021 before an unsuccessful presidential run, said he respected the decision of the IOC, which has an age limit of 40 for Olympic boxers.</p>

<p>"While I am very saddened and disappointed, I understand and accept the age-limit rules," said a statement from Pacquiao, who won world titles at eight different weights during a glittering professional ring career spanning more than a quarter of a century.</p>

<p>The Philippines last year asked the IOC for a "universality place" for Pacquiao, who has never boxed in the Olympics.</p>

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<p>Universality places are usually awarded to athletes from smaller countries who struggle to secure slots in the Olympics through normal qualification.</p>

<p>Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino claimed Sunday the IOC decision would deprive the country of a "sure podium or first ever gold" in Olympic boxing.</p>

<p>Pacquiao said he will continue to support and cheer for Filipino athletes competing in the Olympics.</p>

<p>He also reminded his fans that despite his retirement, he intends "to bring pride and honour to my country inside the boxing ring in the near future".</p>

<p>A Pacquiao aide confirmed to reporters Monday that Pacquiao will fight Thai kickboxer Buakaw Banchamek in an April 20 exhibition match in Bangkok.</p>

<p>The match against Muay Thai great Buakaw will be fought under international boxing rules, the aide said.</p>


A "saddened and disappointed" Manny Pacquiao conceded Monday his Olympic boxing dream was over after the ring great was denied a berth at this year's Paris games.

A "saddened and disappointed" Manny Pacquiao conceded Monday his Olympic boxing dream was over after the ring great was denied a berth at this year's Paris games. The International Olympic Committee rejected a special request for Pacquiao to take part, the Philippine Olympic Committee announced Sunday. Pacquiao, 45, who hung up his gloves in 2021 before an unsuccessful presidential run, said he respected the decision of the IOC, which has an age limit of 40 for Olympic boxers. "While I am very saddened and disappointed, I understand and accept the age-limit rules," said a statement from Pacquiao, who won world titles at eight different weights during a glittering professional ring career spanning more than a quarter of a century. The Philippines last year asked the IOC for a "universality place" for Pacquiao, who has never boxed in the Olympics. ALSO READ: F1: Red Bull team boss Christian Horner declares business as normal despite allegations Universality places are usually awarded to athletes from smaller countries who struggle to secure slots in the Olympics through normal qualification. Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino claimed Sunday the IOC decision would deprive the country of a "sure podium or first ever gold" in Olympic boxing. Pacquiao said he will continue to support and cheer for Filipino athletes competing in the Olympics. He also reminded his fans that despite his retirement, he intends "to bring pride and honour to my country inside the boxing ring in the near future". A Pacquiao aide confirmed to reporters Monday that Pacquiao will fight Thai kickboxer Buakaw Banchamek in an April 20 exhibition match in Bangkok. The match against Muay Thai great Buakaw will be fought under international boxing rules, the aide said.

Boxing: Manny Pacquiao accepts fate as IOC denies him spot at 2024 Paris Games

<p>Poland's former WBO cruiserweight champion Krzysztof Glowacki has been banned from all sport for four years for the use of an anabolic steroid, UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) said on Tuesday. The 37-year-old, who has won 32 of his 36 professional fights, failed a drugs test after his loss to Richard Riakporhe one year ago in Manchester.</p>

<p>His urine sample returned an adverse analytical finding for Boldenone which is listed under section S1 of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) 2023 Prohibited List as an anabolic androgenic steroid. Glowacki, who denied taking a prohibited substance, was provisionally suspended in April 2023 and his case was heard by an independent National-Anti-Doping Panel on Oct. 31.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-big-blow-miami-dolphins-pass-rusher-bradley-chubb-out-of-the-season-due-to-torn-acl-675918">Big blow! Miami Dolphins’ pass-rusher Bradley Chubb out of the season due to torn ACL</a></strong></p>

<p>Walcz-born Glowacki first won the WBO cruiserweight title in a thrilling contest against Marco Huck in New Jersey 2015 and managed one successful defence before losing to current heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk on points in 2016.</p>

<p>Glowacki had been granted a foreign boxer's license by the British Boxing Board of Control for his bout last January and was therefore bound by UK Anti-Doping regulations.</p>


Poland's former WBO cruiserweight champion Krzysztof Glowacki has been banned from all sport for four years for the use of an anabolic steroid, UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) said on Tuesday.

Poland's former WBO cruiserweight champion Krzysztof Glowacki has been banned from all sport for four years for the use of an anabolic steroid, UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) said on Tuesday. The 37-year-old, who has won 32 of his 36 professional fights, failed a drugs test after his loss to Richard Riakporhe one year ago in Manchester. His urine sample returned an adverse analytical finding for Boldenone which is listed under section S1 of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) 2023 Prohibited List as an anabolic androgenic steroid. Glowacki, who denied taking a prohibited substance, was provisionally suspended in April 2023 and his case was heard by an independent National-Anti-Doping Panel on Oct. 31. Also read: Big blow! Miami Dolphins’ pass-rusher Bradley Chubb out of the season due to torn ACL Walcz-born Glowacki first won the WBO cruiserweight title in a thrilling contest against Marco Huck in New Jersey 2015 and managed one successful defence before losing to current heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk on points in 2016. Glowacki had been granted a foreign boxer's license by the British Boxing Board of Control for his bout last January and was therefore bound by UK Anti-Doping regulations.

Boxing: Former WBO champion Krzysztof Glowacki receives four-year ban for doping offence

<p>Neeraj Goyat, the acclaimed 'WBC Asia Champion' and trailblazer in Indian boxing, officially challenges the globally recognised American YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul. Notably, Jake Paul swiftly responded within 16 hours, acknowledging the gauntlet thrown by Goyat. With a legacy of securing the title of "India's Most Promising Boxer" in 2008, Goyat stands as a symbol of unwavering dedication to the sport.</p>

<p>In a statement resonating with zeal, Goyat shares, "Challenging Jake Paul is more than a personal pursuit; it's a mission to showcase the strength and prowess of Indian boxers worldwide. Stepping into the ring with Jake is an opportunity to make a resounding statement for boxing enthusiasts globally."</p>

<p>In addition to this challenge, Jake Paul responded with a bold declaration, "Anytime, anywhere. Brother, you're too small, walking at 150 lbs. Maybe I'll tie one arm at my back." This exchange adds an intriguing dimension to the upcoming clash, as Goyat sees this challenge as transcending the sport, emphasizing a shared commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide. The upcoming clash promises to be historic, as Neeraj Goyat aims to leave an enduring impact on the global stage, showcasing the strength, skill, and fearlessness of Indian boxers.</p>

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<p>Undeniably ready for any weight category, Goyat declares, "I am prepared to challenge Jake Paul in any weight category. If weight needs to be added, I am ready to do whatever it takes. This is about highlighting the adaptability and fearlessness of Indian boxers."</p>

<p>Having made history as the first Indian boxer in WBC World events, Goyat has not only captured Indian hearts but also left an indelible mark on the global stage. His callout to Jake Paul emphasises breaking barriers and proving that Indian boxers can compete at the highest international levels.</p>

<p>In addition to this challenge, Jake Paul's previous fights against notable opponents such as Deji, AnEsonGib, Nate Robinson, Ben Askren, and Tyron Woodley are noteworthy. This history adds to the anticipation of the upcoming clash, as Goyat sees this challenge as transcending the sport, emphasizing a shared commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide. The upcoming clash promises to be historic, as Neeraj Goyat aims to leave an enduring impact on the global stage, showcasing the strength, skill, and fearlessness of Indian boxers.</p>


Neeraj Goyat, the acclaimed 'WBC Asia Champion' and trailblazer in Indian boxing, officially challenges the globally recognised American YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul.

Neeraj Goyat, the acclaimed 'WBC Asia Champion' and trailblazer in Indian boxing, officially challenges the globally recognised American YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul. Notably, Jake Paul swiftly responded within 16 hours, acknowledging the gauntlet thrown by Goyat. With a legacy of securing the title of "India's Most Promising Boxer" in 2008, Goyat stands as a symbol of unwavering dedication to the sport. In a statement resonating with zeal, Goyat shares, "Challenging Jake Paul is more than a personal pursuit; it's a mission to showcase the strength and prowess of Indian boxers worldwide. Stepping into the ring with Jake is an opportunity to make a resounding statement for boxing enthusiasts globally." In addition to this challenge, Jake Paul responded with a bold declaration, "Anytime, anywhere. Brother, you're too small, walking at 150 lbs. Maybe I'll tie one arm at my back." This exchange adds an intriguing dimension to the upcoming clash, as Goyat sees this challenge as transcending the sport, emphasizing a shared commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide. The upcoming clash promises to be historic, as Neeraj Goyat aims to leave an enduring impact on the global stage, showcasing the strength, skill, and fearlessness of Indian boxers. ALSO READ | ICC slaps India with point-deduction for slow over-rate in Centurion Test; Shami’s replacement named Undeniably ready for any weight category, Goyat declares, "I am prepared to challenge Jake Paul in any weight category. If weight needs to be added, I am ready to do whatever it takes. This is about highlighting the adaptability and fearlessness of Indian boxers." Having made history as the first Indian boxer in WBC World events, Goyat has not only captured Indian hearts but also left an indelible mark on the global stage. His callout to Jake Paul emphasises breaking barriers and proving that Indian boxers can compete at the highest international levels. In addition to this challenge, Jake Paul's previous fights against notable opponents such as Deji, AnEsonGib, Nate Robinson, Ben Askren, and Tyron Woodley are noteworthy. This history adds to the anticipation of the upcoming clash, as Goyat sees this challenge as transcending the sport, emphasizing a shared commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide. The upcoming clash promises to be historic, as Neeraj Goyat aims to leave an enduring impact on the global stage, showcasing the strength, skill, and fearlessness of Indian boxers.

Boxing: India’s Neeraj Goyat challenges Jake Paul, claims fight to be ‘more than a personal pursuit’

<p>Featherweight champion Amanda Serrano on Tuesday (December 5) relinquished her WBC title after they refused to allow her to compete in bouts under the same rule-set as men's boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.</p>

<p>Women's championship fights are typically scheduled for no more than 10 rounds with each round lasting two minutes.</p>

<p>Serrano, who had unified the WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine titles, was among the women boxers who launched a campaign in October to have the choice to compete under the same rules as men.</p>

<p>The Puerto Rican fought Danila Ramos to a unanimous decision victory later that month, which was the first time a women's title fight was fought in 12 three-minute rounds.</p>

<p>WBC did not sanction the fight, while the other sanctioning bodies recognised the bout as a title defence for the 35-year-old. "The WBC has refused to evolve the sport for equality. So I am relinquishing their title," Serrano wrote on Instagram.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/nba/news-philadelphia-forward-kelly-oubre-jr-ready-to-return-after-traumatic-hit-and-run-666443">Philadelphia 76ers forward Kelly Oubre Jr. ready to return after 'traumatic' hit and run</a></strong></p>

<p>"Moving forward if a sanctioning body doesn’t want to give me and my fellow fighters the choice to fight the same as the men, then I will not be fighting for that sanctioning body." WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman had earlier said that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women's bouts.</p>

<p>"Tennis, women play three sets. Basketball, the basket is shorter and the ball smaller and those are not contact sports. We stand by safety and well-being of the fighters," Sulaiman wrote on X, formerly Twitter, in September. Both Serrano and Ramos were able to compete under the new rules without damage or incident, Serrano wrote on X. "It’s something I’ve wanted for years and finally now that I’m in the position, I will continue my career under that rule," she added.</p>


Featherweight champion Amanda Serrano on Tuesday (December 5) relinquished her WBC title after they refused to allow her to compete in bouts under the same rule-set as men's boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds.

Featherweight champion Amanda Serrano on Tuesday (December 5) relinquished her WBC title after they refused to allow her to compete in bouts under the same rule-set as men's boxing, with 12 three-minute rounds. Women's championship fights are typically scheduled for no more than 10 rounds with each round lasting two minutes. Serrano, who had unified the WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine titles, was among the women boxers who launched a campaign in October to have the choice to compete under the same rules as men. The Puerto Rican fought Danila Ramos to a unanimous decision victory later that month, which was the first time a women's title fight was fought in 12 three-minute rounds. WBC did not sanction the fight, while the other sanctioning bodies recognised the bout as a title defence for the 35-year-old. "The WBC has refused to evolve the sport for equality. So I am relinquishing their title," Serrano wrote on Instagram. Also Read: Philadelphia 76ers forward Kelly Oubre Jr. ready to return after 'traumatic' hit and run "Moving forward if a sanctioning body doesn’t want to give me and my fellow fighters the choice to fight the same as the men, then I will not be fighting for that sanctioning body." WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman had earlier said that they would not sanction 12 three-minute rounds in women's bouts. "Tennis, women play three sets. Basketball, the basket is shorter and the ball smaller and those are not contact sports. We stand by safety and well-being of the fighters," Sulaiman wrote on X, formerly Twitter, in September. Both Serrano and Ramos were able to compete under the new rules without damage or incident, Serrano wrote on X. "It’s something I’ve wanted for years and finally now that I’m in the position, I will continue my career under that rule," she added.

Boxing: Amanda Serrano relinquishes WBC title following refusal to compete under same rules as men

<p>Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua beat Finnish stand-in Robert Helenius with a seventh round single-punch knockout on Saturday to keep himself on track for a lucrative payday against American Deontay Wilder next year. Helenius, stepping in after Britain's Dillian Whyte was ruled out of the non-title fight by a dope test a week ago, lasted longer than expected but crashed to the canvas one minute and 27 seconds into the round.</p>

<p>Some of the crowd at London's 02, who had grown restless with some booing already in the third round, were heading for the exit by then as Joshua failed to deliver immediate fireworks. The big Briton looked nervous and stiff at the start and strangely tentative when Helenius, who fought in Finland only a week ago, appeared to be out on his legs and ready for the taking.</p>

<p>Joshua climbed straight out of the ring without saying a word after referee Victor Loughlin stopped the contest. He then fist-bumped fans, stopping to share a swig of a drink with watching former UFC champion Conor McGregor, before stepping back inside the ropes.</p>

<p>Helenius meanwhile received medical attention and some oxygen before getting back on his feet. "I knew this would happen, everyone's talking about the new AJ and the old AJ and after two or three rounds the crowd starts to get a little bit impatient," Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn told the BBC. "He finds the measure of his right hand and he delivers one of the knockouts of the year on Robert Helenius... this is just the AJ you're going to see now. "He's still got to be more aggressive than we saw tonight but there's a lot on the line."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-jannik-sinner-thrashes-tommy-paul-to-set-up-canadian-open-final-clash-with-alex-de-minaur-624955">Tennis: Jannik Sinner thrashes Tommy Paul to set up Canadian Open final clash with Alex De Minaur</a></strong></p>

<p>The knockout was the 23rd of Joshua's career, taking his record to 26 wins and three defeats, but his first since December 2020 when he beat Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev in a WBA, IBO, IBF and WBO title defence in London.</p>

<p>Joshua lost those belts to Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk in September 2021. There has been talk of Joshua fighting Wilder, the former WBC champion, next year but the Briton needs to keep winning to be talked about in the same breath as the American and reigning champion Tyson Fury.</p>

<p>"It's hard for him to get up for fights like this," said Hearn. "The Wilder fights, the Fury fights, that's what he wants."</p>

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Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua beat Finnish stand-in Robert Helenius with a seventh round single-punch knockout on Saturday to keep himself on track for a lucrative payday against American Deontay Wilder next year.

Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua beat Finnish stand-in Robert Helenius with a seventh round single-punch knockout on Saturday to keep himself on track for a lucrative payday against American Deontay Wilder next year. Helenius, stepping in after Britain's Dillian Whyte was ruled out of the non-title fight by a dope test a week ago, lasted longer than expected but crashed to the canvas one minute and 27 seconds into the round. Some of the crowd at London's 02, who had grown restless with some booing already in the third round, were heading for the exit by then as Joshua failed to deliver immediate fireworks. The big Briton looked nervous and stiff at the start and strangely tentative when Helenius, who fought in Finland only a week ago, appeared to be out on his legs and ready for the taking. Joshua climbed straight out of the ring without saying a word after referee Victor Loughlin stopped the contest. He then fist-bumped fans, stopping to share a swig of a drink with watching former UFC champion Conor McGregor, before stepping back inside the ropes. Helenius meanwhile received medical attention and some oxygen before getting back on his feet. "I knew this would happen, everyone's talking about the new AJ and the old AJ and after two or three rounds the crowd starts to get a little bit impatient," Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn told the BBC. "He finds the measure of his right hand and he delivers one of the knockouts of the year on Robert Helenius... this is just the AJ you're going to see now. "He's still got to be more aggressive than we saw tonight but there's a lot on the line." Also read: Tennis: Jannik Sinner thrashes Tommy Paul to set up Canadian Open final clash with Alex De Minaur The knockout was the 23rd of Joshua's career, taking his record to 26 wins and three defeats, but his first since December 2020 when he beat Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev in a WBA, IBO, IBF and WBO title defence in London. Joshua lost those belts to Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk in September 2021. There has been talk of Joshua fighting Wilder, the former WBC champion, next year but the Briton needs to keep winning to be talked about in the same breath as the American and reigning champion Tyson Fury. "It's hard for him to get up for fights like this," said Hearn. "The Wilder fights, the Fury fights, that's what he wants." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Boxing: Ex-heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua beats Robert Helenius with seventh-round knockout

<p>Andy Cruz, whose stellar amateur career included Olympic boxing gold for Cuba in Tokyo, launched his pro ring career on Saturday with an impressive unanimous decision victory over experienced Mexican Juan Carlos Burgos.</p>

<p>Cruz looked sharp over all the scheduled 10 rounds at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, Michigan, displaying the speed and footwork that saw him dominate the lightweight amateur ranks.</p>

<p>Two judges scored it 100-90 and a third saw it 98-92 as Cruz got his first pro win in the books against a fighter that has twice challenged for a world title.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tour-de-france-carlos-rodriguez-wins-alpine-stage-as-jonas-vingegaard-retains-slim-lead-616087">Tour de France: Carlos Rodriguez wins Alpine stage as Jonas Vingegaard retains slim lead</a></p>

<p>Burgos, who fell to 35-9 with three draws and 21 knockouts, has never been stopped and Cruz's promoter Eddie Hearn said he hadn't expected Cruz to knock him out.</p>

<p>Indeed, he was pleased the fledgling pro got 10 "solid rounds" under his belt.</p>

<p>"I think the most impressive thing is how he's been aggressive in the whole fight," Hearn told broadcaster DAZN.</p>

<p>In addition to his gold medal at the pandemic delayed Tokyo Games in 2021, Cruz was a three-time amateur world champion.</p>

<p>He opted to leave Cuba last year to pursue his professional fortunes. The Cuban Boxing Federation said in June of last year he'd been caught trying to leave the country illegally.</p>

<p>In May he had been pulled from making his pro debut with other Cuban fighters in Mexico after the Cuban federation accused him of neglecting his training.</p>

<p>By November, Cruz had made his way out of the country, telling ESPN he had left Cuba "legally" and was ready to write a new chapter in his career.</p>

<p>Hearn thought he was off to a good beginning.</p>

<p>"Still work to do, but beautiful start tonight," Hearn said.</p>

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Andy Cruz, whose stellar amateur career included Olympic boxing gold for Cuba in Tokyo, launched his pro ring career on Saturday with an impressive unanimous decision victory over experienced Mexican Juan Carlos Burgos.

Andy Cruz, whose stellar amateur career included Olympic boxing gold for Cuba in Tokyo, launched his pro ring career on Saturday with an impressive unanimous decision victory over experienced Mexican Juan Carlos Burgos. Cruz looked sharp over all the scheduled 10 rounds at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, Michigan, displaying the speed and footwork that saw him dominate the lightweight amateur ranks. Two judges scored it 100-90 and a third saw it 98-92 as Cruz got his first pro win in the books against a fighter that has twice challenged for a world title. Also Read: Tour de France: Carlos Rodriguez wins Alpine stage as Jonas Vingegaard retains slim lead Burgos, who fell to 35-9 with three draws and 21 knockouts, has never been stopped and Cruz's promoter Eddie Hearn said he hadn't expected Cruz to knock him out. Indeed, he was pleased the fledgling pro got 10 "solid rounds" under his belt. "I think the most impressive thing is how he's been aggressive in the whole fight," Hearn told broadcaster DAZN. In addition to his gold medal at the pandemic delayed Tokyo Games in 2021, Cruz was a three-time amateur world champion. He opted to leave Cuba last year to pursue his professional fortunes. The Cuban Boxing Federation said in June of last year he'd been caught trying to leave the country illegally. In May he had been pulled from making his pro debut with other Cuban fighters in Mexico after the Cuban federation accused him of neglecting his training. By November, Cruz had made his way out of the country, telling ESPN he had left Cuba "legally" and was ready to write a new chapter in his career. Hearn thought he was off to a good beginning. "Still work to do, but beautiful start tonight," Hearn said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Olympic golf medalist Andy Cruz wins on pro boxing debut

The International Boxing Association has compared the International Olympic Committee to fascist Germany, after its decision to expel the governing body. The IBA claims that the move will be catastrophic for global boxing.

The International Olympic Committee withdraws recognition of the IBA

<p>The greatest Pay-Per-View (PPV) fight of the century might be in the works. If one is to go by the social media posts of Twitter boss Elon Musk and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, the duo might soon lock horns, that too in a cage match fight.</p>

<p>The chain of events started on Tuesday when Musk, akin to his routine social media behaviour, commented on a tweet about Facebook potentially developing a Twitter competitor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m sure Earth can’t wait to be exclusively under Zuck’s thumb with no other options. At least it will be ‘sane’. Was worried there for a moment,” Musk tweeted with a crying-laughing emoji.</p>

<p>A Twitter user replied to Musk saying he should be careful of Zuckerberg since the Facebook boss had been practising jiu-jitsu, a Brazilian martial art form.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’m up for a cage match if he is lol,” replied a cavalier Musk.</p>

<p>Though one would be forgiven to think it was all banter from Musk, Zuckerberg seemed game for the match. He posted a screenshot of Musk's tweet on his Instagram story, saying, "send me location".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, another netizen posted Zuckerberg's Instagram story screenshot to which Musk replied,&nbsp;“If this is for real, I will do it.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tech outlet <em>The Verge</em> reached out to Meta for a response which said,&nbsp;“The story speaks for itself".&nbsp;Musk also seemingly&nbsp;confirmed the fight by sharing the location of the fight as "Vegas Octagon".&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a subsequent tweet, Musk joked saying, "I have this great move that I call “The Walrus”, where I just lie on top of my opponent &amp; do nothing."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">Vegas Octagon</p>
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<p>Ever since the exchange, netizens are having a blast at the prospect of the two most prominent tech entrepreneurs and billionaires of the world&nbsp;going toe-to-toe in an octagon match.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zuckerberg: A&nbsp;Jiu-Jitsu champ</strong></h2>

<p>Though it is unclear how proficient Musk is with his fists, his potential rival Zuckerberg is no greenhorn. In May,&nbsp;Zuckerberg won a gold and silver medal at his very first&nbsp;Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament in Redwood City, California.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The billionaire CEO took to Instagram where he talked about competing in the Jiu-Jitsu tournament and winning medals for his team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Competed in my first jiu jitsu tournament and won some medals&nbsp;for the Guerrilla Jiu Jitsu team. Thanks to @davecamarillo @khaiwu @intense0ne for training me!" Zuckerberg wrote in the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/meta-founder-mark-zuckerberg-competes-in-jiu-jitsu-tournament-wins-medals-details-inside-590511"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg competes in Jiu-Jitsu tournament, wins medals. Details inside</strong></a></p>

<p>Apart from martial arts, Zuckerberg is also an avid surfer. He routinely posts videos of himself surfing the dangerous waves.</p>

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<p>If the event does go through, it may well be one of the most widely watched events as Musk and Zuckerberg, both command a phenomenal following on social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


The greatest Pay-Per-View (PPV) fight of the century might be in the works. If one is to go by the social media posts of Twitter boss Elon Musk and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, the duo might soon lock horns, that too in a cage match fight.

The greatest Pay-Per-View (PPV) fight of the century might be in the works. If one is to go by the social media posts of Twitter boss Elon Musk and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, the duo might soon lock horns, that too in a cage match fight. The chain of events started on Tuesday when Musk, akin to his routine social media behaviour, commented on a tweet about Facebook potentially developing a Twitter competitor. “I’m sure Earth can’t wait to be exclusively under Zuck’s thumb with no other options. At least it will be ‘sane’. Was worried there for a moment,” Musk tweeted with a crying-laughing emoji. A Twitter user replied to Musk saying he should be careful of Zuckerberg since the Facebook boss had been practising jiu-jitsu, a Brazilian martial art form. “I’m up for a cage match if he is lol,” replied a cavalier Musk. Though one would be forgiven to think it was all banter from Musk, Zuckerberg seemed game for the match. He posted a screenshot of Musk's tweet on his Instagram story, saying, "send me location". Afterwards, another netizen posted Zuckerberg's Instagram story screenshot to which Musk replied, “If this is for real, I will do it.” Tech outlet The Verge reached out to Meta for a response which said, “The story speaks for itself". Musk also seemingly confirmed the fight by sharing the location of the fight as "Vegas Octagon". In a subsequent tweet, Musk joked saying, "I have this great move that I call “The Walrus”, where I just lie on top of my opponent & do nothing." Vegas Octagon — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 22, 2023 × Ever since the exchange, netizens are having a blast at the prospect of the two most prominent tech entrepreneurs and billionaires of the world going toe-to-toe in an octagon match. Zuckerberg: A Jiu-Jitsu champ Though it is unclear how proficient Musk is with his fists, his potential rival Zuckerberg is no greenhorn. In May, Zuckerberg won a gold and silver medal at his very first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament in Redwood City, California. The billionaire CEO took to Instagram where he talked about competing in the Jiu-Jitsu tournament and winning medals for his team. “Competed in my first jiu jitsu tournament and won some medals for the Guerrilla Jiu Jitsu team. Thanks to @davecamarillo @khaiwu @intense0ne for training me!" Zuckerberg wrote in the post. Also read | Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg competes in Jiu-Jitsu tournament, wins medals. Details inside Apart from martial arts, Zuckerberg is also an avid surfer. He routinely posts videos of himself surfing the dangerous waves. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck) × If the event does go through, it may well be one of the most widely watched events as Musk and Zuckerberg, both command a phenomenal following on social media platforms. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Fight of the century? Musk and Zuckerberg 'agree' to fight each other in cage match

<p>After his victory over Britain's John Ryder earlier this month, undisputed super middleweight champion Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez told Reuters on Wednesday he wants another fight with Dmitry Bivol, who handed him a rare loss last year.</p>

<p>The win over Ryder brought Alvarez's record up to 59-2-2 in front of a home crowd in Guadalajara, Mexico. "That's the idea, a rematch with Bivol," Alvarez said on the sidelines of a real estate conference.</p>

<p>One of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the sport, Alvarez added that he wanted the rematch to be at light heavyweight again. Russian Bivol, the WBA light heavyweight champion, told ESPN earlier this month he was more interested in moving down to super middleweight in a bid for Alvarez's championship.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leander-paes-yatin-gupte-collaborate-to-acquire-franchise-in-season-5-of-tennis-premier-league-596095">Leander Paes, Yatin Gupte collaborate to acquire franchise in Season 5 of Tennis Premier League</a></strong></p>

<p>Should Bivol refuse to meet the terms, Alvarez said "there are other fights out there," mentioning twins Jermell and Jermall Charlo and Mexican-American David Benavidez as potential challengers. Benavidez - whom Alvarez called "a great fighter" - has publicly called for a fight between the two in recent months.</p>

<p>Talks for Alvarez's next fight, set to take place in September to coincide with Mexico's Independence Day, will kick off next week, the boxer said. "Right now I'm resting, more than anything," he said, his voice noticeably hoarse.</p>

<p>Alvarez said he was not ruling out another fight in Mexico and that he could fight at the Azteca Stadium, where soccer greats Pele and Diego Maradona won World Cups with Brazil and&nbsp;Argentina. "The possibility of coming back to Mexico (City) or any part of Mexico, I'd love that," he said.</p>


After his victory over Britain's John Ryder earlier this month, undisputed super middleweight champion Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez told Reuters on Wednesday he wants another fight with Dmitry Bivol, who handed him a rare loss last year.

After his victory over Britain's John Ryder earlier this month, undisputed super middleweight champion Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez told Reuters on Wednesday he wants another fight with Dmitry Bivol, who handed him a rare loss last year. The win over Ryder brought Alvarez's record up to 59-2-2 in front of a home crowd in Guadalajara, Mexico. "That's the idea, a rematch with Bivol," Alvarez said on the sidelines of a real estate conference. One of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the sport, Alvarez added that he wanted the rematch to be at light heavyweight again. Russian Bivol, the WBA light heavyweight champion, told ESPN earlier this month he was more interested in moving down to super middleweight in a bid for Alvarez's championship. Also Read: Leander Paes, Yatin Gupte collaborate to acquire franchise in Season 5 of Tennis Premier League Should Bivol refuse to meet the terms, Alvarez said "there are other fights out there," mentioning twins Jermell and Jermall Charlo and Mexican-American David Benavidez as potential challengers. Benavidez - whom Alvarez called "a great fighter" - has publicly called for a fight between the two in recent months. Talks for Alvarez's next fight, set to take place in September to coincide with Mexico's Independence Day, will kick off next week, the boxer said. "Right now I'm resting, more than anything," he said, his voice noticeably hoarse. Alvarez said he was not ruling out another fight in Mexico and that he could fight at the Azteca Stadium, where soccer greats Pele and Diego Maradona won World Cups with Brazil and Argentina. "The possibility of coming back to Mexico (City) or any part of Mexico, I'd love that," he said.

Boxing: Canelo Alvarez sets sights on Dmitry Bivol rematch

<p>Veteran boxer Mary Kom, one-time Olympic medal-winner&nbsp;boxer and Rajya Sabha MP appealed for calm, on&nbsp;Thursday (May 04), after widespread violence in her home state Manipur amid protests against the decision to include the majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. Violence broke out following the Meitei community becoming a part of the ST category. It is to be noted that the community comprises half the state's population. Hence, the move has been challenged by other communities as they believe it will prevent their access to government jobs as well as admission to educational institutions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mary spoke to the news agency ANI and said, "The situation in Manipur makes me unhappy... earlier I could not even imagine this much violence. Since last night it has become more frightening."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sc-closes-proceedings-on-wrestlers-plea-after-registration-of-firs-588858">SC closes proceedings on wrestlers plea after registration of FIRs</a></strong></p>

<p>The boxer also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh and said, "I ask the state and central governments to take steps and (to) maintain peace and security... this is my request.&nbsp;I respect all people. Why can't all of us live in peace... this is my question. If we live in peace it will be better for all of us. It is also unfortunate some people have lost family members in this violence."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My state Manipur is burning, kindly help <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AmitShah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajnathsingh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/republic?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@republic</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndtv?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndtv</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaToday?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaToday</a> <a href="https://t.co/VMdmYMoKqP">pic.twitter.com/VMdmYMoKqP</a></p>
— M C Mary Kom OLY (@MangteC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MangteC/status/1653871522011045888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In addition, Mary said, "As soon as possible this should end... I pray to God everything settles down. My state Manipur is burning, kindly help," she tweeted, tagging prime minister Narendra Modi and his office, as well as home minister Amit Shah and defence minister Rajnath Singh."</p>

<p>Chief Minister N Biren Singh also reacted to the Manipur violence. Earlier in the day, he said, "The government is taking all the measures to maintain the law and order situation in the state. Paramilitary forces have been deployed in sensitive areas. We are committed to protecting the lives and property of all our people. Long-term grievances of different communities will also be suitably addressed in due course in consultation with the people and their representatives." He added, "In this hour, I appeal to one and all to maintain peace and harmony in your respective areas. I ask you not to believe rumours and unverified messages."</p>


Veteran boxer Mary Kom, one-time Olympic medal-winner boxer and Rajya Sabha MP appealed for calm, on Thursday (May 04), after widespread violence in her home state Manipur amid protests against the decision to include the majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category.

Veteran boxer Mary Kom, one-time Olympic medal-winner boxer and Rajya Sabha MP appealed for calm, on Thursday (May 04), after widespread violence in her home state Manipur amid protests against the decision to include the majority Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category. Violence broke out following the Meitei community becoming a part of the ST category. It is to be noted that the community comprises half the state's population. Hence, the move has been challenged by other communities as they believe it will prevent their access to government jobs as well as admission to educational institutions. Mary spoke to the news agency ANI and said, "The situation in Manipur makes me unhappy... earlier I could not even imagine this much violence. Since last night it has become more frightening." Also Read: SC closes proceedings on wrestlers plea after registration of FIRs The boxer also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh and said, "I ask the state and central governments to take steps and (to) maintain peace and security... this is my request. I respect all people. Why can't all of us live in peace... this is my question. If we live in peace it will be better for all of us. It is also unfortunate some people have lost family members in this violence." My state Manipur is burning, kindly help @narendramodi @PMOIndia @AmitShah @rajnathsingh @republic @ndtv @IndiaToday pic.twitter.com/VMdmYMoKqP — M C Mary Kom OLY (@MangteC) May 3, 2023 × In addition, Mary said, "As soon as possible this should end... I pray to God everything settles down. My state Manipur is burning, kindly help," she tweeted, tagging prime minister Narendra Modi and his office, as well as home minister Amit Shah and defence minister Rajnath Singh." Chief Minister N Biren Singh also reacted to the Manipur violence. Earlier in the day, he said, "The government is taking all the measures to maintain the law and order situation in the state. Paramilitary forces have been deployed in sensitive areas. We are committed to protecting the lives and property of all our people. Long-term grievances of different communities will also be suitably addressed in due course in consultation with the people and their representatives." He added, "In this hour, I appeal to one and all to maintain peace and harmony in your respective areas. I ask you not to believe rumours and unverified messages."

'Manipur is burning': Olympic medallist Mary Kom appeals for calm amid violence in her home state

<p>Conor Benn has been provisionally suspended from boxing by UK Anti-Doping, it was announced Thursday.</p>

<p>A scheduled catchweight "grudge" bout against British rival Chris Eubank Jr scheduled for October last year was cancelled after trace amounts of a fertility drug, clomiphene -- which is known to elevate testosterone levels in men -- were found in Benn's urine.</p>

<p>Benn had denied intentionally or knowingly ingesting any banned substances.</p>

<p>In February, the World Boxing Council cleared Benn of a doping offence after the World Boxing Council ruled a "highly-elevated consumption of eggs" constituted a "reasonable explanation" for his positive finding.</p>

<p>But a statement issued by UKAD on Thursday said: "UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) confirms that Mr Benn was notified and provisionally suspended by UKAD on 15 March 2023 in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules.</p>

<p>"Whilst provisionally suspended Mr Benn is prohibited from participating in any capacity (or assisting another athlete in any capacity) in a competition, event or activity that is organised, convened, authorised or recognised by the British Boxing Board of Control or any other World Anti-Doping Code-compliant sport.</p>

<p>"UKAD can also confirm that on 3 April 2023 it charged Mr Benn with an Article 2.2 violation for the alleged use of a prohibited substance (clomiphene). The charge against Mr Benn is pending and will now follow the results management process in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules."</p>

<p>After&nbsp;Boxing News&nbsp;reported Benn was provisionally suspended earlier this week, the 26-year-old tweeted: "I can't comment on anything to do with UKAD other than to say that I am in touch with them", adding, "I remain free to fight outside the UK."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-why-india-should-look-beyond-jasprit-bumrah-for-2023-world-cup-584343">Explained – Why India should look beyond Jasprit Bumrah for 2023 World Cup?</a></p>

<p>Benn relinquished his British boxing licence after testing positive and the BBBofC can request other governing bodies prohibit the undefeated Londoner from fighting abroad.</p>

<p>October's proposed bout was intended to be a continuation of the Benn v Eubank feud in which the rivals' fathers -- Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank Sr -- battled it out in two ferocious contests in the early 1990s.</p>

<p>A catchweight of 157 pounds (71.2kg) was agreed for the sons to continue the family feud, meaning Benn would have had to move up two weight divisions and Eubank lose three pounds.</p>

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Conor Benn has been provisionally suspended from boxing by UK Anti-Doping, it was announced Thursday. A scheduled catchweight "grudge" bout against British rival Chris Eubank Jr scheduled for October last year was cancelled after trace amounts of a fertility drug, clomiphene -- which is known to elevate testosterone levels in men -- were found in Benn's urine.

Conor Benn has been provisionally suspended from boxing by UK Anti-Doping, it was announced Thursday. A scheduled catchweight "grudge" bout against British rival Chris Eubank Jr scheduled for October last year was cancelled after trace amounts of a fertility drug, clomiphene -- which is known to elevate testosterone levels in men -- were found in Benn's urine. Benn had denied intentionally or knowingly ingesting any banned substances. In February, the World Boxing Council cleared Benn of a doping offence after the World Boxing Council ruled a "highly-elevated consumption of eggs" constituted a "reasonable explanation" for his positive finding. But a statement issued by UKAD on Thursday said: "UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) confirms that Mr Benn was notified and provisionally suspended by UKAD on 15 March 2023 in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules. "Whilst provisionally suspended Mr Benn is prohibited from participating in any capacity (or assisting another athlete in any capacity) in a competition, event or activity that is organised, convened, authorised or recognised by the British Boxing Board of Control or any other World Anti-Doping Code-compliant sport. "UKAD can also confirm that on 3 April 2023 it charged Mr Benn with an Article 2.2 violation for the alleged use of a prohibited substance (clomiphene). The charge against Mr Benn is pending and will now follow the results management process in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules." After Boxing News reported Benn was provisionally suspended earlier this week, the 26-year-old tweeted: "I can't comment on anything to do with UKAD other than to say that I am in touch with them", adding, "I remain free to fight outside the UK." ALSO READ | Explained – Why India should look beyond Jasprit Bumrah for 2023 World Cup? Benn relinquished his British boxing licence after testing positive and the BBBofC can request other governing bodies prohibit the undefeated Londoner from fighting abroad. October's proposed bout was intended to be a continuation of the Benn v Eubank feud in which the rivals' fathers -- Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank Sr -- battled it out in two ferocious contests in the early 1990s. A catchweight of 157 pounds (71.2kg) was agreed for the sons to continue the family feud, meaning Benn would have had to move up two weight divisions and Eubank lose three pounds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Conor Benn provisionally suspended from boxing by UK Anti-Doping

<p>A group of federations including the United States and Britain announced a new&nbsp;boxing&nbsp;world body on Thursday in a breakaway move aimed at securing the troubled sport's Olympic future. Leaders of Swiss-registered World&nbsp;Boxing&nbsp;told a news conference they would seek recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).</p>

<p>The founders include federations who have already announced boycotts of this year's men's and women's world championships organised by the Russian-led International&nbsp;Boxing&nbsp;Association (IBA), which was suspended by the IOC in 2019.</p>

<p>"I think we all know that it's time for a change," USA&nbsp;Boxing&nbsp;president Tyson Lee told reporters on a Zoom call. "Or at least it's time for another option -- an option that prioritises the Olympic movement."</p>

<p>Boxing's place in the Olympics after next year's Paris Games remains uncertain, with the sport not on the initial programme for Los Angeles 2028, pending reforms demanded by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).</p>

<p>The IBA was suspended by the IOC over governance, finance, refereeing and ethical issues. The body was stripped of involvement in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the qualifiers for Paris 2024.</p>

<p>The interim executive board of World&nbsp;Boxing&nbsp;will be overseen by Simon Toulson, a Briton who previously led the International Canoe Federation and worked in the IOC's sports department and with national Olympic committees.</p>

<p>There are representatives from Germany, Britain, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Sweden and the United States. Boris van der Vorst, the president of the Dutch&nbsp;boxing&nbsp;federation who was prevented from taking part in the IBA presidential election in May last year, is also on the committee.</p>

<p>"World&nbsp;Boxing&nbsp;represents a coming together of people whose interest is solely in creating a better future for boxers and ensuring the sport continues to be a major part of the Olympic Games," he said.</p>

<p>Leaders said membership would open in May and the new body had a budget of 900,000 euros ($994,680) for this year with money coming through donations, membership and some sponsorship revenues.</p>

<p>Tokyo 2020 middleweight gold medallist Lauren Price of Wales and U.S. super-heavyweight silver medallist Richard Torrez Jr. will serve as athlete representatives on the interim executive board.</p>

<p>They will be supplemented by an athletes' committee of three men and three women. An executive board and president will be elected at an inaugural congress in November.</p>

<p>Toulson said the focus so far had been on becoming a registered association under Swiss law and the IOC had yet to be contacted about recognition, which could take two years to achieve. "Paris might be a little stretched for us to be recognised," he added.</p>

<p>He said World&nbsp;Boxing&nbsp;was not in a fight with IBA, and did not want the situation "to get nasty", but recognised there could be a legal challenge. "IBA can challenge us if they like," he said. "Legally, we have a free association in Switzerland... I don't think that we're that concerned about any legal challenge from IBA."</p>

<p>Toulson said there was also no bar on any federation being a member of both bodies. The strained relations between the IOC and the IBA, led by Russian Umar Kremlev and sponsored by Russian energy giant Gazprom, further soured after Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year.</p>

<p>The governing body defied IOC guidance and lifted a ban on Russian and Belarusian boxers competing under their flags last October. Boxing&nbsp;has been a part of every Olympics since 1904, with the exception of Stockholm 1912 because the sport was banned in Sweden at the time. Women's&nbsp;boxing&nbsp;was added to the programme in 2012.</p>

<p>The United States tops the all-time Olympic&nbsp;boxing&nbsp;medal table with 50 golds and 117 medals, ahead of Cuba and with Britain third.</p>


A group of federations including the United States and Britain announced a new boxing world body on Thursday in a breakaway move aimed at securing the troubled sport's Olympic future.

A group of federations including the United States and Britain announced a new boxing world body on Thursday in a breakaway move aimed at securing the troubled sport's Olympic future. Leaders of Swiss-registered World Boxing told a news conference they would seek recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The founders include federations who have already announced boycotts of this year's men's and women's world championships organised by the Russian-led International Boxing Association (IBA), which was suspended by the IOC in 2019. "I think we all know that it's time for a change," USA Boxing president Tyson Lee told reporters on a Zoom call. "Or at least it's time for another option -- an option that prioritises the Olympic movement." Boxing's place in the Olympics after next year's Paris Games remains uncertain, with the sport not on the initial programme for Los Angeles 2028, pending reforms demanded by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IBA was suspended by the IOC over governance, finance, refereeing and ethical issues. The body was stripped of involvement in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the qualifiers for Paris 2024. The interim executive board of World Boxing will be overseen by Simon Toulson, a Briton who previously led the International Canoe Federation and worked in the IOC's sports department and with national Olympic committees. There are representatives from Germany, Britain, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Sweden and the United States. Boris van der Vorst, the president of the Dutch boxing federation who was prevented from taking part in the IBA presidential election in May last year, is also on the committee. "World Boxing represents a coming together of people whose interest is solely in creating a better future for boxers and ensuring the sport continues to be a major part of the Olympic Games," he said. Leaders said membership would open in May and the new body had a budget of 900,000 euros ($994,680) for this year with money coming through donations, membership and some sponsorship revenues. Tokyo 2020 middleweight gold medallist Lauren Price of Wales and U.S. super-heavyweight silver medallist Richard Torrez Jr. will serve as athlete representatives on the interim executive board. They will be supplemented by an athletes' committee of three men and three women. An executive board and president will be elected at an inaugural congress in November. Toulson said the focus so far had been on becoming a registered association under Swiss law and the IOC had yet to be contacted about recognition, which could take two years to achieve. "Paris might be a little stretched for us to be recognised," he added. He said World Boxing was not in a fight with IBA, and did not want the situation "to get nasty", but recognised there could be a legal challenge. "IBA can challenge us if they like," he said. "Legally, we have a free association in Switzerland... I don't think that we're that concerned about any legal challenge from IBA." Toulson said there was also no bar on any federation being a member of both bodies. The strained relations between the IOC and the IBA, led by Russian Umar Kremlev and sponsored by Russian energy giant Gazprom, further soured after Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year. The governing body defied IOC guidance and lifted a ban on Russian and Belarusian boxers competing under their flags last October. Boxing has been a part of every Olympics since 1904, with the exception of Stockholm 1912 because the sport was banned in Sweden at the time. Women's boxing was added to the programme in 2012. The United States tops the all-time Olympic boxing medal table with 50 golds and 117 medals, ahead of Cuba and with Britain third.

Boxing: Breakaway world body launches to fight for Olympic future

<p>Anthony&nbsp;Joshua&nbsp;has insisted a "Battle of Britain" with Tyson Fury is the bout "the boxing world needs" after he came through a "do or die" fight with American heavyweight Jermaine Franklin.</p>

<p>Former world champion&nbsp;Joshua&nbsp;enjoyed his first professional victory since 2020, albeit in somewhat grinding fashion, with a unanimous points decision success at London's O2 Arena late on Saturday.</p>

<p>Following successive defeats by Oleksandr Usyk, who deprived the now 33-year-old of his world titles across London in Tottenham two years ago, another loss could have meant the end of&nbsp;Joshua's career.</p>

<p>Joshua, however, prevailed over Franklin with a decisive 118-11, 117-111, 117-111 success on the scorecards of the three judges, repeatedly landing with his left jab and hitting his opponent with several powerful right-handed punches.</p>

<p>There has long been talk of&nbsp;Joshua&nbsp;fighting undefeated WBC champion Fury.</p>

<p>But the much-anticipated bout failed to materialise when they both held versions of the world title and the London-based boxer's losses to Usyk appeared to have scuppered hopes of the "super fight" seeing the light of day.</p>

<p>And with talks between Fury's camp and that of Ukrainian hero Usyk having fallen through, the contest could yet take place after all.</p>

<h2>'Chasing the dream'</h2>

<p>There is no doubt about the fight that excites&nbsp;Joshua, with the 2012 Olympic champion's professional record now standing at 25 wins, including 22 knockouts, and three defeats.</p>

<p>"That is the pot of gold. That is the WBC heavyweight champion of the world," he said. "That's what it is all about so definitely Tyson Fury.</p>

<p>"Yeah (another warm-up fight) would be ideal, after that long lay-off, to get active. But sometimes an opportunity presents itself and you have to grab it with both hands ... I would take it and grab it with both hands, 100 percent. The boxing world needs it."</p>

<p>Saturday's contest ended in bizarre fashion when the bell for the 12th round appeared to sound early and&nbsp;Joshua&nbsp;pressed his head into Franklin, prompting the American's strength and fitness coach Lorenzo Reynolds to shove the home fighter.</p>

<p>But what really annoyed&nbsp;Joshua, now working under Dallas-based trainer Derrick James, was his failure to knock out Franklin.</p>

<p>"Deep down I am not happy because the ultimate goal is a knockout," he said. "Nothing can top a knockout. But it is what it is."</p>

<p>And he was adamant his performance proved his passion for boxing remained intact, especially given a fight against Fury was now back on his agenda.</p>

<p>"Do or die?," said&nbsp;Joshua&nbsp;as he reflected on the Franklin bout. "That's a great experience to compete in front of 20,000 people. There's no pressure.</p>

<p>"Honestly it is a blessing. When I look out of that ring after a fight, I am like ... 'that is nuts. Look at all them people'. It is humbling.</p>

<p>"I am definitely passionate about the game, 100 percent, for so many reasons. The list is long and I am committed until it's done.</p>

<p>"The reality I am living is we are still chasing something. Yeah, I'm still chasing the dream."</p>

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Anthony Joshua has insisted a "Battle of Britain" with Tyson Fury is the bout "the boxing world needs" after he came through a "do or die" fight with American heavyweight Jermaine Franklin.

Anthony Joshua has insisted a "Battle of Britain" with Tyson Fury is the bout "the boxing world needs" after he came through a "do or die" fight with American heavyweight Jermaine Franklin. Former world champion Joshua enjoyed his first professional victory since 2020, albeit in somewhat grinding fashion, with a unanimous points decision success at London's O2 Arena late on Saturday. Following successive defeats by Oleksandr Usyk, who deprived the now 33-year-old of his world titles across London in Tottenham two years ago, another loss could have meant the end of Joshua's career. Joshua, however, prevailed over Franklin with a decisive 118-11, 117-111, 117-111 success on the scorecards of the three judges, repeatedly landing with his left jab and hitting his opponent with several powerful right-handed punches. There has long been talk of Joshua fighting undefeated WBC champion Fury. But the much-anticipated bout failed to materialise when they both held versions of the world title and the London-based boxer's losses to Usyk appeared to have scuppered hopes of the "super fight" seeing the light of day. And with talks between Fury's camp and that of Ukrainian hero Usyk having fallen through, the contest could yet take place after all. 'Chasing the dream' There is no doubt about the fight that excites Joshua, with the 2012 Olympic champion's professional record now standing at 25 wins, including 22 knockouts, and three defeats. "That is the pot of gold. That is the WBC heavyweight champion of the world," he said. "That's what it is all about so definitely Tyson Fury. "Yeah (another warm-up fight) would be ideal, after that long lay-off, to get active. But sometimes an opportunity presents itself and you have to grab it with both hands ... I would take it and grab it with both hands, 100 percent. The boxing world needs it." Saturday's contest ended in bizarre fashion when the bell for the 12th round appeared to sound early and Joshua pressed his head into Franklin, prompting the American's strength and fitness coach Lorenzo Reynolds to shove the home fighter. But what really annoyed Joshua, now working under Dallas-based trainer Derrick James, was his failure to knock out Franklin. "Deep down I am not happy because the ultimate goal is a knockout," he said. "Nothing can top a knockout. But it is what it is." And he was adamant his performance proved his passion for boxing remained intact, especially given a fight against Fury was now back on his agenda. "Do or die?," said Joshua as he reflected on the Franklin bout. "That's a great experience to compete in front of 20,000 people. There's no pressure. "Honestly it is a blessing. When I look out of that ring after a fight, I am like ... 'that is nuts. Look at all them people'. It is humbling. "I am definitely passionate about the game, 100 percent, for so many reasons. The list is long and I am committed until it's done. "The reality I am living is we are still chasing something. Yeah, I'm still chasing the dream." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Boxing: Anthony Joshua insists on 'Battle of Britain' against Tyson Fury after win over Jermaine Franklin

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