September 2024 | Page 15 of 26

Joshua, Fury fight must happen in 2025 – Hearn

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago05 mins

The much-awaited heavyweight bout between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury must “definitely” take place by the end of 2025 or it will never happen, said promoter Eddie Hearn. A super-fight between two generational stars of British boxing has been mooted for several years but always stalled during negotiations. Joshua, 34, challenges Daniel Dubois for the IBF belt at Wembley Stadium on Saturday and Fury, 36, takes on Oleksandr Usyk – who holds the three other recognised world titles – in December’s rematch. “I do think AJ-Fury will happen regardless of whether Fury wins or not, but the size of the fight depends on their next two results,” Hearn told BBC Sport. In June, Joshua urged Fury to fight him while both boxers are still “fresh” but said he will not “sit around and wait” for his fellow British heavyweight. Asked whether there is a deadline of next year, Matchroom’s Hearn replied: “Yes, definitely.” With substantial investment into boxing from Saudi Arabia, there is new hope the bout will finally materialise. “If AJ beats Dubois and Fury beats Usyk, you’ve got the biggest fight in the history of the sport ever. If one loses and the other wins, it’s still a monster fight,” Hearn added. Joshua broke down in tears after a second consecutive defeat by Usyk in 2022, but worked himself back into a world-title mandatory challenger position with a four-fight winning streak. If he beats Dubois he will emulate greats Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, Vitali Klitschko and Evander Holyfield by becoming a three-time heavyweight world champion. “The magnitude of the achievement will be something incredible if he can pull it off,” Hearn said. “We’re two wins away from undisputed and one win away from getting a fight to be undisputed. I truly believe he will still do it.” Joshua must first come overcome Dubois in front of a British post-war record of 96,000 fans, which will top the 94,000 set by Fury v Dillian Whyte in 2022. After Saturday’s event, around 480,000 spectators will have watched Joshua headline in six UK stadium fights. “People always ask me where the next AJ is coming from. You have to understand, this person is a one-off and there will never be another one,” added Hearn. “Whatever you think of his boxing ability, in terms of how he has transcended the sport, changed boxing by opening up stadium fights as part of the norm, it will never be repeated.” Joshua became world champion in 2016. He lost the title to Andy Ruiz Jr in June 2019 before winning the rematch just six months later. Dubois, 27, will make a first defence of the title he won after he was upgraded from interim to full world champion when Usyk vacated the IBF belt. Although Dubois challenged Usyk in front of 40,000 fans in Poland last year, Hearn feels it “takes a specific kind of individual” to handle the pressure of topping a Wembley Stadium bill. “The media attention and frenzy, all the moments before the bell on fight night – you’ve got to hold your nerve when you walk through that tunnel in front of 96,000 people,” said Hearn. “For AJ this is bread and butter. He’s been there before and done it but he’s got the hunger and the desire. “Forget the money in the bank, he badly wants to become world champion again.”

TikTok in court over potential US ban

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

Lawyers for TikTok and parent company ByteDance will square off with the Justice Department in a Washington courtroom over the fate of a law that could ban the short video app used by 170 million Americans as soon as January 19. A three-judge panel of the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia will hold oral arguments on a legal challenge filed by TikTok and Chinese-parent company ByteDance that seeks an injunction barring the law from taking effect. TikTok and ByteDance argue the law is unconstitutional and violates Americans’ free speech rights, calling it “a radical departure from this country’s tradition of championing an open Internet.” Circuit Judges Sri Srinivasan, Neomi Rao and Douglas Ginsburg will consider the legal challenges brought by TikTok and users against the law that gives ByteDance until January 19 to sell or divest TikTok’s US assets or face a ban. Driven by worries among US politicians that China could access data on Americans or spy on them with the app, the US Congress passed the law overwhelmingly in April just weeks after it was introduced. Biden could extend the January 19 deadline by three months if he certifies ByteDance is making significant progress toward a sale. The hearing could put TikTok’s fate in the middle of the final weeks of the presidential campaign. Both Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are active on TikTok seeking to court younger voters. The Justice Department says TikTok under Chinese ownership poses a serious national security threat because of its access to vast personal data of Americans, asserting China can covertly manipulate information that Americans consume via TikTok. “The serious national-security threat posed by TikTok is real,” the department said. ByteDance says divestiture is “not possible technologically, commercially, or legally” and without a court ruling will lead to an unprecedented ban. TikTok and the Justice Department have asked for a ruling by December 6, which could allow the US Supreme Court to consider an appeal before any ban takes effect. The White House says it wants to see Chinese-based ownership ended on national security grounds, but not a ban on TikTok. Trump, who unsuccessfully tried to ban TikTok in 2020, said recently if elected, he would not allow TikTok to be banned.

Nigerian Army reaffirms commitment to upholding Citizens’ right in operations

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has affirmed the Nigerian Army’s (NA) dedication to protecting citizens’ rights during the planning and execution of military operations. This statement was made during the Third Edition of the Nigerian Army Human Rights Seminar, held recently in Lagos. The seminar, centered around the theme “Human Rights and National Security: A Strategic Balance,” was organized by the Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs (DCMA) at the 81 Division Officers’ Mess, Victoria Island Lagos. Representing the COAS, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, opened the seminar by emphasizing the importance of human rights in military operations. He stressed that the NA consistently conducts its operations in a professional manner, ensuring the protection of Nigerian citizens from insurgents, criminal elements, and other security threats, while upholding human rights. General Lagbaja also highlighted the Army’s commitment to engaging stakeholders in the multidimensional operating environment. He noted that by fostering collaboration with civil society and the broader public, the Army aims to gain the confidence and support of the civilian population while maintaining a strong focus on human rights. Lagos State, a hub for human rights organizations, civil society, and the media, was deliberately chosen as the seminar’s venue due to its significance in the national and global discourse on human rights. The COAS expressed optimism that the seminar would lead to the development of strategies that align national security objectives with the upholding of human rights during military operations. The Special Guest of Honour, Hon Justice (Prof) Mojeed Adekunle Owoade (Rtd), praised the Army’s leadership for addressing the evolving security landscape by organizing this crucial seminar. He noted that as security challenges increase, particularly in areas where the Army is deployed, it is vital for military institutions to remain adaptable while ensuring human rights are prioritized. Justice Owoade emphasized the importance of balancing individual freedoms with the protection of others’ rights, highlighting that society functions best when these principles are upheld. In his welcome address, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), Major General Nosakhare Ugbo, emphasized that respect for human rights is integral to the Nigerian Army’s code of conduct and rules of engagement. Moreover, the Army continues to take disciplinary measures against violations while raising awareness among troops on the importance of upholding human rights, particularly in counter-insurgency and internal security operations. The seminar attracted senior Army officers, legal experts, government officials, human rights activists, media representatives, and leaders of civil society organizations. Highlights of the event included presentations by prominent speakers, interactive discussions, and the presentation of souvenirs. The seminar concluded with a group photograph to commemorate the day’s insightful and impactful proceedings.

Real Madrid wonderkid marries at 18

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

Real Madrid star Endrick has married his model girlfriend Gabriely Miranda. The pair posted pictures on Instagram of their big day. Miranda, 23, quoted the bible as she wrote: ‘Matthew 19:6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what GOD has put together no one can separate’. Endrick, 18, joined Real Madrid this summer from Palmeiras. It was previously reported that Endrick and Miranda had a relationship contract including several bizarre clauses. These included Endrick being banned from having a virtual girlfriend on Grand Theft Auto and also being forbidden from commenting on other girls’ Instagram accounts. It is also claimed that Endrick and Miranda must say ‘I love you’ to each other in all situations. Endrick and Miranda first met less than a year ago. Miranda is also an influencer and has partnerships with brands including New Balance. She has more than one million followers on Instagram. A deal for Endrick to join Real Madrid was agreed in December 2022, with the move taking place this summer. Since joining Real, Endrick has made four appearances, scoring once. He has netted three times in eleven senior games for Brazil, with the forward viewed as one of the most talented youngsters in world football. During his time at Palmeiras, Endrick scored 21 goals in 82 games. Endrick could make his first appearance in the Champions League when Real Madrid host Stuttgart on Tuesday night.

CAF Beach Soccer AFCON Draw holds on Thursday

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

The final draw for the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2024 will take place in Cairo on Thursday, 19 September 2024. The Draw will be conducted at 17h00 local time (14h00 GMT) and will be live-streamed on CAF Digital Platforms including CAF TV (YouTube) and CAFOnline.com. The sixth edition of the CAF Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled from 19 to 26 October 2024 in Hurghada, Egypt. The participating teams are Egypt (hosts), Senegal, Ghana Morocco, Tanzania, Mauritania, Mozambique and Malawi. The tournament, which will see the eight (8) nations divided into two groups of four, is expected to be another thrilling African beach soccer experience, with all eyes on reigning champions Senegal, as they aim for their fifth championship title. The Beach Soccer Africa Cup of Nations is a qualifying competition for the the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2025 set to be hosted by Seychelles next year. Egypt is hosting the final event for the second time, after the 2018 edition in Sharm El Sheikh.

Michael Jackson’s brother, Tito dies at 70

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

Tito Jackson, musician and former Jackson 5 member, passed away suddenly on Sunday night (September 15) aged 70. The news was initially reported to Entertainment Tonight by a long-time friend of the Jackson family, Steve Manning, and was subsequently confirmed by Tito’s nephew, Siggy Jackson, and his sons, Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson. Although no official cause of death has been confirmed, Manning believes the legendary guitarist suffered from a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. His sons, who also formed their own band in the ’90s, paid tribute to their father on Instagram: “We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.” Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson, Tito was the third of nine Jackson children. In 1964, when Tito was just 11, his father, Joe Jackson, formed The Jackson 5 band out of Tito and his four brothers Michael, Jermaine, Marlon, and Jackie. The Jackson 5’s debut album, ‘Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5’, released in 1969, shot the group into fame, reaching Number 5 on the US Pop Albums chart, and spending nine weeks at Number 1 on the US R&B/Black Albums charts. Its hit single ‘I Want You Back’ remains an internationally-known sensation. Likewise, later tracks ‘ABC’ and ‘I’ll Be There’ (both released in 1970), continued the band’s successful streak, placing at Number One on the Billboard Hot 100. In 1997, The Jackson 5 were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their legacy as one of the best-known family bands of all time. Tito was the last member of The Jackson 5 to embark on a solo project, releasing his debut album ‘Tito Time’ in 2016. He has said that he held back from pursuing a solo career because he wanted to focus on raising his family. The superstar was still performing with his brothers Jackie and Marlon right up until his death. The trio had recently played in Munich, Germany, where they visited a memorial to their late brother, Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009. Just days before his own death, Tito shared a message in his brother’s memory: “We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honours not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive.” Prior to this, the Jackson brothers played at Boogietown, a music festival in the UK, and Fool in Love Festival at Hollywood Park Grounds in Los Angeles.

Portable finally meets Peter Obi

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago01 mins

Nigerian Afro hip hop singer Habeeb Okikiola Badmus also known as Portable has finally met with former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi. The singer, in a video that has gone viral, was seen hailing Obi in vocabulary. Portable said; “Awon Olowo Ibo re o” Meaning “these are rich men from Igbo land.” He also said; “Ebi npa ilu o,” Meaning”Countrymen are starving.” It can be recalled that the Singer gained mainstream attention after the single “ZaZoo Zehh”, where he featured Olamide and Poco Lee.

NNPC, Dangote biker over Petrol pump price

Prince Odutola3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

The Nigerian National Petroleum Commission (NNPC) and Dangote Refinery are at loggerheads over the price of Premium Motor Spirit otherwise known as petrol. Both parties have issued conflicting press statements on the matter in the recent time. The NNPC Ltd, in a statement by signed its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye on Monday, the Company has released estimated prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as Petrol (obtained from the Dangote Refinery) in its retail stations across the country. The NNPC Ltd also wished to state that, in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), PMS prices are not set by Government, but negotiated directly between parties on an arms length. The NNPC Ltd confirmed that it is paying Dangote Refinery in USD for September 2024 PMS offtake, as Naira transactions will only commence on October 1st, 2024. The NNPC Ltd assured that if the quoted pricing is disputed, it will be grateful for any discount from the Dangote Refinery, which will be passed on 100% to the general public. Dangote Refinery however denied selling the product to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) at N898. The Group refuted the claims in a statement on Sunday. The statement read; “Our attention has been drawn to a statement attributed to NNPCL spokesperson, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, that we sell our PMS at N898 per litre to the NNPCL. “This statement is both misleading and mischievous, deliberately aimed at undermining the milestone achievement recorded today, September 15, 2024, towards addressing energy insufficiency and insecurity, which has bedeviled the economy in the past 50 years. “We urge Nigerians to disregard this malicious statement and await a formal announcement on the pricing, by the Technical Sub-Committee on Naira-based crude sales to local refineries, appointed by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, which will commence on October 1, 2024, bearing in mind that our current stock of crude was procured in dollars. “It should also be noted that we sold the products to NNPCL in dollars with a lot of savings against what they are currently importing. With this action, there will be petrol in every local government area of the country regardless of their remote nature. “We assure Nigerians of availability of quality petroleum product and putting an end to the endemic fuel scarcity in the country.”