Sylvester Stallone: I Was Almost Beaten to Death by Heavyweight

Sylvester Stallone has been in more boxing scrapes than most actors due to his Rocky Balboa days. A sparring session with a heavyweight boxer was no different. Stallone starkly revealed that hard-hitting Earnie Shavers gave him a beatdown when the pair sparred in the 1970s. Shavers, who died in September 2022 after an illness, had one of the biggest punches in the entire sport. George Foreman famously rated Shavers as the hardest-hitting top-division operator of all time. The slugger shared the ring with multiple heavyweight champions, including a loss to Muhammad Ali in 1977. The Ali defeat came a year after Stallone played the title character in the United States smash hit Rocky. Larry Holmes was another of the world champions who beat Shavers. However, Shavers proved his power when he took out Ken Norton in the first round in a career-best victory. During a chat show appearance in New York, Hollywood legend Stallone spoke to UK journalist Jonathan Ross and guests via Zoom. He spoke of sparring with boxing legends in several preparations for his Rocky movie franchise. Those sessions often led to an injury. “I sparred with [Muhammad] Ali, and Joe Fraser gave me eleven stitches. That was in about two seconds,” Stallone told Ross. “I was thinking about using him [Frazier] instead of Mr. T in Rocky III. I said, ‘Let me use a real fighter.’ That’s not a good idea.” On sharing the ring with some of the most dangerous heavyweights that ever laced up gloves, Stallone added: “They don’t know how to stop pulling their punches. That’s the whole point. They think I’ll follow through. “Earnie Shavers literally almost beat me to death without trying. [He was] wearing 20-ounce gloves. Imagine if he was angry!” It’s a well-known fact that Stallone walked away from the latest instalment of the Rocky spin-off franchise “Creed.” – Michael B. Jordan directed for the first time, and Stallone wanted the actor to be the sole focus of production. Fans of the beloved series may never see Rocky Balboa on the silver screen again, as Stallone has sworn the character off the screen.

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Middlesbrough boss Carrick backs Iheanacho to keep scoring

Michael Carrick has backed Kelechi Iheanacho to build on his first goal for Middlesbrough and boost the push for a Sky Bet Championship play-off place. Boro moved level on points with sixth-placed West Brom and two points shy of Coventry in fifth after coming from behind to beat Oxford 2-1. Iheanacho’s strike in the 48th minute, when he powered in Samuel Illing-Junior’s cross, cancelled out Michal Helik’s opener for Oxford seven minutes before the break. But Iling-Junior, who was a menace throughout on the left for Middlesbrough, delivered another low cross into the area with 10 minutes left for defender Neto Borges to flick a brilliant finish into the net. That proved enough to earn an important win with just seven matches remaining, turning around a game which had seen Boro booed off at the end of the first half. And former Leicester forward Iheanacho is up and running, having scored for the first time since moving from Sevilla in January on loan. Boro boss Carrick said: “He is happy. We are trying to keep the smile off Neto’s face as much as anything! He was delighted too. “But Kel knows it. He has played at a level, and goals make you feel a bit better, naturally. “I wasn’t concerned, I knew he would score and hopefully he has got more in him, I am sure he has. It was a massive goal for us. “I thought it was a bit slow, a bit sticky first half. Credit to them, they started well. They put us under pressure with long balls, long throws, counter attacks, and we were slow. “I liked how we responded and we spoke about being positive. There is going to be a hell of a lot more ups and downs before the end of the season. We can’t let it affect us. We have to stay positive with it.”

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Security Crisis: Obi Urges President Tinubu to Return Home and Address Domestic Challenges

Peter Obi Greets Muslims At Eid-el-Fitr Celebrations

Presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 General Elections, Mr. Peter Obi has enjoined Muslims faithful to embrace the true essence of Eid—the spirit of giving, kindness, and solidarity as they celebrates Eid-el-Fitr. The former Anambra State Governor also urged them to extend a helping hand to the less privileged, support one another, and work together to build a just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria. “My dear Muslim brothers and sisters, “I rejoice with you today as you mark the completion of the holy month of Ramadan. This period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual renewal has not only strengthened your faith but also reminded us all of the enduring values of sacrifice, discipline, and love for one another. “As you celebrate this Eid-el-Fitr, I encourage you to carry forward the lessons of Ramadan—compassion, humility, and service to humanity. Let us seize this moment to renew our collective commitment to peace, unity, and the progress of our dear nation, Nigeria. “At this critical time in our history, when many of our people face economic hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty, we must embrace the true essence of Eid—the spirit of giving, kindness, and solidarity. Let us extend a helping hand to the less privileged, support one another, and work together to build a just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria. “I pray that Almighty Allah accepts your sacrifices, grants you His boundless blessings, and brings peace and prosperity to our beloved country. May this season usher in renewed hope and strength for us all. “Eid Mubarak to you and your families!”

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Autistic Teen Artist Inspires Nigeria’s Youth To Make A Difference

Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, affectionately known as Kanye, has become a beacon of inspiration for Nigeria’s youth. The 15-year-old autistic artist is set to unveil what is expected to be the world’s largest art canvas by an individual on April 2, 2025, World Autism Awareness Day, at Eagles Square in Abuja. Kanye’s journey began at the tender age of two when he first showed a proclivity towards art. Despite facing challenges associated with autism, Kanye has flourished as an artist, earning accolades and the nickname “Young Picasso” for his exceptional abstract paintings. The young prodigy’s attempt at breaking the Guinness World Record started in November. 2024, as part of the Zeebah Foundation’s ‘Impossibility Is A Myth’ project. This initiative not only showcases Kanye’s extraordinary talent but also aims to raise funds for a state-of-the-art autism resource center in Abuja, highlighting the need for greater support and inclusion for individuals with autism. Kanye’s story aligns with MTN Nigeria’s recent “Go Make A Difference” (Go M.A.D) campaign, which encourages Nigerians to take bold steps and create positive impacts in their communities. Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasised how Kanye embodies the Go M.A.D philosophy: “MTN’s mission is to connect people all over the world. Kanye is connecting art lovers, and people all over the world as well. He is a true icon, breaking barriers and proving that nothing is impossible”. The unveiling event will be attended by key dignitaries, including FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa. This high-profile support underscores the significance of Kanye’s achievement and its potential to inspire change. Kanye’s father, Tagbo Okeke, stressed that this record attempt goes beyond personal achievement. “We started this awareness campaign to tell parents that no child should be left behind, that they are Fabulous, Autistic and Talented,” he said. The family’s efforts, including opening a gallery in Abuja where art therapy workshops are conducted, demonstrate their commitment to supporting others on the autism spectrum. As Nigeria’s youth witness Kanye’s remarkable journey, many are inspired to make their own difference, regardless of the challenges they face. Kanye’s story proves that with determination, support, and the right tools – such as those provided by initiatives like MTN’s Go M.A.D campaign – young Nigerians can achieve extraordinary feats and create meaningful change in their communities. Kanye’s upcoming unveiling of his monumental artwork is not just a personal triumph; it’s a powerful statement about inclusion, perseverance, and the limitless potential of Nigeria’s youth to make a difference.

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NFF Selects Participants for First Batch of CAF B-License Coaching Course

Participants in the first batch of the CAF B-License Coaching Course that will run between April and August 2025 have been identified and contacted by the Technical Department of the Nigeria Football Federation. “Those who will take part in the first batch have been selected and contacted. All applicants are advised to check their mails, including junk and spam sections, as time-sensitive information is attached,” NFF Technical Director, Coach Augustine Eguavoen told thenff.com. The four-month course, part of NFF’s strategic effort to build the capacity of coaches across the country, will be done in modules. It will run between 7th April and 25th August 2025. Successful applicants for the second and third batches will be selected and contacted in the coming weeks. Registration for the programme closed at midnight on Tuesday, 25th February, with Eguavoen informing thenff.com that response was impressive. The program is for both men and women. It can be recalled that the NFF organized a CAF C-License course (exclusively for women, and the first-ever) between the months of July and September last year. There were 30 participants, amongst them a good number of former Nigeria international players.

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Eid-el-Fitr: SWAN Congratulates Muslims On Successful Ramadan, Sallah Celebration

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has felicitated with Muslim faithful across the country on the successful completion of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr. SWAN President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, through the Association’s Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, on Sunday, said the sallah celebration signifies greater exploits ahead while calling for sustained prayers and commitment to peaceful coexistence in Nigeria. “Let’s continue to be our brother’s keepers. Islam is known for peace and harmony. It has been a dedicated Holy month of prayers and devotion. It is now incumbent on all to extend the good deeds, kindness, and pious hearts beyond this period as commanded by Allah and exemplified by prophet Muhammad (S A.W),” he said. President Benjamin wished Muslims a fresh moment of joy and ecstasy in greater fulfillment. He said, “As Muslims celebrate the joyous occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, we extend our warmest wishes to all our Muslim brothers and sisters, mostly within the sporting media and the entire sports fraternity. “May this season of love, gratitude, and togetherness bring you abundant blessings, prosperity, and fulfillment. “Eid Mubarak! May this celebration open doors to greater opportunities for all of us now and always.” The President of SWAN also said, “Just as Eid symbolises new beginnings and blessings, SWAN remains committed to fresh heights of excellence and renewed vigour in leading a robust sports developmental path in Nigeria and beyond.”

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Ganduje assures Nigerians won't regret Tinubu's leadership.

Ganduje Assures Nigerians Won’t Regret Tinubu’s Leadership

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has assured Nigerians that they will not regret voting for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the end of his first term. In a goodwill message sent by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the celebration of Eid-El-Fitr in Abuja on Sunday. The former Kano Governor urged Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah, to pray for President Tinubu’s success in overcoming the country’s economic challenges and addressing ongoing security issues, assuring that “Nigerians will not regret voting for President Tinubu after his first tenure.” The APC Chairman, who commended Nigerians for their unwavering support for President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reaffirmed the APC-led government’s commitment to improving the welfare and well-being of all citizens. He however reminded Nigerians that as the country continue on its path of growth, everyone should remain steadfast in promoting unity, peace, and national progress.  He congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan. Rejoicing with them for the spiritual renewal and discipline attained during the sacred month of fasting, prayer, and devotion to Almighty Allah, Ganduje urged the faithful to uphold the virtues of piety, selflessness, and compassion that Ramadan represents, while also extending love and kindness to one another, especially the less privileged in society. He emphasised that “the lessons of Ramadan—patience, sacrifice, and perseverance—are essential in fostering harmony and strengthening the nation’s democratic institutions.” The Chairman prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) accepts the prayers and sacrifices of the Muslim Ummah and grants them abundant blessings in this season of celebration.

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Wike to Atiku: He’s Untrustworthy

Wike to Atiku: You’re Not Trustworthy

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike on Sunday said former Vice President Atiku Abubakar cannot be trusted politically. Wike, who spoke through his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, insisted that Atiku Abubakar, lied by claiming he picked former Delta Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, as his running mate in the 2023 presidential election based on report of the committee set up by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to select its Vice Presidential candidate. Olayinka, who reiterated that the FCT Minister was never keen about being Atiku’s running mate because of the enormous baggages he is carrying, described the statement by the media office of the two-time PDP presidential candidate as face-saving and “an attempt to use further lies to defend Atiku’s previous lies.” In a statement in Abuja on Sunday, Olayinka said: “Report of the committee was released so as to set the records straight, and this has made Atiku and his men to confess that in selecting his running mate, he (Atiku) did not follow the report of the committee set up by the PDP. He simply picked who he wanted, not who the party wanted. “By saying that ‘there were no laid down rules or laws on the selection process of a running mate. Committees, consultations, and recommendations are advisory in nature. The final decision rests solely and exclusively with the presidential candidate, in this case, Atiku Abubakar. It is a constitutional and strategic choice, not a popularity contest,’ Atiku’s Media Office has confirmed that their principal actually lied and never had any regard for the PDP as a party. “It therefore gladdens our hearts that we have been able to establish that Atiku lied and he is not a man to be trusted. That he chose to lie during the Holy Month of Ramadan is however between him and Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala). “As for his choice of running mate in 2019 and 2023, it is our position that Atiku, as the PDP candidate had the right to make whatever choice, and he should be able to defend his choice and be honest for once to accept the consequences, not trying to misrepresent facts to justify the choice he made. “It is also to be reiterated that just as Atiku, the loser in the election, has said he has no regret over the choice he made, Wike too has no regret over his choice. “Therefore, no one is harboring any personal ill-feeling against Atiku for failing with the choice he made, and no one should also harbour ill-feeling against Wike for succeeding with the choice he made.

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