Paddy Pimblett needed less than a minute to erase his first UFC loss, submitting Benoit Saint Denis via D’Arce choke just 52 seconds into their lightweight co-main event at UFC 329 on Saturday night in Las Vegas.

Pimblett entered as a modest underdog against Saint Denis, a former French Army Special Forces soldier ranked No. 5 in the division and riding a four-fight finishing streak.

Pimblett blocked an early kick and sprawled hard on a takedown attempt from Saint Denis before sliding into the choke as his opponent dropped to his knees. Saint Denis was in trouble within 15 seconds of the opening bell, with Pimblett tightening the hold as Saint Denis rolled, searching for an escape before going limp. The official finish was ruled at 0:52 of round one — the second-fastest D’Arce choke submission in UFC history, behind only Kyle Daukaus‘ 50-second finish.

“Sub of the year, b—es. I knew he was out,” Pimblett said afterward. “My man was face-down eating canvas.”

UFC CEO Dana White was similarly effusive, telling reporters, that it was “an incredible performance for as short as it was,” and noting that Pimblett’s social following had ballooned even after his last loss.

The win reverses a rough start to the year for Pimblett (24-4), who dropped an interim lightweight title bout to current champion Justin Gaethje in January — a loss that snapped a nine-fight winning streak that included stoppages over Michael Chandler and King Green.

Riding the momentum, Pimblett wasted no time calling out potential next opponents. “I’ll f—ing beat Ilia up, I’ll rematch Justin, I’ll fight Max,” he said, referring to rival Ilia Topuria, a Gaethje rematch, and Max Holloway, who had just defeated Conor McGregor in the night’s main event. “I don’t give a f—. Give me anyone, and I’ll punch their head in.”

Pimblett also used the moment for a personal tribute, dedicating the win to late Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota and his brother Andre, whose anniversaries had passed the week before. “I wanted to do that in January,” he said, explaining he’d held off because he lost that fight. “He’ll never walk alone; his family will never walk alone. And he’s forever going to be number 20, lad.”

The performance also earned Pimblett a $100,000 Performance of the Night bonus, one of several handed out on the card.

Colombia’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup may mark the end of more than just a tournament run. It could also signal the beginning of a significant transition period for the national team as several of its veteran players approach the latter stages of their international careers, and attention turns toward building a squad capable of competing at the 2030 World Cup.

Many of the players who formed the core of Colombia’s recent success will be significantly older by the time the next World Cup arrives. Several veterans who played important roles during the current qualifying cycle and World Cup campaign may no longer be part of the national team picture four years from now. As a result, the Colombian Football Federation and coaching staff are expected to begin evaluating younger options sooner rather than later.

The transition may begin as early as the next Copa América and the opening stages of South American World Cup qualifying. Historically, major international tournaments following a World Cup have served as opportunities for national teams to introduce emerging talent and evaluate potential long-term contributors. Colombia could follow a similar approach, balancing competitiveness with the preparation of the next generation of players for larger roles.

Particular attention is likely to focus on the country’s U17 and U20 programs, which have produced several highly regarded prospects in recent years. The U17 Colombian National Team won the U17 South American Cup a few months prior, in April, against Argentina in a convincing fashion. Some of the stars of that team attracted great interest from Europe, such as Jose Escorcia, who has interest from Crystal Palace and Brighton. There is also Samuel Martinez, who is widely seen as the heir to James Rodriguez in the number 10 role. He was signed by Liverpool FC on a pre-contract and can move to England once he turns 18. Integrating younger players into senior-team camps, friendlies and competitive matches could become a priority as Colombia seeks to identify the foundation of its next World Cup cycle. The experience gained during qualifying matches and regional tournaments may prove invaluable for players expected to carry the national team into the next decade. Many Colombian fans hope this is a new golden generation of Colombian players.

The rebuilding process also presents opportunities for positions that have generated questions during recent tournaments. Colombia’s struggles to consistently convert scoring chances at the 2026 World Cup highlighted the need for additional attacking options, and younger forwards could be given opportunities to compete for roles within the senior squad. Other positions may also see increased competition as the coaching staff evaluates which players are capable of becoming long-term starters.

At the same time, the transition is unlikely to be a complete overhaul. Colombia still has several players who could remain important contributors over the next World Cup cycle, providing leadership and experience as younger teammates develop. Players like Luis Diaz, Daniel Muñoz, Gustavo Puerta and Richard Rios are the most likely to stay as core members of the squad going forward. They will be able to provide experience, leadership and guidance to the new players joining the national team during the qualifying phase and at the next Copa America in 2028. Finding the right balance between veteran stability and youth development will be one of the most important challenges facing the national team over the coming years.

Supporters will also be watching closely to see which prospects emerge as future stars. Youth international tournaments have increasingly become important indicators of future success, and Colombia’s next generation will face heightened expectations as fans look for players capable of leading the country back to the latter stages of major competitions. Colombian fans do tend to criticize the national team for not betting on younger talents early enough to help push their development, as is done in Europe, Argentina, or Brazil.

While rebuilding periods often bring uncertainty, they can also create opportunities for long-term growth. Colombia’s recent World Cup campaign demonstrated that the team remains competitive on the international stage, but the years ahead may determine whether the country can transform promising youth talent into a squad capable of challenging the world’s best. As preparations begin for the next Copa América and the road to the 2030 World Cup, Colombia appears set to enter a new chapter defined by transition, development and the search for its next generation of leaders.

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has revealed that Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté has signed with the club, though the transfer is not expected to be officially announced until after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The reported signing would represent another major addition for Real Madrid as the club continues reinforcing its squad with players capable of contributing immediately at the highest level. Konaté has established himself as one of Europe’s top central defenders through his performances for Liverpool and the French national team, earning recognition for his physical presence, pace and defensive reliability.

Delaying the official presentation until after the World Cup allows the focus to remain on international competition while avoiding distractions for players participating in the tournament. Several clubs have historically postponed major announcements during major international events in order to allow players to concentrate on national team responsibilities.

For Real Madrid, the acquisition could provide long-term stability in central defense. Modern football increasingly demands defenders who can contribute both in possession and when defending in open space, and Konaté’s skill set aligns with those requirements. His arrival would add depth to a squad already considered one of the strongest in Europe while strengthening competition for places throughout the defensive unit. This is a huge positive move by the newly elected club president, and there are signals that more defensive and midfield signings are to come.

The move could also have implications for Liverpool. Losing a defender of Konaté’s quality would create a significant vacancy in the squad and could force the club to evaluate replacement options during the transfer window. Replacing an experienced center-back is often one of the more difficult challenges clubs face, particularly when competing across multiple competitions.

Konaté’s signing is also consistent with Real Madrid’s recent recruitment strategy. The club has focused on acquiring players who are either entering their prime or already in it, balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term planning.

Adding an established international defender could help ensure continuity as the club prepares for future domestic and European campaigns. On an economic level, it has also aligned with the strategy of signing established stars on a free transfer when their previous contracts expire.

While supporters may need to wait until after the World Cup for the official unveiling, the reported agreement has already generated significant discussion among fans and analysts. If completed as expected, Konaté could become one of the most significant defensive additions of the summer and another statement signing for a club that continues to pursue success on every front.

Several of Europe’s biggest football clubs are entering the 2026-27 season under new leadership, with managerial changes expected to play a significant role in shaping the competitive landscape across the continent’s top leagues.

The offseason has brought notable movement on the sidelines, as clubs in England, Spain, France and other major European leagues have evaluated their long-term direction following the conclusion of the previous campaign. For many organizations, managerial appointments are among the most important decisions made during the summer, as clubs seek to improve results and establish a clear identity moving forward.

In England, one of the most closely watched situations involves Liverpool FC and the reported arrival of Andoni Iraola. The manager earned praise for his work developing competitive teams and implementing an aggressive style of play. His approach could influence Liverpool’s transfer activity and tactical direction as the club seeks to compete for major honors both domestically and in Europe. His style of play is similar to that of the previous Liverpool coach, Jürgen Klopp. This reported direction for Liverpool is a clear shift in strategy towards a tested and proven tactical vision.

Spain has also experienced managerial developments involving some of its most prominent clubs. Real Madrid continues to navigate a new chapter following changes to its coaching structure, with Alvaro Arbeloa leaving the club and Jose Mourinho‘s reported arrival, while other clubs throughout La Liga have pursued managerial appointments aimed at improving consistency and competing for European qualification. New managers often bring different tactical philosophies, creating additional intrigue heading into a new season.

In France, reigning European champion Paris Saint-Germain remains under the leadership of Luis Enrique, whose tactical system has helped establish it as one of Europe’s strongest teams, with the club recently winning its second consecutive Champions League. While PSG has maintained continuity, several other Ligue 1 clubs have made coaching changes in hopes of narrowing the gap with the league’s dominant force. Some major managerial moves in Ligue 1 include LOSC Lille appointing Davide Ancelotti, the son of Carlo Ancelotti and his former assistant manager during his time at Real Madrid.

Managerial changes often carry implications beyond tactics alone. New coaches can influence recruitment strategies, player development plans and the futures of current squad members. Players who may have struggled under one manager can find new opportunities under another, while transfer targets are often selected for how well they fit a coach’s preferred system.

As preseason preparations continue across Europe, attention will increasingly focus on how quickly new managers can implement their ideas. The success or failure of these appointments could have a major impact on domestic title races, European qualification battles and the overall direction of some of the continent’s most recognizable clubs.

The summer transfer window is underway across Europe, with many of the continent’s biggest clubs already making moves to strengthen their squads ahead of the 2026-27 season. Teams in top leagues like the Premier League, La Liga and Ligue 1 are expected to remain active throughout the coming months as they pursue signings aimed at improving depth, addressing weaknesses and preparing for another demanding campaign.

In England, several Premier League clubs have entered the market with significant ambitions. Liverpool FC continues to be linked with multiple additions following the arrival of manager Andoni Iraola, while Manchester City is expected to evaluate reinforcements following a period of transition within the club. Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC have also been connected with several high-profile targets as they look to strengthen squads capable of competing for major honors.

In Spain, Real Madrid has continued to be linked with defensive and midfield reinforcements, like Manchester City’s Rodri and Joško Gvardiol, despite maintaining one of the strongest squads in Europe. Reports have also linked the club to additional young talent as it continues its long-term strategy focused on building around emerging stars. Meanwhile, FC Barcelona is expected to remain active despite financial constraints, with the club reportedly targeting affordable options to add depth across several positions. The Catalan club has already signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle as an offensive addition to their squad. They are also heavily linked to Atletico Madrid’s Argentine forward, Julián Alvarez

France could once again become a major focus of the transfer market due to the activity expected at Paris Saint-Germain. Fresh off a second consecutive Champions League title, PSG is reportedly evaluating additions that fit manager Luis Enrique‘s tactical system. The club has frequently been linked with versatile midfielders, defenders and young attacking players as it attempts to maintain its position among Europe’s elite.

Several of the most discussed players on the market include Florian Wirtz, Viktor Gyökeres, Benjamin Šeško and Rodrygo, all of whom have been linked with moves involving some of Europe’s biggest clubs. While many negotiations are ongoing, the futures of several high-profile players are expected to shape the market’s direction throughout the summer.

As negotiations continue, clubs across Europe will attempt to balance immediate needs with long-term planning. The transfers completed during the coming weeks could play a major role in determining the competitive landscape of domestic leagues and European competitions next season.

Galatasaray soccer player Noa Lang suffered a hand injury after colliding with advertising boards. 

Galatasaray was playing against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League. Lang played 35 minutes before his freak injury. Lang was given a 3.7 out of five rating for this game. This made him the second-highest-rated player for Galatasaray behind goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir.

Lang was challenging Curtis Jones for the ball when he stumbled and fell into the wall. His thumb got stuck between the advertising boards, and he was in visible pain after freeing his thumb. 

Lang was taken to the hospital right after his injury. Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk said doctors told him the injury may require surgery.

“He’s going to the hospital right now, because of an important issue with his finger,” Buruk said. “Very quickly, they have brought him there. If there is a necessity for an operation here immediately, there will be a decision to make.”

Burak’s instincts proved correct. Lang had surgery on his thumb the next day. No timetable has been released for Lang’s recovery. However, thumb injuries historically take eight to 12 weeks to heal. Since soccer doesn’t require hands, he may be able to return sooner than expected. 

Galatasaray is based on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. The club won the Super League championship in Turkey in 2024-25. Galatasaray is currently ranked No. 20 in the UEFA Champions League with a record of 3-4. Liverpool is ranked No. 3 with a record of 6-2. 

Lang had two assists for Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League, which was the top 10 for the team. 

With this loss, Galatasaray was eliminated from the Champions League playoffs. Their next game is on April 5 against Trabzonspor in the Turkish Super League. The game will be played at Papara Park in Trabzon, Turkey. 

Professional boxer and former UFC fighter Darren Till confirmed he’s expected to fight controversial internet influencer and former professional kickboxer Andrew Tate.

In a recent interview with sports journalist Ariel Helwani on Monday, the Liverpool-born boxer said he plans to fight Tate by the end of this year, possibly in December.

Tate has been deluged with legal cases in Romania, the U.K. and the U.S. over alleged trafficking and assault claims.

He also added that the fight could be professionally ranked, which would only be Till’s fourth professional boxing match. The last professional fight for “The Gorilla” took place at the end of August, where he defeated former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold in a third round knockout.

“I would think [the Tate fight would be professionally ranked],” Till said. “As I said, I asked Luke and his team for eight [rounds] and I could only get six. So I don’t think Andrew could do eight with me, so maybe six.”

Tate responded on X to Till’s comments, saying he respects The Gorilla’s career and that the fight would bring “life changing money” to the British boxer. But Tate also gave a hard warning to Till and his crew.

“I really don’t like all that clown s— and being rude etc we’re both professionals here,” Tate wrote. “I find it rude and if that’s the way you’re trying to get the fight it won’t happen.

“I’m the superstar here. Talk nicely and I’ll reply to your team’s desperate messages.”

Till’s other two professional fights came in 2025 against Darren Stewart and Anthony Taylor. Against the former, he won by unanimous decision while we won against the latter via technical knockout.

The Boston Red Sox had an eventful weekend with some good and bad involved.

The Red Sox swept the rival New York Yankees, which gave the fans of the Red Sox a lot of joy, but after Sunday’s matinee game, that joy was ripped apart when it was shockingly announced that the Red Sox traded star Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants.

The Red Sox fans were not prepared for this weekend to involve a rollercoaster of emotions, and they criticized the franchise for being cheap.

Baseball Is Dead podcast host Jared Carrabis took to X to air his feelings out. “How the f— do you trade Rafael Devers? For A: That return and B: the moment in which you did it.”

Ringer founder Bill Simmons presented a theory on X about a possible reason for the trade.

The owner of the Red Sox, John Henry, also owns the Premier League-winning soccer team Liverpool.

Simmons hinted on X that the possible motive behind the trade was to help finance the newest transfer to Liverpool, Florian Wirtz. Liverpool reportedly paid his former club $100 million for the midfielder.

Devers is in the third season of a 10-year, $313 million contract and had been at odds with the team during spring training, after he was moved from third base to DH for the newly signed Alex Bregman.

It is not the first time the Red Sox have traded one of their star players, much to the frustration of the fan base – Mookie Betts was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers before the 2020 season for three players who did not pan out for the Red Sox.

Betts was in the final year of his contract and would sign a 12-year, $365 million deal with the Dodgers – and he has since helped the franchise win two World Series.

“I woke up still mad [about] the Devers trade,” Barstool founder Dave Portnoy wrote on X. “If you are trying to win, you just don’t trade your best hitter for nothing in the middle of the season. John Henry and [minority owner] LeBron [James] have turned the Red Sox into the Oakland A’s with fancy hubcaps.”

Liverpool fans celebrated their team winning the Premier League at Anfield on April 27, climbing on the stadium entry walls, lighting flares, and singing songs outside the stadium’s famous Kop. Footage showed the jubilant scenes outside the stadium following Liverpool’s 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. Liverpool needed just a point from the game to secure the Premier League title with four games of the season left. (Credit: @sc_photos___ via Storyful)

Mauricio Pochettino will be the next manager of the United States men’s soccer team, replacing Gregg Berhalter. At a pivotal point for an improving American program, Pochettino is exactly the sort of massive acquisition many fans were hoping for.

The United States’ search for a new manager took most of the summer and included several speed bumps, chief among them when former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp declined the position in July. Pocchetino is a seasoned program leader, however, with extensive experience at the highest levels of European football.

After a 17-year playing career, Pocchetino accepted his first managing position with Espanyol in 2009. Though his teams struggled there, as well as in a shorter stint with Southampton, the Argentinian finally broke through with Tottenham Hotspur in 2014. The Premier League side earned Football League Cup runner-up honors in his first year, and in the 2018-19 season, the team made it all the way to the Champions League final.

In 2021, Pocchetino stepped in as manager with Paris Saint Germain, and in a short time with the club, he added a Ligue 1 title and Coupe de France trophy to his resume. In 84 matches under Pocchetino, the team compiled a 55-15-14 record, the most successful tenure of his career.

After taking a year away, Pocchetino jumped back into the Premier League when he signed on as Chelsea’s manager in July 2023. Though he managed to guide the club to a winning record and runner-up finish in the EFL Cup, much of his time at Chelsea was marred by disputes with team leadership. He parted ways with the team last May after 51 matches.

With a new, aggressive leader at the helm, it seems like the United States are moving in a position direction ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Not only does the team have an exciting core, led by star Christian Pulisic, but the U.S. will also be co-host in 2026 and do not need to qualify. This gives the team even more time to prepare for tournament play.

Recently departed Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has reportedly declined an initial offer by the United States men’s national soccer team to take over an open managing position for the 2026 World Cup. Klopp has previously said that he intends to step away from the sidelines for a time due to general fatigue.

Klopp has been near the top of many fans’ lists as the United States looks to replace former manager Gregg Berhalter, who was fired after the team’s group-stage exit from the 2024 Copa America Tournament. According to the Independent, it seems that the United States agrees with public opinion and has already tried to recruit the legendary German manager.

“The Independent understands that initial contact was made with Klopp over the possibility of replacing the 50-year-old, as the United States gears up for the 2026 World Cup,”  The Independent‘s Miguel Delaney reported Wednesday. “But Klopp has turned down the opportunity to enter into formal discussions with the United States Soccer Federation.”

Klopp’s reputation in Europe makes him an ideal, if unrealistic, candidate to take over a rebuilding American men’s soccer program. After an encouraging early coaching run straight out of his playing career with FC Mainz 05, Klopp took over for Dortmund. He helped the team win two Bundesliga titles over Bayern Munich before leaving in 2015 for a position with Liverpool.

In his nine years in the U.K., Klopp turned Liverpool into an international powerhouse. The team won the 2018-19 Champions League, as well as the 2019-20 league title and 2021-22 FA Cup.

In January this year, Klopp announced that he was stepping away from his position at Liverpool, citing a desire to simply stop coaching for a while.

“I love absolutely everything about this club, I love everything about the city, I love everything about our supporters, I love the team, I love the staff. I love everything,” Klopp said in a statement earlier this year. “But that I still take this decision shows you that I am convinced it is the one I have to take. It is that I am, how can I say it, running out of energy. I have no problem now, obviously, I knew it already for longer that I will have to announce it at one point, but I am absolutely fine now. I know that I cannot do the job again and again and again and again.”

Based on Klopp’s conviction in leaving a situation in Liverpool he seemed to truly appreciate, it could be an uphill battle to convince him to relocate to the United States for a new coaching opportunity. The team’s willingness to pursue the long-shot candidate, however, demonstrates an urgent desire to right the ship in time for 2026, when the team will play on home turf in the World Cup.

In an anticipated move, Feyenoord coach Arne Slot has announced his appointment as the next manager of Liverpool FC. Slot will succeed Jürgen Klopp at the end of the current season. Slot confirmed his transition during a pre-match news conference, marking a significant shift for Feyenoord and Liverpool.

“I can confirm that I will become the trainer there next year,” Slot told ESPN, signaling the end of his tenure with the Rotterdam club. His statement aligns with Klopp’s announcement in January, when the German tactician revealed his decision to step down after a transformative period at Liverpool, setting the stage for Slot’s arrival.

Slot, who has led Feyenoord to an Eredivisie title and turned down offers from Premier League clubs Leeds United and Tottenham Hotspur, will be tasked with continuing Liverpool’s legacy. His confirmation came alongside a heartfelt farewell to Feyenoord, reflecting on the weight of his departure.

“Until now, I was not thinking about this being the buildup to my last match, but that starts coming now,” Slot said. “The feeling grows. I understand that good results help, but it is very nice to feel that people truly think it’s a pity I’m leaving. That does mean a lot to me.”

Feyenoord acknowledged Slot’s departure with a video on social media, celebrating his contributions and preparing fans for the final moments of the “Arne Slot era.” Slot’s three-year contract with Feyenoord, which began last year, included a significant compensation agreement with Liverpool, reportedly worth £9.4 million ($11.8 million).

Slot’s mindset and success in the Eredivisie position him as a capable successor to Klopp, who revitalized Liverpool with a blend of high-intensity and charismatic leadership. Slot’s assistant at Feyenoord, Sipke Hulshoff, is expected to join Liverpool’s backroom staff to ensure the transition.

Hulshoff, with experience as an assistant for the Netherlands national team and under former Everton manager Ronald Koeman, brings expertise to Slot’s coaching philosophy. This duo’s established rapport could prove crucial as Liverpool navigates the post-Klopp era.

The appointment of Slot represents both a new step for Liverpool and a new chapter in their history. Klopp’s tenure saw the club succeed, including a Premier League title and a Champions League triumph, setting a high bar for his successor. Slot’s challenge will be maintaining the legacy, guiding Liverpool through the football landscape.

While Liverpool has yet to make an official announcement, Slot’s public confirmation and the compensation agreement with Feyenoord make his appointment a near certainty. As the season progresses, Liverpool fans and the broader football community will observe how Slot’s vision and leadership style will shape the future of one of England’s great clubs.

Ghana played to a 2-2 draw against Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations group stage Thursday. Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus returned from injury and scored two goals for the Black Stars, but the team could not capitalize as Egypt managed to even the score twice during the match. The Pharaohs fought on without Mohamed Salah, who missed the second half with an injury.

After losing to Cape Verde in shocking fashion in the first game of the group stage, Ghana could not afford a loss in their second game. Kudus, the team’s star player, missed the match against Cape Verde after suffering a hamstring injury while playing for West Ham United in the Premier League last month.

Though Kudus was questionable to play right up until the match began, he made an emphatic statement in his return with an early score that put Ghana ahead. Then, in a strange and unfortunate role reversal, Egypt had to grapple with a serious injury of its own after Salah limped off the field with an apparent hamstring injury before the half. The severity of the setback is currently unknown.

Even without their best player, Egypt, seven-time winner of the AFCON, managed to even the score at one in the 61st minute. Kudus struck again in the 71st minute to give Ghana another lead, but it only took three minutes for Egypt to score again and eventually secure the draw.

Through two games, neither Ghana nor Egypt have earned a win in the AFCON Group B stage.

Egypt has two draws, having salvaged another match against Mozambique on a last-second penalty from Salah. The star’s injury update will be a matter of international interest, as the Pharaohs and Liverpool, Salah’s Premier League team, could suffer if he misses time. In the immediate future, Egypt is guaranteed to move on to the knockout stage with a win against Cape Verde in the third Group B match.

Ghana, meanwhile, obviously benefited from Kudus’ return, but are on the brink of elimination in fourth place. With one loss and one draw in Group B, the Black Stars must defeat Mozambique in the third match to have any chance of moving on to the knockout stage.

LeBron James wants to be an NBA owner, and in a direct plea to the commissioner Wednesday night, he said that he already has a spot picked out.

During a press conference following the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason game in Las Vegas against the Phoenix Suns, James received a question about the venue of the exhibition game and took the opportunity to send a message to Adam Silver.

“I would love to bring a team here at some point. That would be amazing. I know Adam is in Abu Dhabi right now, I believe, but he probably sees every single interview and transcript that comes through from NBA players,” James said. “So, I want the team here, Adam. Thank you.”

James has previously expressed a desire to one day become an NBA owner, and already owns stakes in the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool F.C. He recently partnered with fellow NBA players Draymond Green and Kevin Love to acquire a pickleball team. His most recent request for an NBA team comes amid a period in which the league is not considering expansion but could begin to do so in the future.

On the Dan Patrick Show in June, Silver said that he was not thinking about adding any teams to the league soon, but if he did, he would consider Las Vegas and Seattle as promising markets.

“There’s no doubt Seattle would be a great market, Las Vegas would be a great market,” Silver said. “There’s state-of-the-art arenas in both those communities.”

Las Vegas has attracted a number of sports leagues in recent years, as the newly formed Golden Knights in the NHL and moving Raiders in the NFL have both settled into the city. Long avoided because of its ties to gambling and other illicit activities, a massive boom in sports gambling seems to have made it a more attractive landing spot.

Because James is currently playing for the Lakers, he is unable to own an interest in an NBA team, and he has repeatedly said that he has no intention of retiring soon. But should the stars align, James’ playing days could end at the dawn of a new expansion in his former league, one in which he could take an owner’s stake.

It turns out that there was more for Paddy Pimblett‘s fight other than continuing to move up the ranks in the UFC.

After his submission win over Jordan Leavitt, he shared an emotional message about mental health awareness.  

The native of Liverpool, England, said he found out just several hours before his Friday weigh-in that one of his friends back home committed suicide. 

“There’s a stigma in this world that men can’t talk,” an emotional Pimblett said in the Octagon Saturday.

“Listen, if you’re a man and you’ve got weight on your shoulders, and you think the only way you can solve it is by killing yourself, please speak to someone. Speak to anyone. 

“People would rather — I know I would rather — my mate cry on my shoulder rather than go to his funeral next week. So please, let’s get rid of this stigma. And men, start talking.”

As Pimblett was walking out of the Octagon, he was seen in tears. 

https://twitter.com/ConteNostraTHFC/status/1551210938610638849

And fans and users across social media came quickly in support of Pimblett, who is also known as “Paddy The Baddy.”

A user said: “Hero to many but an inspiration to all. You can never say this young man never wears his heart on his sleeve. Using his exposure to highlight important discussions.”

Another said: “Man goes from choking dude out and teabagging him, [to] celebrating with the crowd to this speech. What a guy and what draw for the sport #PaddytheBaddy.” 

One other tweeted: “I’m not big into UFC, but this guy has my unwavering support. Proud that he took a strong stance for #MentalHealth in a public way.”

While Pimblett is well-known by UFC fans for his trash talk, this wasn’t the first time that he has used his platform to advocate for change. 

After a post-fight victory in March, Pimblett said that if he ever earns Connor McGregor money, “no kid in Liverpool will need a food bank.” 

Regardless if you like him for his skills inside the octagon or his personality, Pimblett is an easy guy to cheer for. 

Los Angeles Laker superstar LeBron James may not be participating in the NBA Finals this year but he is still collecting accolades. The four-time NBA Champion has an evaluated net worth of one billion dollars.

According to Forbes, James has been one of the top-earning athletes in the world over the last few years. His $121.1 million earned in the last year was second only to Lionel Messi. This was based on his $44.5 million salaries and money earned with off-court brand deals, endorsements, as well as James’ other ventures. Here’s where else James makes his earnings.

Throughout his NBA career, the superstar has made a lot of money with his contracts. with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angles Lakers with his estimated earnings to be valued at north of $385 million.

James recently starred in the modern version of Space Jam bringing home a good amount from the box office after grossing $163 million worldwide. His production company SpringHill recently sold a minority stake at a $725 million valuation. The company also produces the hit interview show The Shop.

James also has made about $90 million from Fenway Sports group. He gained a 1% percent ownership in the group after exchanging his minority ownership of Liverpool FC. Fenway Sports Group owns Liverpool, Fenway Park, the Boston Red Sox, and just purchased the Pittsburgh Penguins.

His real estate holding is also estimated to be about $80 million in total value. The Akron, Ohio native purchased a $10 million mansion in the Akron area, plus two homes in Los Angeles for about $59.75 million.

Investments within the food and beverage industry have also Brough James a good amount of cash. His 10% ownership stake in Blaze Pizza which he bought in 2012 for less than $1 million is now valued at $30 million.

With this milestone, James has become the first active NBA player to be worth $1 billion. Only two other former NBA players have reached the milestone, Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan.

The Stade de France in central Paris was the site of chaos before the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday evening. The match which featured English club Liverpool FC and Spanish club Real Madrid had to be delayed by over half an hour as security struggled to contain the crowd and control the fans climbing over fences and barricades. Police were called in and tear gas, as well as pepper spray, were deployed onto the crowd. Leadership groups involved with Liverpool fans’ have complained about the poor organization and heavy policing that led to many children and elderly people being sprayed with tear gas.

UEFA is citing many different causes for the disorganization that occurred with the fan movement. The lack of signage on the streets as well as the lack of volunteers and ushers helping supporters navigate their way into the stadium has been given as one of the main reasons for the chaos. This may be due to the short notice and limited time the city had to prepare for the final. Originally, the Russian city of St. Petersburg was set to host the match. But due to the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war, the city was stripped of its hosting privileges. Paris was named host in February giving the city less than ample time to prepare for the influx of fans.

Ticketing has also been offered as another problem area. French interior Géral Darwinian claimed there was “massive fraud at an industrial level,” saying that “70% of the tickets were fake tickets coming into the Stade de France.” There were also claims of malfunctioning scanners at the event. Deputy mayor of the 12th arrondissement in Paris, Richard Bouigue, released a statement to Liverpool supporters saying, “the time for official denial is over, the time for apologies must be imposed. I deplore the dysfunctions in the organization of the game and the lack of maintenance of order that led to this real fiasco.”

The problems with the UEFA Champions League Final have raised concerns about Paris’s ability to host the Olympics in 2024. UEFA is launching an investigation and is commissioning a report of all “entities involved” at the Stade de France as it is a key Paris 2024 venue. As of now, Liverpool fans are still expressing displeasure about their treatment and their team’s ultimate 1-0 defeat at the hands of Real Madrid.

Lionel Messi is isolating at home in Argentina after testing positive for Covid-19—one of four Paris Saint-Germain players to do so ahead of the team’s return from winter break.

PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino is not sure when the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner will be able to return to France—or if he can even recover in time to play away to Lyon in the league next Sunday.

Clubs across Europe have been depleted by Covid—reflecting the wider surge the omicron variant has taken. England has been the most affected, as the Premier League has played through the Christmas holidays amid other postponements.

Liverpool announced three further suspected coronavirus cases—goalkeeper Alisson, forward Roberto Firmino and defender Joel Matip; manager Jürgen Klopp had already entered isolation and missed the trip to London—ahead of its Sunday matchup with Chelsea.

French clubs were back playing for the first time in 1 1/2 weeks.

“With regards to Leo, he’s in contact with our medical service,” Pochettino said. “I don’t know if he’ll be able to play in Lyon. He tested positive in Argentina (and) until he’s negative, he won’t be able to travel to France. We’ll see when he gets back.”

“It’s the risk everyone runs in football on a world scale,” Pochettino said. “Contact is unavoidable in football, it’s obvious that there are more risks. “We’ve taken all the steps necessary to avoid a player transmitting the virus to another. I do what the medical service personnel tell us to.”

Manchester United fans have not forgotten what the team owners Joel and Avram Glazer tried to do with the failed European Super League.

For fans, it’s been repeated built-up frustration with the team and how it’s run that fueled distrust with the Glazer family’s ownership. The club used to be debt-free until the Glazers took ownership of the team in 2005. The Glazers were able to complete a takeover using borrowed money, but once they got ownership of the team, the borrowed money became debt for the team. The team went from being debt-free to £540 million in debt.

That was one of the long-standing frustrations fans had with the team, but it subsided when Manchester United captured multiple league titles after the takeover. The success ended once manager Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. Manchester United has not had success since 2013, which was another reason for fan frustration.

The biggest offense that broke the straw on the camel’s back was the failed European Super League. Fans were shocked by the sudden news that Manchester United was one of the 13 teams that agreed to form the European Super League. The European Super League was an attempt by top teams across Europe to break away from their respective leagues and form their own league.

The announcement was met with condemnation by the leagues, fans and politicians. Pressure forced multiple teams to withdraw from the European Super League. Manchester United was one of the first members to withdraw, and the league was suspended after the majority of members left.

Fans had enough and took the opportunity to storm Old Trafford, the stadium where the team plays. On Sunday, ahead of the team’s game against Liverpool, fans staged a protest against the Glazer’s ownership of the team outside of Old Trafford. A huge crowd of protestors gathered and were able to enter the stadium to continue their protest.

The protest caused the Premier League to postpone the game.

The Super League is officially dead.

On April 18, the European Super League was announced with 12 founding football teams. The 12 teams were top teams from across three different football leagues in Europe. As of Wednesday, the project is no longer happening. The Super League consisted of founding members Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham, Atlético, Inter Milan, AC Milan, Juventus, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The European Super League announcement was met with intense fan backlash and legislative pressure. The UEFA held a press conference condemning the European Super League and threatened to ban players from the participating teams from playing in this year’s European Championship and next year’s World Cup.

Two days after its initial creation, six founding clubs withdrew from the proposed league. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham withdrew from the project due to pressure. It was a death blow to the proposed project.

Following the departures of the English clubs, the European Super League announced that it was suspending the project. “Given the current circumstances, we shall reconsider the most appropriate steps to reshape the project, always giving in mind our goals of offering the fans the best experience possible while enhancing solidarity payments for the entire football community,” the statement read.

On Wednesday, four more clubs withdrew from the project. Atlético, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Juventus.

Atlético released a statement announcing its official departure from the project. “Atlético de Madrid’s Board of Directors, which met on Wednesday morning, has decided to formally communicate to the Super League and the rest of the founding clubs its decision not to finally formalize its adhesion to the project,” the statement read.

Inter Milan released an official statement confirming their departure. “FC Internazionale Milano confirms that the Club is no longer part of the Super League project,” the statement said.

AC Milan then released a statement announcing its withdrawal from the project. The Italian club said, “The voice and concerns of supporters throughout the world about the Super League project have been strong and clear, and our Club must remain sensitive and attentive to the opinion of those who love this sport”.

Juventus was the next club that left. “While Juventus remains convinced of the soundness of the project’s sport, commercial and legal premises, it believes that at present there are limited chances that the project be completed in the form originally conceived,” the club said. “Juventus remains committed to pursuing the creation of long-term value for the Company and the entire football industry.”

As of now, only FC Barcelona and Real Madrid have not officially left the league.