The article discusses the various career opportunities available at 888 Holdings. It highlights the company's involvement in software development for online sports betting and gaming products, marketing for their world-class brands, and the operation of approximately 1,350 retail betting shops in the UK. The article serves as an overview of the diverse job prospects within the company.

The article discusses the boxing match where Jamie Conlan won the Commonwealth title by defeating Anthony Nelson. The fight is compared to the legendary bouts of Arturo Gatti, known for his thrilling and aggressive boxing style. Conlan's performance is described as reminiscent of Gatti's, with a focus on his willingness to engage in boxing wars despite having the skills to fight more cautiously. The article also touches on the emotional involvement of Conlan's family, particularly his brother Michael, who is an accomplished amateur boxer. The writer shares personal experiences and conversations with Jamie Conlan, highlighting his mindset and approach to boxing, as well as the satisfaction he derives from winning hard-fought battles.

The article focuses on the mental aspects of boxing, particularly at the elite level, as exemplified by Belfast super-flyweight boxer Jamie Conlan. The journalist, Paul Gibson, observes Conlan in Dublin hours before his fight, noting his calm demeanor and mental preparation. Conlan, with 13 professional wins, is about to headline a televised show with a new trainer after a nine-month break. Despite his confidence, Conlan admits to occasional doubts, which the journalist interprets as a healthy balance between confidence and complacency. The article highlights the importance of internal factors and a fighter's hidden instinct in the sport of boxing.

The article focuses on the psychological aspects of boxing, particularly at the elite level. The journalist, Paul Gibson, explores the internal factors that differentiate fighters, beyond their physical capabilities. The piece centers around Jamie Conlan, a super-flyweight boxer from Belfast, as he prepares for a televised fight in Dublin after a nine-month break and with a new trainer. Conlan shares his thoughts and feelings in the lead-up to the fight, revealing a mix of confidence and the occasional doubt. Despite the pressure, he maintains a clear mind and expresses readiness for the upcoming bout, illustrating the mental side of boxing preparation.

The article reminisces about the legendary boxing match between Diego Corrales and Jose Luis Castillo, which took place on May 7, 2005. It reflects on the life and career of Diego 'Chico' Corrales, who tragically died in a motorcycle accident two years after the fight, on its second anniversary. The author describes Corrales' upbringing, his rise in the boxing world, his fall from grace due to personal issues, and his remarkable comeback. The fight with Castillo is depicted as one of the greatest in boxing history, with a particularly memorable tenth round where Corrales made an extraordinary comeback to win. The article pays tribute to Corrales' spirit and the unforgettable match that has become a part of boxing lore.

England faced a crushing defeat against India in the third Test in Rajkot, losing by 434 runs, marking their worst loss since 1934 and India's biggest victory. Yashasvi Jaiswal's unbeaten 214 and record-equalling 12 sixes were highlights, while India's 28 sixes set a new team record. Despite their dominance, internal frustrations were evident in the Indian camp. English artist Andy Brown suffered heat exhaustion but returned to his post. Dhruv Jurel made history as the first wicketkeeper from Uttar Pradesh to play for India.

The article recounts the WBA featherweight title fight between Leigh Wood and Michael Conlan on March 12, 2022, in Nottingham Arena, highlighting it as a contender for Fight of the Year. Both fighters came into the match with different backgrounds and expectations, with Conlan having an undefeated record and Wood having a more traditional British boxing journey. The fight was intense and unpredictable, with Conlan knocking Wood down in the first round, but Wood ultimately surviving and fighting back. The match was filled with action, drama, and a stunning comeback by Wood, who retained his world title with a knockout in the final round. The atmosphere and the emotional investment of the fans were palpable, making it a memorable event. The article also mentions other notable fights and promotes the January 2023 edition of The Ring's digital magazine.

Country music icon Willie Nelson releases his latest album 'A Beautiful Time' on his 89th birthday, adding to his impressive discography of 97 studio albums. The album reflects on Nelson's life experiences, touching on themes of lost love, friendship, and reconciliation. Produced by Buddy Cannon, who also co-wrote some of the tracks, the album features contributions from Nashville artists like Chris Stapleton, Rodney Crowell, and Shawn Camp. It includes covers of Leonard Cohen's 'Tower of Song' and the Beatles' 'With a Little Help From My Friends'. The production is described as clean and sparse, with a comfortable, familiar sound. Despite its reflective tone, the album also contains playful moments, as Nelson contemplates both past memories and future plans. The review portrays 'A Beautiful Time' as a testament to Nelson's enduring spirit and his ability to confront mortality with the defiance of an Outlaw.

David Ford and Annie Dressner, both acclaimed solo artists, have recently collaborated to create a new album titled '48 Hours'. Despite their short time working together, their debut showcases a strong musical connection with character-driven songs. The album was produced rapidly during a break in their early 2022 tour and features raw, emotional lyrics. The duo emphasizes the importance of authenticity and character development in their songwriting process. They plan to perform in small, intimate venues to match the atmosphere of their music. The article includes insights from their backgrounds, influences, songwriting, and recording process. '48 Hours' is set to be released independently with a tour planned for seaside towns during the summer. Both artists also share their current personal music preferences.

Texas-based singer-songwriter Cheryl Cawood's debut album 'Bullet in the Cabin Wall' is a deep dive into her Appalachian heritage and Kentucky family history. The album tells universally relatable stories through the lens of Appalachian imagery, touching on themes such as the plight of an unemployed miner and the life of a moonshiner. Cawood's storytelling is complemented by varied and engaging sonics, excellent musicianship, and a production that appeals to both modern listeners and traditionalists. Her rich and authentic vocal delivery adds to the album's narrative, which, while not strictly a concept album, has a nostalgic thread that ties the songs together like chapters in a book. Cawood's work is a nod to the importance of acknowledging one's roots and the complex tapestry of life's struggles and triumphs.

The article discusses the British TV series 'Grange Hill', which aired from 1978 to 2008 and is set to return as a film in 2023. The show was known for tackling controversial topics like drug addiction and bullying. The article provides updates on the lives of the cast members post-Grange Hill, including their careers and personal challenges. Todd Carty, Sean Maguire, Lee MacDonald, John Alford, Susan Tully, Terry Sue-Patt, Erkan Mustafa, Amanda Mealing, Mark Farmer, and Donald Waugh are among the actors mentioned. Some have continued acting, others have faced legal and health issues, and one has passed away. The article also touches on the impact of the show on UK popular culture and the actors' contributions to other television shows and films.

In the article, former Ireland rugby star Rob Kearney discusses various aspects of his life with journalist Emily Hourican. Kearney reflects on his relationship with Joe Biden, his experiences with coaches, being bullied at school, and the tragic loss of his brother Ross in childhood. He also talks about the postponement of his wedding and his future plans after retiring from rugby. The article touches on a tweet Kearney sent to Joe Biden during the US elections, congratulating him on his presidential win at a time when the election results were still uncertain.

The article, written by pastors Paul Gibson and James Bordwine, discusses the Coronavirus pandemic from a religious perspective. Paul Gibson, self-isolating due to symptoms, reflects on the virus as both an act of judgment and mercy by God, urging people to seek repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the sovereignty of God over such disasters and the need for a fear of God in these times. James Bordwine shares a quote from Martin Luther about the plague, advising on health precautions and the importance of Christian witness. He encourages believers to serve others, not to fear, and to trust in God, highlighting the opportunity for Christians to demonstrate their faith during the crisis.

The article discusses the career of boxer Carl Frampton, focusing on his split from Cyclone Promotions and his new direction in boxing. Frampton, once managed by the McGuigan family through Cyclone Promotions, experienced a period of despondency despite his success. The relationship soured, culminating in a series of unfortunate events including a missed weight and a cancelled fight. Frampton has since moved on, signing with MTK as advisors and Queensberry Promotions and BT Sport for promotions. He also retained Al Haymon and Luis DeCubas as American advisors. Jamie Moore has replaced Shane McGuigan as his trainer, bringing a new approach to Frampton's training regimen. The article highlights Frampton's renewed enthusiasm for boxing, his upcoming fight against Horacio García, and his future aspirations, including potential big fights and a possible move up to a third weight class.

Paddy Barnes is preparing for a significant boxing match for the WBO European flyweight title against Silviu Olteanu, a seasoned fighter and former European champion. Barnes, transitioning from amateur to professional boxing, has undergone intense training at MTK's headquarters in Spain. Despite being early in his professional career, Barnes is aiming for a victory that could set him up for a world title fight, particularly against Zou Shiming, who has defeated him in past amateur competitions. Barnes also reflects on his decision to turn professional, his relationship with the media, and his acceptance of an MBE, which he now questions. The article also touches on Barnes' personality, his social media presence, and his relationships with other fighters like Carl Frampton and Michael Conlan.

The article discusses the career trajectory of former WBA flyweight champion Lorenzo 'Lencho' Parra. Now nearing 40 and fighting far above his prime weight, Lencho has moved from Venezuela to Spain, seeking safety and opportunities for his family amid his country's turmoil. Despite his past success, financial struggles have forced him to take unfavorable fights, often with the expectation to lose. However, a potential partnership with MGZ Promotions could offer him better fights and a future as a trainer. The journalist recounts Lencho's history, his recent fights, and his aspirations to win once more before retiring, painting a picture of a champion's resilience in the face of adversity.

The article is a first-person narrative by a sportswriter who was tasked with ghostwriting a book for Dan Hardy, a former UFC title challenger and MMA analyst. The writer, initially unfamiliar with the UFC, delves into the world of mixed martial arts, exploring its history, evolution, and the intricacies of the sport. The writer discusses the early days of the UFC, marked by fewer rules and more violence, and contrasts it with the sport's current, more regulated state. The article also touches on the safety of MMA compared to boxing, suggesting that despite the more visible violence in MMA, the sport might be safer in terms of long-term neurological damage due to factors like smaller gloves, the absence of a referee's count, and shorter fight durations. The writer concludes by acknowledging a growing appreciation for MMA while maintaining a primary interest in boxing.

The article covers the professional boxing debut of Belfast's Michael Conlan at the Theater in Madison Square Garden, New York City. It describes the electric atmosphere of the city, particularly during St Patrick's Day, and the anticipation surrounding Conlan's first fight. The event is compared to the debut of Oscar de la Hoya in 1992 due to the hype, with promoters Top Rank expressing their excitement. The article details Conlan's preparation, his feelings before the fight, and the fight itself, where he defeated Tim Ibarra. Post-fight celebrations and Conlan's interactions with the crowd and other celebrities are also mentioned. The article concludes with Conlan's participation in the Bronx parade and his recognition as a rising Irish boxing star.

Derry Mathews, a veteran lightweight boxer from Liverpool, reflects on his 15-year professional career and his upcoming fight against Ohara Davies on the undercard of the David Haye v Tony Bellew fight. Mathews discusses his past achievements, including winning the WBU featherweight title, and his work outside the ring, particularly his initiative to set up a boxing gym for people with disabilities. He shares his experience of running Derry's Gym, where he offers classes for fighters with various disabilities and is planning an event on 15 April for boxers with disabilities to spar with local pros. Mathews also talks about his management team, MTK, and his aspirations to win a genuine world title. He expresses support for fellow Liverpool boxer Tony Bellew in his fight against David Haye.

The article discusses the aftermath of the boxing match between Carl Frampton and Léo Santa Cruz, where Santa Cruz won the WBA super world featherweight title from Frampton. The fight took place in Las Vegas, and it was a rematch in which Santa Cruz adapted his fighting style to defeat Frampton, who had won their previous bout. Frampton reflects on his loss with honesty, acknowledging Santa Cruz's clever strategy and expressing his desire for a rematch in Belfast, potentially at Windsor Park. The article also touches on the emotional impact of the loss on Frampton and his future aspirations in the sport. The writer hints at the possibility of a rematch in Northern Ireland, drawing a parallel with a historical fight where Barry McGuigan, Frampton's manager, won a WBA featherweight title.

The article discusses the controversial Olympic boxing match involving Michael Conlan on August 16, 2016, where he felt cheated out of a victory due to corrupt judging. Conlan's outburst against the Aiba and his subsequent transition to a professional boxing career are highlighted. The piece covers the aftermath of the Rio Olympics, including Aiba's response to the controversy and Conlan's move to the United States to train and fight professionally. It also touches on Conlan's aspirations to win world titles in multiple weight divisions and his upcoming debut fight at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick's Day, with Conor McGregor as his flag bearer. The article portrays Conlan's confidence and readiness to embrace the pressures of a professional career while maintaining his personal integrity and style.

Conor McGregor, the UFC lightweight champion, has been granted a boxing license by the state of California, sparking criticism from the boxing community. The article discusses the skepticism surrounding McGregor's potential in boxing, comparing his skills to those of retired boxer Floyd Mayweather. It also touches on McGregor's background in boxing and his evolution as a mixed martial artist. The possibility of McGregor facing Mayweather is mentioned, but contractual and practical barriers are acknowledged. The article suggests that while McGregor has some boxing skills, the transition from MMA to professional boxing would be challenging. It also speculates that McGregor's move could be a strategic play for future negotiations or a ploy for media attention.

The article discusses the evolution of fighter training and the role of the Irish Strength Institute in modernizing strength and conditioning practices in Ireland. Founded by John Connor and Eoin Lacey, the institute has become a leading service for fighters, including working with Conor McGregor's team at Straight Blast Gym. The article highlights Connor's background, his approach to training, and his work with fighters like Carl Frampton. It also touches on the differences between boxing and MMA training, the importance of power in combat sports, and the need for personalized training regimens. Additionally, the article briefly entertains the rumors of a potential fight between Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather, with Connor humorously suggesting McGregor might resort to MMA tactics in a boxing match.

The article discusses the boxing careers of Marvelous Marvin Hagler and Gennady Golovkin, focusing on their quests for legacy-defining fights. Hagler, who became the undisputed middleweight champion in 1980, sought to cement his legacy by taking on fighters like Roberto Durán, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Tommy Hearns. Despite a successful career, Hagler's thirst for glory was only partially quenched before he retired. Similarly, Golovkin, a dominant middleweight, is looking for marquee opponents to enhance his legacy. The article contrasts the willingness of past fighters to move up in weight classes with the current reluctance of fighters like Floyd Mayweather and Canelo Álvarez to do so. It suggests that Golovkin might need to consider moving up in weight to secure the legacy-defining fights he desires, as Hagler did not. The article also touches on the politics and business of boxing, such as catchweights and promotional strategies, which can impede the making of significant fights.

The article discusses the boxing match where Jamie Conlan won the Commonwealth super flyweight title by defeating Anthony Nelson. The author compares Conlan's fighting style and spirit to that of the legendary boxer Arturo Gatti, known for his thrilling fights and warrior mentality. Despite having the skills to win fights easily, Conlan chooses to engage in more dangerous, crowd-pleasing battles, much like Gatti did. The article recounts Conlan's recent fights, his training, and his family's reactions to his fighting style. The author also includes Conlan's reflections on his fighting approach and the satisfaction he derives from winning hard-fought battles.

The article discusses the aftermath of a boxing match where fighter Nick Blackwell was induced into a coma to reduce brain swelling following a bout. It touches on the roles and responsibilities of various parties involved in boxing matches, including the opponent, referee, and the fighter's corner, in the context of ensuring the safety of the boxers. The article criticizes the quick judgment passed by an ESPN writer, Dan Rafael, who blamed Blackwell's trainer, Gary Lockett, and referee Victor Loughlin for the injury. It argues that the situation is not as simple as some critics claim and that hindsight does not always provide a clear perspective on such incidents. The writer hopes for Blackwell's recovery and calls for respect towards all individuals involved in the sport, without hastily attributing blame.

The article provides a detailed account of the historic rivalry between boxers Sugar Ray Robinson and Jake La Motta. It highlights Robinson's impressive career statistics, including his 173 victories and 108 knockouts, and his resilience in the face of defeat, such as his loss due to heat exhaustion against Joey Maxim. The piece delves into the contrasting boxing styles and philosophies of Robinson and La Motta, with Robinson's finesse and La Motta's toughness defining their six-fight saga. It also touches on the influence of organized crime in boxing during the 1940s, with both fighters resisting pressure from the mob. The article culminates with a vivid description of their final bout on Valentine's Day 1951, where Robinson triumphed despite La Motta's indomitable spirit, never being knocked down. The narrative captures the essence of their enduring legacy in the boxing world.

The article covers the pre-fight press conferences and events leading up to the boxing match between Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg. The initial meeting in London, hosted by Sky's Adam Smith, was diplomatic with both sides acknowledging the fight's timing. Matchroom's Eddie Hearn and Cyclone Promotions' Barry McGuigan highlighted the event's significance. Predictions were made by both camps, with each side confident of victory. The atmosphere was tense, with some heated exchanges, particularly aimed at Hearn. The article also touches on the familial nature of Cyclone Promotions and the strategic discussions for the press conferences. In Manchester, Frampton pointed out his popularity over Quigg, and in Belfast, the press conference was met with an electric atmosphere, with Frampton feeding off the crowd's energy. The article concludes with anticipation for the fight on February 27, 2016.

The article discusses the revival of professional boxing in Spain, highlighting the formation of the Spanish Association of Professional Boxing Promoters, an initiative by Maravillabox and other major promotional forces in Spanish boxing to rejuvenate the sport. The author attends the first show organized by the association at Palacio de Vistalegre in Madrid, describing the diverse crowd and the atmosphere. The fights varied in quality, with notable performances by Nabil Krissi, Jon Fernandez, Angel Moreno, and Ruddy Encarnación. The main event featured Nicolas Gonzalez winning the WBC Mediterranean super lightweight title. The author also mentions a dinner with Spanish boxing figures Jorge Lera and Ivan Ramos, discussing the potential for future events and the challenges faced by the sport in Spain, such as the lack of TV coverage.

The article discusses the impact of injuries and postponements in boxing, particularly focusing on Tyson Fury's career setbacks due to his opponents' injuries. It highlights how Fury's path to the heavyweight championship has been hindered by these unforeseen events. The article draws parallels with historical boxing matches where delays due to injuries, such as those to Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, led to significant outcomes and iconic moments in the sport. It suggests that Fury should remain optimistic, as past postponements have sometimes been a prelude to greatness in boxing history. The article reflects on how these delays have shaped the legacies of boxers like Ali and Mike Tyson, and speculates on the potential impact of the postponement of Fury's fight with Wladimir Klitschko.

The article discusses the impact of Floyd Mayweather's retirement on the boxing world, particularly the 147lb weight class. It compares the current situation to the heavyweight division's challenges in the late 1960s after Muhammad Ali's exile. The piece highlights Al Haymon's influence in boxing through his company Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) and his strategy of acquiring a stable of welterweight fighters. The article suggests that Haymon's fighters could dominate the division and render the traditional boxing governing bodies' decisions irrelevant. It also speculates on potential matchups among non-Haymon welterweights like Manny Pacquiao, Timothy Bradley, and Kell Brook, and the possibility of Mayweather returning to achieve a 50-0 record.

The article pays tribute to the late boxer Diego 'Chico' Corrales on what would have been his 38th birthday, reflecting on his life and career. Corrales, who died in a motorcycle accident in Las Vegas over eight years ago, is remembered for his intense fighting style and the challenges he faced both inside and outside the ring. The article recounts his upbringing in a violent neighborhood, his rise to fame in boxing, and his tragic fall, including a prison sentence for domestic abuse. It highlights his most memorable fight against José Luis Castillo, detailing the dramatic comeback Corrales made in the 10th round to win the fight. The piece captures the spirit of Corrales as a fighter who lived with reckless abandon and left an indelible mark on the sport of boxing.

The article discusses the state of professional boxing in Spain, highlighting the lack of interest and success in the sport compared to other countries. It details the sudden cancellation of a major boxing event in Madrid, which was to feature Ruddy Encarnación and Sofiane Takoucht, due to poor management and promotion. The author explores various reasons for the sport's unpopularity in Spain, including the country's focus on other sports, the negative image of boxing, and the historical impact of Francisco Franco's dictatorship. Despite the efforts of figures like Kiko Martínez and the presence of boxing gyms, the sport struggles against the dominance of football and negative public perception. The article suggests that Spain is unlikely to produce many world champions in boxing in the near future.

The article discusses the boxing matches involving super bantamweights Scott Quigg and Carl Frampton, who fought on the same night in Manchester and Texas, respectively. Quigg defeated Kiko Martínez with a powerful display, while Frampton overcame an early scare to win against Alejandro Gonzalez Jr. The article suggests that Quigg's victory may have earned him a better negotiating position for a potential fight with Frampton, despite the latter being a bigger draw for fans. The author anticipates that negotiations for a fight between Quigg and Frampton will be tough but is hopeful that the desire of both fighters to compete against each other will prevail.

The article discusses the upcoming boxing match between Kiko 'La Sensación' Martínez and Scott Quigg at the MEN Arena in Manchester. Martínez, who is from the hot and arid southeast of the Iberian Peninsula, is looking forward to the cooler climate of Manchester, which he believes will benefit his training. He has recently changed trainers, now working with Antonio Gonzalez Matias, and feels motivated and strong for the fight. Martínez critiques Quigg's past opponents and expresses confidence in his own boxing record. He also comments on Carl Frampton, considering him a superior fighter to Quigg and hinting at a desire for a rematch with Frampton if he wins against Quigg. The article also touches on the legitimacy of Quigg's title and Martínez's plans for a potential rematch or future fights. The tone of the article is a mix of sports reporting and personal interest in the fighters' backgrounds and preparations.

The article discusses the retirement of Carl Froch, a four-time world super-middleweight champion, from professional boxing. It highlights his final fight, where he retained his WBA and IBF super-middleweight belts with a knockout victory over George Groves. The piece reflects on Froch's career, noting his under-appreciation despite his achievements and his difficulty connecting with the public. It recounts his notable fights, including victories over Jean Pascal, Jermain Taylor, Lucian Bute, and Mikkel Kessler, and his participation in the Super Six tournament. The article also considers Froch's legacy in British boxing, comparing him to other greats and concluding that he has nothing left to prove.

The article reflects on the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight, examining the cultural and social significance of the event in the context of modern society. It discusses the portrayal of Floyd Mayweather as the villain due to his past behavior, including domestic abuse convictions, and contrasts this with the media's treatment of Manny Pacquiao, who was largely spared from critical questions about his political responsibilities and personal controversies. The writer suggests that the fight, while lacking the historical gravitas of bouts from the eras of Joe Louis or Muhammad Ali, is emblematic of the current age's emphasis on profit and spectacle. The article also touches on the broader implications of the fight's commercial success and questions whether it was another form of financial exploitation, drawing parallels with the economic crisis of 2008.

The article recounts the dramatic knockout of Manny Pacquiao by Juan Manuel Márquez in their fourth boxing match at the MGM Grand Arena. It describes the shock and concern from those present as Pacquiao lay motionless on the canvas after being hit by Márquez's powerful right hand. The article provides a detailed account of the fight, highlighting the intense rivalry and the previous encounters between the two boxers. It also touches on Pacquiao's political career in the Philippines and Márquez's determination for victory. The knockout is depicted as a culmination of Márquez's patience and strategy, which finally paid off after years of contentious battles with Pacquiao.

The article recounts the challenging fight between Barry McGuigan and Steve Cruz in Las Vegas during the 1980s. McGuigan, a celebrated Irish boxer known for his unifying presence during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, faced extreme heat and a last-minute opponent change which contributed to his defeat. Despite being the favorite and having a record of uniting people across political divides, McGuigan struggled with the heat and late changes to his fight plan. The fight ended with McGuigan suffering from heat exhaustion and dehydration, leading to a loss by a narrow margin. The article reflects on McGuigan's legacy both as a boxer and a symbol of peace, noting that while he may have lost the title, his impact as a person remained untouched.

The article recounts the intense rivalry between Mexican boxers Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales, which spanned over four years and three weight divisions. Their mutual dislike was genuine and manifested both inside and outside the ring, with personal insults and physical altercations. The trilogy of fights between them, which took place at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and MGM Grand in Las Vegas, is celebrated for its ferocity and technical prowess, with Morales winning the first bout and Barrera the subsequent two. Despite the animosity, the article notes that the two fighters eventually made peace, with both expressing mutual respect and friendship years after their last fight.

The article discusses the influence of the Irish diaspora in the United States, particularly in relation to St Patrick’s Day celebrations and the sport of boxing. It highlights the decline of Irish American boxers and the need for the US to import fighters from Ireland. The focus is on Irish boxers Patrick Hyland and Gary 'Spike' O’Sullivan, who are fighting in Madison Square Garden. O’Sullivan, who has been training in the US and is managed by Ken Casey of the Dropkick Murphys, is preparing for a fight against Colombian Milton Núñez. The article also touches on O’Sullivan's past challenges, his training regime, and his aspirations for a world title fight against either Billy Joe Saunders or Chris Eubank Jr. The cultural significance of boxing for the Irish community and the personal story of O’Sullivan, including his family life and his interactions with media and politicians, are also covered.

The article recounts the historic moment when French pole vaulter Renaud Lavillenie broke the world record by clearing 6.16m at the Sergei Bubka indoor meeting in Donetsk, Ukraine. The event took place against the backdrop of the Ukrainian Revolution. Lavillenie's achievement surpassed the record held by Ukrainian pole vaulting legend Sergey Bubka, who was present at the event. The article also discusses Bubka's career, his numerous world records, and the unique incentives provided by Nike in the form of world record bonuses. It reflects on the nature of athletic performance and the elusive search for an athlete's peak, comparing Lavillenie's and Bubka's reactions to their achievements and speculating on whether Bubka ever reached his ultimate potential.

The article discusses the 35th Prizefighter series taking place at Blackpool's Winter Gardens, where middleweight boxers compete for a £32,000 prize. The format is a one-night, eight-man tournament with each bout lasting three rounds. The event is not for top-tier boxers but provides an opportunity for less established fighters to gain exposure and advance their careers. The article highlights the experiences of boxers like Martin Murray, Terry Flanagan, and Luke Keeler, who see the event as a career springboard. Keeler, in particular, is focused on winning and has prepared intensively, including psychological training with sports psychologist Alan Heary. The author suggests that while winning Prizefighter can be transformative, even those who lose are not significantly set back in their careers.

The article discusses the dilution of boxing titles and the proliferation of champions across numerous weight classes, which has led to a devaluation of boxing championships. It highlights the case of Darrin Morris, a boxer who was posthumously ranked by the WBO due to administrative errors. The article also covers the purchase of Ring Magazine by Golden Boy Promotions and the subsequent manipulation of rankings and championship policies. In response to these issues, Springs Toledo, Cliff Rold, and Tim Starks resigned from The Ring's advisory panel and formed the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board (TBRB) to restore integrity to boxing rankings and identify true champions. The TBRB aims to provide authoritative rankings and insists on reforming the sport. The article also touches on the uncertainty of the Premier Boxing Champions series and its potential impact on the sport.

The article discusses the long-standing drought of an English Wimbledon champion since Fred Perry, and parallels this with the current wait in the United States for a heavyweight boxing champion since the days of Evander Holyfield. Deontay Wilder is highlighted as the potential American savior, set to fight Bermane Stiverne for the WBC heavyweight title. The article questions the quality of Wilder's previous opponents and whether his undefeated record is a true reflection of his ability. It also acknowledges Stiverne's solid boxing credentials and suggests that the upcoming fight is unpredictable, drawing interest from fans and writers. The article concludes by suggesting that if Wilder fails to live up to the hype, Stiverne, who is in the process of securing American nationality, could be embraced by American fans.

The article reflects on the overshadowed legacies of heavyweight boxers Joe Frazier and George Foreman due to the immense popularity of Muhammad Ali. Despite their own significant achievements, including Frazier's victory over Ali in 1971 and Foreman's Olympic Gold medal, their careers are often viewed in relation to Ali. The article recounts the 1973 Sunshine Showdown in Kingston, Jamaica, where Foreman defeated Frazier to become the heavyweight champion. Foreman's intimidating persona in the ring is contrasted with his later affable public image. The brutal nature of the fight is described in detail, highlighting Foreman's dominance and the eventual stoppage of the fight in the second round. The article also touches on the friendship that developed between Frazier and Foreman after their careers and notes the absence of similarly captivating figures in the current heavyweight boxing scene.

The article discusses the long history of boxers avoiding fights with certain opponents, a practice known as 'ducking.' It references the recent verbal sparring between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao as a modern example of this phenomenon. The author recounts historical instances of ducking, dating back to the 19th century with fighters like Joseph Henry Coburn, John C Heenan, and John L Sullivan, illustrating that the practice has been part of the sport for centuries. The article suggests that while the reasons for ducking may have evolved, with factors like mob involvement and TV networks playing a role, the fundamental issue remains unchanged. The author implies that ducking is an ingrained part of boxing that will likely continue even after current fighters retire.

The article reflects on Mike Tyson's boxing career, particularly focusing on his intimidating presence and the passion he brought to the sport. Tyson's own definition of passion, equated with a willingness to hurt another, is discussed in the context of his dominance in the late 1980s. The article recounts the 1988 fight between Tyson and Michael Spinks, highlighting Tyson's psychological and physical preparation, the atmosphere of the match, and the swift victory Tyson achieved. The fight is described in vivid detail, from the music that accompanied the fighters to the ring to the knockout that ended the match in just 91 seconds. The article also touches on Tyson's personal challenges at the time, including the death of a trusted mentor and legal battles. Tyson's peak and subsequent decline in boxing are alluded to, suggesting that his best days were behind him even at the height of his fame.

The article discusses the career of Steve Collins Jr, the son of the famous Irish boxer Steve Collins. Growing up in Dublin, Steve Jr faced challenges due to his father's reputation but found his own path in sports, initially through rugby, playing for teams like Lansdowne, Wasps, and Irish. Eventually, he transitioned to boxing, shedding weight to fit into the cruiserweight division. Despite lacking a traditional amateur boxing background, Steve Jr is quickly gaining experience and skill, with the help of his father and uncle Paschal, a renowned Dublin-based trainer. The article also mentions the Celtic Warrior gym in Dublin, where Steve Jr trains alongside other notable fighters. Steve Jr is preparing for an upcoming fight on the undercard of the Fury-Chisora rematch and is determined to build his career without shortcuts, seeking challenging opponents to improve his skills.

The article discusses the boxing career of George Groves, focusing on his controversial fight with Carl Froch, refereed by Howard Foster. It reflects on the referee's decision to stop the fight early, which has been widely criticized except by Froch's fans. The author revisits the fight, watching it without sound to gain a clearer perspective and acknowledges the difficulty of a referee's job, especially in terms of ensuring the safety of the boxers. The article also touches on the history of boxing refereeing, mentioning past incidents where referees' decisions had serious consequences, and ponders whether such history influences decisions in the ring. Ultimately, the author remains conflicted about the early stoppage in the Groves-Froch fight but understands the referee's priority for the boxer's safety.

The article is a tribute to the iconic ninth round of the first fight between Arturo Gatti and Micky Ward, which took place on May 18, 2002. The author reflects on the significance of the round, describing it as a moment of almost supernatural endeavour that continues to captivate boxing fans. The round is presented as a standalone event that speaks volumes about the fighters' resilience and spirit, transcending the need for context. The article delves into the backgrounds of Gatti and Ward, highlighting their nationalities and ancestral struggles that shaped their fighting personas. The author vividly recounts the events of Round Nine, emphasizing the sheer determination and endurance displayed by both fighters. Despite the extensive coverage this boxing round has received, the author argues that it will never become a tired topic and remains a testament to the fighters' legacies.