Chris Weidman sees welterweight champion Islam Makhachev frustrating Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.
Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) makes his first ****** le defense against Machado Garry (17-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) in the Aug. 15 main event at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia (Paramount+). Makhachev claimed the welterweight ****** le at UFC 322 by taking down Jack Della Maddalena four times and controlling him for more than 19 minutes.
"I think this is going to be a really stressful fight for Ian Garry," Weidman said on "Deep Waters." "I don't think he's going to be as comfortable because he's going to be sh*tting his pants about the takedown because he sees how good Islam is on the ground, and Islam is going to throw hard on the feet, too."
Machado Garry has been criticized for his fighting style, which Weidman believes will benefit him against Makhachev.
"The best thing that he's got going for him is that he's not afraid to have a boring fight," Weidman said of Machado Garry. "He's not afraid to use footwork, run non-stop. He has no problem running from you the whole ****** time."

#makhachev #think

After they were knocked out in the wild-card round of the postseason, the San Francisco 49ers have added some real difference-makers on both sides of the ball over the last few months.
While their roster is better than it was at the end of the year, they could still bring in talented players who could help take them to the next level. On Monday, a new name hit the market, as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive lineman Vita Vea requested a trade.
Every team in the league could benefit from adding a player like Vea, but former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho believes that Vea landing in San Francisco would make them legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
"If the Niners get Vita Vea. It's time to usher them back into the conversations. We've ushered the Rams into the Seahawks, as reigning champs, into the Philadelphia Eagles, they always stay in those conversations," Acho said on his "Speakeasy" podcast. "Because you got to think about what the Niners are building this offseason. I would suggest the Niners have had quietly, maybe the best offseason in all of football. You bring Dre Greenlaw back. I love the Niners linebacking core greater than any other linebacking core now. Fred Warner, Dre Greenlaw. You go get Oso Odighizuwa. I believe that he is perfectly situated now to start at defensive tackle. Alfred Collins continuing to ascend. You forgot about Mykel Williams, first-round pick from last year because of the injury. Nick Bosa looks as good as ever.
"Now, if you can get Vita Vea, now think about the depth. Now, you're rotating three defensive tackles... I think if you bring in Vita Vea, now, that run defense, which was so porous last year, instantly becomes a strong suit. I think the secondary has questions. Outside of D-Mo (Deommodore Lenoir), everybody's got questions about that secondary. Is it Ji'Ayir Brown? Is it (Malik) Mustapha? But if you get somebody as stout as Vita Veya up front, playing next to Alfred Collins with Oso Odighizuwa rotating in, plus Nick Bosa on the outside, plus you got Mykel Williams on the outside, plus you got Romello Height. I just think that is an incredible formidable front in that front seven."

#niners #defensive #plus

All or nothing. Nothing else matters. Super Bowl or bust. Bold statements like these are as expected from pro athletes as they are cliché. It's a mindset NFL fans demand to hear from their favorite players and it's a mindset that some fans even take on themselves. Some fans might say it out loud so many times they actually believe it.
When Dak Prescott recently said the Dallas Cowboys had Super Bowl expectations, no one batted an eye. Throughout his career, Prescott has led some of the best offenses in the NFL. 2026 is shaping up to be more of the same with Prescott operating at the top of his game and his **** nal of weapons having never looked better.
Yet the Cowboys defense provides some unavoidable cause for concern. They are coming off a season where they were at or near the bottom of the NFL in almost all major categories and they enter 2026 with more than a few major questions left to answer. But coming off a 7-9-1 campaign and having missed the postseason for two consecutive years, how realistic are Super Bowl expectations in 2026?
"It's always been my mindset," Prescott said of his Super Bowl expectations. "It's the one thing I truly love about the Cowboys organization and the fanbase. It's all or nothing."
It's possible Prescott actually believes this but it's far more likely he's saying what he feels he's supposed to say. It's hard to believe anyone outside of maybe the Los Angeles Rams or Seattle Seahawks actually believes this "all or nothing" mantra this season. The investments those two teams made are significant, and based on recent play, the extreme expectations for them are realistic. The Cowboys have neither of those factors working in their favor.

#cowboys #fans

Just before the Chicago Bears opened training camp this week, big news came out that could grab the attention of the front office with a position player they could use having requested a trade. According to several NFL insiders, Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Vita Vea, a former first-round pick in 2018, has requested a trade due to stalled contract negotiations.
While it could just be a ploy to get the franchise to bite into his favor during contract talks, Vea's trade request should immediately perk the ears of Bears general manager Ryan Poles. Coming into this season, the Bears really only have Gervon Dexter Sr. and Grady Jarrett as their production leaders at the defensive tackle but severely lack depth behind him, and Jarrett underperformed in his first season with Chicago last year.
The question now becomes if the Bears should entertain a trade for Vea, and if they do, what would that look like to acquire him, as there's no doubt he'd be a big upgrade to the defensive line as a whole. Here's our examination of a potential Bears pursuit of acquiring the two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle.
A trade for Vea, at the very minimum, is going to likely start with a second-round pick, and another Day 3 pick going back to Tampa Bay, but the Bears may also want to consider dangling Gervon Dexter in return. The issue with potentially including Dexter is that he would be the youngest of the three between Vea, Jarrett, and himself, and he's a free agent after the 2026 season, so a contract is going to be on the table for both players. For Chicago, there would need to be a contract extension on the table for Vea, which could be very difficult with limited cap ******* e, especially with the veteran defensive tackle likely looking to get paid among the top players at his position, approximately over $20 million a season.
The Bears were one of the worst run defenses in the NFL last year, allowing 134.5 yards per game to opponents, as well as a 5.0 yard per carry average to opposing running backs. Over the last several seasons, Vea has been among the best run stoppers in the league, and in 2024 he had the best season of his career with 7.0 sacks and 10 tackles for loss on the year. If Chicago believes that Vea could lead the defensive tackle position, and improve their run defense, they should swing big if they can make it work from a financial fit, because he would most certainly be a big upgrade on the field.

#defensive #dexter

Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider believes in rotating pass rushers. So does head coach Mike Macdonald. That's precisely why you knew the Seahawks would have a response to losing Boye Mafe in free agency.
The Seahawks did not draft a pass rusher. Instead, they signed veteran Dante Fowler Jr. to a one-year contract worth just $2.5 million, with additional incentives. Fowler was a late-wave signing for the Seahawks, agreeing to terms with the franchise weeks after the draft on May 11th.
It turns out the Seahawks had been after Fowler for quite some time. The veteran pass rusher recently revealed that Seahawks defensive coordinator Aden Durde attempted to sign Fowler last offseason. That makes sense, considering they worked together in both Atlanta and Dallas.
Fowler decided to re-sign with the Cowboys last offseason. This summer, Durde and Fowler's former teammate DeMarcus Lawrence put on the heavy push to sign him again. This time, Fowler was convinced to join the Seahawks.
Fowler registered just three sacks for the Cowboys in 2025, but had 10.5 sacks for the Washington Commanders in 2024. The 12th-year defensive end will play a rotational role for the Seahawks. Coach Durde believes Fowler has some pass-rushing juice left in the tank.

#fowler #pass #believes

Chelsea head coach Xabi Alonso believes Morgan Rogers has all the qualities needed to make an immediate impact after completing his club-record move from Aston Villa.
The England international joined the Blues in a deal worth £117 million last week but has not travelled on the club's pre-season tour of Australia and South-East Asia after featuring at the World Cup. Rogers is instead expected to report for training at Cobham on 9 August, leaving him just under two weeks to prepare for Chelsea's Premier League opener against Fulham.
Speaking to reporters in Sydney ahead of Tuesday's friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers, Alonso said Chelsea targeted Rogers because of his ability to settle quickly and raise the team's level.
"For sure, it's a great signing," Alonso said. "In that position we needed an important player and I'm sure there were not many better options than Morgan Rogers."
"You need players who can have that almost instant impact and I am sure Morgan won't need much time to adapt to the club, to the system, to his team-mates. That was the idea that we wanted, to get a top player and Morgan is one of them."

#morgan #rogers #alonso #impact

On Sunday, we discussed the potential of the 2026 Detroit Lions offense. Almost everyone agrees that it will be a top-10 unit in the NFL this season, and per the poll we ran on this site, 90 percent of our audience believes the Lions will have a top-five offense.
I'm guessing Lions fans will be a little less optimistic about the other side of the ball.
The Lions defense has been an issue for most years under Dan Campbell. While they've been able to add some blue chip players like Aidan Hutchinson, Jack Campbell, Kerby Joseph, and Brian Branch, the unit hasn't been able to put together a full season of strong play. Sometimes, it's been injuries. Other times, it feels like Detroit is being overcoached. Certainly the lack of a pass rush has been culpable at times. Regardless of the reasoning, the defense has regularly let the Lions down.
But could 2026 bring some extra hope? Detroit finally invested in their defensive line, and the players along that front are entering training camp healthier than ever. Additionally, Detroit has fortified their depth at linebacker and safety. And young players like Tyleik Williams, Jack Campbell, and Ennis Rakestraw could elevate their games and jump in their development.
That said, there are huge questions about health and starters in the secondary, and Detroit still needs to show they can account and adjust to the losses of DJ Reader, Roy Lopez, Al-Quadin Muhammad, Alex Anzalone, and Amik Robertson. And defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard has a lot to prove in his second season at that position.

#detroit #players #offense

Defender Callum Doyle says Wrexham have got over the hurt of missing out on promotion to the Premier League last season.
The Red Dragons narrowly missed out on the Championship play-offs after failing to beat Middlesbrough on the final day of the 2025-26 campaign.
Wrexham finished seventh, two points behind eventual play-off winners Hull City, but Doyle believes they can go one better next year and at least finish in the top six.
"On a personal level, it does hurt a lot when you miss out like we did," said Doyle, who is preparing to face Premier League giants Liverpool in Wrexham's next pre-season game.
"We worked so hard to try to get in the play-off places so losing out on the final day was really gutting.

#season #next

Chennai: As India look to usher in a new generation of fast bowlers, Australian great Glenn McGrath believes Prasidh Krishna has all the ingredients to become Jasprit ****** rah's long-term pace partner.

The legendary fast bowler, who is the director of coaching at the MRF Pace Foundation, has closely followed Prasidh's rise and feels the tall Karnataka seamer has transformed his potential into performances.

"I'm a big fan of Prasidh," McGrath said. "If he gets his length right, he's got everything going for him."

"He has really matured. He's tall, bowls in good areas, generates bounce and has genuine pace. Occasionally he's a little short, but apart from that, I think he's the whole package. He's really developed and put his potential into performance," he said.

India have handed opportunities to several young quicks during the recent tours of the UK and Zimbabwe as they prepare for a demanding cycle of white-ball cricket, with the ODI and T20 World Cups to be played in South Africa and Australia-New Zealand respectively. It means India will need a strong pace attack firing on all cylinders, and McGrath believes the transition phase they are going through will not be easy.

"You've got ****** rah, who's a class bowler, and Mohammed Shami, who's world-class as well. Mohammed Siraj has been around for a long time too. You can't just expect to pick up straight where you left off. It's always going to be a transitional period," he said, referring to the Australian team, which will also go through a similar phase.

"Other than Pat ****** mins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, hardly anybody gets a chance... So it's not going to be easy for Australia either."

McGrath also pointed out that ****** rah's unconventional action demands careful workload management.

"The way he powers through those last few steps probably puts more stress on his body than most bowlers. It'll be interesting to see how he manages himself," McGrath said.

While India appear keen to fast-track younger bowlers, McGrath insisted experienced pacers still have an important role to play.

"It's always good to have experience there. Young bowlers learn by playing alongside senior guys. I was fortunate to watch Craig McDermott and Merv Hughes. That's where you really learn. I'd always pick an experienced team over a potential team," he said.

On whether veterans such as Shami or Bhuvneshwar ****** ar could still mount a comeback, McGrath said the decision rested on their bodies, motivation and the selectors.

"If they're prepared to put the work in and their body allows it, then why not? As fast bowlers get older, the work only gets tougher. Ultimately, it's up to them and the selectors."

McGrath also called for a rethink in the way fast bowlers are rehabilitated after injuries, arguing that modern systems often "wrap bowlers in cotton wool" instead of making them physically stronger.
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"The best way is to get stronger. Even when you're in

Former Edmonton Oilers forward and NHL enforcer Georges Laraque believes the team's biggest issue remains unchanged despite another offseason overhaul.
Speaking on the Bleed Oil Blue Podcast, Laraque argued that Edmonton's goaltending continues to hold the team back during Connor McDavid's Stanley Cup window.
"The biggest problem we've had for years, which I don't understand, is the goalie," Laraque said. "Every year we go get a goalie. I never agree with it. I know it's not going to work."
MORE: Connor McDavid calls Mike Babcock hire 'great opportunity' for Oilers
Laraque questioned Edmonton's repeated strategy of acquiring reclamation projects instead of proven starters.

#connor #former #georges

The Brandon Aiyuk saga has gone on for far too long. A contract dispute that eventually landed in his favor hasn't gone swimmingly for the San Francisco 49ers. Tearing his ACL and MCL just seven games into that deal, he hasn't been around the franchise since.
Last year, they placed him on the PUP list. From there, they voided his guaranteed money for 2026 and added him to the reserve/left squad list. Since then, it's been all downhill for the former first-round pick who remains employed with the team.
While he remained quiet for most of his time away from the 49ers, that trend has changed in recent months. Making multiple videos on social media, Aiyuk has gone on lengthy tirades against the organization.
Calling out everyone, from the coaching staff to the general manager, the former All-Pro selection has left no stone unturned. But while he has made his desire to play for the Washington Commanders abundantly clear, it hasn't led to major changes.
Mike Florio of NBC Sports, though, believes the way forward for Aiyuk is relatively simple. On the latest "Pro Football Talk" alongside co-host Chris Simms, he expressed his frustration over the choices the former Pro Bowler was making.

#aiyuk #brandon #francisco

Abhishek Sharma's struggles in T20Is have come under renewed focus following another disappointing series against Zimbabwe, with former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth calling on the selectors to make a difficult decision if the opener's poor run continues.

The left-handed batter endured a forgettable three-match series, failing to register a double-digit score. His recent numbers have also become a concern, with Abhishek unable to cross 20 in each of his last six T20I innings. Since India's T20 World Cup triumph, he has managed just one half-century, putting his place in the side under the scanner as competition for the opening spot continues to grow.

The debate has intensified further after Sanju Samson, India's Player of the Tournament during the T20 World Cup-winning campaign, was left out of the Zimbabwe series despite his impressive performances. With several opening options available, Abhishek's extended lean spell has only added to the pressure on the ICC's former top-ranked T20I batter.

Reacting to the opener's dip in form, Srikkanth said rival teams have worked out a way to contain Abhishek and believes the selection panel may soon have to make a bold call. He also expressed confidence that Samson would return to the Indian setup.

"Abhishek Sharma has been sorted out (by opponents) in international cricket, right from the World Cup. I think a tough call has to be taken against him now. I feel Sanju will get his chance again now. He will receive a call back 100%. The selectors will have to take a tough call," he said in a video on his YouTube channel.

While Abhishek's form emerged as a talking point, India also found plenty to celebrate through the return of Mayank Yadav. The fast bowler made his comeback after a lengthy injury break, featuring in his first international match since October 2024.

Mayank made an immediate impact by claiming two wickets in the opening T20I before ending the series with a three-wicket haul in the final game. Bowling with genuine pace throughout the tour, he consistently troubled Zimbabwe's batting line-up and looked close to his best.

Srikkanth was delighted to see the pacer complete all three matches without any fitness concerns and urged the team management to continue investing in young talent.
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"It was good to see Mayank Yadav playing all three games. So happy for him. Look at how consistent this boy was. The Indian future is very good. You have to back the right youngsters. I don't mind Ashok Sharma either," he said.

#three #World

Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven believes supporters will see a far more exciting brand of football under new manager Roberto De Zerbi in the coming season.
The defender, who had been heavily linked with a move away from Tottenham this summer, praised the Italian's attacking style and the fresh energy he has brought to the squad.
In a recent interview, Van de Ven said that the team is already adapting to a system that focuses on keeping possession and playing on the front foot.
His comments also aimed a sly dig at former manager Thomas Frank, who was sacked in February following a series of disappointing performances.
"It's going to be different compared to the former manager we had last season," Van de Ven said (via talkSPORT).

#season #hotspur

Gerard Pique has never been afraid to speak his mind and, even after retirement, his commitment and loyalty to Barcelona simply do not fade.
The legendary Spanish defender believes Barcelona head into the new season as Spain's strongest team, insisting Hansi Flick's side still hold the edge over Real Madrid despite their rivals' activity in the transfer market.
Speaking to the media (h/t SPORT) during the Kings League Club World Cup in Milan, the former Barcelona defender backed his old club to begin the campaign as La Liga favourites.
Pique pointed to continuity and recent success as the biggest reasons behind his confidence and did not hesitate when asked to compare the two Spanish giants.
"I think Barça, today and at the start of La Liga, are still superior," he said.

#Barcelona #gerard

Eintracht Frankfurt's previously reported signing of Brazilian centre back Otávio has been officially confirmed. Almost all reliable German footballing media sources confirm that the Bundesliga club has paid €4.5m to secure the 20-year-old's services. Otávio's new contract in Hessen runs through 2031. The new signing shall receive a chance to work directly ahead of his countryman Kaua Santos, who currently competes with Michael Zetterer for the No. 1 slot in goal.
"With Otávio, we're bringing in a young and highly talented center back with a lot of potential for development," SGE sporting director Timmo Hrdung noted in a club statement. "He's left-footed, tall, athletic, and fast, and combines that with a strong defensive mindset—something we specifically want to strengthen in our squad. We're convinced that he'll enjoy plenty of success here at Eintracht."
"Joining a club with such a rich tradition – one that regularly competes in major tournaments – is a dream come true and a very important step in my career," the player himself added. "I'd like to thank everyone who believes in me and has been part of my journey so far. Now a new challenge begins. I arrive with a strong determination and am ready for this challenge."
GGFN | Peter Weis

#we 're #brazilian

The debate surrounding Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's ODI future refuses to die down despite both continuing to deliver for India. While neither head coach Gautam Gambhir nor chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar has publicly committed to their participation in the 2027 World Cup, keeping the speculation around their future alive.

India's recent 1-2 ODI series defeat against England only added fuel to the conversation. Rohit silenced critics with a match-winning century in the series finale, registering his 34th ODI hundred amid speculation that the Lord's fixture could be his final international appearance. Kohli, meanwhile, chipped in with two half-centuries during the series after both senior batters struggled in the opening match.

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta believes there is no need to question Rohit and Kohli's places in the side, but stressed that both must make an immediate impact whenever a series begins instead of taking time to settle.

"That has to be a conversation with everyone, not just them (Kohli and Rohit), that they have to start the series well and hit the ground running. That is a challenge. You can't take one or two games to get into the groove. But that's where the support staff comes in and has conversations with the players by creating an environment to get the best out of everyone," Deep Dasgupta said on his YouTube channel.

Dasgupta insisted that the standards applied to the two stalwarts should remain unchanged despite the increasing scrutiny around their careers.

"There is no conversation needed with them about their places in the team. Four years back, it wasn't like they had to be reminded before every series that they would be in the team. They knew they would be in the team based on their performances. So how does that change now? It does not and should not change," he added.
Questions over the future of Rohit and Kohli have surfaced repeatedly since both retired from Test cricket last year, leaving ODIs as their only international format. Before the Lord's ODI against England, reports suggested that the selection committee was considering moving on from Rohit ahead of the 2027 World Cup to create an opening for Yashasvi Jaiswal.

However, the BCCI leadership dismissed reports that the Lord's encounter would be Rohit's final international appearance.

Dasgupta believes the constant speculation is largely because the pair now feature in only one international format, making every ODI performance subject to greater scrutiny.
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"This discussion about their future is getting exaggerated because they play only one format. When you play multiple formats, if you fail in one but score in the other, the failure is forgotten. So that's a challenge for these two that can't be denied. People will remember what they last did in this format because they play only one format. But the conversation with them should be the same as it was three years ago," he added.

#dasgupta #intern

'Abhishek Sharma sorted out': Kris Srikkanth believes Sanju Samson will return to India T20I side originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Kris Srikkanth predicts Sanju Samson's recall after Abhishek Sharma's poor form.
Abhishek fails to cross 20 in six straight T20I innings.
Mayank Yadav impresses on his comeback, earns Srikkanth's praise.
Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has predicted that Sanju Samson will soon find his way back into India's T20I setup, and argued that Abhishek Sharma's extended struggles have left selectors with little choice but to make a difficult call regarding his place in the side.

#srikkanth #samson #sharma

IslamMakhachev believes he already knows Ian Garry'sstrategy for their upcoming Ultimate Fighting Championship ****** le clash.

The reigning welterweight champion's first ****** le defense will beagainst Garry at UFC330 on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia and theRussian says he has spent his entire training camp preparing forhis Irish counterpart's evasive, movement-heavy fighting style.
Ahead of his ****** le defense, Makhachev broke down the matchup andGarry's skill set. The former lightweight champ claims he'sprepared to chase "The Future" in their upcoming bout, given howthe latter has mostly fought on the back foot.

"His skills: I just have to run in this camp too much because Ihave to follow him," Makhachev told MMA Fighting. "He runs toomuch. I know his game plan. We always see his fights. He has thesame style always. I will try to catch him, take him down, justwhat I did with my old opponents."

Garry has trained alongside former UFC lightweight championCharles"Do Bronxs" Oliveira, who fought Makhachev for the 155-poundtitle in 2022. However, Makhachev doesn't believe his formeropponent has much advice to offer, especially considering he madelight work of the Brazilian, submitting him in the second round oftheir clash.

"Charles is going to teach him how to tap fast. That's it,"Makhachev added.

#makhachev #title #clash

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Farokh Engineer believes teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already done enough to earn an ODI call-up and wants the 15-year-old to open alongside Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Engineer feels India should reshuffle their batting order by moving Shubman Gill to No. 4, allowing Sooryavanshi to partner Rohit at the top while Virat Kohli slots in at No. 3.

"The ideal situation is Shubman Gill and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Gill is a class player. Gill, I think, is the best batsman in the team now. So, Gill should come at four," Engineer told PTI.

The former India star said the combination of a right-handed Rohit and left-handed Sooryavanshi would provide the ideal balance in ODI cricket.

"Gill is not a guy who lifts the ball. So, a left-right combination would be ideal in ODIs. So, if Rohit is playing, and I think he should be playing, let him open with Sooryavanshi.

"A batsman like him (Sooryavanshi) is much better at opening because he finds bigger gaps in the field. Virat Kohli can come third. Gill can come fourth and then we've got a solid batting line-up," he said.

Engineer's remarks come after Sooryavanshi enjoyed a breakthrough T20I series against Zimbabwe. The youngster finished as the leading run-scorer with 151 runs, including two half-centuries, and was named Player of the Series as India completed a 3-0 clean sweep.

According to Engineer, those performances are enough to fast-track the teenager into India's 50-over plans.

"This is probably the right time to draft Sooryavanshi into India's ODI side. I don't know why people distinguish so much between ODI and T20 because for me, a half-volley is a half-volley. He's been getting runs and he's got the confidence to open the innings.

"He'll win more matches for you than lose you. When he gives a start like that, the other players can have time to consolidate the innings and put on a big score," Engineer noted.

While Sooryavanshi struggled during India's T20I tour of England earlier this month, the Zimbabwe series showcased his ability to adapt. He produced a measured 81 off 49 ***** in the final T20I on a slow Harare surface after blasting a rapid half-century in the series opener.

The teenager has also shown areas that still require improvement, including handling short-pitched bowling, adapting quickly to overseas conditions and refining his shot selection. However, Engineer urged India not to overburden the youngster with technical changes, insisting his natural game is what makes him special.

"Anything which is slightly short of length, in Sooryavanshi's curve, is going to go for a six. He learned from his mistakes, he has learned to curb himself. But don't try to over-coach him. He's not from the MCC book of manual, which is completely out of date.

"He's a genius. Nor was Viv Richards. Viv was the best batsman I've ever seen play. But persevere with Sooryavanshi. He'll be a tremendous ***** et for In

NavajoStirling believes KhamzatChimaev is a one-dimensional fighter.

After Chimaev suffered the first loss of his professional career,the hype surrounding the former Ultimate Fighting Championship champion has dampened. Stirlingrecently called him a "one-trick pony" and wants Chimaev to move upto light heavyweight so they can fight.
While Stirling acknowledges that Chimaev would bring much attentionto the 205-pound division, the unbeaten Kiwi wants to expose how"Borz" isn't a well-rounded fighter.

"I think he's a bit of a one-trick pony," Stirling told Full SendMMA. "I would love to fight him. I want to test my theory againstsomeone like that. I would love for some bigger names to come tothe division that could bring some hype."

Chimaev was undefeated and a massive betting favorite going intohis first middleweight ***** le defense against SeanStrickland at UFC 328 this past May. However, he visibly gassed out after afailed takedown attempt in the second round and completelyabandoned his wrestling thereafter.

Strickland then out-landed Chimaev on the feet en route to amassive upset win via split decision. UFC CEO DanaWhite later claimed that Chimaev had discussed a move up tolight heavyweight in the immediate aftermath of his firstprofessional loss. However, he has since been repeatedly callingfor a rematch against Strickland.

Meanwhile, Stirling has racked up five UFC wins, with two finishes,since making his Octagon debut in 2024. He is now scheduled tofight JanBlachowicz on less than three weeks' notice at UFC Belgrade on Aug. 1 in Serbia.

#trick

There have been valid questions about LeBron James' fit with the Philadelphia 76ers, as the team is stacked with Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, and even VJ Edgecombe, whom he'll share the ball with this upcoming season.
However, long-time NBA ***** yst Skip Bayless strongly believes that James could be what the doctor ordered for the 76ers, given the 41-year-old's credentials and overall fitness.
"People around the NBA questioning LeBron's fit in Philly? HE'S A PERFECT FIT. They needed a pure PG, an orchestrator, and that's what LeBron does best. Tyrese has averaged 6 ***** ists last 3 years. LBJ will average 11ish and lead league in ***** ists," Bayless posted on X.
MORE: LeBron James works out with Tyrese Maxey after 76ers move
To Bayless' point, ESPN's Shams Charania recently reported that the 76ers are planning to play James at point guard. When he last did it in one full season in 2019-20, the four-time league MVP averaged 25.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 10.2 ***** ists, and 1.2 steals on 49.3 percent shooting from the field across 67 regular-season games.

#james #lebron #season

Aaron Donald was spotted at the Los Angeles Rams' facilities on Friday. Getty
Aaron Donald continues to be a target for the Los Angeles Rams, who are already set up well. Getty
Former Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald visits on the field before a game against the Miami Dolphins. Getty
The Los Angeles Rams, and specifically head coach Sean McVay, continue to roll the red carpet out for Aaron Donald, but one former NFL Pro Bowler believes that could disrupt the situation for newly-acquired star Myles Garrett.
That Donald's potential fit alongside Garrett will be good has been viewed as a given. Another Pro Bowler believes the Rams legend's interest in a return is reason enough to do it.

#donald #garrett #former #believes

SeanStrickland believes Bud Light mishandled the aftermath ofDustinPoirier's arrest.

Poirier was arrested at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta InternationalAirport on a charge of public drunkenness after he threatened tofight a police officer while intoxicated and even used a racialslur. He has since owned up to his mistake while accepting hisissues with alcoholism since his retirement, vowing to stay sobergoing forward.

However, Poirier (30-10) recently revealed that Bud Light canceledhis sponsorship due to the incident and Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight king Stricklandisn't on board with the decision.
While Strickland had initially mocked Poirier for blaming hisdepression, he has since expressed his heartfelt support for "TheDiamond." Strickland had even warned Bud Light against cancelingPoirier's sponsorship. The two-time champion recently lashed out atthe beverage company for the same.

Strickland (31-7) says Bud Light already betrayed America byprinting transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney's photo on theircans in 2023. He believes Poirier didn't deserve to lose hissponsorship for nothing more than an embarrassing drunk incident.Strickland says Bud Light should have instead extended their helpto Poirier to deal with his alcoholism.

"It made me so f*cking mad. Bud Light already f*cking betrayedAmerica with their f*cking tr--ny on a beer can," Strickland saidon the "Shawn Ryan Show." "How much of a piece of sh*t are you, BudLight? The moment something bad happens where you get a littleshame 'cause you got drunk on a plane and tried to fight a blackcop. Which is funny; it's not racist. You want to terminate hiscontract? They should have reached out to Dustin and said, 'HeyDustin man, you might have a problem with drinking. We're a beercompany, we sponsor you, can we help you?' That's not what theydid. They're gonna say, 'You used our product and you f*cked up.Get the f*ck lost, we don't want that bad image.'"

#poirier #even #used #alcoholism

Stephen A. Smith had Shaquille O'Neal on his show to talk about Dunkman, the alternative league to bring back a spectacle that the All-Star Game has lost touch with. So he took the chance to take aim at LeBron James for causing it. While acknowledging James' legendary status as he enters his 24th NBA season, Smith firmly laid the blame on the superstar forward for single-handedly destroying the prestige of the NBA All-Star Weekend's Slam Dunk Contest.
Smith argued that prior generations of icons set an expectation to entertain the fans on Saturday night, a culture he believes James dismantled by refusing to participate.
"Listen, I gave a lot of respect. And I've said this on many occasions, LeBron, when it's all said and done, we pay tribute to him and his greatness that spans more than 23 years, 24 years coming up, etc., etc.," Smith declared. "But the one thing I've religiously held against him is his unwillingness to compete in All-Star weekend because, to me, all the stars always did it.
"Kobe [Bryant] included, Vince Carter included, everybody. They all did it until he refused to enter the dunk contest. And then after that, every other stars followed and they wouldn't compete. Am I wrong about that?"
He probably expected Shaquille O'Neal, who never participated in the Dunk Contest himself, to agree. But Shaq offered a minor defense for James.

#james #shaquille #lebron

Mark Cuban sees another massive workplace shift coming, and it could impact how Americans build careers.
The billionaire investor of 'Shark Tank' fame believes AI could now play a much bigger role in how workers deal with challenging situations, sharpen their judgment, and prepare for more valuable work.
In turn, that allows businesses to train people a lot quicker and at a far lower cost.
Cuban is among the select group of investing giants who remain broadly optimistic about AI. He feels that businesses that embrace AI will become much more productive, while workers who use it will still find opportunities.
Nevertheless, that prediction underscores an uncomfortable trade-off.

#tank

The Golden State Warriors have been linked to the biggest names in basketball for years now ... and the only star-level players they've been able to pair with Stephen Curry of late are Kristaps Porzingis and Jimmy Butler.
Both Porzingis' and Butler's Golden State have been injury-riddled, and now that LeBron James opted against a move to the Bay Area, the Warriors' blockbuster options are running thin.
After missing out on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaylen Brown on the trade market, could the Warriors be eying a deal for a key member of the Utah Jazz's young core?
Bleacher Report believes it's possible.
Andy Bailey put together a package Golden State could offer Utah for former All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen, and while the Jazz shouldn't make any major moves this summer, the offer is ... intriguing.

#porzingis

Barclays believes the next phase for equity markets will be determined by upcoming Big Tech earnings and a series of central bank meetings, as investors balance resilient corporate performance against mounting macroeconomic risks.
The bank said strong earnings have helped equities withstand higher bond yields, rising oil prices and renewed concerns over artificial intelligence spending, but warned that the investment backdrop is becoming more challenging.
According to Barclays, early second-quarter earnings have exceeded expectations on both sides of the Atlantic, reinforcing confidence in corporate fundamentals.
Despite higher interest rates and elevated energy prices, markets have remained resilient so far this reporting season. However, strategists led by Emmanuel Cau said oil prices and bond yields have now reached levels where downside risks are becoming more ****** ounced.
With no breakthrough in the conflict between the United States and Iran, Brent crude has climbed back to around $100 per barrel.

#bank #bond

West Ham United have confirmed that Oona Siren has signed a new two-year contract, with the Finland international committing her future to the Hammers until the summer of 2028.
The announcement is another positive step for the club as preparations continue for the 2026/27 Barclays Women's Super League season. While summer transfer windows are often defined by new signings, securing the futures of established players is equally important. West Ham have ensured one of their most dependable performers will remain in east London for years to come.
Since arriving from Norwegian side LSK Kvinner in September 2024, Siren has become one of the most influential players in the squad. Calm in possession, intelligent without the ball and relentless in her work rate, the midfielder has developed into a player her teammates can rely on every single week.
The new deal also comes at an exciting time for the club following the appointment of Rita Guarino as head coach. As the experienced Italian prepares for her first campaign in charge, keeping a player of Siren's quality provides an important foundation to build upon.
After signing her new contract, Siren spoke of her happiness at remaining with West Ham. She made it clear she believes there is still plenty to achieve in claret and blue.

#west #contract #player

In an exclusive interview with Meet the Press, Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) says he believes Troy Jackson is a "strong candidate" who can beat Republican Senator Susan Collins after Jackson replaced Graham Platner on the ballot.

#troy

Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) on Sunday said President Trump likes the daily strikes on Iran, which paused going into the weekend after nearly two straight weeks of attacks on Iranian infrastructure.
"I think we ought to continue the blockade and starve them out. I think we ought to bomb Pickaxe Mountain and try to reach what's underneath it, " Kennedy told CBS News's Margaret Brennan during his appearance on "Face the Nation."
"The president likes the daily attacks," Kennedy added. "He believes that sometimes you have to kill a few chickens to scare the monkeys."
Kennedy compared Iran's leaders to American serial killer Son of Sam and cult leader Charles Manson, calling them "more than mildly insane." But he added that the U.S. should not "just cut and run."
"If we can stand the pain of the rising cost of energy, we need to stay the course," he said. "At least for a few more months. I also don't think we need to send in troops. That's my opinion, for what it's worth."

#think