Lauren, Author at Trending Sport

Simone Biles has been lately posting updates of her Hawaiian holiday with her husband and giving away something to drool about in every post. Amid all these, she succinctly expressed her love for a four-legged creature. No, these are not her furry babies. It was the horses that took her heart. So much so that she made her husband, Jonathan Owens, ride on that. But that one outing does not seem to have satiated her love for the equines.

Therefore, Simone Biles embarked on that again. The 4x Olympic gold medalist churned out her childhood cowgirl dream, taking Jonathan Owens on an equestrian adventure one more time. Her Instagram handle remained witness to that.

RELATED ;Simone Biles Shatters Records: Becomes Most Decorated Gymnast at World Championships

“When I was younger I used to want to be a cowgirl so bad & someone told me there was no black cowgirls, so I hung my cowgirl hat up! LOOK NOW WAHOO! GO KORTNEE 🫶🏾 BLACK GIRL MAGIC!!!!” Notably, Simone also lent her voice to a female equestrian back in 2022.

That year Rachael Blackmore became the first female jockey ever to win the Grand National Cup in the 182yr history of the sport. Lauding her, Simone said, “Congratulations on a sensational year, last year. It’s wonderful to see women’s sports take such huge strides around the world and you’re an inspiration to many other girls who want to be a jockey or just to achieve their dreams.” Being one of the most successful sportspersons, Simone has achieved enough a lot. However, behind that, a child seems to remain till now. The Hawaiian outing successfully brought that out.

BOXING

“Are You Fighting Me or Not?”: Claressa Shields Sends Separate Challenges to Alycia Baumgardner and Cris Cyborg

Fresh off her MMA victory over Kelsey DeSantis, Claressa Shields is not resting. Her combat spirit is unquenched. Shields, the boxing GWOAT, now eyes the boxing ring again. Past confrontations? They fuel her fire. Remember her sparring with Cris Cyborg? That intensity hasn’t faded.

Now, Shields throws down the gauntlet after verbal spats. Alycia Baumgardner, who is now cleared to get back in the ring, is in her sights. Will Baumgardner step up? Can she handle Shields’ prowess?

154 Pounds of fury from Claressa Shields

Claressa Shields took to Twitter with her trademark bravado after Alycia Baumgardner made a post that simply read, “Sign The Contract”, laying out bold challenges in no uncertain terms. Her first tweet thundered, “You got to come direct, who you telling the sign the contract? Y’all H03s ready to get smoked at 154, JUST LET ME KNOW, PUT IT ON THE FLO BIHH -Latto 🎶 #GWOAT #Claressashields #ShieldsBumgardner ????”

Negotiations to knockouts

The high-stakes tension between Claressa Shields and Cris Cyborg teeters on the edge of becoming a monumental showdown. Shields recounted their past, detailing a sparring session where she dominated, stating, “When I fought against Cris Cyborg in 2018, I took it easy on her… The first and the second round, I beat the s**t out of Cris Cyborg.” Her confidence is palpable, dismissing Cyborg’s boxing skills with, “She cannot box… she can’t mess with me on the day I have a flu.”

This recount of their sparring match amplifies the anticipation, with Shields provocatively calling out, “@criscyborg when you want me to spank your a** again!?” Their previous encounters in the ring, laden with competitive fervor, set the stage for what could be a historic clash, transcending the boundaries of their respective sports.

UPDATE ;Not My Meek Mill Claressa Shields Reacts To Rumors Of Her ‘Favorite’ Rapper’s Sexual Relationship With Diddy

As the world watches, the questions linger—will Baumgardner step into this high-stakes arena? Can Cyborg settle their unfinished business in the ring? Who do you think will rise to the challenge and face the indomitable Claressa Shields?

BOXING

Floyd Mayweather Effect Ruined the State of Boxing? American Commentator Defends ‘TBE’

The current trend in boxing has champions prioritizing an undefeated record above all else. This strategy could be seen as a byproduct of the influence of Floyd Mayweather on boxing. Mayweather’s dominance in the ring, coupled with his shrewd business decisions, has shown fighters like Manny Pacquiao, Miguel Cotto, Canelo Alvarez, and Danny Garcia a different path to success.

Floyd Mayweather doesn’t want fighters to follow him

Not that long ago, Floyd Mayweather asked Terence Crawford to give Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis a chance inside the ring. However, a renowned commentator who goes by the name of Showbizz the Adult explained how Mayweather once talked about why he chose the “currency over legacy“. However, as per the commentator, at that time, Mayweather didn’t think that the other boxers would start following him, but when he saw what was happening, he wanted to reinforce the idea of old-school boxing where the fighters took on any formidable challenger regardless of the “currency” the fight would bring.

Showbizz stated, “Floyd Mayweather never meant for the whole boxing world to follow him like that. Floyd Mayweather was just giving an explanation on why he’s moving the way he’s moving. And it helped make him ‘TBE’. The thing about Floyd, he also had integrity. Look at his resume. Amazing. Look at his boxing ability. Amazing. He didn’t expect all these people to be followers and not do exactly what he did.” But now Mayweather had seen the effects of the ‘Floyd Mayweather Effect’ and he didn’t intend it to be that way.

Furthermore, he continued, “You all trying to be like me and you all ain’t like me. Now Floyd is talking that real s**t. We gotta get back to old school. Time to right the wrongs baby.” For that reason, he wants Terence Crawford to give Jaron Ennis a chance since he’s a boxer who deserves a spotlight.

Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul Fight Results

Floyd Mayweather is throwing his weight behind Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis as Terence Crawford’s next opponent. Crawford, struggling to secure a high-profile fight, was initially expected to rematch Errol Spence Jr. However, those plans fell through, leaving Crawford without a dance partner. Mayweather suggests that Crawford take on the rising star Ennis.

This matchup would be a fresh alternative for Crawford and could generate significant anticipation. Mayweather stated, “Somebody’s gotta give ‘Boots’ the opportunity. It’s been difficult for Terence Crawford to get the Spence rematch done, it’s been difficult to get the Canelo fight done, so his other option is to fight ‘Boots’ Ennis.” Currently, he’s the IBF welterweight titlist, and their bout would again allow Crawford to contest for the undisputed title.

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It’d definitely be an interesting match, and if Ennis is being backed by Mayweather then it’d turn out to be a treat for the hardcore boxing fans.

BOXING

Francis Ngannou says Anthony Joshua KO wasn’t painful: ‘That’s how I know I was knocked out’

Francis Ngannou elicited laughter after getting knocked out by Anthony Joshua Friday in their heavyweight bout when a reporter asked if that was the hardest he’s been hit.

“In fact, I didn’t feel the punch,’’ Ngannou said at the post-fight press conference. “I think that’s what the knockout is about. I don’t feel any pain. That’s how I know I was knocked out.’’

UPDATE ;Anthony Joshua names four potential next fight options including Deontay Wilder and former foe

“But you can be sure that I’m not done here,’’ he said of boxing. “Absolutely not. I’m not done.”

CELEB NEWS

Michael Jordan beats Tiger Woods and Cristiano Ronaldo to top spot on list of best paid athletes EVER – but how does LeBron James compare to soccer stars Lionel Messi and David Beckham?

Michael Jordan is the best-paid athlete of all-time, earning more than $1billion more than any other athlete in inflation-adjusted earnings over his career.

While Jordan only earned $94million during his time as a player with the Bulls and Wizards in NBA contracts, Jordan has raked in the cash in off-court endorsement and brand deals.

Jordan is only one of nine athletes all-time to earn more than $1billion in non-inflation earnings for athletes, with the basketball legend also topping the list for non-inflation paydays at $2.7billion all-time.

RELATED ;Tiger Woods wins the 2024 Bob Jones Award the USGA highest honor with the 15-time major winner set to receive the prize at this year US Open

Rounding out the top 10 are Roger Federer and Floyd Mayweather, who both clear a billion with the adjustments.

The top 16 have all earned more than a billion when inflation adjustments kick in, including Neymar at No 16 at $1,01billion.

Only one female made the top 50, in Serena Williams at a tie for No 40 with former boxer Evander Holyfield, both earning $630 million all-time when adjusted.

The most represented sport in the top 50 is basketball, with a dozen players earning a combined $13billion with inflation.

Golf, boxing, and racing, which combines the athletes in NASCAR and Formula 1, all have more than five members of the top 50.

Only two athletes on the list retired before the year 2000 on the list in George Foreman, who gets a likely boost to No 26 overall because of his entrepreneurial career, and Magic Johnson, who is in a three-way tie at No 34.

Barely making the list at No 50 is the only mixed martial artist on the list in Conor McGregor, who has made $555million all-time adjusted for inflation.

McGregor is also the only athlete on the list to be the lone representative from his or her sport.

Even with football being America’s most popular sport, the highest gridiron earner is Tom Brady, at No 23 overall.

CELEB NEWS

Novak Djokovic vs Aleksandar Vukic Live Stream & Tips – Djokovic to Cruise to Victory at Indian Wells

Novak Djokovic vs Aleksandar Vukic Preview

Aleksandar Vukic hasn’t beaten a Top 100 player this year and is set for a swift exit in Indian Wells. I am backing Novak Djokovic to cruise to victory in under 18.5 games.

Stats

Novak Djokovic has won in straight sets in 12 of his last 13 matches against players outside the Top 50.

Aleksandar Vukic is 1-8 against Top 20 players.

Head to Head

This will be the first match between Novak Djokovic and Aleksandar Vukic.

Novak Djokovic Stats

Nationality: Serbia

Age: 36 (22 May 1987)

Height: 6’2″ (1.88m)

Plays: Right-Handed

World Ranking: 1

Career High: 1 (July 2011)

ATP Tour Titles: 98

2023 ATP Tour Titles: 7

Career Grand Slam Singles Titles: 24 (10 Australian Open, 3 French Open, 7 Wimbledon, 4 US Open)

Indian Wells Masters Best Result: Winner (2008, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2016)

Indian Wells 2024: Novak Djokovic vs Aleksandar Vukic preview, head-to-head & prediction | BNP Paribas Open

Novak Djokovic Form

Novak Djokovic went 56-7 last year, winning the Adelaide International, Australian Open, French Open, Cincinnati Masters, US Open, Paris Masters and ATP Finals.

The World No.1 started 2024 at the United Cup where he went 2-1, his defeat coming against Alex de Minaur.

The Serbian was unable to win an 11th Australian Open title, getting to the semi-finals where he went down in 4 sets to Jannik Sinner.

Aleksandar Vukic Stats

Nationality: Australia

Age: 27 (6 April 1996)

Height: 6’2″ (1.88m)

Plays: Right-Handed

World Ranking: 69

Career High: 48 (August 2023)

ATP Tour Titles: 0

Indian Wells Masters Best Result: Second Round (2021)

Aleksandar Vukic Form

Aleksandar Vukic lost his opening four matches of the year, finally getting a win in Los Cabos before suffering a 6-3 6-0 second round defeat to Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Novak Djokovic vs Aleksandar Vukic Live Stream & Tips - Djokovic to Cruise to Victory at Indian Wells

The Australian failed to qualify in Acapulco, going down 6-4 6-3 to World No.146 Terence Atmane.

Crossing 1500 Miles for Simone Biles, 10 Year Old Shares Surreal Experience: “Felt Shocked”

In the realm of gymnastics, few figures radiate as brilliantly as Simone Biles. A pioneer and a beacon of inspiration for numerous budding athletes, Biles has reshaped the landscape of the sport through her unparalleled skill and unwavering resolve. Most recently, Lydia Dimmick, a budding gymnast from Curwensville Area Elementary School, was bestowed with the rare chance of a lifetime: to compete at the esteemed Simone Biles International Invitational held in Texas.

Lil fan dazzles Simone Biles at international gymnastics showdow

Lydia Dimmick, a ten-year-old fourth-grade student embarked on an exciting journey to Texas to showcase her gymnastic talents at the Simone Biles International Invitational. Held from February 1st to 4th at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas. The invitation to compete in such a renowned event is no small achievement.

Lydia, representing Tate’s Gymnastics LLC from Indiana, PA, earned her spot as a USA gold-level gymnast. This exclusive opportunity is reserved for gymnasts who have demonstrated exceptional proficiency. With Tate’s Gymnastics sending three gold-level gymnasts to the competition.

RELATED ;Simone Biles Shatters Records: Becomes Most Decorated Gymnast at World Championships

Lydia, alongside her teammates, proudly represented her gym among 3,600 female gymnasts hailing from 26 states and three countries. Attending the invitational was a dream come true for Lydia, but it also brought forth a whirlwind of emotions. As she says, “I was excited, scared and nervous.” She further added, ” Simone is a role model to me because she lives her dreams and carries them out.”

A dream realized amidst resilience and determination

Despite the nerves, Lydia found herself inspired by the opportunity to meet her role model, Simone Biles, along with other elite gymnasts such as Jordan Chiles and Joscelyn Roberson. “I felt shocked when I walked into the room where she was standing in front of me, close enough that I could even hug her,” Lydia said about Simone. But Lydia’s journey to the invitational was not just about competition; it was her resilience and determination.

Despite initial fears and challenges in her gymnastics journey, Lydia found support from her community and mentors like Lindsey Bilger. With their encouragement, she persevered, progressing from Xcel silver to gold level, setting her sights on even greater accomplishments in the future. Returning home with medals in hand, Lydia’s joy was amplified by the overwhelming support of her family, friends, and teachers.

BOXING

Terence Crawford, Chris Eubank Jr. Linked to Summer Showdown

Out of seemingly nowhere, Terence Crawford could fight Chris Eubank Jr. next.

Eubank has posted a mock fight poster online, and speculation has subsequently gathered apace that the fight could take place this summer.

It is thought discussions are at an early stage, and no news is imminent, but the image Eubank has posted indicated the fight could happen at middleweight.

UPDATE ;Terence Crawford gives big update on whether he fight Canelo Alvarez

Eubank is 34, and has been long-linked to a fight with Conor Benn, who now seemingly has his sights on Manny Pacquiao, while Omaha’s Crawford, 36, had hoped to face Canelo Alvarez, but the Mexican appears close to a fight with Jaime Munguia on May 4.

BOXING

Anthony Joshua names four potential next fight options including Deontay Wilder and former foe

Anthony Joshua has laid out his possible next steps after knocking out Francis Ngannou inside two rounds.

The former two-time unified heavyweight champion has earned a shot at the winner of Oleksandr Uysk vs Tyson Fury by beating Ngannou.

However, the heavyweight titans have agreed to a rematch after their inaugural encounter on May 18 meaning AJ may have to wait until next year for his opportunity.

The Watford powerhouse doesn’t intend to sit around in the interlude and insists he will return to the ring in either June or July.

RELATED ;Floyd Mayweather vs. Tommy Hearns: Former World Champ Uses Deontay Wilder Example to End the Debate

When asked about whether he would entertain a fight with Hrgovic, Joshua told iFL TV: “Let’s go.”

AJ then named three other possible opponents he could box in the summer: “[Deontay] Wilder, [Zhilei] Zhang, [Joseph] Parker. Yeah, all of them can get it.”

A fight with either Zhilei Zhang or Joseph Parker is unlikely to be made next as Zhang is due a rematch after losing to the Kiwi on Friday night.

Meanwhile, the public appears to have lost interest in Joshua vs Deontay Wilder following the American’s dismal display against Parker on the ‘Day of Reckoning’ bill in December.

Regardless of who Joshua faces next, he will be accompanied by head trainer Ben Davison.

BOXING

Some Think It’s Impossible”: Gervonta Davis Reacts to Jay-Z Singing His Name in a Live Concert

Gervonta Davis and Jay-Z have made the headlines together yet again. After giving an inspirational speech to Gervonta Davis ahead of the marquee contest against Ryan Garcia in 2023, he again mentioned the name of the Baltimore native on the stage. However, this time, he didn’t do something inspirational, instead he used his rhyming skills to utter his name through one of his live verses.

Jay-Z used a reference to Gervonta Davis during his rap at a live concert, which was a way of expressing his love for his favorite boxer. During the concert, Jay-Z sang, “Face keeps popping up, On the tube, I am just watching Tank box him up.” Well, it’s safe to say that Davis felt honored to get mentioned by one of the best rappers in the history of hip-hop. So, Davis showed his gratitude towards Jay-Z on the X app as well.

JUST IN ;Gervonta Davis Reacts as Errol Spence Jr. Sides With Frank Martin Amid Potential Fight Rumors

Boxer Gervonta Davis, nicknamed “Tank,” is undefeated in the ring and building a reputation outside of it as well. This celebrity status is further fueled by his connections in the music industry. Tank counts megastars like Drake and Jay-Z as friends.

Furthermore, he was with these stars, nights before he faced ‘KingRy’. During that meetup, he spent some alone time with Jay-Z, where the rapper gave him crucial advice. Davis recalled in an interview, “Yeah, he’s telling me like, ‘Stay focused’. He’s just telling me certain stuff like what the other guy [Ryan Garcia] is doing. I don’t wanna say it because I don’t want him to know it. But he tells me like, ‘You stay on point,’ and tells me his [Garcia’s] mistakes and stuff like that.”