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Tales of Brent Burns: Teammates discuss cheetah attacks, his ‘Mary Poppins’ rep and loving the NHL’s ‘colossal kid’

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Tales of Brent Burns: Teammates discuss cheetah attacks, his ‘Mary Poppins’ rep and loving the NHL’s ‘colossal kid’
  • Greg Wyshynski, ESPNWould maybe well 22, 2023, 07:00 AM ET

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      Greg Wyshynski is ESPN’s senior NHL writer.

RALEIGH, N.C. — There’s conformity among many NHL gamers. And then there could be Brent Burns.

Breaking apart the parade of monotone industry suits and successfully-groomed exteriors while getting into the sphere is a 6-foot-5, 230-pound defenseman carrying loud patterns, lugging a comically gigantic camouflage backpack and wearing a chaotic scraggle of beard around a toothless hockey grin.

That is the Brent Burns you glimpse. The Brent Burns you hear about is one of many most irregular superstar athletes in all of official sports actions, let alone the NHL.

He is the “colossal kid” in a 38-three hundred and sixty five days-long-established physique. There’s the menagerie of animals he owns. There’s his hyperintelligence, learning facts and talents so quick that it be love his mind became plugged into “The Matrix” and downloaded them. And clearly, there could be that mysterious rep.

We spoke with a entire lot of of us which possess identified Brent Burns within the NHL to listen to some tales of the Norris Trophy-a success defenseman who has helped the Carolina Hurricanes to the Japanese Convention finals in his first season with the club.

Right here are Hurricanes teammates Jaccob Slavin, Brady Skjei and Sebastian Aho; broken-down San Jose Sharks teammates Logan Couture, Brenden Dillon and Colin White; broken-down Minnesota Wild and San Jose Sharks teammate Dominic Moore; and Mike Potenza, director of performance for the Golden Speak Warriors and broken-down director of strength and conditioning of the Sharks (2006-2022), speaking all issues Brent Burns.


The principle time I met him

Burns debuted within the NHL in 2003-04, having been selected twentieth overall within the 2003 draft by the Minnesota Wild. He played for the Wild unless 2011, when he became traded to the San Jose Sharks. He played 11 seasons for the Sharks, a success the Norris Trophy in 2017. In 2022, he became traded to the Hurricanes.

Moore: We had been in Minnesota together. Jacques Lemaire became the coach. We had been doing a conflict drill, all under the purpose line, and Burnzie appropriate every now and again beasted three forwards in a row. It became love staring at a Jason Bourne film the establish he takes out three guys with one fell swoop. All three guys had been aloof flat on the ice, and Lemaire appropriate chuckled. I knew lawful away that this kid became particular.

Couture: He is intimidating for of us that first glimpse him. He is bought the total tattoos and he is suitable colossal. I will be able to’t remember if he had teeth or now not relief then. I in finding now not deem he did. But then you definately talked to him and he became appropriate a enjoyable-loving, easygoing guy, joking the total time. He is roughly love a better than existence character.

Slavin: The principle time I interacted with him after the replace [to Carolina], I despatched him a textual mumble message asking him to near relief to something. He didn’t textual mumble relief. He didn’t send a explain memo. He took a video of himself explaining what the yelp became. He is start air at his camper. Hat on, no teeth, in a camo cutoff shirt. Appropriate taking half within the Raleigh humidity. And so that became my first interplay with him. I became love, “Oh, this guy’s hilarious.”

Potenza: I remembered him from Minnesota because he beat [the Sharks] up for four functions in a single sport. He wore No. 8. He had quick hair. He became colossal and he could presumably also skate. He became a pest in opposition to us. And then we in finding him and it be love, “Holy s—, here is monumental!”

Dillon: I met him in 2014 once I became traded to San Jose. He didn’t possess a beard yet. He had played the earlier season at forward, nonetheless I stopped up playing the remainder of that season with him on defense. I mean, you is at threat of be a little intimidated. Or now not it’s Brent Burns. Or now not it’s an NHL All-Star. I needed to in finding past the 6-foot-5 mammoth that had been working me the earlier two years at forward. Burnzie is a form of bull-in-a-china-shop guys.

Couture: Or now not it’s completely insane he made the pass from forward to defense so successfully. He played every in San Jose. I played a pair of video games with him as my lawful fly and with Jumbo [Joe Thornton]. Then you definately glimpse him a success the Norris Trophy as a defenseman. I couldn’t image myself going relief there to enact that.

Potenza: When he confirmed up in San Jose, I noticed he is bought a ton of tattoos — and acquired even extra at some stage in his time with the Sharks. I in finding now not know if I became as greatly surprised at the tattoos as powerful as I became the snake series.


The animals

Burns is considerable for having a series of pets, mostly reptiles. Or now not it’s miles a passion for irregular animals he has shared with teammates — for better or worse.

Dillon: You are going to hear all of these issues. Admire he is bought a gorilla in his basement or an alligator in his garage.

Moore: In Minnesota, he had the total pets. Fish tanks and snakes and the entirety at his dwelling.

Couture: When we first traded for him, there became the total experiences concerning the snakes. I deem there became a video on-line that I saw about them. And I became love, “Holy s—.” Because I’m timid of snakes, so I’m by no method going over to his self-discipline.

Potenza: He had a song lizard. Why would someone possess a song lizard? You are better off having a pit bull with a toothache than you is at threat of be having a song lizard. In fact, I’d take two pitbulls with toothaches, that had been also hungry, over a friggin’ song lizard.

Dillon: He invited me over for dinner once I became traded. I didn’t know if wanted to be jumpy. I’m now not the ideally suited bird guy. Would there be birds? I’ve by no method had, love, an iguana or anything. I purchased over there and he had some smaller animals. I deem he in actuality needed to shuffle away most of his animals in Minnesota because his dwelling there became rather accustomed to relief all of them.

Couture: He knowledgeable us some wild experiences about them. Two of the snakes escaped at his self-discipline in Minnesota. They had been lost in his dwelling for while a obvious length of time. I became love, “Oh my God, how enact you sleep at night? You’ve got bought two big snakes roaming across the dwelling and two minute younger of us at that level!”

Moore: I remember he had long past to the zoo on an off day sooner than a sport in Columbus with some teammates and acquired clawed by a bobcat or something.

Couture: I deem it became a cheetah.

White: It became an off day. It became me and Burnzie and Jumbo Joe. Burnzie’s into all these animals, lawful? He had a bunch of snakes and stuff then. I deem he has rather powerful a zoo now in Texas. Regardless of city we had been in, he would take us varied locations the establish there had been animals. Admire in Detroit, he took us to a snake farm.

And then we went to the zoo in Columbus. I’m now not a right animal guy. I became terrified. He had all of it self-discipline up the establish we could presumably take a image with a cheetah. And that is the reason when he bought bit by one. Ethical within the ribs. [Laughs]

Moore: I remember pondering, “Oh my God.” Any long-established manager would cringe hearing that.

White: I became insecure. I became already anxious of this factor. They introduced it out and so they had treats and stuff, nonetheless then they knowledgeable us to in finding around it for a image. And this factor had its eyes on Burnzie the total time. We bought in shut. Burnzie bought nearer to it and it reached over and grabbed him by the ribs. It didn’t in finding, love, a paunchy chunk. But it completely left these two fang marks.

Jumbo became going loopy laughing. I became laughing. Burnzie didn’t care. He wasn’t excited. He became laughing. We went relief inner and so they introduced out a bunch of varied animals. Burnzie knew I became worried of them and stuff. It became all funny as heck.

Couture: The next day we saw them after the cheetah had clawed at them. I became love, “Jesus guys, here is wild.”


What’s within the rep?

Burns carries a colossal, camouflage backpack across the sphere and on avenue trips. Of us which possess looked inner had been greatly surprised by what they found.

Potenza: Did you ever glimpse “Mary Poppins”? When Mary Poppins has that rep and she pulls out a huge lamp? Brent Burns is love Mary Poppins.

Couture: The rep is paunchy. There’s doubtlessly 20 kilos of stuff in there. Admire, he is sweating carrying it. In New York, after we play the Rangers, you possess to stir up this hill [from the buses] and he is bought to support that rep. And he is suitable leakin’, because he is bought so powerful extra weight on him.

Moore: He had the rep in Minnesota, nonetheless I deem there could be been an evolution with it alongside with how the game has evolved. There’s increasingly restoration and pregame issues that gamers enact. So he is bought issues in there that he desires to possess sooner than or after the game.

Potenza: He is bought some considerable oils in there, whether or now not it be to abet him be relaxed and aloof at some stage in sleep or if he is bought soreness in his shoulder or what possess you ever. Some muscle-rub form issues.

Couture: In the final few years [in San Jose], he and I sat next to at least one one more on the plane. So I at final in actuality bought to peep what’s within the rep. First, he is bought a blender in there. He brings his fetch espresso on the avenue — Dusky Rifle Coffee Firm. Three or four bags of it.

Skjei: I’ve long past over to his room for espresso, so I know there could be a espresso machine in there. All that stuff requires a colossal rep. There’s pretty a pair of sharp parts, nonetheless the espresso’s stunning and it in actuality works for him.

Couture: He is bought dietary supplements. He has these little issues that he rolls on [his body]. He is bought all of his vitamins. He is bought bottles of water he takes from the rink — if a team has Natty Water or Fiji, he packs his rep paunchy of these water bottles because he thinks they’re nicer waters. I deem that’s it. Oh, and a few knives. He had an axe one time, too.

Dillon: Let’s appropriate affirm a pair times when he is long past thru security, he is needed to respond to a pair questions.

Couture: In fact one of his passions is knives. He repeatedly will get his knives from Grizzly Forge. He appropriate loves the finishes on them. I mean, I’m now not a knife particular person, nonetheless they’re gorgeous knives. He makes exhaust of one to take the tape off his stick between classes. Or now not it’s varied.

Potenza: I’ve needed to shuffle within the rep to in finding stuff out for him. If you’ve got considered the rep up shut, there are doubtlessly 30 pockets in that rep. He is requested me to get something. I’d possess to return to him three or four times. “Admire, what pocket is it in?” And he is love, “The front one with the double zipper, nonetheless now not the help zipper.” And I’m love, “I in finding now not know what you you is at threat of be speaking about.” Then I’d shuffle to receive the rep — and it weighs rather powerful how powerful I weigh — and I lug it over to him and I’m love, “You watch it.”

Slavin: Or now not it’s miles a pair bags now. He is bought his suitcase. He is bought his personal rep. Then he is bought his backpack. He is suitable bought pretty a pair of stuff. For a one-day avenue day out, he is packing over 200 kilos of stuff I deem.


The beard

Though he became a little one-confronted player for the Minnesota Wild, Burns grew out a furry beard while with the San Jose Sharks, matching the face foliage of teammate Joe Thornton.

Potenza: Burnzie bought going with it and I deem he became love, “How prolonged can I shuffle with this factor?” It roughly made him extra considerable. If you glimpse him saw him with out the beard, or appropriate a minute beard, it be love, “Man, you peep smooth younger.”

Dillon: The playoff beard-grew to alter into-standard of living beard has indubitably played a role in making him so recognizable. I remember around 2017, him and Connor McDavid had been colossal Adidas guys. I remember being on the couch with Burnzie when [NBA star] James Harden tweeted at him:

Bawl out to the ideally suited beard in hockey lol Welcome to #Teamadidas, @Burnzie88.

— James Harden (@JHarden13) October 7, 2017

I remember Burnzie roughly being love, “James Harden, why enact I know that title?” I became love, “Dude, he is one of many legends of the NBA lawful now. You are one of many legends of the NHL lawful now.” And he is love, “Create you deem I ought to aloof quiz for an autographed jersey or something?”

I deem every now and again for of us that discuss him being love a colossal kid, I every now and again deem as stunning of a player as he is and confident in a player as he is, every now and again he presumably appropriate doesn’t glimpse himself in that method. Which is a colossal sure, because he continues to work onerous at his sport. But for of us that deem Brent Burns, I deem you would also quiz pretty a pair of Individuals who presumably are now not the ideally suited hockey fans and he’d be one of many most recognizable faces within the game.

Moore: On a non-public level to, he and his companion blueprint of shaving his beard with the proceeds going to my foundation. Natty character guy. And he does loads for other causes as successfully.

White: He is a colossal militia guy. He is a monumental supporter of them. He is bought Burnzie’s Battalion, his foundation that supports veterans.

Couture: He idolizes these guys, for obvious. His brother became in particular forces. His grandfather became in World Battle II with the Canadian militia. Or now not it’s within the family, and that’s the reason something that’s considerable to him.

Potenza: He is a colossal family man. Or now not it’s funny: In San Jose, the total younger of us looked as if it could presumably be the same age at one level. [Joe] Pavelski‘s younger of us and Burns’s younger of us and [Patrick] Marleau’s younger of us. I remember blinking at some point soon and I became love, “There’s love 10 boys working around this rink lawful now at some stage in notice. Who’s staring at these younger of us?” And then all of them bought on the ice after notice.

He also loves being a dad and you would glimpse that once he interacts with other younger of us. He could presumably also glimpse me and my younger of us at the rink and he would have interaction with them: “How you doing? How’s your skating?”

White: He appears to be like to be like peep love “Duck Dynasty,” nonetheless he is a successfully-organized man.


“Primarily the most attention-grabbing man on this planet”

From having a 420-acre Texas ranch the establish he raises free-range animals and hunts, to a quantity of ever-changing off-ice pursuits, existence is repeatedly fascinating for Burns and his teammates.

Dillon: He is love the Dos Equis man. Primarily the most attention-grabbing man on this planet. You esteem him as a teammate since you would now not discontinuance laughing with a pair of of the stuff he knows.

Skjei: Or now not it’s random stuff that you just in finding now not possess any clue about. He is extremely, very intellectual. Fun guy to shuffle to dinner with. He appropriate can discuss anything.

Moore: I will’t deem someone else who has any of all these passions or hobbies. If he has a blueprint, a ingenious blueprint, he pursues it. Quite heaps of of us, they possess got quirky, funny passions or solutions, nonetheless they in finding now not possess the boldness or the notice thru on it. I deem that speaks volumes about him in long-established.

Dillon: Probabilities are you’ll presumably also consult with him for every now and again 24 hours straight and hockey could presumably now not ever near up once. Probabilities are you’ll presumably discuss animals or the climate or UFC or boxing or football. Literally anything Burnzie does or knows, he is smooth, smooth an expert about it.

Couture: Him and I in actuality possess very identical pursuits, whether or now not it became wine or espresso or bourbon or food, our books, podcasts. He is presented me to pretty a pair of authors that I read now. He’d sit on a plane and would appropriate discuss anything for an hour. I’d aloof down and be taught from him. He finds something he is in and appropriate digs lawful in.

Dillon: I remember we had a paintballing occasion with the Sharks. All of us give an explanation for up in jeans and a sweater or something. He comes with a head-to-toe custom official paintball outfit. His gun is in actuality the machine gun of paintball. We’re appropriate all renting the ones from the self-discipline.

Moore: All of a sudden, he bought an curiosity in biking. He would shuffle out and in finding the total equipment and a fresh bike and he would shuffle to the nth degree with it — appropriate shuffle fully all-in. But then he wasn’t love quick-lived with these issues. He sticks with them and roughly continues these passions that he picks up alongside the manner. Appropriate a incandescent, thoughtful guy.

Couture: We went to Tahoe at the commence of one three hundred and sixty five days and we had been going to shuffle on a two-mile hike. Burnzie shows up in paunchy hiking instruments. He became head to toe in all this hiking stuff. Admire, he introduced strolling sticks. His backpack became paunchy. Doubtlessly 30 kilos of s— in there. He fell within the help of the fellows so powerful because he became appropriate dragging alongside so powerful extra weight. It became in actuality pretty a hilarious day.

Potenza: He dives into researching or learning up on something in particular that he is obsessed with. He is dove into accumulating wine and accumulating particular whiskeys. He bought into browsing a little bit early in his occupation. He is repeatedly impressed me on how he is read so powerful. I deem that’s how he change into so successfully-rounded.

Dillon: He is bought at least 10 to 15 guitars. He is an not doubtless guitarist. I neglect how he realized how to play, nonetheless pretty a pair of it’s self-taught. Some of us in finding now not know that about him. They appropriate know him as Brent Burns from the ranch.

Couture: He would repeatedly discuss how monumental elk meat is. I know he cooks pretty pretty a pair of that. He is monumental on the barbecue. That is one of his other passions is cooking meat. And he is extremely stunning at it. He compare it and talks to pretty a pair of of us about how to successfully cook dinner it.

Aho: He has his meats, lawful? I have been over for dinner once or twice. He is a rather monumental cook dinner.

Dillon: Master grill man. I mean, he had the entirety. He had the Traeger [smoker] sooner than the Traeger became a component. He had the [Big] Green Egg. He had all these varied people who smoke. And he has all his fresh meat from his ranch. So he is a colossal, colossal pork guy, naturally. But being all organic, he knows the establish it be from and all that. He grills pizza and brisket and steak. By no method had a immoral meal at the Burns dwelling.

Couture: If you quiz 20 guys within the locker room, they’re going to point out you they feel love they’re one of Burnzie’s stunning chums appropriate because he is into so powerful and so an expert.


Fun-loving guy … to a level

While Burns is one of many NHL’s monumental characters, thru on-ice circulation and conserving himself in shape, few compare to Brent Burns.

Aho: He is unreal. A monumental guy. He appropriate brings his fetch personality within the locker room and is a extraordinarily, very easy guy to in finding alongside with. But on the ice, you in finding now not possess to chat about that too powerful. He is been doing this for, I in finding now not know, pretty a pair of years.

Moore: I played with him in Minnesota after which all any other time in San Jose about four years later. I didn’t glimpse any distinction in actuality from a younger Burnzie to the extra prone Burnzie. I deem that speaks to the same roughly factor that [Carolina coach] Rod Brind’Amour has commented on: That he has a youthful presence and personality. I deem he is unchanged about who he is. Or now not it’s miles the juxtaposition between that adaptability thru evolving as a player over the path of a prolonged occupation to set within the league, with the reality of being the same particular person all over all of that.

White: He is a fantastic athlete. Anybody who’s played with him, I mean, you glimpse what he is doing at 38 years long-established and he is on one of many fittest teams within the league, especially when your coach is “Rod the Bod.” So yeah, I mean, I read an article the opposite day. He completed second within the [Hurricanes’] bodily checking out within the origin of the three hundred and sixty five days at 38. He is a machine.

Potenza: He didn’t esteem coaching, nonetheless he revered it and he knows how important it’s for the longevity and the performance of his occupation. In yelp that’s the establish we hit it off. We had some bumpy classes with injuries for him, nonetheless we navigated thru it and he is near out clearly as a colossal player — even supposing he is a pair of years eliminated now from his Norris Trophy, he is suitable aloof dominant.

Moore: He is now not thick. He is suitable strong. Or now not it’s now not the farmer’s strength love we confer with these guys out West. He is wiry. Or now not it’s appropriate the manner he strikes, and his pure athleticism provides him his vitality.

Potenza: He pushed himself. He repeatedly wanted to survey issues that he could presumably also toughen, survey fresh ideas. I deem for of us that’ve been within the league for that prolonged, you enact need fresh stimulus. You enact need fresh coaching or modes of exercise that can in actuality set you constructing and adapting.

Moore: If you remember, he had gotten injured one season. Left out pretty a pair of time. If you peep at it, he is been barely harm since then. Or now not it’s love a change flipped the establish he became love, “OK, I’ve bought to handle my physique and set on the ice.” You be taught from issues.

Potenza: I’m repeatedly impressed that he keeps such detailed notes. There’s been a pair of athletes — and Pavelski became one more one — who set notes on the total workouts they’ve done. Admire, he has workouts that he did as a rookie in Minnesota in a binder, saved away. Performance coaching culture has long past away from the paper coaching to extra digital apps to notice workouts. And Burnzie doesn’t want to exhaust the app because he is bought all these notes. He is a collector. Maybe he’ll half it with his son at some point soon.

Dillon: That is the factor that’s so spectacular about Burnzie, and what I in actuality took from him. He is 38 now, nonetheless he is aloof repeatedly asking questions. Admire asking the forwards the establish they need the shot to shuffle. Or asking a teammate what their read is on a play. For pretty a pair of these guys which possess had as powerful success as him, it’d be rather easy to bid, “I know the entirety.” And that is the reason now not the mentality at all.

Couture: He knows when to buckle it down and be serious, nonetheless he can be repeatedly there for a stunning time and he can set issues light. He is a colossal leader. He works so onerous. He picked a pair of of that up from Jumbo and Pavelski and Marleau, and guys love that. But that’s also one factor that I’m obvious he is repeatedly had in him. His work ethic is wonderful. This is why he is aloof playing, and he is aloof wonderful.

Slavin: I deem he is the ideally suited kid in this locker room and appropriate loves the game. He is suitable one of a form.

Sahil Sachdeva is an International award-winning serial entrepreneur and founder of Level Up PR. With an unmatched reputation in the PR industry, Sahil builds elite personal brands by securing placements in top-tier press, podcasts, and TV to increase brand exposure, revenue growth, and talent retention. His charismatic and results-driven approach has made him a go-to expert for businesses looking to take their branding to the next level.

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The Godfather of Padel in the USA Reveals the Hidden Formula Behind the World’s Fastest-Growing Sport

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Padel isn’t merely surging in popularity; it’s rewriting the global playbook for sport, community, and capital. What began as a niche pastime has evolved into a cultural and economic force, stretching from Dubai’s desert courts to Europe’s bustling clubs and, now, America’s rapidly accelerating Padel boom. With more than  35 million players worldwide, the sport has entered a new era of mainstream momentum. At the heart of this transformation stands Marcos del Pilar, the visionary many now refer to as the Godfather of Padel in the USA.

A serial entrepreneur, investor, and one of the most respected global Padel consultants, Marcos has spent more than 30 years building, teaching, and scaling the sport. Today, he is the expert investors call before breaking ground on a Padel facility, the advisor federations depend on to set standards, and one of the strategists whose work helped push Padel into the American mainstream.

His best-selling book THE SECRET CODE OF PADEL reveals the first complete blueprint behind the sport’s meteoric rise, unpacking the mindset, systems, and business frameworks that have turned Padel into an international cultural and economic force. For the first time, he is revealing the formula that shaped the modern Padel era.

 

Cracking the Code: Why Padel Became a Global Force

According to Marcos, Padel’s strength comes from a rare combination of accessibility, community engagement, and scalable growth. As he explains, “Padel is more than a sport. It is a platform for human connection, growth, and opportunity.”

Unlike traditional racquet sports, Padel is easy to learn, highly social, and thrives in compact facilities with strong revenue potential. This has attracted entrepreneurs, private clubs, celebrities, athletes, and institutional investors. But its rapid rise in the United States needed more than enthusiasm. It required leadership, structure, and someone who understood the sport from every angle.

 One of those was Marcos del Pilar.

The Architect Behind America’s Padel Revolution

When Marcos arrived in the USA in 2017, Padel was almost virtually unknown. Courts were limited, investors were hesitant, and the ecosystem lacked standards, trained coaches, and infrastructure. The resistance was significant, but Marcos saw a future others could not yet imagine.

His leadership portfolio reflects one of the most comprehensive resumes in modern sports development:

  • Former President of the United States Padel Association (USPA)
  • Head of Padel  with the RSPA  (Racquet Sports Professionals Association), certifying thousands of professionals
  • Padel Consultant for Tennis Australia and the United States Tennis Association (USTA), and several international investment groups.
  • Recipient of multiple industry awards, including RSPA Master Professional, President’s Award, and Professional of the Year
  • Serial entrepreneur and investor in the Padel ecosystem, and partner of some of the biggest Padel ventures in the USA.
  • Co-Founder, and former CEO and Commissioner of the Pro Padel League
  • Team USA Head Coach at the 2021 Qatar and 2022 Dubai Padel World Championships.
  • Ranked Top Number 3 among the Top 50 Most Influential Persons in the New Padel World by international media outlets.

Marcos also played a critical role in bringing the first-ever Padel World Championship to the United States in Las Vegas in 2022, uniting more than 600 players from 32 countries. Beyond executive leadership, he has shaped the sport’s educational and professional frameworks by authoring and leading the RSPA’s worldwide certification program, as well as numerous resources for coaches, investors, and clubs.

His book, THE SECRET CODE OF PADEL, reveals the proven principles, strategic insights, and mindset shifts that shaped the sport’s global rise while offering powerful lessons for business, leadership, and personal transformation.

The Hidden Formula: Vision, Mindset, Ecosystem Building

Marcos believes that Padel’s expansion is driven by a mindset he refers to as the secret code. The code includes:

  • Believing in a vision before anyone else can see it
  • Making bold and strategic long-term decisions
  • Building sustainable Padel ecosystems rather than simply building courts
  • Creating opportunities for communities, investors, and future leaders
  • Using sport as a vehicle for growth, impact, and transformation

As he shares, “Success begins with one decision. You must believe in your vision even before the world understands it.”

From Consultant to Global Catalyst

MARCOS DEL PILAR, Global Padel Consultant and Professional Padel Coaching, has now become the premier strategic advisory platform for the sport’s global expansion. His hybrid model includes:

  • Facility development and ROI consulting
  • Strategic business planning for clubs and federations
  • Coaching certification and professional education
  • Leadership development and workshops
  • Brand partnerships, marketing strategy, and keynote speaking
  • Advisory roles with major investors and global organizations

He is widely regarded as the go-to expert for anyone entering the global Padel industry.

A Vision for the Future of Padel

Marcos aims to make Padel one of the world’s largest sports, especially in the American market. His vision includes thousands of high-quality facilities across the country, unified education and coaching standards, stronger international collaboration, and a thriving ecosystem where investors, communities, and athletes grow together.

As he says, “If you want to change an industry, you begin by changing yourself and people’s mindsets.” And through Padel, he is doing exactly that.

As the sport accelerates toward becoming a multi-billion-dollar global industry, one thing is clear. The future of Padel, particularly in America, will continue to be shaped by the vision and leadership of Marcos del Pilar.

The Godfather of Padel has revealed the code. Now, the world is ready to play.

For media inquiries or interviews: marcos@tenismrp.com

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ICC Rejects Bangladesh’s Request to Shift T20 World Cup Matches Amid Security Row

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A tense standoff has developed between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) over Bangladesh’s participation in the men’s T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.

Reports indicate that the ICC has turned down the BCB’s plea to relocate Bangladesh’s group-stage matches from India, following concerns raised by the BCB about player safety amid strained bilateral relations. During a recent virtual discussion, the ICC reportedly emphasised that Bangladesh must fulfil its scheduled fixtures in India or face potential forfeiture of points.

The BCB, however, has pushed back, insisting no direct threats of forfeiture were made in talks and maintaining their stance on security issues. No official statements have been released by the ICC or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), leaving the matter unresolved with the tournament approaching.

Bangladesh, in Group C, are due to play three initial matches in Kolkata—against West Indies (February 7), Italy (February 9), and England (February 14)—with their final group fixture against Nepal in Mumbai. Ongoing preparations underscore the urgency for resolution.

The controversy stems from a related IPL incident, where the BCCI directed Kolkata Knight Riders to release Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman from his INR 9.2 crore contract for the 2026 season, citing unspecified “recent developments.” Mustafizur was the only Bangladeshi player picked in the auction, and his release—without a formal Governing Council meeting—heightened the BCB’s apprehensions about player treatment and security.

With less than a month until the event, the lack of consensus is drawing attention to ICC governance, tournament planning, and board diplomacy. Potential outcomes could influence future venue dispute resolutions in ICC tournaments.

As of now, Bangladesh’s fixtures in India stand unchanged, but further discussions in the near term will be pivotal to avoid escalation or disruption.

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Bangladesh Refuses to Travel to India for 2026 T20 World Cup, Requests ICC to Shift Matches

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With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 set to begin in early February, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has declared that its national team will not travel to India under the current circumstances. The board has officially asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to move all of Bangladesh’s group-stage fixtures to venues outside India, primarily citing safety and security concerns for players and officials amid strained bilateral relations.

The decision follows an emergency BCB board meeting and comes on the heels of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directing Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman from his IPL 2026 contract. Although not explicitly linked by either board, the timing has fueled speculation in cricket circles, with some Bangladeshi officials viewing it as indicative of broader tensions.

Bangladesh, placed in Group C alongside England, West Indies, Italy, and Nepal, was originally scheduled to play three matches at Eden Gardens in Kolkata and one at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Shifting these games would involve complex rearrangements, including venue availability in Sri Lanka (where Pakistan’s matches are already allocated due to similar geopolitical issues), security protocols, and broadcasting logistics—all with limited time before the tournament opener on February 7.

The ICC has yet to respond publicly, but sources suggest contingency plans are being discussed. Precedents like hybrid models in recent events (e.g., India’s Champions Trophy games shifted due to Pakistan relations) could influence the outcome, though relocating one team’s fixtures mid-preparation is rare.

For the Bangladeshi squad, training continues amid uncertainty, with emphasis on player welfare. Indian venues remain prepared as primary hosts, but any schedule changes could impact travel and rest for multiple teams.

This episode underscores how geopolitical frictions can disrupt major international tournaments, challenging the ICC to uphold fairness, practicality, and the event’s overall integrity. A swift resolution is anticipated in the coming days to maintain momentum for the global spectacle.

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Ben Stokes Backs Brendon McCullum to Continue as England Head Coach

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England captain Ben Stokes has expressed strong support for head coach Brendon McCullum to stay in his role, despite the team’s loss of the Ashes series in Australia.

Stokes and McCullum took charge together in 2022. This tour was seen as a key test of their leadership, but England lost the first three Tests, conceding the series early. They bounced back with a victory in the fourth Test at Melbourne, their first win on Australian soil in nearly 15 years, with the fifth and final Test set to begin in Sydney on Sunday (23:30 GMT Saturday).

Both Stokes and McCullum have contracts running until 2027 and have indicated their desire to continue beyond this tour.

While Stokes is widely regarded as England’s ideal captain and likely to lead into the home summer, questions may arise over McCullum’s position and that of cricket director Rob Key.

“I have no doubt that Brendon and I are the right duo to lead this team forward in the coming years,” Stokes said.

When asked if he and the New Zealand-born McCullum form an inseparable partnership, Stokes added: “I struggle to picture anyone else stepping in to guide this side from its current position to greater successes.”

This series defeat continues England’s poor record in away Ashes contests, with their last triumph in Australia dating back to 2010-11, the only success there since 1986.

Past heavy losses in Australia have often triggered major overhauls in England’s setup; Stokes and McCullum were appointed after a 4-0 thrashing four years earlier.

“We haven’t won an Ashes series here since 2010-11, and reactions to those failures have led to changes that haven’t ultimately solved the problem,” Stokes noted. “There are decision-makers above me. Previous tours haven’t gone well, but repeating the drastic resets of the past would likely land us in the same spot again.”

McCullum is scheduled to coach England at next month’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, so any review of his role is expected to wait until after that event.

Stokes added that he would expect to be involved in discussions about potential leadership changes.

“No one knows if changes are coming, but we’re both committed to continuing our work,” he said.

Under Stokes and McCullum, England started strongly, winning 10 of their first 11 Tests, though results have levelled off since. In their last 34 Tests, they have 16 wins, 16 losses, and two draws, without securing a major five-Test series win against Australia or India.

McCullum took on oversight of England’s white-ball sides at the start of 2025. Since then, the Test team has won just four of 10 matches, including a routine series victory over Zimbabwe in May.

Director Rob Key has suggested the pre-tour white-ball commitments in New Zealand hampered Ashes preparation, though he stood by the scheduling.

Stokes, however, dismissed concerns that McCullum’s expanded responsibilities have impacted the Test side.

“He’s handling both roles now, but it hasn’t affected our dynamic with the Test group at all,” Stokes said.

England have announced a 12-man squad for the Sydney Test, including spinner Shoaib Bashir and paceman Matthew Potts.

The team will make at least one change after fast bowler **Gus Atkinson** was ruled out with a hamstring injury sustained in Melbourne.

Bashir hasn’t played since July due to a finger injury suffered against India, while Potts last featured over a year ago against New Zealand in December 2024.

“He’s been around the squad,” Stokes said of Potts. “He made a strong early impression in Tests, but his role has evolved. With Gus sidelined, this creates an opening for someone new.”

Australia may make up to two adjustments, potentially bringing in specialist spinner Todd Murphy for seamer Jhye Richardson, and possibly swapping all-rounder Beau Webster for Cameron Green.

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2025 Qatar Grand Prix: The Strategic Masterstroke That Reignited the Championship Fight

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The 2025 Qatar Grand Prix delivered everything a Formula 1 season finale contender should: drama, razor-sharp strategy, high-stakes pressure, and a championship battle left wide open with just one race to go. Max Verstappen’s commanding victory at Lusail not only showcased his trademark racecraft but also revived his bid for the Drivers’ Championship, narrowing the gap to just 12 points behind leader Lando Norris. With Oscar Piastri only four points further back, the season now heads to Abu Dhabi with three drivers still mathematically in contention.

Verstappen’s Calculated Brilliance

Starting third behind a McLaren front-row lockout, Verstappen wasted no time asserting himself. He swept past Lando Norris at Turn 1, instantly slotting into second behind polesitter Oscar Piastri. But the defining moment came moments later when Nico Hulkenberg’s stranded Haas triggered an early Safety Car.

Red Bull executed what Verstappen would later call a “smart” and decisive strategy: they pitted immediately. McLaren, in contrast, kept both Piastri and Norris out, an error CEO Zak Brown would publicly concede as “the wrong decision.”

From there, Verstappen was clinical. Adhering to the FIA’s mandatory 25-lap tire limit, he managed two perfectly timed stops, maintained race-leading pace, and reclaimed track position with surgical precision. When Norris finally pitted and rejoined on fresh rubber, Verstappen breezed past him again, this time for the lead that would secure his “incredible” win.

The triumph was more than a race victory. It was a statement of intent: Verstappen is not done fighting.

McLaren’s Miscalculation Costs Crucial Points

For McLaren, the weekend was a near-perfect opportunity turned into a missed milestone. Their pace was undeniable, with Piastri on pole and Norris alongside him, both boasting strong Sprint results (Piastri first, Norris third). But in Formula 1, timing is everything.

By choosing not to pit under the Safety Car, McLaren forced their drivers into a compromised strategy, losing invaluable track position as the race unfolded. Piastri’s raw pace salvaged second place, but he finished 15 seconds behind Verstappen. Norris, meanwhile, struggled in the mid-stint traffic, eventually finishing fourth after a late gain due to a rival’s mistake.

The cost? Norris missed the chance to clinch the championship one race early. Instead, he heads to Abu Dhabi just 12 points clear of Verstappen and 16 points ahead of his own teammate. The internal dynamics at McLaren will be fascinating to watch; team harmony under the pressure of a three-way title fight is never guaranteed.

Williams Shines with a Surprise Podium

While the spotlight fell on the championship contenders, Williams quietly authored one of the weekend’s most compelling stories. Carlos Sainz delivered a superb drive from seventh to third, capitalizing on McLaren’s vulnerability and overtaking Norris to secure Williams’ second podium of the season.

This result marked a significant turnaround from their performance at the same venue the previous year. “To get a podium here, of all places, was a surprise,” Sainz admitted. For a team fighting to re-establish itself as a consistent midfield force, this was a breakthrough.

Ferrari’s Troubles Deepen

If Williams over-delivered, Ferrari did the opposite. The team struggled from the opening practice sessions, unable to dial in the car on a circuit that exposed their aerodynamic weaknesses. Sprint qualifying was especially painful. Lewis Hamilton failed to escape Q1 for the second consecutive weekend, while Charles Leclerc lost positions in the Sprint after starting ninth.

The Grand Prix brought little relief. Leclerc salvaged eighth thanks to incidents up ahead, but he never looked competitive. Hamilton, still searching for his first podium of the season, finished outside the points. Two poor weekends in a row leave Ferrari with more questions than answers heading into the finale.

Star Power Lights Up Lusail

True to Qatar’s reputation for spectacle, the paddock brimmed with global celebrities. Novak Djokovic presented the Sprint trophies. Football icons David Beckham, Rio Ferdinand, Steven Gerrard, and Gary Neville walked the grid. Serena Williams soaked in the pre-race energy. Heavy metal legends Metallica roamed the pit lane. And Kevin Hart waved the chequered flag to end the event, an appropriately dramatic finish to a dramatic race.

A Championship on a Knife’s Edge

The 2025 Qatar Grand Prix underscored the essence of championship-level Formula 1: strategy defines outcomes, pressure exposes teams, and one race can reshape everything. Verstappen’s win rekindles the title fight. McLaren’s strategic error tightens the race to the wire. Piastri remains the dark horse with nothing to lose.

As the paddock heads to Abu Dhabi for the showdown, one thing is clear: the 2025 title will not be won by raw speed alone, but by nerves, nuance, and flawless execution. The battle is far from over, and the finale promises to be unforgettable.

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Women’s Soccer: A Vibrant Haven for LGBTQ+ Joy and Resilience

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In a world where sports often mirror societal divides, women’s soccer emerges as a radiant sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community. From rainbow-draped stadiums to queer-led festivals, the sport weaves threads of belonging, defiance, and unapologetic celebration. As global viewership surges, it stands not just as a game, but as a lifeline for those seeking visibility and solidarity.

From Stadiums to Festivals: Building Queer Spaces in the Beautiful Game

Picture this: a sun-drenched field in northern England, where players in Marge Simpson wigs and Sporty Spice outfits chase a ball under Pride flags fluttering like confetti. This is Ball Together Now (BTN), a 2022-founded festival that draws non-professional LGBTQ+ teams from across the UK for daytime matches and euphoric nighttime raves. Organizer Lois Kay beams, “I’ve never seen so many lesbians all in one tent!” BTN’s ethos is unyielding inclusion, explicitly welcoming trans and non-binary athletes in a sport still grappling with barriers elsewhere.

This electric energy spills into professional arenas. At Arsenal Women’s matches, fan Emily Calder, a lifelong devotee, finds a queer utopia. “Arsenal women’s games are the only place you’d find as many lesbians and queer women as you would at Pride!” she exclaims. Calder’s story is emblematic: alienated by the men’s game’s toxic undercurrents, she rediscovered soccer at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, drawn by its open-hearted crowds. Queer couples link arms in the stands, rainbow scarves swaying like a collective heartbeat. Events like Baller FC’s “Slaying the Field”—a 2025 UEFA Women’s Euros bash blending short films, arm-wrestling, and line dancing—further blur lines between pitch and party, filling voids left by shuttered LGBTQ+ nightlife spots. In London alone, over half of queer venues have vanished in two decades, making these soccer-fueled gatherings indispensable hubs for connection.

Out Stars Shining Bright: Visibility That Draws and Inspires

At the heart of this allure? A constellation of openly queer players who shatter silence. The 2025 Women’s Euros boasted at least 78 out athletes among 368, a staggering 21%, dwarfing global LGBTQ+ identification rates of just 9%, per a 2023 Ipsos survey. Power couples like USWNT icons Christen Press and Tobin Heath, or Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema and Beth Mead, embody this boldness. Mead and Miedema even quipped about their on-pitch “rivalry” turning romantic, turning potential tension into tender lore.

Contrast this with men’s soccer’s shadows. No openly gay players grace the English Premier League or Ligue 1’s top tiers. Adelaide United’s Josh Cavallo, the sole out male pro in a major league, decries it as a “very toxic place,” haunted by death threats and slurs. Homophobic flares erupt routinely: Ligue 1 clubs fined for hiding anti-bigotry badges, a 2023 USMNT-Mexico clash halted by chants. Women’s soccer, however, flips the script. Calder notes, “There’s a shocking difference in the culture… so many out gay women players.” This visibility magnetizes newcomers; her queer friends, once soccer-averse, now flock to games as de facto Pride parades.

Across the Atlantic, the USWNT amplifies this. Amid Trump-era rollbacks on LGBTQ+ rights—from health funding cuts to bathroom bans—Megan Rapinoe led a defiant charge. Skipping a 2019 White House invite post-World Cup triumph, she declared queerness “intrinsic to the success” of her squad: “You can’t win a championship without gays on your team.” Allies like Ali Krieger echoed her, forging a legacy of vocal advocacy that fans like Ed Fox hail for sidestepping “machismo and toxic masculinity.”

Defiant Roots and a Boundless Horizon

Women’s soccer’s queer magnetism isn’t accidental, it’s forged in rebellion. Banned in England for 50 years on league grounds, outlawed in 1920s Canada, and stifled under Franco’s Spain until the 1970s, the sport has always thrived on society’s edges. This marginal history resonates with those challenging heteronormativity, birthing a culture of radical joy.

Today, as attendance skyrockets, Euros finals drawing millions, it battles fresh foes: pay inequities, online harassment, and inclusion growing pains. Yet, figures like Birmingham’s Flaming Foxes captain Laura Graham insist, “Women’s soccer feels like it has something for everyone.” BTN remains her “favorite weekend,” spawning enduring queer bonds beyond the bar scene.

As the game evolves, its LGBTQ+ embrace promises broader ripples. It counters isolation with community, bigotry with brilliance. In stadium roars and festival beats, women’s soccer isn’t just played, it’s lived, a testament to resilience that invites all to join the dance. For queer hearts worldwide, it’s more than a haven: it’s home.

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Scotland Ends 28-Year World Cup Exile in a Night of Absolute Madness and Joy

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For 28 years, Scotland had become experts in almost-there moments – play-offs lost on penalties, last-minute concessions, campaigns that crumbled when it mattered most. Then came one insane evening at Hampden Park that rewrote everything. A 4-2 win over Denmark turned a nation’s long-suppressed scream into pure, chaotic celebration.

It finished in storybook fashion: Kenny McLean picking the ball up on the halfway line deep into stoppage time and lobbing the keeper from 50 yards. He took off sprinting, arms aloft, chased by the entire team in scenes that looked more like a street party than the end of a World Cup qualifier. Fireworks exploded overhead, Scott McTominay sank to his knees, and an entire country finally breathed out.

A Qualifying Story Too Wild to be Normal

This campaign never did anything the easy way. Injuries, red cards, 90th-minute winners, tactical curveballs – every twist seemed designed to test Scottish hearts one more time. So of course, the decisive match had to be a roller-coaster.

Scott McTominay announced the night’s tone inside three minutes with a sensational overhead kick that ripped the roof off Hampden. He stood there, kissing his fingers to the sky, soaking in a noise he’ll never forget.

Denmark equalised. Scotland went ahead again. Denmark levelled again. With every swing, the old familiar dread crept in – here we go again. Except this time, Scotland refused to blink.

Robertson, McGinn, and the Weight of a Generation

Andy Robertson and John McGinn, both 31 and scarred by more failed qualifiers than most players endure in a lifetime, played like men who knew this might be the last dance. Afterwards in the tunnel they were the loudest, the most emotional – hugging everyone, roaring in disbelief, tears mixing with sweat. They’d carried the hope for years; now they could finally set it down.

Kieran Tierney’s beautiful second-half curler looked for a moment like it might be the goal that sent Scotland through. But the script still had one more outrageous page to turn.

Hampden Loses Its Mind

The crowd lived every kick: hands on heads one minute, embracing strangers the next. Even the press box supposedly a no-emotion zone erupted when McTominay scored; grown journalists jumping and shouting like teenagers.

Then came McLean’s impossible strike. The ball hung in the night sky, dropped perfectly over the stranded keeper and Hampden detonated. Craig Gordon, 42 years old and back for one last ride, just stood there with his gloves over his face, trying to take it in.

A Dream That Took 28 Years to Arrive

Most of this squad were kids or not even born the last time Scotland went to a World Cup in 1998. Now they’ll get to live it. For the older heads it’s the end of a lifetime’s waiting; for the youngsters it’s the beginning of something huge.

When the stadium emptied, Craig Gordon stayed on the pitch with his family, calmly taking photos while the echoes of euphoria still bounced around the stands.

After nearly three decades of hurt, Scotland are going to the World Cup again and they did it in a way no one will ever forget. Football, on nights like this, is everything.

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Alpine F1 Announces Major Power Shift: Mercedes Engines Take Over in 2026

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In a bold move, Alpine has announced it will switch to Mercedes engines in 2026, ending a long chapter of partnership with Renault. This significant change in strategy will make Alpine the fourth team to be powered by Mercedes engines, joining a growing list of teams to benefit from the German manufacturer’s expertise and performance.

The End of an Era: No More Renault Engines for Alpine

The announcement marks the end of Alpine’s reliance on Renault engines, which have powered the team since its rebranding in 2021. Despite several strong moments, including occasional podium finishes, the Renault engine has often struggled to keep up with the competition in the current generation of F1 regulations, introduced in 2014. For Alpine, the decision to shift to Mercedes power comes as a strategic move to enhance performance and adapt to the upcoming changes in F1 engine regulations.

Alpine to Become the Fourth Mercedes-Powered Team in 2026

This partnership with Mercedes means that from 2026, Alpine will be one of four teams powered by Mercedes engines. Currently, Mercedes supplies engines to three other teams, and with Alpine joining the fold, it solidifies Mercedes’ position as the dominant engine supplier in the sport. This move is seen as a potential game-changer for Alpine, who will now have access to Mercedes’ superior engineering and power, which could boost their competitiveness in the sport.

The partnership will see Alpine not only adopt Mercedes’ power units but also benefit from Mercedes’ gearboxes, ensuring the team has the complete package for the new generation of Formula 1 regulations. This shift is expected to significantly impact Alpine’s performance as they work toward becoming a leading contender in F1.

Why the Change?

For Alpine, the decision to no longer use Renault engines and instead switch to Mercedes power is rooted in a desire for greater performance and consistency. While Renault’s engine program has had its successes, Alpine has struggled to match the speed and reliability of competitors like Mercedes and Ferrari in recent seasons.

With the introduction of new F1 engine regulations in 2026, Alpine is looking to align itself with a supplier that can offer not only cutting-edge performance but also the engineering expertise needed to meet the evolving demands of the sport. Mercedes, with its proven track record of success and dominance in the hybrid era, is seen as the perfect fit for Alpine’s aspirations.

Looking Ahead: Alpine’s Future with Mercedes Power

As Alpine prepares to enter the 2026 season with Mercedes engines powering their cars, the team will no longer be burdened by the challenges of developing an engine internally. The shift will allow them to focus more on their chassis development and overall race strategy. With Mercedes providing a reliable and competitive engine, Alpine’s ambitions to climb the F1 ladder are likely to be accelerated.

This partnership is also part of a broader trend in Formula 1, where teams are increasingly relying on established, high-performance engine suppliers. With Mercedes now supplying engines to four teams, including Alpine, the manufacturer is solidifying its role as a key player in F1 for years to come.

 

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The announcement that Alpine will switch to Mercedes engines in 2026 signals a new era for the team and the sport. By joining the ranks of the Mercedes-powered teams, Alpine aims to leverage Mercedes’ superior technology and engineering to bolster their performance on the grid. As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Alpine to see how their switch to Mercedes power shapes their future in Formula 1.

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Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson: A Historic Fight You Can’t Miss

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The Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated showdowns in boxing history. On Friday, November 15, 2024, Mike Tyson will return to the ring for only his second fight since retiring in 2005, and his opponent is none other than the controversial YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul. This fight has been years in the making, and it promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.

The Road to the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight

After multiple delays, health concerns, and constant speculation, the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight will finally take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. For Tyson, this fight marks a return to the sport, while for Jake Paul, it’s another step in his quest to prove himself as a legitimate force in the world of fighting.

Leading up to this monumental event, the excitement is palpable, and fight fans are buzzing with anticipation. To add to the drama, there will be a series of events this week designed to build the hype for the big night.

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The Event Schedule

Starting on Tuesday, November 12, a week of thrilling events will unfold. Here’s a look at the schedule:

  • Wednesday, November 13: The Final Press Conference at 7 p.m. ET at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas, will set the stage for the fight. Fans can catch the press conference live across multiple platforms, including Netflix’s YouTube channels, Instagram, and Tudum.
  • Thursday, November 14: Public Weigh-ins at 7 p.m. ET. This key moment will let fans see the fighters up close before the Jake Paul fight. Streaming will be available on Netflix’s YouTube and TikTok.
  • Friday, November 15:
    • Preliminary Card at 5:30 p.m. ET: The night kicks off with several exciting matchups, including Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool for the vacant WBO Super Middleweight title.
    • Main Card at 8 p.m. ET: The long-awaited Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul will be the highlight of the evening, available globally via Netflix.

Full Fight Card

In addition to the headlining Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight, the night will feature several action-packed bouts, including:

  • Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson (Heavyweight Bout)
  • Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano (Undisputed Lightweight Title)
  • Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos (WBC Welterweight Title)
  • Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool (WBO Super Middleweight Title)
  • Lucas Bahdi vs. Armando Casamonica (Lightweight Bout)
  • Bruce Carrington vs. Dana Coolwell (Featherweight Bout)
  • Neeraj Goyat vs. Whindersson Nunes (Middleweight Bout)

Each of these bouts will bring its own level of excitement to the night, making it a must-watch event for any fighting fan.

How to Watch the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Fight

For the first time, the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight will be streamed exclusively on Netflix, available on all Netflix plans. The Jake Paul fight will begin with the preliminary card at 5:30 p.m. ET, followed by the main card, including the Tyson vs Paul fight, at 8:00 p.m. ET. Make sure to set your reminders for this unforgettable night of action.

What’s at Stake in the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight?

The stakes are high for both fighters. For Mike Tyson, the Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul event represents a chance to prove that, despite his age, he still has the skills to dominate in the ring. Tyson is a living legend in the sport, and this fight will add another chapter to his incredible legacy.

For Jake Paul, this fight is a golden opportunity to solidify his place in the world of boxing. Known for his controversial and brash persona, Paul has already won over a large fan base, but a victory over Tyson would elevate his status to a whole new level, proving that he’s more than just a YouTuber. It would be a huge statement in the world of fighting.

Why the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight Is So Special

This fight isn’t just about boxing. It’s about two larger-than-life personalities from completely different worlds coming together for a historic battle. Tyson, a former world champion with a storied career, and Paul, a modern-day internet sensation, are set to collide in the ring in a match that has fans and analysts alike buzzing with excitement. The clash between experience and youth, legend and upstart, has generated incredible interest.

Don’t Miss the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight

The Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight on November 15 promises to be an epic showdown that boxing fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re tuning in to see Tyson make his return to the ring or watching Jake Paul’s next move in his boxing journey, this event will deliver fighting action and drama like never before.

So, mark your calendars, grab your popcorn, and get ready for a night that will go down in history. The Jake Paul fight with Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul could very well be the most talked-about event in boxing for years to come.

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NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski Retires from ESPN to Become General Manager of Basketball at Alma Mater

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NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski Retires from ESPN to Become General Manager of Basketball at Alma Master

Known for his iconic “Woj Bombs” — the term coined for his relentless NBA breaking news and reporting — ESPN’s senior insider Adrian Wojnarowski delivered a personal bombshell on Wednesday. The renowned sports journalist announced his retirement from the news industry, signaling the end of an era for NBA coverage. Wojnarowski revealed that he would be stepping away from his role at ESPN to take on a new challenge: becoming the general manager of the men’s basketball team at his alma mater, St. Bonaventure University.In a heartfelt message posted to social media, Wojnarowski reflected on his career and the decision to walk away from the fast-paced world of NBA news. “Thirty-seven years ago, the Hartford Courant gave me my first byline and I never stopped chasing the thrill of it all. This craft transformed my life, but I’ve decided to retire from ESPN and the news industry,” Wojnarowski wrote. “I understand the commitment required in my role and it’s an investment that I’m no longer driven to make. Time isn’t in endless supply, and I want to spend mine in ways that are more personally meaningful. I leave with overwhelming gratitude for countless mentors and colleagues, subjects and stories, readers and viewers. No one has benefitted more than me from the belief, trust, and generosity of others.”

Wojnarowski’s departure from ESPN marks the conclusion of a remarkable run at the sports network, where he had become synonymous with NBA breaking news. Since joining ESPN in 2017 as its senior NBA insider, Wojnarowski was the go-to source for fans, athletes, and insiders alike, often scooping major stories before anyone else. Before his time at ESPN, Wojnarowski built his reputation at Yahoo Sports, where he spent nearly a decade, and also had stints at The Record of New Jersey, The Fresno Bee, and The Waterbury (Conn.) Republican-American.

In response to the news of his retirement, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro praised Wojnarowski’s work ethic and dedication to journalism. “I’ve known and admired Woj since we first worked together at Yahoo! in 2007. His work ethic is second to none. He’s extraordinarily talented and fearless. He has led the industry at ESPN, and his dedication to the craft and to fans is legendary,” Pitaro said in a statement. “While we will miss his daily output, we completely understand his decision to make a lifestyle change and slow down a bit. We know he will continue to thrive in this next chapter, and he has our collective gratitude and support.”

For Wojnarowski, this new chapter represents a return to his roots. A 1991 graduate of St. Bonaventure University, Wojnarowski has maintained a deep connection with the school throughout his career. He was named the Alumnus of the Year in 2019 and inducted onto the Russell Jandoli School of Communication’s Wall of Distinguished Graduates, a testament to his enduring influence and contribution to journalism. Now, he will return to the university in a more direct role, helping to shape the future of its men’s basketball program.

“After all these years reporting on everyone’s teams, I’m headed back to my own,” Wojnarowski said. His role as general manager of the St. Bonaventure men’s basketball team will involve advising the coaching staff on a range of critical issues, including name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities, managing the transfer portal, fundraising, and recruiting. In an era of rapid changes within college sports, including the rise of NIL and the ever-fluid nature of player transfers, Wojnarowski’s experience and strategic insight are expected to be invaluable to the Bonnies’ program.

“I’m thrilled and humbled to return to St. Bonaventure with an opportunity to serve the university, Coach Mark Schmidt, and our elite Atlantic 10 men’s basketball program,” Wojnarowski said in a statement. “In these changing times of college sports, I’m eager to join a championship program that combines high-level basketball, national television exposure, pro preparation, and NIL opportunities with an intimate, supportive educational environment.” His move to join the Bonnies’ staff underscores his deep commitment to the school and his enthusiasm for helping guide the basketball program through an increasingly complex college sports landscape.

Last season, the Bonnies finished with a respectable 20-13 overall record and a 9-9 mark in the competitive Atlantic 10 Conference. With Wojnarowski’s addition to the program’s leadership, there is hope that the team can continue to grow and excel in the coming years. His vast network of contacts within the basketball world, combined with his knowledge of the game’s inner workings, makes him a significant asset for St. Bonaventure.

The three-time National Sports Media Association’s National Sportswriter of the Year leaves behind a legacy as one of the most respected figures in sports journalism. Over the course of his career, Wojnarowski became known for his dogged pursuit of the truth, his unrelenting work ethic, and his ability to consistently break some of the biggest stories in basketball. For NBA fans, his “Woj Bombs” became a staple of the modern sports media landscape, often shaking the league with surprising trade news, free-agent signings, and coaching changes.

While Wojnarowski’s retirement from reporting marks the end of an era, his contributions to the sports world will continue in his new role. His upcoming introduction as St. Bonaventure’s basketball general manager is scheduled for next Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, where he will officially begin the next phase of his illustrious career.

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