Connect with us
DAPA Banner

Sports

IPL 2026: No fortress, no momentum — Delhi Capitals’ season unravels at home | Cricket News

Published

on

IPL 2026: No fortress, no momentum — Delhi Capitals’ season unravels at home
Delhi Capitals players (Pic credit: IPL)

NEW DELHI: Arun Jaitley Stadium was painted yellow on Tuesday evening. Everywhere the eye went, in every stand that celebrated the best that Delhi has ever produced, a trove of yellow jerseys was unmissable. They were there in groups and in small numbers, but their presence was hard to ignore. At one point, chants of ‘Dhoni, Dhoni’ rang out. Ironically, the former India captain, or ‘Thala’ as he’s more affectionately called by the Chennai Super Kings faithful, hadn’t even travelled to the capital and is yet to play a game this IPL season.At the other end, bar a small section of DC Toli, Delhi Capitals fans were conspicuous by their absence. The blue-and-red of the home side had little to show for themselves and little cause to erupt over the course of Match 48 of IPL 2026.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Having won the toss and opted to bat, DC never got going, and only a late show from Tristan Stubbs (38 from 31 balls) and Sameer Rizvi (40 from 24) helped reach a respectable 155/7.Chennai Super Kings, led by Sanju Samson‘s 87 off 52 balls at the top of the order, and Kartik Sharma’s unbeaten 41 from 31, sauntered to the total with 15 balls and 8 wickets to spare.As a result, DC are seventh in the IPL standings with one win in the last five played or two in the last eight. They are only better than the Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants at this juncture.Besides harbouring slim hopes of making the playoffs, what is common to this bunch is their woeful home record. MI (33.3 per cent win record at home), KKR (25 per cent), DC (20 per cent), and LSG (0 per cent) have all had a dreadful home run, which goes hand-in-hand with their overall poor season.In contrast, CSK, who are sixth after back-to-back victories, have the third-best home record (60 per cent win record at home). The four teams in playoff spots – Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals – all have strong home win records of 75 per cent, 80 per cent, 60 per cent and 60 per cent, respectively.Delhi Capitals have not helped their cause with a variety of surfaces on offer, while conditions have been inconsistent due to unseasonal rains and cooler temperatures in the evening.The afternoon fixture against the Punjab Kings was a flat deck and ended up producing 529 runs. Then, against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a lively track saw DC bundled for just 75.On Tuesday, a surface that hadn’t been used yet was expected to slow down by DC skipper Axar Patel. By the end, though, he witnessed the opposite and well-set batters were the need of the hour. Where DC barely found any, CSK had Samson and Karthik produce an unbeaten 114-run stand.Delhi Capitals coach Hemang Badani admitted they’ve struggled in most departments and have to adapt better to conditions and pitches.“We do not control the pitch. The surfaces are managed under BCCI guidelines to ensure neutrality,” he said in the post-match media conference.“You play what is given to you. Yes, it has been slightly unpredictable at our home ground. One game had a very high score, and another assisted spin.“But that is the case for all teams. You have to adapt and find ways to win,” he stated.Badani said the need of the hour is to win all four of their remaining matches, with two coming at home. But for that, the inconsistencies need to be addressed.“One day, we bowl well but do not bat well. Another day, we bat well but fall short in another area.“At this level, you need at least 60 to 70 per cent of your players contributing on a given day. That has been missing,” he finished.

Source link

Continue Reading
Click to comment

You must be logged in to post a comment Login

Leave a Reply

Sports

Another Voice Rips Vikings Draft Class

Published

on

Advertisement

Vikings fans react in the stands during a game against the Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium
Minnesota Vikings fans fill the stands during a heated NFC North clash, with Dec 31, 2023 centered at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis as the crowd reacts to the rivalry matchup against the Green Bay Packers, capturing the atmosphere, noise, and intensity inside the building during a late-season divisional showdown. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Because Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Caleb Banks was theorized as a 2nd-Round pick, but Minnesota selected him in Round 1, many national pundits haven’t been shy about skewering the club’s draft decision-making. Bleacher Report was the latest, calling the Vikings’ draft class “baffling.”

Minnesota bet big on defense, but the 1st-Round value debate is still following the class.

It’s the latest in a string of mediocre and bad reviews.

Advertisement

Banks Remains the Flashpoint in Minnesota’s Draft Debate

Were you wholly baffled by the Vikings’ draft class?

Caleb Banks reacts after being selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the NFL Draft. Vikings draft class
Florida Gators defensive lineman Caleb Banks celebrates the moment after being selected by the Minnesota Vikings with the 18th overall pick during the 2026 NFL Draft, soaking in the stage atmosphere on Apr 23, 2026, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as Minnesota added a powerful presence to its defensive front. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.

BR: Vikings’ Draft Was Baffling

BR’s Kristopher Knox assigned one word to each team’s rookie class last week, and for the Vikings, that term was “baffling.”

Knox wrote, “Ironically, it’s fair to wonder what the Minnesota Vikings were thinking at the top of the draft while simultaneously knowing exactly what they were thinking. After parting with defensive linemen Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave earlier in the offseason, the Vikings clearly decided that they needed to reload along their defensive front.”

Advertisement

“Still, using the 18th overall pick on Florida’s Caleb Banks was a massive reach. Banks was the 60th-ranked overall prospect on the B/R board, and he’s dealt with alarming foot issues over the past year.”

Banks was a consensus 1st-Rounder before the broken foot bone at the Combine.

Knox added, “He suffered a broken foot in 2025 that limited him to three games, and he broke the same foot again at the scouting combine. While banks has the potential to be a great player, Minnesota’s decision to take him where it did is baffling.”

To Recap: The Haul

Advertisement

As a refresher, this is the Vikings’ full draft class for 2026:

  • R1: Caleb Banks (DT) | Pick 18
  • R2: Jake Golday (LB) | Pick 51
  • R3: Domonique Orange (DT) | Pick 82
  • R3: Caleb Tiernan (OT) | Pick 97
  • R3: Jakobe Thomas (SAF) | Pick 98
  • R5: Max Bredeson (TE) | Pick 159
  • R5: Charles Demmings (CB) | Pick 163
  • R6: Demond Claiborne (RB) | Pick 198
  • R7: Gavin Gerhardt (OL) | Pick 235

The event was remarkably defense-heavy, with head coach Kevin O’Connell and interim general manager Rob Brzezinski saying afterward that’s just how the board fell to them.

Baffling Is Just Fine if the Class Hits

Generally speaking, it does not matter if Knox was baffled by Minnesota’s draft class. It just doesn’t. Everyone’s confusion about the Vikings’ draft arrived on the first night of the event, mainly because the entire NFL viewing audience expected Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman to be the pick. There was no hard evidence linking Thieneman to Minnesota; it’s just that 90% of mock drafts predicted as much because Minnesota might need a safety, and Thieneman kinda-sorta looks like Harrison Smith.

Caleb Banks answers questions from reporters during SEC Media Days in Atlanta. Vikings draft class
Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks speaks with reporters during SEC Media Days, addressing questions about his development and outlook on Jul 16, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia, as the rising prospect discussed his path and preparation ahead of a pivotal season that boosted his draft stock. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images.

When Thieneman was not the pick, and the Vikings “reached” for Banks, folks were stunned — why would they draft a Round 2 guy in Round 1?

Some reporting suggested afterward that multiple teams had their eyes on Banks in Round 1, so the Vikings taking the plunge wasn’t that weird at all.

Advertisement

Daily Norseman‘s Warren Ludford noted on Banks’s injury last week, “It is easy to understand why NFL teams would be spooked by Banks’ injury history and that would cause him to fall in their draft assessments of him due to injury risk.”

“At the same time, it is also understandable why the Vikings felt that after having their doctors do their due diligence on Banks’ foot injuries that they were not concerned about their impact on his ability to play football. All indications are that he has fully recovered from the more severe Jones fracture and that the subsequent fourth metatarsal injury is a relatively minor one and he is on track to a full recovery by early June.”

For the Most Part, It’s All on Banks

This draft class boils down to one man, and — you guessed it — his name is Caleb Banks. If the Gator morphs into a Pro Bowl or All-Pro performer, nobody will care one iota that Minnesota drafted him in Round 1. The grievance will be an afterthought.

Advertisement

However, if he succumbs to foot problems, a vast faction of draft pundits will say “I told you so,” and the Vikings will need players like Golday, Orange, Tiernan, and Thomas to pan out to make up for the would-be Banks gaffe.

Rob Brzezinski chats during a live interview at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Vikings draft class
Minnesota Vikings executive Rob Brzezinski participates in an on-site interview during the NFL Scouting Combine, sharing insights on roster construction and team strategy on Feb 25, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana, as he joined a live discussion with KFAN voices about the organization’s offseason direction and long-term planning approach. Mandatory Credit: YouTube.

Minnesota, too, could have big plans for Round 6 running back Demond Claiborne. The Vikings haven’t drafted an RB1 since Dalvin Cook, and that was nine years ago.

It’s all up to Banks and his foot to determine if Knox’s baffled reactions mean anything. He’s the Vikings’ big ticket in the aftermath of the 2026 draft.


avatar

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Brad Rea reflects on Lyndon Arthur defeat as he targets comeback win over Liam Cameron

Published

on

Brad Rea gave a titanic effort, even flooring his man in the second round, but was ultimately denied a European title triumph over Lyndon Arthur in November.

‘The Sting’ had previously elevated his career by claiming the EBU title, unanimously outpointing Shakan Pitters with an assertive performance last June.

In his light-heavyweight encounter with Arthur, though, Rea was eventually forced to suffer a majority decision defeat, despite producing one of his career-best displays.

Advertisement

Since then, the 28-year-old has come to terms with his second professional blemish, but tells Boxing News that it was far from an easy process.

“It’s always disappointing when a fight doesn’t go your way. For me, the most important thing is winning.

“Every boxer knows the stuff that goes through your head after a loss. Looking back, I’m like, ‘What was I thinking?’ But you do doubt yourself, doubt whether you’re in the right game and doubt whether you’re good enough to get to the level you want to get to.

“I took a risk against Lyndon and it didn’t quite work out, but I’ve shown I can mix it at that level.

“I’d love to get back in there and give it another crack. The way the first fight went, I think the fans would love to see it again – I think Manchester would love to see it again – but there’s so many obstacles in the way; we’ve both got a job to do before we can even think about [a rematch].”

Advertisement

Perhaps a rematch can be explored down the line but, until then, both Rea and Arthur must remain intensely focused on their respective outings against Liam Cameron and Lewis Edmondson.

Viewing this as an opportunity to showcase his full capabilities, Rea is more than happy with his opponent on May 9.

Having become a father since his narrow defeat to Arthur, there is also an added incentive to get back to winning ways and create more opportunities for himself.

“I think Liam’s up there with the best light-heavyweights in the country. But, for me, it’s the perfect fight to show what I can do.

“I know it’s not going to be an easy night’s work, but they’re the fights I want to be in. I want to be in entertaining fights.”

Advertisement

In a separate interview with Boxing News, Cameron effectively accused Rea of being too brave for his own good, often neglecting his defence while trading in the pocket.

In response, the Lancashire man has admitted to sometimes being guilty of getting too carried away, while wondering whether Cameron can perform two roles at once when they collide at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, featuring on the undercard of Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois.

“He’s probably right – maybe we could do with having him in the corner, telling me to move my head!

“Sometimes I can get a bit excited and get drawn [into a war], but that’s what the fans want to see at the end of the day.”

Even after becoming a European champion, Rea has no interest in skipping past the domestic scene at 175lbs.

Advertisement

And this is just as well, really, because, at Queensberry Promotions, he is quite simply spoilt for choice when it comes to potential opponents.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Mikel Arteta thrilled as Arsenal ‘make history together’ in Champions League

Published

on

Mikel Arteta hailed his “incredible” players for “making history” after Arsenal secured their place in the Champions League final with a 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid at the Emirates Stadium.

Bukayo Saka delivered the decisive goal on the stroke of half-time to fire the Gunners to a 2-1 aggregate semi-final triumph. They will face either Bayern Munich or Paris St Germain in Budapest on May 30.

Following Manchester City’s 3-3 draw at Everton on Monday – which puts the Premier League title race in Arsenal’s hands – and their triumph over Diego Simeone’s side here just 24 hours later, Arteta’s men are now only four matches away from completing a momentous double and securing the greatest campaign in the club’s 140-year history.

Arsenal have never won Europe’s grandest tournament, and Arteta said: “It was an incredible night. We made history again together and I cannot be happier and prouder for everybody that’s involved in this football club.

“The supporters were with us for every ball. They made it special and unique, and I have never felt it like that in this stadium.

Advertisement

“We knew how much it meant to everybody, we put everything on the line, the boys did an incredible job and after 20 years, and the second time in our history, we are back in the Champions League final.”

Arsenal will arrive for the showpiece as the sole unbeaten team in this season’s competition following a remarkable record of 11 wins and three draws. Indeed, their streak of 14 matches without defeat is a new Champions League record for the north London club.

But Arteta’s side will next take on West Ham at the London Stadium on Sunday, prior to a home match against Burnley and an away clash at Crystal Palace. Three wins will be enough for Arsenal to secure their first Premier League title in 22 years before they head to Hungary.

And Arteta added: “It’s great. Everybody can feel a shift in energy, in belief, in everything. Let’s use it in the right way and understand that the margins and the difficulty of what we are trying to achieve are huge, but that we have the ability and the conviction to do it.

Advertisement

“I’m really going to enjoy it tonight, everybody’s enjoying this moment now. But tomorrow we have to start to prepare for Sunday. We have an incredible game against West Ham, a really tough one, and we’re going to have four days to do that. Let’s enjoy the moment but tomorrow let’s start to live in the present.”

Atleti head coach Simeone appeared to shove Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta on the touchline in the concluding moments of the game. However, he was magnanimous in defeat.

Simeone said: “If we got knocked out it is because our opponents deserved to get through. I don’t want to make excuses.

“Mikel Arteta has done an incredible job at Arsenal. He has been trying to get to this point for a long time, to win the Premier League and the Champions League.

Advertisement

“They have incredible financial power, and that is linked to what they are doing, but I am pleased for them because they deserve it.”

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Everton Fan Arrested Over Alleged Racist Abuse During Manchester City Clash

Published

on

Everton supporters saw one fan arrested during Monday’s dramatic 3-3 Premier League draw against Manchester City after alleged racist comments aimed at Antoine Semenyo.

According to Merseyside Police, the incident happened during the match at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Officers confirmed that a 71-year-old man from Nottinghamshire was taken into custody after reports from stewards and fans that racist language had been directed at the Ghana international.

Police stated that the suspect was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence. Investigations into the matter are still continuing in cooperation with Everton Football Club.

  • john stones top 14 Premier League last-gasp match-winnersjohn stones top 14 Premier League last-gasp match-winners

Advertisement

The man has since been released on bail with strict conditions. These include staying at least one mile away from any designated sports stadium from four hours before kick-off until four hours after matches.

Everton strongly condemned the incident in an official statement.

The club said behaviour linked to racism or discrimination would not be accepted under any circumstances.

Advertisement

“Racism and discrimination in all forms are completely unacceptable. They have no place in our stadia, our sport or in society,” the statement read.

The Merseyside club also confirmed they would continue assisting authorities and would take firm action in line with their zero-tolerance policy.

This is the second racist incident involving Semenyo this season. Earlier in the campaign, while still playing for AFC Bournemouth, the 26-year-old reported racist abuse from a supporter during a league defeat to Liverpool FC.

Following that incident, Semenyo called for stronger punishment against racism in football, including possible jail terms for offenders.

Advertisement

Manchester City also praised the quick response from Everton and the police authorities.

The Premier League champions further revealed that England defender Marc Guehi received racist abuse on social media after the game.

“We are incredibly disappointed to hear that Marc Guehi was subject to a series of vile racist social media posts last night,” City said in a statement.

The club added that they would continue to support both Semenyo and Guehi while maintaining a strong stand against all forms of discrimination in football.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Man United can give Andoni Iraola favourite what he wants after £70million boost

Published

on

Manchester United hold a favourable position should they attempt to sign one of their reported midfield targets

Manchester United may have taken a step closer to signing top target Alex Scott after securing Champions League football at the weekend. The Bournemouth midfielder is wanted by Old Trafford chiefs with Casemiro on his way out this summer.

And with Andoni Iraola a frontrunner to take over if Michael Carrick does not get the manager’s job permanently, he could be followed by one of his favourite players. Scott has previously explained that he would only leave Bournemouth if a Champions League club came calling – which United will be next season.

Advertisement

Speaking to Transfermarkt in February, Scott said: “At some point, of course, I’d love to be playing Champions League football. Obviously playing non-league just over six years ago, it’s all happened very quickly so I had to grow up very quickly. But that’s definitely helped me.”

Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our United WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. You can also join our United Facebook page by clicking HERE and don’t miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.

The midfielder, who was brought to Bournemouth by boss Iraola three years ago, added: “Everyone wants to play at the highest level and be one of the best players in the world, in the league and play for their country. They’re definitely dreams of mine. They were dreams from when I was a kid. I’d also love to be playing in the major tournaments for England.”

The financial aspects of qualifying for Europe could play a pivotal role in the club’s transfer plans as football finance expert Kieran Maguire revealed that United could bank at least £70million thanks to the competition.

Advertisement

Maguire explained: “You’ll get a minimum of effectively £30million just for rocking up. Then it works out as €2million per match if you get a victory, €700,000 if you get a draw in terms of prize money. And on top of that, you’ve got gate receipts.

“You’re guaranteed four home fixtures, potentially could be seven to eight home fixtures. For a club the size of United, they should be looking to get £8million per match in gate receipts. So you’ve got a minimum of £30million from gate receipts, another £30million for participation.

“So that’s £60million minimum. They’ll get the Adidas [kit supplier] bonus of £10million, so that’s £70million. And as you progress through the tournament, you can start adding the numbers.

Advertisement

“I think there’s around about €150million for winning it last year. Now that was for a club with a fairly good UEFA coefficient, which United don’t have these days because they’ve not been as good as they have been, but even so, I think you’d be looking at €120million and of course if you win the tournament, you qualify for the next FIFA Club World Cup, which made Chelsea £80million. It really does ratchet up.”

The midfielder’s partnership with Iraola is set to end following this season. The Spaniard announced his decision to leave the club last month following the expiry of his contract. The 43-year-old has yet to make a decision on the next step of his career but has routinely been linked with the Manchester United job.

However, with interim boss Michael Carrick enjoying a stellar stint at his former club, it remains to be seen whether the Englishman may be offered the permanent job come the summer.

Advertisement

Sky Sports, HBO Max, Netflix and Disney+ with Ultimate TV package

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image

Sky has upgraded its Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle to now include HBO Max, Netflix, Disney+, discovery+ and Hayu, as well as 135 channels and full Sky coverage of the Premier League and EFL.

Sky broadcasts more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more with at least 215 live from the top flight alongside Formula 1, darts and golf.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Leigh Halfpenny: The unassuming Welsh rugby great who has hung up his boots

Published

on

Back in 2008, a Wales Under-20s side went deep into the Junior World Championship and hinted at what was coming. Sam Warburton, Justin Tipuric, Dan Biggar, Rhys Webb, Jonathan Davies and Halfpenny were in that side.

Grand Slams, titles and World Cup semi-finals. For a time, the best team in the world.

One by one, they’ve gone. Halfpenny is the last.

The numbers are strong. Some 101 caps, 801 points – third behind Neil Jenkins and Stephen Jones – but they don’t quite explain him.

Advertisement

He was unassuming, almost bashful, and the last person looking for credit.

Yet the one everyone trusted.

Nobody has a bad word to say about him. In this game, that’s rare.

His former Wales coach Warren Gatland called him the best defensive full-back the game has seen. At his peak, especially with the British & Irish Lions in 2013, he was probably the best full-back. Full stop.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Arsenal Reach Champions League Final After Atletico Madrid Victory

Published

on

Arsenal have booked a place in the UEFA Champions League final for only the second time in the club’s history after defeating Atletico Madrid 2-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals.

A first-half goal from Bukayo Saka secured a 1-0 win for Arsenal in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night, helping the Premier League side progress to the final.

The Gunners will now face either Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain in the final scheduled to take place at the Puskás Aréna on May 30.

  • Foden goal saves Man City in 3–2 victory over LeedsFoden goal saves Man City in 3–2 victory over Leeds

Advertisement

It marks Arsenal’s first Champions League final appearance in 20 years, with their only previous final ending in defeat to FC Barcelona in 2006.

Under manager Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have continued to improve in Europe after returning to the competition following a six-year absence. The club reached the quarter-finals in the 2023/24 season before suffering a semi-final exit to eventual champions PSG last term.

This season, Arsenal have impressed throughout the tournament. They became the first team in Champions League history to win all eight matches in the league phase before overcoming Bayer Leverkusen and Sporting CP in the knockout rounds.

Advertisement

The semi-final success over Atletico Madrid also extended Arsenal’s unbeaten run in the European Cup and Champions League to 14 matches, setting a new club record.

The North London club will now hope to claim the famous European title for the first time in their 139-year history when they compete in the final later this month.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Olympic Games bid: UK government discusses hosting Olympics in 2040s

Published

on

The UK government says it is in “discussions about supporting potential bids” for the Olympics and Paralympics in the 2040s.

It added that “initial work examining whether the UK could host the Games for the first time since London 2012 will assess key factors such as potential cost, socio-economic benefit and [the] chance of success”.

Ministers say they are also considering whether to support bids to stage golf’s Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup in the 2030s.

The last time the two team competitions were staged in the UK was in 2014 and 2019 respectively, both at Gleneagles in Scotland.

Advertisement

In recent months there has been growing momentum behind a possible attempt to bring the Olympics back to the UK for a fourth time.

Last year London mayor Sadiq Khan said he wanted the city to bid for the 2040 Games.

With Los Angeles in the US and Brisbane, Australia hosting the 2028 and 2032 Games respectively, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is yet to choose cities to stage the events in 2036 and beyond.

In December, the chair of funding agency UK Sport told BBC Sport a bid “has to be an aspiration”, suggesting Liverpool and Manchester could be co-hosts.

Advertisement

In February, a group of political leaders urged the government to ensure any future bid would be based in the north of England, saying there was a “compelling” case for it to host the event.

The Ryder Cup takes place every two years with 24 of the best players from Europe and the USA going head-to-head over three days in matchplay competition. The two continents take it in turns to host the event.

In March, it was revealed that Bolton is bidding to host the Ryder Cup in 2035. If successful it would be the first time in more than 30 years that the event is staged in England.

Last year England Golf urged the government to underwrite its bid to stage the Solheim Cup – a contest between the leading female golfers of Europe and the US – in the country for the first time.

Advertisement

As part of a new ‘sporting events framework’, the government says it will look to make it a criminal offence to resell tickets for specific major sporting events without authorisation such as Euro 2028, claiming it “will make it easier to bid for, secure and deliver major sporting events”.

England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland are hosting Euro 2028, while the UK is the sole bidder to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup.

In November, the government announced legislation to outlaw the sale of tickets to sports events at inflated prices – but it did not apply to football.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

AEW TNT champion Kevin Knight reflects on rising stardom

Published

on

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

“The Jet” Kevin Knight can be seen flying above the pro wrestling ring for All Elite Wrestling (AEW) on Wednesday and Saturday nights on “Dynamite” and “Collision” respectively.

Knight is the AEW TNT champion and was a trios champion with Adam Page and “Speedball” Mike Bailey and with Bailey and Místico. It’s only been about seven years since Knight started to get into the industry and his meteoric rise has led him to become one of the stars in AEW.

The 29-year-old recalled in an interview with Fox News Digital that he moved to Seattle out of college to get started in the business.

Advertisement

ZERO BS. JUST DAKICH. TAKE THE DON’T @ ME PODCAST ON THE ROAD. DOWNLOAD NOW!

Kevin Knight entering the wrestling ring at National Yoyogi Gymnasium in Tokyo

Kevin Knight enters the ring during New Japan Pro-Wrestling at National Yoyogi Gymnasium in Tokyo on May 17, 2025. (Etsuo Hara/Getty Images)

“Who Kevin Knight, ‘The Jet,’ is – a lot of things rolled up into one,” he said. “I’m originally from Brooklyn, New York. Raised down in Atlanta. I started my wrestling career when I moved to Seattle after college. And about six months in, I moved to LA to join the New Japan LA Dojo. For those that don’t know, it’s like a Japanese style-based training.

“So, I was living a Japanese lifestyle in LA during the pandemic. So, it was a lot of different factors going on. I think that’s why I call myself ‘The Jet,’ because I have so many different flavors from every different city in the world just all rolled up into one. I live in Orlando now. Just a cool, fly guy who just loves to do cool stuff.”

Knight called training during the coronavirus pandemic an “adjustment period,” but he acknowledged that he could be doing anything he wanted.

Advertisement

He said there were certain intricacies of pro wrestling that drew him in – from the superhero appeal of the wrestlers themselves to the pageantry in the sport.

HOW SKIPPING PROM LED SCARLETT BORDEAUX ON PATH TO PRO WRESTLING STARDOM

“I could be doing anything. I could be flipping burgers, I could be going to space or something, I don’t know,” he told Fox News Digital. “But just about pro wrestling, I just loved the presentation of it. I love the showmanship, the pyro, everything about it. It just seemed like real-life superheroes coming down the ramp.

“You saw the commentators, you saw the action. And then, people have cool theme songs and cool costumes. I know what it was immediately and I just like the pageantry of it and it was like my version of watching superheroes or Spider-Man or whatever. I wasn’t too much into superheroes when I was young. But wrestlers, they were my superheroes growing up. So, that’s what attracted me to it.”

Advertisement

Knight made waves in New Japan Pro-Wrestling and Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), but for a split-second, he became a free agent. Any company could have signed him – and really, Bailey as well.

Last March, Knight and Bailey both decided to sign with AEW. Knight explained the X-factor that AEW had to make the promotion stand out above the rest.

Kevin Knight inside the wrestling ring at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo

Kevin Knight competes inside the ring during New Japan Pro-Wrestling at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo on May 15, 2025. (Etsuo Hara/Getty Images)

“AEW allows freedom, freedom of expression, to be yourself and you can walk right up to Tony (Khan), talk to him, have regular conversations with him,” he said. “It’s not like, you have to walk on eggshells. It was just be yourself and being yourself is just a great gateway to just being creative and being your best self. There’s no extra added pressure of, ‘Oh, I gotta say hi to 50 other people that I just saw earlier today,’ and all of that stuff.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Advertisement

“So, AEW, just in the fan base, the roster, the catering, man, everything about AEW is like 10 out of 10. I can’t complain. In my free agency, I explored all my options and I feel like this was just the best fit.”

Knight won the vacant TNT Championship in a six-man casino gauntlet match at Dynasty last month. It was the first singles title of his career and the 32nd champion altogether, following the likes of Darby Allin, Kyle Fletcher, Christian Cage, Jack Perry and others.

“It’s been the workhorse title. It’s been the title that people do the open challenges for. The best wrestlers in the world have held this title, the TNT Championship,” he said. “For me to be able to hold this and for this being my first-ever singles championship in my career, was an amazing feat especially on the one-year anniversary of my AEW pay-per-view debut.

“Like it’s just shown in the short amount of time, just how fast you can rise up in the ranks just by believing in yourself, hard work, discipline and just being in the right place at the right time. It’s been an amazing journey and we’re just getting started.”

Advertisement
Kevin Knight entering the wrestling ring at Fukuoka Kokusai Center

Kevin Knight enters the ring during the New Japan Pro-Wrestling Wrestling DONTAKU 2023 event at Fukuoka Kokusai Center in Fukuoka, Japan, on May 3, 2023. (Etsuo Hara/Getty Images)

Now, Knight earned a shot at the AEW World Championship on Wednesday night on “Dynamite” against Allin. He defeated Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) to earn the shot while Allin defeated Brody King to retain the championship last week.

For Knight, he suggested it was a full-circle moment for him as he utilized Allen’s advice when he was getting started in the industry.

“This match means a lot to me because I came from the same school that Darby Allin came from up in Seattle – the Buddy Wayne Academy,” Knight told Fox News Digital. “And when I first met Darby, maybe I was 3-4 months into my career, and the No. 1 thing that he told me was do not waste time, do not waste time. And, I feel like I did just that with my time in AEW. Here we are, a year later, I’m already a champion. I’ve won the trios titles twice already.

“So, I feel like I’m just listening to what he said and it’s all coming to fruition. It’s coming to a head this Wednesday. Definitely not going to waste any time. I think this would be the first time there would be a world championship and a TNT Championship on the arms. So, I’m ready for it.”

Advertisement

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

But don’t expect MJF to get another shot at the world title any time soon.

“Honestly, he’s in the back of the line. He’s in the back of the line. He lost against Darby. He lost against me as well. He’s had two losses in a row. So, I’m not sure what his resume speaks for to get a shot at the title,” Knight said. “I know he’s gonna try to ringworm his way into the title picture again. If it’s up to me, the first person that’s getting a title shot is ‘Speedball’ Mike Bailey. MJF, back of the line.”

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

IPL 2026: Axar Patel Exposes ‘Ineffective’ Kuldeep Yadav Against CSK, Says “Missed Him”

Published

on




Some admissions, some confessions, and a little bit of reflection, that was Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel’s post-match presentation ceremony after the defeat against the Chennai Super Kings on Tuesday. Axar admitted his side was below par in their eight-wicket loss to CSK in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, conceding that the team was 10-15 runs short with the bat, and on a sticky pitch, they missed the point of difference a set batter could offer. On a pitch that was offering some assistance to bowlers, Axar said that he “missed his partner” Kuldeep Yadav, despite the chinaman spinner bowling 3 overs for 34 runs in the game.

“Obviously, the way the wicket was playing in the first innings, I felt that yes, 155 was a good score. But since we were playing with eight batters, I felt we were about 10-15 runs short,” Axar said after the match ended, with Sanju Samson hitting an unbeaten 87 in a successful chase for CSK.

Reflecting on the surface, Axar said conditions eased out for set batters but remained tricky for new ones. “I feel it got a little better, but I think the difference was made by the set batter. When a batter is well set, it feels like there is nothing in the pitch, but I still feel there was something in it.

Advertisement

“For a new batter coming in, it was not easy. Yes, it wasn’t easy for new players because, you know, the length balls were holding up, sometimes staying low, and occasionally even bouncing after holding. So I feel it was very difficult for new batters. But when set batters were playing, it looked easier. You could see the way Sanju took the game forward.”

Despite the defeat, Axar took positives from the batting efforts of Sameer Rizvi (40 not out) and Tristan Stubbs (38) despite the top five batters’ collapse. Kuldeep, who hasn’t had the best of IPL 2026 campaigns, looked ineffective with the ball on the day. Though Axar didn’t criticise the left-arm spinner for the lack of wickets, he made his feelings known about his ineffectiveness.

“Yes, obviously, considering our batting, I think that’s a positive. Even after losing five wickets, the way we finished at the end was good. So yes, that is a positive. But I feel in bowling, I missed my partner Kuldeep (lethaleness).”

With the playoff race tightening, Axar stressed the need for clarity and urgency, especially with DC to face Kolkata Knight Riders in another home clash on Friday. “Yes, obviously, we cannot afford any mistakes now. So we have to go in with a clear mindset that whatever time or chances we get, we must win.”

Advertisement

With IANS Inputs


Featured Video Of The Day


Tushar Deshpande’s Brilliant Final Act Ensures Thrilling Win For RR Over Gujarat Titans

Topics mentioned in this article

Advertisement

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025