Ex-players Becoming Premier League Managers

After two ex Manchester United players, Paul Ince and Roy Keane lost their jobs to Premier League clubs Blackburn and Sunderland respectively; a debate has started to form about whether ex-players can make the quick transition into club management.

Both managers had had experience in the lower leagues of football, both winning silverware, with Keane winning the championship, and Ince taking MK Dons to Wembley and winning the FA Trophy. Keane also had a years experience in the Premiership, keeping Sunderland up last year, but this season, when experiencing his first bout of serious pressure, it seems to have been too much for the fiery character.

Ince though, had no prior experience in the Premier League, and was given the task of managing a club who had developed into a top ten side under Mark Hughes. Perhaps making his tenure a hard act to follow, as he had to keep the momentum established by Hughes going, which he didn’t. After poor run of results, Ince had left the board with no choice but to severe ties with him.

Keane on the other hand, should have stayed, but due to his persona, he does not seem like the type of individual who would withstand abuse from his own supporters, and after leaked rumours talking of loss of communication in the dressing room, it shows that maybe Keane needs some more time to find his feet in football management.

The majority of pundits and managers seem to believe that managers, most particularly Ince, should have been given more time to turn things around at Blackburn. But in this day and age in football, everything is based on results, and although it may seem unfair, these results need to be established quickly. Poor runs of form which result in a club been sucked into the relegation zone will always cause a knee jerk reaction, as the thought of loosing out on lucrative money from being a to flight team will strike fear into club chairmen.

Other ex players who are managing include Mark Hughes (as mentioned previously, Steve Bruce, Gareth Southgate, and Tony Adams. All of which have had their fair share of pressure, but only time will tell who will survive in this cutthroat business that is the premier league.

Ronaldo- Ballon D'or Winner

As if we didn’t know already, Cristiano Ronaldo won the Ballon D’or as expected last week gaining world recognition he earned with his outstanding displays last season. He scored 42 goals in all competitions helping Manchester United to both the Premier League and the Champions League. This completes a clean sweep in personal accolades for the Portuguese winger.

Robinho- Diplomatic Immunity?

A few weeks ago British record signing Robinho was quoted as saying that Manchester City had the mentality of a small club. This later prompted Mark Hughes to diffuse the comments, saying that his Brazilian starlet meant the comments in a positive nature. This seems to exhibit double standards within the City camp, as a few weeks ago Elano was reprimanded for his public outburst at Hughes. Hughes obviously has a special place for Robinho.

Mark Hughes- Money, Money, Money.

As the January transfer window approaches, the eyes of world football will be fixed on the so called ‘Middle Eastlands’ and what players Manchester City will try and add to their squad. Reports of audacious bids for the likes of former world player of the year Kaka, and most recently Juventus goalkeeper Gianluca Buffon have already surfaced. Some of them seem to be comical and farfetched. But while it is clearly evident that Man City have the capital to buy any player in the world, it would be foolish to ignore what they could destroy by bringing in a whole new 11-man star studded squad. Their core English base of players who have made it through the academy may be overlooked. Revelations such as Steven Ireland, Dean Sturridge, and others may be forced out, making the club loose its tradition of nurturing home-grown talent.

Whatever happens in January, we can expect to see the transfer deadline broken a few times.

Who's Next For The Hitman?

After defeating Paulie Malignaggi, the world of boxing is waiting to see who is next to get in the ring with Ricky Hatton. While the ‘Hitman’ has given himself a lot of credit for his recent victory, many critics believe that if Hatton was matched with a boxer of better class he would have been exposed more. Many also believe that his excessive drinking between fights, if not already, will catch up with him. His next opponent will be either Oscar De La Hoya or Manny Pacquiao, although deep down Hatton would really love a rematch with his new trainers son, Floyd Mayweather Jnr. Although it is highly unlikely that the pretty boy will tempted to come out of retirement for someone he beat comprehensively.

Weekend Premier League Round-Up

Arsenal came from behind to record a fine victory over London rivals Chelsea on Sunday. After falling behind to a first half own goal by Johan Djorou, they hit back with two second half goals in three minutes by Robin Van Persie. The first goal left Chelsea boss Luis Philippe Scolari infuriated, as Van Persie was clearly offside, but the linesman failed to flag.

Chelsea had the majority of chances in the first half, with Frank Lampard, Soloman Kalou, and Ballack all having efforts go close. It was an error by Arsenal Keeper Manual Almunia, which gave Chelsea the lead. His eagerness to throw the ball out was out of sync with Samir Nasri who couldn’t get to the loose ball, which eventually made its way to Jose Boswinga, whose low cross was turned in by the Djourou. After the break, Chelsea could have doubled their lead, but Lampard shot wide, a chance that proved costly in the end. Van Persie collected a through ball from Denilson from an offside position and smashed the ball in the top corner. Three minutes later, he got on the end of a flick on by Emmanuel Adebayor, and shot low into the bottom corner, turning the game completely on its head. Arsenal held on the win after Chelsea had loads of possession, but failed to carve out any clear opportunities.

Elsewhere in the Premier League, the Manchester derby was won by the red half, with United scoring the only goal in a fiery contest. Wayne Rooney scored his 100th premier league goal. But the talking point of the game was Cristiano Ronaldo’s bizarre handball, which led to his second booking. Portsmouth beat Blackburn 3-2. It was nearly the same old story for Pompy as they once again blew a 2-0 advantage as Blackburn clawed their way back into the game to make it 2-2, only for Davies to give Tony Adams his first home victory as Pompy boss. Everton gave Harry Rednapp his first home defeat as Tottenham manager with a 1-0 victory. Unfortunately they lost Ayebeni Yakubu for the rest of the season.

Andy The Great.

Last week Andrew Cole announced his retirement from football, after a highly successful career spanning 1 years plus. Cole will be regarded as a top finisher, a world-class striker and a great black footballer along with other greats such as John Barnes. He boasts many winners medals and was part of the historic treble winning Manchester United team. He is one of the premier leagues all time top scorers, and in one season for Newcastle United, scored 40 goals in one season. He also has scored the most goals in a premier league match- 5 in a 9-0 victory. You would think that such a prolific player would have an impressive international career to match- wrong.

Cole, like many other great English players, never replicated his club form for his country. Was he given a fair shot? Well, at the time in the peak of his career, England had Alan Shearer- a genuinely great player who would be hard to displace from the set up. But whether Cole was given a fair shot is debatable. While you could argue that you have to take your chances, it can also be argued that a fair run to prove yourself should be given. Could England have benefited from using Andy Cole more? I think so, but Cole isn’t the only footballer of his era to be overlooked. Ian Wright, Les Ferdinand are a few more. But their goals, professionalism, and role model acumen have not gone un-noticed by me. I salute all the great black footballers who never got their deserved international playing career. If not for you, we may not be witnessing such young talent as the Theo Walcotts, Jermaine Defoes, Gabby Agbonlahors.

Kimbo Slice vs Seth Petruzelli

Do you remember Kimbo Slice? That tonk guy who does street fighting. Well recently he joined up to an American version of Ultimate Fighting.

In Ultimate Fighting, challengers face eachother in a cage, with just a ref in the middle and they are allowed full contact blows to eachother until the ref deems someone is in real danger. Kimbo, who made a way for himself through posting his street fights on the internet, is relatively new to the sport having ony 3 fights but winning all, 2 by KO. last week he was pitted against an unknown opponent Seth Petruzelli. And here is result...

Premier League Round-Up

This weekend saw Chelsea maintain their top spot in the premier league by cruising to a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa. They are being chased closely by Liverpool who also kept their unbeaten record in tact by beating so called 'top four club' Manchester City. Hull are the suprise package at the moment in third place following a 1-0 victory over Tottenham, who were condemned to their 5th defeat of the season.

Sunday Results

West Ham (1)-(3) Bolton
Pompey (2)-(1) Stoke City
Totty (0)-(1) Hull City
Man City (2)-(3) Liverpool
Chelsea (2)-(0) Aston Villa
Everton (2)-(2) Newcastle

Amir Khan KO'D In First Round

Amir Khan was sensationally knocked out in 54 seconds after his debut fight in his new Sky Sports contract against Breidis Prescott.

The English fighter was twice knocked down inside a minute, both times by strong left hooks which rocked him, and on the second occasion, left him on the canvas for a 10 count. It was a startling set-back for Khan who was pushing perhaps too hastily for a world title shot. On this evidence, he clearly has a lot of work to do.

Much had been voiced on Khans chin. Many saying it was too soft, but to be fair, there aren't many boxers who could have withstood the strength of Prescotts much revelled left hand.

Khan admits he made a mistake coming out on the offensive, but Prescott who predicted he would knock out Khan in the 4th round is surprised at how early his victory came.

Is Khan's career over? He insists he will be back, and if he does overcome this defeat it will prove he is a true champion.

Amir Khan- Not Ready Yet

Amir Khan laboured to a fifth round stoppage of his opponent Gomez last Saturday, prompting many boxing insiders and even his followers to admit that the UK fighter is a long way away from the title fight he so badly craves.

While the victory was indeed morale boosting, its exposed many weaknesses Amir Khan would have rather concealed. Many critics have pointed out Khan’s weak chin, which was previously exposed by Willie Limond, and again was exposed by Gomez as he was knocked down. Another worrying thing about Khan was how many times he played into his opponent’s hands in term of tactics. As a result he was dragged into a ‘street fight’ trying to fight on the inside, and was made to pay by being caught off-guard with the left hook that floored him.

But as his promoter Frank Warren said, that is purpose of these fights. Not to take anything away from Khan, after all the points I have pointed out, to come back an win shows his championship credentials. He is steadily moving up the learning curve, and win hard work we can expect not only a title victory, but a long title defence which will further stamp his supremacy in the sport of boxing.

This is the video of the last round (5)

Keeping It Real- The Ronaldo Saga

The biggest transfer story of the summer so far is whether or not Cristiano Ronaldo will leave Manchester United. After what has been his most successful season in the English premier league, the winger is now contemplating whether or not to carry on his illustrious career in England.

Much has been said and numerous rumours have surfaced during this summer period, but nothing concrete and formal has been said from the source himself- Ronaldo. His preparations for the European championships seem to have had been hampered by the speculation, as every interview questions were aimed towards him to clarify his future. His response has always been vague saying he will give an answer shortly, which has lead many to believe he could well want a move away as he has don’t nothing to quash the rumours.

Whilst Ronaldo has been vague in his response to the speculation, United have made their position very clear. They have issued numerous statements that the player is not for sale, and if Ronaldo makes his intentions clear that he wants to be sold, a legal battle could be brewing.

This saga has been going on for well over a year, but since United’s epic champions league win in Moscow, Real Madrid president Calderon has made is clear that Ronaldo was the clubs top transfer target. His public comments and flirtatious behaviour has infuriated Sir Alex, who eventually reported the club to FIFA for their actions. Even United’s owners the Glaziers have come out fighting, claiming they would rather let the winger rot in the reserves than being forced to sell their prized asset.

Ronaldo has never hidden his desire to play in Spain, and has recently labelled the move a ‘dream’. No doubt in the run up to pre-season we will see whether dreams come true.

Sven Out, Hughes In?

Sven Goran Eriksson parted company with Manchester City today after one season in charge. Whilst his departure has come as no surprise, his sacking has highlighted the cut-throat industry premier league managing has become in the midst of the foreign owner era.

Sven guided City to their highest league finish in 3 years (ninth) and also beat rivals Man United twice in the season. On the last day of the season, despite the humiliating 8-1 defeat to Middlesborough, he guided City into the UEFA cup via the fair play league. Owner Thaksin Shinawatra eventually ran out of patience with the former England coach after City failed to maintain their impressive start to the season. The news will come as a blow to City fans, who after hearing the news prior to the seasons end that Sven would be sacked, staged protests outside the club.

Many names have been linked with the vacant position but it seems as though the role may be filled by Mark Hughes, who earlier, was granted permission from Blackburn to talk to Man City. Rumours have also started to filter that Sam Allardyce may be ready to move to Blackburn, should Hughes leave Blackburn

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Man United Win Epic Champions League Final

Manchester United won their second champions league title in 9 years (3 overall) after an epic penalty shoot with Chelsea.

The final, which was the first all-english tie in the history of the competition, lived up to the expectations producing a highly entertaining spectacle for both sets of fans and neutrals.

The game started cautiously with both teams feeling each other out. As the first half progressed, the highly enthusiastic Cristiano Ronaldo, found success against make shift right back Michael Essien and produced a few openings. Makelele and Scholes were not afraid to hold back their aggressive approaches, both picking up early bookings. The breakthrough eventually came after neat work between Scholes and Brown allowed the right back to deliver a pin point cross to non other than Ronaldo. United were on top and produced more openings with Tevez missing the chance to double the advantage.

The failure to double their lead came back to haunt them after a rare Chelsea attack on goal. Essien tried his luck from distance, and after two deflections, the ball fell kindly into the path of Frank Lampard to tucked away the loose ball to equal the score on the stroke of half time.

After the break ,Chelsea were on top as they bossed the midfield. Although the had much more the ball they failed to produce any clear cut chances barring Didier Drogbas excellent shot from 20 yards which rattled the post. United had to ride the storm. Later on Ryan Giggs came on to break the appearance record previously held by Sir Bobby Charlton. The game went to extra time.

Frank Lampard went the closest to finding a winner in added time when his shot hit the bar after good work from Michael Ballack. Chelsea were also handed a blow when striker Didier Drogba was sent of for a moment of madness where he slapped United defender Vidic. The game went to penalties.

After a tense shoot-out which saw Ronaldo miss his penalty, the game was handed to Chelsea on a plate with John Terry needing to convert the last penalty to win the game. He slipped and hit the post. Afterwards, United keeper Van Der Sar save Anelka's penalty giving victory to United for a third time.

League going to the last day

After Chelsea's win over Newcastle United, the Premier league crown is going down to the last day. It has been a long time since we have seen this happen. The last close title race was when Manchester United pipped Arsenal to the title on the last day of the season 98/99 by 1 point. It was a tense game as United went behind to visitors Tottenham, with United needing a win to secure the first part of their treble. United ending up winning the game and the league.

Many will say that the league is in United's hand, and it is true. Not only do they have a superior goal difference, they are against Wigan, who have old United boy Steve Bruce as their manager. A lot of pressure is being put on Bruce as he is being drawn into the mind games ahead of the crucial weekend. With Wigan securing Premier league status next season by beating Aston Villa away, the game against United will mean nothing to them as the have nothing to play for. Meanwhile Chelsea will know a nothing but a win will give them the slimest chance of being crowned champions.

But with the odds and the managers stacked against them, it looks like Manchester United are on course for their 10th league title.

Thierry Henry- Was he right to leave the Premiership?

A Barcelona crashed out the champions league to Manchester United a few weeks ago, no Catalonia player was more distraught than Thierry Henry. The former Arsenal hitman played a bit part in both legs of the semi-final clash, coming on as a sub in and having little time to make an impact.

The united game was the tip of the iceberg in a season where so much was expected from the Spanish giants. They boasted the most formidable attack in club football, with Messi, Ronaldinho and Eto. With the addition of Henry, many thought the club would sweep all possible trophies with ease. But this was not the case. Since the early stages of La Liga they had been chasing rivals Real Madrid, who retained the crown on the weekend (Barcelona now have to applaud their rivals as champions in the next game- el classico). Not only that, they have been surpassed by Villarreal who currently lie second. Barca's poor away form has been blamed as well as injuries to key players.

Henry has been used by manager Frank Rijkard as a left winger, a position he previously held at Juventus, but it is clear that his preferred position is centre forward, where he played for Arsenal. Henry started his season brightly. Most notably, scoring a brilliant hat-trick against Levante. But a succession of injuries as well as being used as a sub have seemed to have deflated the French forward. Leading many to speculate that he is seeking a move back to Arsenal, but should he gave left in the first place?

Many footballers belong to one club. Like what Shevchenko is to AC Milan, or Stephen Gerrard and Liverpool. Now it may seem that Henry fits into that category, as he is rarely remembered for his time at Monaco & Juventus. Henry has vented his frustration of late, but vows to stay at Barcelona. All in all, it is his first season and perhaps some of the speculation and criticism has been unfair, but there is still time to prove the critics all wrong.

Cristiano Ronaldo- The Words Best Player 07/08

It was around this time last year that AC Milans Kaka came off the winner in a two legged dual against his nearest rival for the crown of world player of the year. Although Cristiano Ronaldo drew first blood and scored in the first leg at Old Trafford which in the end help United secure a 3-2 home victory, the night belonged to Kaka who twice scored and who twice exposed the back four with breath taking speed, technique and skill. He carried on his incredible form at the San Siro where in the rain scored another clinical goal helping Milan reach the final. Kaka had won the dual emphatically.

Forward a year later, and one of the two players on that drenched San Siro pitch is still on top of his game and has in fact improved. Cristiano Ronaldo has had another remarkable season. He has scored an outstanding 37 goals in all competitions. His goal last week against Roma embodied his form and character at present- determined, persistent and unstoppable. He has put on valiant displays this season where he has constantly outshone, but has played his part as a team player.

Two seasons ago it was a very different story. During a world cup quarter final match pairing Portugal against England, Wayne Rooneys' challenge on Ricardo Carvalho prompted Ronaldo to rush over to the referee and call for action against his United team mate. Rooney was sent off and cameras caught Ronaldo's cheeky wink to his team bench as if to say job done. Fearing a backlash on his return to England many reporters and sports insiders believed Ronaldo was on his way out United, especially with reports of Real Madrid showing interest. But if not for the guidance and intervention of Alex Ferguson, i might not be writing this article. Fergie who experienced a similar incident with David Beckham, convinced Ronaldo not only to be made a scapegoat for Englands failure to win the match, but to turn the boos into standing ovations.

Ronaldo has improved vastly since he first joined United, incorporating deadly free kicks, mazy runs, accurate shooting and headers into his game, making him a threat from virtually any position. He has also managed to maintain his form from start to finish, make an impact in important games and make a vital contribution whether its goals or crosses. This year he deserves the accolade of world player of the year, and with youth on his side we can expect to see him in contention for many more.

Mayweather Defeats the Big Show

Floyd Mayweathers cameo in the WWE proved successful as he managed to maintain his undefeated status in sports to an impressive 40-0. Although wrestling is fake, we all expected Mayweather to win as loosing is not something he would be associated with, no matter how much money is involved.

Mayweather won the match after repeatedly battering the Big Show with a chair, bringing him to his knees, then hitting him with a big right hand whilst wearing knuckledusters. The bout was no disqualification. The Big Show was just about to chokeslam Money Mayweather when one of Floyds goons ran in the ring and hit the Showstopper with a chair. His goon then got chokeslammed. After being hit with the right hand the Big Show was down for a 10 count.

Wrestlemania XXIV (24) was the most successful of the series to date with record pay per view figures announced largely due to the number of cameos featured. As well as Mayweather, Snoop Dog appeared to referee a playboy match up involving the females of the WWE.

And The Winners Are....

After Easter weekends grand slam sunday showdown, we now have a clearer idea of who is gunning for the premiership crown. Most football pundits expected two draws, but they got quite the opposite.

Manchester United continued their rampant form by totalling dismissing a Liverpool team who were on their best run since the season started many months ago. Unlikely hero Wes Brown opened the scoring the first half after bravely heading home, capitalising on the flapping Jose Reina. The kop were then down to 10-men after Javier Mascherano appeared to be standing up for the battered and bruised Fernando Torres, this incident in effect ended any challenge or hope back into the game.

In the second half as time drew on, it seemed as though United would not capitalise on their numerical advantage but Fergie threw on Nani and Tevez with immediate effect. Tevez had a chance saved, and Ronaldo also went agonisingly close. But the resulting corner of the Ronaldo chance ended up in the winger scoring immediately. Nani then rapped up an excellence move orchestrated by Wayne Rooney. The 3 points were save and the title is appearing on the horizon.

After the match at old trafford both Chelsea and Arsenal knew they had to win their game as a draw would give United a very comfortable lead.

Early exchanges at the bridge were little as both teams felt each other out, with the clearest chance falling to Didier Drogba who was put through by John Terry. But fortunately for Arsenal, the Ivorian striker lost his footing before he could fire. Arsenals best chance fell to William Gallas who hit the post from a yard.

Arsenal began the second half with more intent and their early persistant payed off when Cesc Fabregas' corner was headed in by Bacary Sagna. With the crowd at stamford bridge becoming impatient and chanting for Mourinho, Avram Grant threw on Anelka and Belletti and 60 seconds later, Chelsea had equalised, Drogba smashing home from inside the box. He then doubled the lead after muscling his way after being put in by Anelka, and getting his shot in despite Almunia getting a hand to it. Arsenal had no reply and are currently on their worst winless streak in 9 years.

Now Chelsea head the chase for United who are sitting a comfortable 5 points ahead, but United still have to go to Chelsea, but the bookies are clearly backing United, and on the form they displayed on Sunday you would be a fool not to either.

Grand Slam Sunday

This coming sunday is the infamous grand slam sunday in the Barclay's Premiership. With the title race ever so close, this again could be one of the deciding days in determining who will be crowned champions.

Man Utd vs Liverpool

Manchester United have been in fine form since their loss to Man city, and have gone on to win their last 3 league games as well as securing a champions league quarter final place. They also have the leagues leading goal scorer Cristiano Ronaldo who is in magnificent form. His goal against Derby was his 31st in all competitions, the first winger to score over 30 goals for United since the late great George Best. They will be favourites to win as they have a confident record over Liverpool who have failed to beat them in a very long time.

Liverpool have hit form at the right time of the season. Also Fernando Torres has managed to score 20 league goals, the first to do so since Robbie Fowler 12 years ago! Do bare in mind that this is the Spaniards first season in the premiership. The kop have collected 12 points out of 12 in the last four games and look on course to secure that 4th spot. With games against city rivals Everton and a triple dual with Arsenal, a win against United will do wonders for their already growing confidence. Liverpool have the resources to get a result at Old Trafford, but it will come down to who can rise to the occasion.


Chelsea vs Arsenal

Chelsea have been the unsung team this season. While many pundits and fans have focused on the rivalry between Arsenal & United, the blues have been quitely racking up points. In total they have gained 10 from a possible 12 and have quickly forgotten about the blunder against Barnsley. They also have an incentive to beat Arsenal as their last defeat in the league came against the gunners. Lets not forget Chelseas impressive home record, they have not lost there in 3 years. Based on current form and the fact that they are playing at home Chelsea will be favourites here.

Arsenals league form has been a downward spiral as of late, and they are in the worst form in comparison to the other top teams, a dismal 4 points out of 12. Many believe Arsenal have run out of steam in the run in. One thing that works in their favour is that Arsenal have a reputation for performing in big games, which was shown in the San Siro 2 weeks ago. Their key man will be influential midfielder Cesc Fabregas. They will also be hoping that striker Adebayor can find his earlier form as he has failed to score in 4 league games.


Combinations

There can be many outcomes come sunday evening which is what makes this grand slam sunday so interesting. For instance, providing Man utd win their game in hand against Bolton, and beat Liverpool they could be 6 points ahead by sunday night. A draw or loss of their game in hand could also spice things up even more, that would then mean a draw or loss against Liverpool, would leave them equal or 1 point ahead of their rivals depending on the Arsenal/Chelsea result.

Chelsea could leapfrog Arsenal into second place and within a point or 3 behind united if they win their game in hand, and win against Arsenal. Arsenal could close the gap on united to 3 points or to a point depending on whether united win their game in hand.

All in all, after sunday, we will know who is on course to win the premiership.

The Haymaker sits Enzo & Ricky Hattons Homecoming...

David Haye produced a fantastic display on saturday night to beat Welsh fighter Enzo Maccarinelli. Even though Haye has a formiddable record, many people including the fights promoter Frank Warren had firmly backed Enzo to win. Part of the reason for the many haters was down to his strict approach to the fight. This caused him to miss the fights last press conference due, which Haye sacrificed to get some much needed sleep, which in turn, caused him to be two hours late. Much to the disapproval of many sports critics who feared he was scared. I bet they are pissed now. LOL.

The Big Fight



Hattons Next Fight Is.....

Ricky Hatton announced that his next fight will be on May 24th at the city of Manchester stadium. It is likely that his opponent will light welter weight champion Juan Lazcano. Ricky Hatton says his homecoming is to repay his fans for their trip Las Vegas, where he was soundly beaten by Floyd Mayweather.

The Weigh In and the Money.

Last week on monday night raw Floyd 'Money' Mayweather had his weigh in with the big show. At the weigh in the big show managed to get his revenge on mayweather for the broken nose.



Another video showing mayweather telling big show to put his money where his mouth is....literally.

FA Cup

The draw for the FA cup semi finals was on monday, and for the first time in a long time it featured no teams from the so called 'top four' teams in the premiership. In fact there is only one premiership team in the competition in Portsmouth. But the sucess story has been non-league team Barnsley who added millionaires club Chelsea to their list of conquests. They, Cardiff City and West Brom make up the four teams gunning for a place in Europe. Even though pompy will be favourites it would be good for the FA cup to see Barnsley go all the way especially after all the teams they have eliminated.

Ricky Hatton running from Junior Witter?

After talking about Mayweather i thought i might as well give you the latest on Ricky Hatton. After his defeat to Floyd in december Ricky Hatton has been very slow to announce what his next move will be, and understandably so, considering the manner of his defeat. After his loss the Hitman has been called out my numerous opponents including Malignaggi, Gavin rees and of course Junior Witter.

Even before the Mayweather fight, Witter had been calling for Hatton, but for some reason, Ricky has never acknowledged the Sheffield fighter. After his defeat in Las Vegas, Witter was one of the first to demand a shot at the Hitman but was once again refused, with Hatton citing that he didnt want to give Witter the 'biggest payday of his life', but isn't that what Mayweather gave the Hitman? Also, as mentioned before considering the manner of his defeat, wouldn't this bout be the ideal response to restoring some pride for Hatton. Or maybe the thought of loosing is playing on his mind. Whatever the reason is, there is only so long you can run from a boxer clearly calling you out, so Hatton knows he will have to square up to Witter at some stage. When that happens it will surely be a great fight for the spectator, just like the Eubank vs Benn days.

Here is old footage of when the two met up, you can see who is more on the fight.

Money Mayweather in the WWE

Floyd 'Money' Mayweather seems to have joined the WWE after his cameo appearance in the organisations pay per view event 'No Way Out'. During the event, superstar the Big Show made his return to wrestling after taking a few years off. After stepping into the ring at the end of Ray Misterio's bout, the big show went after the small sized wrestler and taunted Mayweather who was at ringside watching his friend Misterio.

As the Big Show was about to choke slame the already injured Misterio, Mayweather jumped in the ring and squared up to the WWE giant. The Big Show mocked Mayweather by kneeling down to his size. This prompted Mayweather to proceed with the left and rights, cathing Big Show in the nose a couple times.

The day after the Big Show offered Mayweather a match at the next pay per view. No doubt the only reason Mayweather is doing this is for the cake hence his music as a wrestler is 50 Cents 'I get money'. This storyline is similar to the one a few years back when Tyson had a brief stint in wrestling.

Here are the videos of both encounters, and the Tyson one, damn i miss Stone Cold.