Coco Gauff showcased a devastating new serve as she sealed an impressive straight sets – 6-3 6-0 – victory against Anna Karolína Schmiedlová at the Australian Open on Monday.
The world No. 4 had traveled in the offseason to train with former tennis star Andy Roddick, who is widely considered one of the greatest servers in history.
Coco Gauff credits her new serve in part to former US tennis star Andy Roddick.
Gauff credits Roddick with helping her tweak her technique, which now involves starting her ball toss higher before serving.
It worked with devastating effect in the first round demolition of Schmiedlova, with Gauff recording 123 mph for her fastest serve. The 19-year-old also won 100% of points off her first serve in the second set.
“I don’t think I could have gotten anybody else better to help me,” Gauff told reporters after her win, speaking about Roddick’s influence.
“I think that my serve has improved. I think I just need to continue to trust it and trust all the work that I did in the offseason. I want to become a more aggressive server.”
After a nervous start, Gauff asserted her dominance to win in straight sets
Gauff is playing at Melbourne Park off the back of winning her maiden grand slam title at the US Open last year.
The teenager, though, says she’s not feeling any different and just wants to enjoy the first major of the new season.
‘I feel good, I look good’
It took a while for the youngster to settle into the match inside the Rod Laver Arena but, after settling her nerves, she eventually found her rhythm.
The second set was a demolition, with Schmiedlová able to win just five points throughout the entire set.
“I just told myself, ‘I feel good, I look good, so just have fun,’” Gauff told reporters after the match.
“That was able to relax me a little bit. That’s why I play tennis, to have fun, so I remind myself.”
She added: “I was able to just calm down and then play good, not my best, but good tennis from that point. I was just playing much deeper and much freer.”
Before this year’s Australian Open, Gauff said she was not content with just the one major title to her name, revealing she hoped to win at least 10 grand slams during her career.
The American is certainly one of the top contenders for the year’s title at Melbourne Park, but must first beat compatriot Caroline Dolehide in the second round on Wednesday.
Elsewhere in the women’s draw, reigning Wimbledon champion Markéta Vondroušová suffered a shock first round defeat to Ukrainian Dayana Yastremska.
The qualifier beat Vondroušová, who has been struggling with an injury this year, in straight sets – 6-1 6-1 – in under an hour.
Fellow Ukrainian Elina Svitolina also breezed through to the second round after beating Australian wildcard Taylah Preston in straight sets – 6-2 6-2 – while Ons Jabeur beat Ukraine’s Yuliia Starodubtseva in her first match of 2024.
Nick Kyrgios was in the Eurosport commentary booth as Novak Djokovic opened his 2024 Australian Open campaign against Dino Prizmic. Kyrgios spoke about the challenges of facing world No. 1 Djokovic and how he compares to legendary rivals Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. Kyrgios also reflected on Nadal’s comeback and why he thinks this is “definitely his last year on the tour”.
Nick Kyrgios has compared the different challenges of facing Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal – and why he “would have been a Wimbledon champion” if had faced anyone but Djokovic in the 2022 final.
As he took to the Eurosport commentary booth for the first time to watch defending champion Djokovic play at the Australian Open, Kyrgios divulged just what it is like to play the world No. 1 – and how he stacks up against his legendary rivals.
Djokovic holds the record for the most Grand Slams won in the men’s game at 24 – two ahead of Nadal and four clear of the retired Federer.
But despite Djokovic’s obvious Grand Slam success, Kyrgios believes most players would actually prefer to face him than Federer or Nadal.
“Rafa has that big game style and that physicality, big leftie, you know his patterns but you can’t do anything about it. And Roger Federer could make you feel so bad on the court, shrinking the court, taking time away from you, you never feel settled,” the Australian said.
“At least with Novak you know you’re going to have those exchanges, those long gruelling exchanges. You know you’re going to get warm, know you’re going to get into it.
“Then there’s the problem of trying to work out how to beat him, he’s like a ping-pong machine.”
Kyrgios knows full well what it is like to go toe to toe with Djokovic in a Slam, having faced him in the final of Wimbledon in 2022.
On that day, the Australian managed to win the first set and looked as if he could pull off an upset, only for Djokovic to roar back into the match to take it in four.
“I lost a Grand Slam final against the best to ever do it,” said Kyrgios.
“I joked that if it had been anyone else that day, Nick Kyrgios would have been a Wimbledon champion.”
As for Nadal, he is missing from the field in Melbourne after being forced to pull out with a minor muscle tear, sustained in his first tournament back after taking the vast majority of 2023 off due to a hip injury.
It’s a blow not just for the Spaniard, but for everyone waiting to see if Nadal still had what it takes to compete at the very top of the men’s game.
Kyrgios is currently out with injury having played just once in 2023, and reflected on the challenges Nadal is facing in his comeback.
“That’s the fear with all athletes, you come back and put in the work – and a great champion like Rafa, puts in a year of work, comes back a bit early and then re-aggravates something that’s been keeping him out,” said Kyrgios.
“Honestly, I hope he stays and plays because we all know how much he means to the sport and how much he entertains when he plays, with his physicality.
“Realistically, I would say this is definitely his last year on the tour and I think his eyes will be set on the French Open and that’s about it.”
Paige Spiranac shares her list of goals for a healthy life and a better body this 2024
The golfer turned influencer, Paige Spiranac, knows how to keep the attention of her followers, with advice from the golf course and with daring outfits that she wears while playing or practicing golf.
The sexy golfer shared a video on her YouTube channel in which she describes one by one her goals to stay healthy and with a good body and thus have an amazing 2024.
Paige has several goals to meet and maintain for the next 365 days and it is no surprise that her main goal is to improve her golf.
“I feel like this year just feels a little bit different and I am ready to conquer this year to make changes in my life, positive changes and to keep improving every single day.”
“I’ve never been one for journaling, but a lot of successful people do it. My therapist told me to start. We’re going to be reading more in 2024.”
“We’re gonna do everything it takes to get better at golf. And so maybe that’s buying an indoor putting mat or you’re doing this, we’re practicing indoors. I’m gonna make 100 6 footers every single day.”
Spiranac concluded that she ultimately just wants to do things that make her feel good. It’s sure to be an exciting year for Paige and her fans. Spiranac continues to captivate audiences in the golf world with his authenticity, determination and his touch of humor.
The first round of the women’s singles at the Australian Open concludes on Day 3 of the event. The final 20 matches of the round should provide blockbuster entertainment, including multiple meetings of former Slam champions. As always, we at The News Track(TNT) share our thoughts on all the matches. We split the 20 matches between this and four other articles. Those articles feature Iga Swiatek vs Sofia Kenin, Victoria Azarenka vs Camila Giorgi, Jessica Pegula vs Rebecca Marino, and Emma Raducanu vs Shelby Rogers. Predicting these matches are Jack Edward, Glenys Furness, and Jordan Reynolds. Who do you think will advance?
Australian Open Day 3 Women’s Predictions
Sloane Stephens vs Olivia Gadecki Jack:
The last time Stephens won a match at the Australian Open was 2019. Perhaps there’s something about the stifling conditions or maybe she’s just been unlucky with her draws. Either way, Gadecki has shown plenty of recent promise and will be unperturbed by the occasion. Prediction: Gadecki in 3
Glenys:
American Stephens has lost early in the run up events in the Australian swing. Gadecki hasn’t fared much better either so this will be an interesting match up. Although Stephens is higher ranked, Gadecki will have the Australian crowd behind her so could progress through. Prediction: Gadecki in 3
Jordan:
Drawing a former Grand Slam champion is usually a disaster for a wild card player. However, Stephens has lost in the first-round in her last four tournaments in Melbourne. That will give hope to Gadecki, who will also have the home crowd to give her an extra lift. Ultimately, the greater class of Stephens should prevail, but her recent record at the event will make her a little nervous. Prediction: Stephens in 2
Clara Burel vs Aleksandra Krunic Jack:
Burel is getting more and more consistent in her results. She’s less likely to beat herself than she used to be and Krunic hasn’t gotten any momentum going in her comeback. Prediction: Burel in 2
Glenys:
Burel is higher ranked than her Serbian opponent. However, in a Grand Slam anything can happen. Neither have had much success in the run in, and Krunic has actually played more doubles than singles. Burel should take this but not necessarily easily. Prediction: Burel in 3
Jordan:
Krunic enters her first Grand Slam main draw with a protected ranking. But in truth. She had been struggling to replicate her best level from the past even in recent seasons before that. Burel is a young player who is improving, and has a solid all-round game. I expect her to come through. Prediction: Burel in 2
Katie Boulter vs Yue Yuan Jack:
Katie Boulter’s blistering start to the year makes it difficult to ignore the potential of the Brit. Yue Yuan is in a similar mould of great recent results, however, so it’s tough to pick a winner. In hotter conditions, I’d be more inclined to back Boulter’s serve by a whisker. Prediction: Boulter in 3
Glenys:
Yuan made the semifinal in Hobart last week so can’t be discounted. Boulter came through qualifying in Adelaide and got through to the second round. Boulter has not made the second round here since 2019 and has failed to qualify in the last couple of years. The direct entry this year should help the Brit Prediction: Boulter in 3
Jordan:
This is an interesting contest. Both players have improved a lot in the last 12 months, and each likes to play aggressively. It will come down to who can execute that style the better. I will back the Chinese player to edge it, but it could be very close. Prediction: Yuan in 2
Elena Rybakina vs Karolina Pliskova Jack:
There are many calling Rybakina the best player in the world at the moment. Whilst I wouldn’t go as far as saying that, she isn’t prone to large dips in her game. Regardless of how quickly she starts, she should be steady enough to take down Pliskova relatively easily. Prediction: Rybakina in 2
Glenys:
The Kazakh leads the head to head 3-0 to date. Rybakina also won the title in Brisbane leading into the Australian Open, although lost early the following week. Pliskova hasn’t had as much luck coming into the event. Losing in the second round in Brisbane and the first round last week. Prediction: Rybakina in 2
Jordan:
It was a surprise to see Rybakina play in Adelaide straight after claiming the Brisbane title, and it may have been a blessing in disguise that Ekaterina Alexandrova beat her in the quarterfinal to give her some recovery time for the Australian Open. Pliskova’s playing style is similar to Rybakina’s, but the two-time Grand Slam finalist is past her prime. Last year’s runner-up is likely to create enough chances on the Pliskova serve to win. Prediction: Rybakina in 2
Jinder can’t believe it! Indus Shur is sent to the back, and Rollins hits the Curb Stomp!
Seth Rollins defeats Jinder Mahal via pinfall.
04:59 (IST)16 JAN 2024
As Priest is about to cash in, Drew McIntyre climbs over the barricade and the two begin to brawl! No cash-in tonight! Jinder hits Seth with the fireman’s carry gutbuster for a two-count. \Veer distracts the ref while Sanga slides a chair in. Veer cracks Seth’s skull with Priest’s briefcase, and Jinder hits the Khalas!! 1-2-no!!
04:57 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Jinder’s planted with the Pedigree, but Seth’s knee gives out. Veer puts Jinder’s leg on the ropes, keeping their leader alive for now.
04:56 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Falcon Arrow from Seth connects! It might be curtains for Jinder.
04:56 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Seth hits a pair of springboard dives for another near fall. It seems that the second dive, a moonsault, may have injured Seth’s knee.
04:55 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Seth and Jinder trade shots, with the World Heavyweight Champion overcoming the beefy Modern Day Maharaja with a discus lariat. A crossbody off the top takes Jinder down for a two-count.
04:53 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Jinder is dominating Seth Rollins, thanks to that brief distraction from Priest. The former WWE Champion traps Seth in the middle of the ring with an abdominal stretch.
04:53 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Damian Priest has come down to the ring! Will we see a cash in?
04:48 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Indus Sher distracts Seth Rollins, allowing the Modern Day Maharaja to get an early lead. Seth fights off the Khallas, as does Jinder the Pedigree. Jinder launches Seth to the floor and rocks him with a devastating boot to the side of the head. Seth fights back with chops and sends Jinder’s shoulder into the ring post.
04:47 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Jinder Mahal is accompanied to the ring by Indus Sher. Will they be the key to Jinder’s victory? The World Heavyweight Championship match starts now!!
04:36 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Guys…Veer came!!
Once Natalya is able to tag in, she’s able to counter Stark’s Z360. Zoey escapes the Sharpshooter, and Baszler hits a blind tag. Shayna is rocked by Nattie’s discus lariat, and a Penalty Kick from Nox nearly gets the win. They go for the Hart Attack, but Stark pulls Nox to the floor.
Nattie rolls over the Kirifuda Clutch only for Shayna to roll with her, keeping the lock in place and securing the win!
Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark defeat Natalya and Tegan Nox via submission. 04:34 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Baszler and Stark hammer Nox in the corner, tearing the Girl with the Shiniest Wizard apart while Natalya can only watch. 04:33 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Earlier today, Nattie and Tegan challenged Zoey and Shayna. Zoey wondered if they could last 20 seconds.
They have, but it’s not looking great for Tegan Nox who has been cut off from her partner from the starting bell.
04:30 (IST)16 JAN 2024
We get a vignette from Shinsuke Nakamura warning Cody Rhodes that their story doesn’t end until he says so. Still, it’s time for him to turn his “hunger” toward the Royal Rumble. “A hungry Shinsuke is a dangerous Shinsuke.”
We’ll..take your word for it. 04:29 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Next up we’ve got more tag team action as Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark battle Tegan Nox and Natalya.
04:28 (IST)16 JAN 2024
“What happened to us?!” Coming to a theater near you, Finding Truth!
04:22 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Truth’s confusing ways get him punished by Damian Priest, who plants him with South of Heaven! Balor picks up the pin for the win.
Judgment Day defeats Awesome Truth via pinfall. 04:20 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Balor and Priest are hesitant to attack Truth since he got them some extra cash. Truth finally tags in Miz, who fires up on the WWE Tag Team Champions. Balor is dropped face-first on the apron and Priest is sent over the announcer’s desk. Miz attempts a Skull Crushing Finale, but Balor escapes. 04:19 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Damian Priest told Truth earlier not to tag The Miz in this match. Truth uh…started the match, and he refuses to tag out to Miz.
04:17 (IST)16 JAN 2024
No one knows what’s going on…least of all R-Truth!
04:13 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Judgment Day vs. Awesome Truth is next…kind of? Truth is handing a ton of money to Finn Balor. His cut of the merch, I guess. Dom is next, but JD doesn’t get anything because he “has to be a member.”
God bless R-Truth. 04:02 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Becky says something that shocks us all. She says that she thinks Rhea Ripley is better than her, but she needs to prove herself wrong. She needs to beat Rhea Ripley at WrestleMania 40.
Ripley says there’s one other person who wants Becky to win the Rumble more than The Man, and that’s Mami.
“I’ll see you at WrestleMania.”
04:01 (IST)16 JAN 2024
This definitely has a WrestleMania feel to it
03:58 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Rhea’s interrupted by The Man! Becky Lynch and Rhea Ripley? Now that’s a WrestleMania match! 03:57 (IST)16 JAN 2024
As Rhea’s music leaves us, the crowd chants “Mami” until she quiets them. She says she’s tired of Nia Jax and others claiming they run this division. This division belongs to Rhea Ripley and no one else. She says if the winner wants to waste their WrestleMania, choose her. But if they want to succeed, choose someone else.
03:56 (IST)16 JAN 2024
The Mosh Pit Kid. The Eradicator. The Nightmare. Mami. Whatever you call her, Rhea Ripley is out next!
03:46 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Tozawa manages to stun Ivar and rips his shirt off. However, Ivar catches him bouncing off the ropes for a spinning World’s Strongest Slam. He follows with a senton and sets the former Cruiserweight Champion up for the Doomsault.
Maxxine tries to distract Ivar with something that is NOT PG, allowing Tozawa to knock him off the top and get a jackknife pin for…the win!!
Akira Tozawa defeats Ivar via pinfall. 03:43 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Next up is the big man Ivar, who has had some STELLAR matches since his partner Erik’s been away with a severe neck injury. Tonight, he takes on Akira Tozawa.
03:42 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Jey Uso ain’t letting this happen again!
03:35 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Woods is attacked backstage by Kaiser, but he’s saved by his former rival Jey Uso! Looks like Jey could be Gunther’s next challenger. 03:29 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Bronson Reed puts all champions on notice!
Bronson Reed cuts a promo backstage, saying that there’s “someone holding a championship” who doesn’t realize it will soon belong to Big Bronson Reed.
Gunther? Seth Rollins? Noam Dar? 03:28 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Kaiser sets Woods up on the steps. I think I have deja vu. Woods was only baiting Kaiser in and hit him with a dropkick off the steps. Kaiser avoids the stairs as they’re launched by Woods and escapes over the barricade.
This feud is full of heat! 03:26 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Ludwig launches an announcer’s chair at Woods much like he did to Kofi Kingston last week, but misses.
Woods lays out Kaiser and follows by hitting HIM with the chair. But as Woods gets a steel chair, it’s shot right into his face with a dropkick from Kaiser!
Ludwig Kaiser defeats Xavier Woods via DQ. 03:20 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Woods finally gets back in this after catching Kaiser with a leaping forearm. Michael Cole reminds us that he’s a KOTR winner and is still looking for his first singles championship. Ludwig launches Woods shoulder first into the post and follows with the basement dropkick. 03:17 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Kaiser is driven into the corner by Woods as this match finally begins. The referee pulls them apart, finally giving Kaiser his opportunity to strike. He hammers Woods in the corner and is forced off by the referee. Woods looks completely dazed. 03:12 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Ludwig accepts Woods’ challenge, and they get to brawling before a ref even arrives. This is gonna be good! 03:12 (IST)16 JAN 2024
He’s back! Xavier Woods has returned, and he’s challenged Ludwig Kaiser!
03:12 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Gunther declares for the Royal Rumble!
03:10 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Woods demands a match with Kaiser and asks if he has to ask his “Daddy” for permission. Gunther hands him a microphone to let him answer himself. A “Who’s your daddy” chant breaks out while The Ring General laughs.
Nothing is scarier than Gunther laughing. 03:08 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Before they can continue, they’re interrupted by the returning Xavier Woods! 03:08 (IST)16 JAN 2024
After calling his shot, Gunther decides to review Ludwig’s January so far. Last week, Kaiser took out Kofi Kingston by dropkicking his head into the steel steps.
Gunther says he loves what he saw last week. That was a side he knew was in Kaiser all along. He says well done and offers a hug. 03:06 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Gunther is introduced by Ludwig Kaiser and says he smells excrement. It must be Arkansas. Over the past few weeks, he’s heard many superstars make their claim for the Rumble’s top prize, reminding them he was one elimination from winning last year. 03:04 (IST)16 JAN 2024
It’s finally happening!
03:01 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Backstage, Judgment Day are watching Nia Jax’s highlight package, where she seems to say she has her eyes on Rhea Ripley. Mami walks off to “handle business” while Damian Priest enters the room. He says that Truth is bringing something big to the group, namely CASH!! 02:55 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Chelsea Green breaks up the pin but eats a spinebuster from Hartwell. Piper misses another splash as Chelsea sneakily tags in. She goes for the Unprettier but is countered. An assisted Lionsault puts the former WWE Women’s Tag Champs away!
Candice LeRae and Indi Hartwell defeat Chelsea Green and Piper Niven via pinfall. 02:54 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Of course, the second Chelsea tags in, she loses control. Chelsea eats a big boot on the apron and tags right back out. Piper headbutts the former NXT Champion and goes for the Vader Bomb! Indi avoids it and gets to Candice. The Poison Pixie connects with two running sentons on Piper and a Codebreaker to Chelsea. 02:52 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Candice LeRae and Indi Hartwell take on the former tag champs next. Chelsea Green takes out LeRae before the bell with a kick, giving Piper Niven a chance to dominate Indi. A shoulder breaker connects, and Indi is already in a bad way. 02:45 (IST)16 JAN 2024
We’ve got another tag match up next, as Chelsea Green and Piper Niven are in action! 02:42 (IST)16 JAN 2024
After that, Meet in the Middle connects! 1-2-3!
DIY defeats Judgment Day via pinfall. 02:42 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Big moonsault connects for JD, but Gargano breaks it up. Mysterio sets him up for the 619, only for Johnny Gargano to catch him. Ciampa knocks Mysterio to the floor with a knee to the jaw and spikes JD with another DDT. 02:41 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Everyone’s down in the ring after they all hit a series of big strikes, including Gargano and Mysterio, who knock each other out with a series of super kicks. The crowd is rocking for this one. Ciampa and McDonagh are fresh again, and McDonagh plants Ciampa with a standing Spanish Fly!! 02:39 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Ciampa is on fire, laying out both Judgment Day members with a series of clotheslines. The Psycho Killer targets the legal McDonagh, spiking him with a Scorpion Death Drop style DDT. 02:38 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Dirty Dom did get his own custom 3D effect for his entrance before the match, which is neat. 02:34 (IST)16 JAN 2024
After a few minutes of grinding punishment, Gargano rocks Dominik with a kick and tags out to Tommaso Ciampa. But the ref didn’t see it! Dominik and JD distract him, and this leads to a two-on-one assault on Gargano while the ref admonishes Ciampa. A “Ref, you su*k” chant breaks out. 02:32 (IST)16 JAN 2024
When we come back from the break, McDonagh is laid out by an arm-wrench/lariat combo from DIY. Somehow he manages not to get pinned there. Dominik kicks Gargano in the back when he’s bouncing off the ropes and manages to tag in.
It’s Dirty Dom time, folks!! Get your custom mullets on! 02:27 (IST)16 JAN 2024
DIY takes on the younger Judgment Day members JD McDonagh and Dominik Mysterio in the first contest. R-Truth is nowhere to be found this week, as he’s busy running his merch racket. DIY takes Judgment Day to the floor prior to the break. 02:27 (IST)16 JAN 2024
R-Truth might have finally proved himself…with cold hard cash!
02:26 (IST)16 JAN 2024
“You will be the first of your family to raise that championship…but not before I finish MY story.”
02:21 (IST)16 JAN 2024
02:18 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Damian Priest finds R-Truth backstage selling merch. At first, he’s furious, but Truth gives him a cut of the money he’s made, and he changes his mind. He gives Truth one important note for the match between Judgment Day and Awesome Truth tonight. Don’t tag in.
Will Truth take that advice? Does he even understand it? 02:17 (IST)16 JAN 2024
02:16 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Before walking off, Cody reminds Drew what happened the last time they were in the ring. Spoilers: Rhodes won. 02:15 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Drew wants to know why Cody is endorsing Jey Uso and CM Punk. He says that it’s unfortunate that he’s in his way. Drew likes Cody, but he needs to finish what he’s started. 02:13 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Cody says that he could win, Drew could win…even CM Punk could win! Light Punk chants are in the arena, but there are not many. Drew tells Cody he needs to be himself. No need for fancy suits and four-syllable words. He wants to see the REAL Cody Rhodes. 02:11 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Drew reminds Cody and the fans that back in the day, they were a tag team in their first run with WWE. Cody remembers the name. The Dashing Ones! Drew compares his time away from the promotion to Cody’s, telling the fans that Drew once told him he was a future World Champion.
He returns to the family, telling Cody he will be the first member of the family to raise that championship and finish his story. But not before he finishes his. 02:08 (IST)16 JAN 2024
As Cody asks what the WWE Universe wants to talk about, Drew McIntyre interrupts! The Scottish Psychopath is on a warpath! 02:04 (IST)16 JAN 2024
Cody Rhodes kicks us off! All aboard the American Roller Codester! 02:04 (IST)16 JAN 2024
We see the leftovers of a winter storm that’s currently ravaging most of the United States piled up in front of the arena in Little Rock, Arkansas, tonight. We also get footage of World Heavyweight Champion Seth “Freakin” Rollins arriving with his kid. He defends against Jinder Mahal tonight. 02:01 (IST)16 JAN 2024
It’s time for WWE RAW, and we’re kicking off with a special video honoring the legacy of the late Martin Luther King, Jr. on this MLK Day.
Anthony Joshua has been backed to have a close fight with Tyson Fury if they ever lock horns in the ring.
Simon Jordan believes the gap between the two Brits has decreased and says the pathway has opened for Joshua to become world champion again.
British boxing fans are desperate to see Joshua and Fury battle it out.
The bout has been mooted for several years but has so far not materialized, with the two fighters taking different paths.
Anthony Joshua has been backed to have a close fight with Tyson Fury
Joshua suffered back-to-back defeats against Oleksandr Usyk to put a serious dent in his professional record.
The two-time former world champion has won three fights since last April as he begins to reestablish his name on the heavyweight scene.
Ahead of the March 8 bout against Francis Ngannou, Jordan believes there are still question marks over Joshua due to the level of opponent he has recently faced.
He said on the talkBOXING podcast: “Joshua dealt with Otto Wallin.
“But what we haven’t learned about this ‘Joshua 2.0’ is whether he can take a shot and come back from it in the way he had to against Wladimir Klitschko.
“That’s the overriding question.”
Spencer Oliver then asked Jordan if he thinks Joshua will win a world title again.
Jordan believes he will but isn’t convinced he would beat Fury.
He said: “Yes. I think the pathway’s been cleared for him.
“Does he win a world title against Tyson Fury? I’m not sure. I don’t think so.”
But Jordan was then pressed on whether a Joshua-Fury fight would be ‘closer’ than he originally thought.
He insisted it would, purely because of the level Fury showed the last time he stepped into the ring against Ngannou.
Jordan replied: “Only because of what we’ve seen from Fury in his recent fight.
“And we’ve seen people suggesting the reason why he’s meeting people in the middle of the ring is because he can’t move about anymore.
“The Fury we’ve seen against Dillian Whyte and Deontay Wilder – that Fury beats Joshua.
“The Fury we’ve got now may not do it, but I still think he does.”
Anthony Joshua beat Otto Wallin in December
Joshua lost his WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO titles when he was beaten by Usyk at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September 2021.
Jordan believes the 34-year-old can become world champion again, even if he doesn’t face either Fury or Usyk, pinpointing Filip Hrgovic as a future target.
Hrgovic looks likely to fight for the IBF heavyweight title this year, which will be vacated due to the Fury-Usyk rematch clause.
Jordan added: “But I go on with your question of, ‘Do I think he [Joshua] wins a world title?’
“Does he win a world title against Oleksandr Usyk? I think Usyk does him again.
“Now, because a pathway’s been cleared, does he win a world title against Filip Hrgovic – who I think is a strong fighter but not a real risk for Joshua compared to what Fury and Usyk are – yes I now do because the landscape has changed…
Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will battle it out in February
“Hrgovic lost to Zhilei Zhang and got the result, and wasn’t particularly impressive against Demsey McKean.
“And in his most recent fight against Mark De Mori, well f*** off, it wasn’t a fight for him, was it?
“I think Hrgovic is a decent fighter, but there’s levels in this game and Joshua is on a different level to Hrgovic.”
Ryan Destiny, a perfect embodiment of destiny itself, assumes the role of Claressa Shields in Shields’ biopic ‘Flint Strong’ from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, set to hit the theaters in August 2024. However, this isn’t the first time a movie has been made based on Shields’ life. In fact, ‘Flint Strong’ follows Zackary Canepari and Drea Cooper’s 2015 boxing documentary ‘T-Rex’. It is based on Shields’ journey to become the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing.
However, who exactly is Ryan Destiny? Destiny is an American actress and singer best known for her role in Fox’s ‘Star’. Flint Strong, aptly named after Shields’ hometown, will mark Destiny’s first movie with a major film studio. However, she did pop up here and there in movies like ‘Oracle,’ ‘A Girl Like Grace,’ and the TV series ‘Grow-ish.’ Not only that, there is more to the actress than meets the eye.
Ryan Destiny: age, height, net worth, parents, ethnicity
According to Net Worth Post, the 5.4” foot actress and songwriter has a net worth of a whopping $19 million as of 2024. Born on 8th January 1995 in Detroit, Michigan, USA, the now 29-year-old was born to parents Dawn Irons and Deron Irons. With roots in the city of Michigan, which has produced countless artists, she was destined for the creative arts. Adding the fact that her father Deron was part of the ‘90s R&B group Guess’, her future was all but sealed for show business. Her father is of African-American descent, but her mother is biracial, of European and African-American ancestry. What’s more, as a child, she was often involved in singing competitions or talent shows, which would later launch her into Hollywood stardom.
Ryan Destiny: Music and showbiz career
After messing around in plays and talent shows as a teenager, she quickly formed a trio. The R&B trio even made it to the third round of ‘America’s Got Talent’ in 2011. Even though it did not pan out the way she would have wanted, there were bigger things in store for her. Soon, she joined another trio with a fellow AGT contestant, forming ‘Love Doll House’ and signed with Russell Simon’s ‘All Def Records.’ The trio had a short lifespan, and Destiny soon made her move to the big screen.
Ryan Destiny: Acting career
She caught her first major break when she was cast as ‘Alexandra Crane’ in the hit television series ‘Star.’ The show followed three talented singers wishing to achieve stardom in the music industry. From there, she went on to feature in ‘Grown-ish,’ playing ‘Jillian’ for 11 episodes from 2020 to 2021. Later, in 2023, she appeared as the main character ‘Shay’ in the horror movie ‘Oracle.’
It follows the main character as she accepts a job on a property marred by a traumatic past, but she soon finds herself realizing her childhood nightmares are somehow connected to the house. She soon landed a major role in the upcoming project, Flint Strong, the screenplay for which is written by Barry Jenkins, the acclaimed director of such films as Moonlight (2016) and If Beale Street Could Talk (2018). The film is currently under production.
What is Ryan Destiny’s relationship status?
Ryan Destiny is in limbo when it comes to her relationship status! Back in 2015, Destiny and Keith Powers met at a Teen Vogue party and later confirmed their relationship in 2019. At that time, both parties had emphasized the importance of privacy while being in the public eye. Powers even expressed the challenges of a public relationship. On the other hand, Destiny was committed to her individuality.
Considered a prominent couple at the time, they even featured in various projects in 2019, including a Calvin Klein campaign and the music video for Big Sean’s ‘Single Again’, playing the role of a couple in the middle of a cheating scandal. However, in 2022, reports pointed toward their breakup after four years of dating. Despite their breakup, they have been spotted together on social media and in live media events.
Both Powers and Destiny appeared posing on the red carpet at the Tribeca Film Festival premiere for Powers’ movie ‘The Perfect Find’. Later that week, the duo attended the American Black Film Festival, possibly hinting at a reconciliation of their romance. This, coupled with the ex-partners spending time together during the summer, has given fans hope for a rekindling of their relationship. Despite numerous fans calling them out for getting back together, neither has officially confirmed their relationship.
Ricky Hatton has raised a concern over Tyson Fury ahead of his mega undisputed fight with Oleksandr Usyk.
Hatton reckons Fury’s ‘lifestyle’ could mean he has ‘too many miles on the clock’ heading into the bout.
Fury and Usyk will finally step into the ring in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on February 17.
The pair have been trash-talking each other for a couple of years but the fight was finally signed last November.
Tyson Fury will fight Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia in February
They will put all their belts on the line in one of the most eagerly-anticipated matches in modern boxing history.
Hatton then hopes Fury will enter the ring with fellow Brit Anthony Joshua at some point in the future.
However, he has concerns that Fury’s past may eventually catch up with him.
The 35-year-old has not been shy in detailing his huge weight loss during his break away from the sport.
Fury has since returned and had 10 fights since 2018, including a trilogy against Deontay Wilder.
Fury was sluggish last time out against Francis Ngannou.
And Hatton is worried about possible long-term effects Fury could be suffering from.
He told OLBG: “You don’t get a bigger fight [than Fury v Joshua].
“It’s one of the biggest fights in British boxing history. It’s a great clash of styles.
“Tyson’s always in entertaining fights, so is AJ [Joshua], and it was only a couple of fights ago we thought [Joshua’s] best days were behind him but in his last couple of fights, he has looked really impressive.
Tyson Fury struggled in his last fight against Francis Ngannou
“But Tyson on the other hand has been the best heavyweight for a good number of years and I still have him as number one, but we just need to know what Tyson has got left.
“Don’t forget it’s not just the three Wilder fights, it’s the lifestyle he’s had as well where he’s had to lose ten stone in the past and what it does to the body and then having them three wars with Deontay Wilder.
“It might be too many miles on the clock for Tyson or maybe he took him lightly because he didn’t look in the best shape.”
Many felt MMA fighter Ngannou deserved the judges’ decision against Fury in his first professional boxing fight last October.
Ngannou will face Joshua in Saudi Arabia in March.
But he has firmly his eyes set on a rematch with Fury by October this year.
Ngannou told MMA Fighting: “I win this fight [against Joshua] and I’m fighting Fury period.
“Whether or not he has the belt. Our rematch term was within next year, so it’s going to be October this year.
“I just want to be free and fight, the thing is with the title is this is a system I don’t want to fall into anymore.
“You have to make a concession with an organization, I don’t want that political stuff.”
Ricky Hatton has doubts over a future Tyson Fury v Anthony Joshua fight
Ngannou said in a separate interview with TMZ Sports: “I’m not looking for the winner of Tyson Fury (and Usyk). I’m looking for Tyson.
“Tyson owes me a fight. I don’t give a s**t about the winner of Usyk and Tyson. I’m coming after Tyson. Win or lose, I want Tyson.”
Biles was in Dallas to cheer on husband Jonathan Owens
Simone Biles enjoyed a night out with friends in Dallas, and wasn’t afraid to make an unpopular statement, or to share it on her Instagram.
The Olympian gymnast is in town to cheer on her much-discussed husband Jonathan Owens as his Green Bay Packers take on the Cowboys in the NFL playoffs.
Biles may have upset Dallas Cowboys fans
She and her friends may have rubbed some locals the wrong way after making multiple displays in a club that said “Go Pack Go.”
One of the people she partied alongside was Frankie Kmet, who is also dating a player on the Packers, linebacker Lukas Van Ness. Frankie is no stranger to receiving heat for supporting the Packers, as she is the sister of Cole Kmet, who plays for Green Bay’s arch rival, the Chicago Bears.
Jonathan Owens in hot water from Biles and her fans
Biles and Owens have been in the headlines recently after the Packers safety made some controversial statements about how they met on The Pivot podcast in December.
Owens’ comments, highlighted by his claim that he was “the catch” in their relationship, stirred controversy on social media.
“I always say that the men are the catch,” Owens said, after he was asked if he considered himself the “catch” in his relationship with Biles.
Grilled on “How in the hell did you pull Simone Biles?” Owens said on the podcast “It’s really how she pulled me, man, that’s the question.”
Despite ruffling a few feathers recently, with the 2024 Olympics coming up in Paris this summer, Biles will have the whole nation back on her side before long. Even salty Cowboys fans.
Serena Williams cracks joke at Wimbledon hero Chris Eubanks’ expense after modelling shot
Serena Williams cracked a joke about Chris Eubanks after the 27-year-old landed a partnership deal with Swedish fashion brand J.Lindeberg. Eubanks, who reached the Wimbledon quarter-finals last year, has become the first male tennis player to link up with the company
After Eubanks took to Instagram to announce his partnership with J.Lindeberg, Williams replied by posting: “I knew your legs would land you a modelling gig one day.”
Eubanks clearly saw the funny side of the comment as he shared it to his story and added the caption: “I’m glad people are starting to see your vision @serenawilliams.”
Eubanks will be draped in J.Lindeberg tennis attire during his appearance at the Australian Open after previously working with Japanese sportswear company ASICS. And commenting about his new deal, the tennis ace explained: “It is extremely enticing to be one of the only faces of a particular brand.
“It allows for you to really see the growth of that brand and feel a sense of pride when you’re watching it grow, which is quite a unique opportunity. Not many players get the chance to be the face of a brand in the beginning and I am really excited about that opportunity.”
Eubanks overcame the likes of British ace Cam Norrie and Australian Open finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas to reach the last eight at Wimbledon last summer. But the American was finally dumped out of the tournament by Daniil Medvedev following a five-set thriller.
Chris Eubanks reached the quarter-finals of Wimbledon last year
And after his exit, Eubanks told the Today Show: “I think in the past 24 hours, or maybe 12 hours since I lost, it’s starting to settle in that I’m actually a Wimbledon quarter-finalist. It’s a dream come true. I showed up here playing really well in the tournament prior to Wimbledon and taking my first title, but still a bit uncertain on how I would fare here.
“The second round comes, I’m playing the number one Brit. I get past that and then things just kind of started to fall into place. It’s indescribable. I think enjoying it was the biggest thing. There’s times throughout the match where I’m smiling – I’m pretty expressive with my emotions – but at the end of the day it’s still just a tennis match.
“The court is the same size, the net is still the same height and it’s still the sport I’ve been playing since I was two years old. I’m at a stage now where I can enjoy those situations, even when my back’s against the wall, even when things aren’t going well, to just say, ‘hey, just stick with it. Things are going to work out.’”
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Jinder can’t believe it! Indus Shur is sent to the back, and Rollins hits the Curb Stomp!
Seth Rollins defeats Jinder Mahal via pinfall.
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