Latest Sports Headlines: What’s Happening Today?
Boxing
Ukrainian boxing star Oleksandr Usyk has praised his 6-foot-6 training partner, Daniel Lapin, as the “future of boxing.” Lapin, a light heavyweight, boasts an impressive 11-0 record, with his recent first-round knockout propelling him to a No. 10 ranking with the WBA. Despite challenges, including displacement from Crimea in 2014, Lapin’s dedication under Usyk’s mentorship highlights his promising career ahead.
Soccer
In the Premier League, Arsenal’s title aspirations took a hit following a 1-1 draw against Manchester United. Midfielder Declan Rice netted a second-half goal to equalize after Bruno Fernandes’s free-kick gave United the lead. The result leaves Arsenal trailing 15 points behind league leaders Liverpool, with fans expressing growing unrest over the club’s current ownership.
Australian Football League (AFL)
A recent AFL match between the Giants and Collingwood raised safety concerns after Giants ruckman Kieren Briggs suffered a concussion. Briggs was pushed by Collingwood’s Darcy Cameron into teammate Sam Taylor, leading to the injury. Commentators are urging the league to address and eliminate such dangerous practices to protect player welfare.
NFL
The Baltimore Ravens have secured offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley with a three-year, $60 million contract extension, including $44 million guaranteed. Stanley was anticipated to attract interest from teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and New England Patriots before finalizing his extension. This move ensures stability for the Ravens’ offensive line in the upcoming seasons.
Major League Baseball (MLB)
New York Mets pitcher Kodai Senga continues to impress during spring training. The 32-year-old right-hander recently threw 50 pitches in a session at Clover Park, showcasing his meticulous approach to refining his mechanics. After posting a 2.98 ERA in his rookie season, Senga aims for greater consistency in the upcoming season.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
UFC 313 concluded with Magomed Ankalaev defeating Alex Pereira for the light heavyweight title. The bout, however, faced criticism for its lackluster nature, prompting discussions about a potential rematch. Additionally, UFC President Dana White announced a new boxing league collaboration under the TKO banner, aiming to provide fighters access to the UFC Performance Institute, though concerns about athlete compensation persist.
