Author: quyen1

Fury vs Usyk takes place on May 18.

Tyson Fury has been tipped to withdraw from his upcoming fight against Oleksandr Usyk by a British former boxing star.

Fury and Usyk will do battle in a heavyweight title unification clash on May 18, with the bout taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

It had to be rescheduled after ‘The Gypsy King’ suffered a cut above his eye during sparring in February, meaning he was unable to fulfil the original date.

Fury has already held a press conference ahead of the event, in which he unveiled his training camp plans and confirmed that father John will be part of his preparations.

But despite his intense preparations beginning to get underway, he has been surprisingly tipped to potentially withdraw.

That’s the view of British former super-middleweight champion George Groves, who retired from professional boxing in 2018.

Groves told Betway: “I’ve said since the start – I’ll believe it [the fight] when I see it.

“I don’t think Fury has ever fancied the Usyk fight. He’s talking about having 10 more fights, but if he loses to Usyk how does that work?

“It’s a massive risk for him to fight Usyk. He’s probably really hoping that Usyk can’t take a body shot.

“[After the cut] I thought to myself, ‘I bet Fury would rather have a bit of Anthony Joshua than Usyk, because he’ll see that as an easier fight.

“That [versus Joshua] is the fight everyone really wants to see. I don’t believe if he pulls out [of the Usyk fight] he’s going to have to pay a $10 million fine.

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“Usyk is probably thinking, ‘I don’t know if this guy is going to show up’, because there’s still a chance Fury pulls out.”

However, while announcing the new fight date, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority chairman Turki Alalshikh sent a warning to both fighters about withdrawing from the bout.

He said: “If Usyk is scared, I will call for Joshua vs Tyson.

“If Tyson is scared, I will call for any fighter Usyk wants, and it’s my name on this thing. We have a guarantee from both sides, and they know it now.”

Tyson Fury eked out a points victory in one of his most controversial fights of his career.

Footage of Tyson Fury’s controversial fight against John McDermott that many believe he lost has emerged ahead of his undisputed clash against Oleksandr Uysk.

Fury puts his WBC world title on the line when he takes on unified champion Usyk in their blockbuster undisputed showdown in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on May 18.

The British star is one fight away from undisputed status as he looks to capture the WBA (super), IBF and WBO belts.

But the course of his career could have been very, very different had he lost the eighth fight of his professional career.

Back in 2009, Fury fought McDermott for the English heavyweight title.

The self-proclaimed ‘Gypsy King’ claimed a narrow points win that fans and critics alike think he lost.

McDermott, who went into the bout off the back of two losses, put the pressure on Fury and bulled him around the ring.

However, his efforts were ultimately in vain as referee Terry O’Connor scored the contest 98-92 in favour of Fury.

Speaking in 2020, McDermott bemoaned the decision not going his way as he revealed his post-fight struggles.

“Of course it still annoys me. I’m not saying I would have gone onto fight for the world title but it would have helped me, at the time. A bit more money when there wasn’t much money in boxing. He’s a millionaire now and I’m struggling,” he said.

“They thought I’d be an easy fight. They didn’t think I could dig deep.

“I remember walking up to the punch bag and my trainer drew a line at 6’9” and said: ‘This is how tall Tyson Fury is’.

“I remember thinking: ‘How am I going to hit the bloke?’”

Fury had an off night against McDermott – something he can’t afford to have against Usyk.

He was also underwhelming in his victory over Francis Ngannou and will need to be at the top of his game if he wants to become undisputed champion.

A video comparing Mike Tyson and Jake Paul’s training has sent social media wild

A video comparing Jake Paul and Mike Tyson’s training camps has surfaced online – it’s got boxing fans talking.

Paul vs. Tyson is set for July 20 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, in a exhibition bout that will be aired on Netflix.

It will be the boxing legend’s first appearance since November 2020 when he took on fellow great Roy Jones Jr.

The 57-year-old is taking the bout very, very serious as he’s made a major lifestyle change in preparation.

He sent a fresh warning to the 27-year-old as he shared a new training video.

Tyson looks to be in supreme shape, having showed off his legendary power following his blistering pad work with coach Rafael Cordeiro.

And footage of his training camp compared to his younger opponent has emerged online and it has sent social media into overdrive.

It shows Paul and Tyson going through their paces, but there’s a stark difference in the intensity.

‘The Problem Child’ seems to have a more relaxed approach while the former world heavyweight champion is leaving no stone unturned as he goes through a gruelling training camp.

Needless to say, fight fans online made their feelings known of the video comparing Paul and Tyson’s training.

One X user wrote: “If Iron Mike catches him with a solid right hook, Paul is going to start a cooking channel.”

A second tweeted: “The only reason Tyson losing this match if this was a set up.”

A third added: “Tyson out here looking like he’s training to bury someone. Meanwhile Jake Paul is looking like he belongs in a Planet Fitness fails compilation…”

A fourth joked: “I wouldn’t fight Tyson when he’s 90.”

A fifth said: “Man, no one moves like Tyson. He stays so tight and compact but is so quick and powerful. Love to see it again.”

Another commented: “Jake Paul is half Tyson’s age and doesn’t have the intensity Tyson still has. He’s like a 110v outlet and Tyson is 440v and ready to light Paul up.”

Mike Tyson is preparing to face Jake Paul.

John Fury has aimed a dig at Mike Tyson after calling him out for a fight ahead of his upcoming bout with Jake Paul.

Former undisputed heavyweight champion Tyson will return to the ring to face Paul on July 20 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, in what will be the main event of a card that will air on Netflix.

The 57-year-old has not fought since drawing with Roy Jones Jr in an exhibition match in 2020, while his last professional bout came back in 2005 against Kevin McBride, when he was beaten inside six rounds.

His controversial fight with Paul expected to be an exhibition, although the YouTuber-turned-boxer confirmed earlier this week that they have hopes of getting the bout sanctioned as fully professional.

Fury – the father of current WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury – has previously challenged ‘Iron Mike’ to a fight on several occasions.

He repeated that challenge on Thursday when asked about the upcoming fight between Tyson and Paul.

Speaking to Seconds Out, John Fury said: “I’m the same age as him. What the hell is wrong with him?”

Fury then claimed that Turki Alalshikh, an adviser to the Saudi royal family and the man responsible for the recent high-profile boxing events in Saudi Arabia, had expressed surprise at Tyson previously turning down a fight with Fury.

“Even Turki said… his excellency said I’m shocked Tyson didn’t want to fight you’,” added Fury.

“I’m shocked myself. But I tell you what, I must have a presence – the Gypsy King’s dad.

“He’s fighting a middleweight instead of me. But I’ll fight anybody, I’m not bothered. Let’s get me paid – but pay me what I’m worth.

“You can get killed can’t you? But I’m willing to risk my life for the right fight.

“The right fight is him, Mike Tyson.”

Last year, Tyson told Fury he was “out of his mind” challenging him to a fight.

Speaking ahead of Tyson Fury’s fight against Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia, Tyson said: “He’s out of mind about the exhibition.

“I’ll tell you what has impressed so much at the weigh-in and press conference, normally they have to be tough but it was all love in there.

“It was a majestic sign of ‘We’re fighting each other’, just amazing. I’ve never experienced anything like that.”

WE were treated to a fabulous feast of telly in 2022 but the next 12 months look likely to be even better.

From juicy celeb documentaries to a heap of bingeworthy dramas – and not to mention the returns of cult Nineties game-show Gladiators and Big Brother – there are plenty of treats to look forward to.

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Aussie beauty Elizabeth Debicki plays Princess Di in The CrownCredit: Keith Bernstein

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Michelle Keegan stars in drama Ten Pound Poms on BBCCredit: Getty
So handsets at the ready, as Hayley Minn and Thea Jacobs talk you through some of the top shows to look out for in 2023.

Tune in or miss out . . .

Drama

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Helena Bonham Carter plays actress Noele Gordon in NollyCredit: ITV

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Best Interests’ Michael Sheen and Sharon HorganCredit: BBC
NOLLY (ITVX, February): When a show is created by Russell T Davies and stars Helena Bonham Carter, it’s going to be good.

With this three-parter, Davies hopes to match the success of 2021 Channel 4 drama It’s A Sin, about London’s gay scene in the Eighties.

Nolly dramatises the story of actress Noele Gordon’s fall from grace, including her shock sacking from ITV soap Crossroads 40 years ago.

BEST INTERESTS (BBC1, TBC): Jack Thorne, the mastermind behind hard-hitting Covid drama Help for Channel 4 and 2016’s National Treasure on the same channel, brings his latest offering to BBC1.

Starring Sharon Horgan and Michael Sheen, this four-parter tells the heartbreaking story of two parents fighting to keep their sick daughter alive, against medical advice.

TEN POUND POMS (BBC1, TBC): Former Corrie bombshell Michelle Keegan stars in this drama set just after World War Two.

She plays one of a group of Brits – known Down Under as Poms – who migrated to Australia in the 1940s for just £10, all looking for a better life.

THIS TOWN (BBC1, TBC): From Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, This Town is a thriller set in the Midlands in the early Eighties, just as ska music was booming and uniting black, white and Asian teens.

It opens in 1981, during “a moment of huge social tensions and unrest”, according to the Beeb.

Stars Downton Abbey’s Michelle Dockery and Marcella’s Nicholas Pinnock.

BEYOND PARADISE (BBC, TBC): Death In Paradise has become a much-loved crime-comedy drama since it began in 2011.

And this year the detective series gets its first spin-off, bringing back Love Actually star Kris Marshall as DI Humphrey Goodman, as well as Sally Bretton as Martha Lloyd.

Documentaries

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Gypsy King Tyson Fury has invited Netflix into his home for a fly-on-the-wall series

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Beckham lets fans behind the scenes of his glamorous lifeCredit: Splash
SUPER LEAGUE: THE WAR FOR FOOTBALL (Apple TV+, January 13): Remember that bizarre time when a group of top European sides tried to break away to form their own super- league?

This new four-parter dives into those bonkers days, and claims to have unprecedented access to league presidents, club owners, and the architects of the doomed project.

DAVID BECKHAM (Netflix, title and release TBC): He’s been one of the most famous footballers on the planet, and here for the first time Becks lets fans behind the scenes of his glamorous life.

The series includes interviews with family and friends, plus previously unseen interviews and footage from his personal archive.

OUR PLANET II (Netflix, TBC): National treasure Sir David Attenborough is back with his stunning Our Planet series.

With the help of his Emmy-winning camera team, the nature guru will deliver more incredible footage from around the world, and unravel the mysteries of how and why animals migrate.

AT HOME WITH THE FURYS (Netflix, TBC): Gypsy King Tyson Fury has invited Netflix into his home for a fly-on-the-wall series following him, wife Paris Fury and their six children.

The series originally planned to explore the heavy-weight boxing champ’s return to family life after retiring from the ring – but the slugger has backtracked on that plan, so we’ll have to wait and see what happens.

ROBBIE WILLIAMS (Netflix, title and release TBC): Angels rocker Robbie is the latest superstar to team up with streaming giant Netflix to spill the beans on his life and fame.

He will look back at his incredible career – including his Take That days – for this revealing series, and open up about his struggles with addiction and mental health.

WAGATHA CHRISTIE (Disney+, title and release TBC): Sparked by a now infamous tweet, this sensational spat between two Wags had us gripped when it went to court last year.

Now Coleen Rooney will speak for the first time in detail about her battle with rival Rebekah Vardy, whom she accused of leaking stories about her to the Press.

Streaming bingers

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Martin Compston takes up the title role in The RigCredit: AMAZON PRIME

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Queen Charlotte, played by Golda Rosheuvel, is a prequel to BridgertonCredit: LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX
THE RIG (Amazon Prime, January 6): Line Of Duty star Martin Compston takes up the title role in this dark new series.

Set on an oil rig off the coast of Scotland, all hell breaks loose when it is engulfed by thick fog and hit by a series of tremors which cut off communication.

After a serious accident, suspicion grows and the crew begins asking questions about what’s really going on.

Game of Thrones’ Iain Glen also stars.

QUEEN CHARLOTTE: A BRIDGERTON STORY (Netflix, TBC): Period drama Bridgerton is one of Netflix’s biggest hits, and the streaming site is cashing in with this first spin-off.

Queen Charlotte, played by Golda Rosheuvel, is a prequel to Bridgerton and charts the much-loved royal character’s rise to power, and her romance with King George.

Glamorous Arsema Thomas plays the younger version of Lady Danbury, the character made famous by Adjoa Andoh.

THE CROWN (Netflix, TBC): The royal drama’s final run is set to be its most controversial.

Starring Imelda Staunton as Queen Elizabeth II, it will cover the death of Princess Di (played by Aussie beauty Elizabeth Debicki), Tony Blair’s relationship with Her Majesty and Prince William’s early relationship with Kate Middleton.

MY LADY JANE (Prime Video, TBC): Lady Jane Grey was the Queen of England for just nine days in 1553.

This comedy-drama, with an all-star cast featuring Dominic Cooper, Rob Brydon and Jim Broadbent, reimagines what happened during that reign.

My Lady Jane has been described as a “sharp-tongued, warm-hearted story full of romance, adventure and fantasy”.

HEARTSTOPPER 2 (Netflix, TBC): Last year viewers fell head over heels for this tale of two teenage boys Charlie, an introvert, and Nick, a rugby lad, falling in love.

The series was inspired by a graphic novel, and now the sequel is being adapted to continue the sweet coming-of-age story.

Kit Connor, Joe Locke and Yasmin Finney are all confirmed to be returning while Olivia Colman is expected to reprise her role as Nick’s mother.

Reality

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Maya Jama takes over as host on Love IslandCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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Clarkson and co are back for a second helping, alongside some new animalsCredit: AMAZON PRIME
WINTER LOVE ISLAND (ITV2, January): After a brief hiatus, Love Island is returning, with new host Maya Jama taking over from Laura Whitmore, and a cast of glamorous singletons.

The winter series will be filmed in Cape Town, South Africa.

CELEBRITY SAS: WHO DARES WINS (Channel 4, January): It seems the Aussie jungle wasn’t enough of a challenge for shamed MP Matt Hancock, as he’s now testing his mettle in SAS: Who Dares Wins.

The new series, fronted by hardman Mark “Billy” Billingham, takes place in the Vietnamese jungle and sees the likes of ex-Towie star James Argent, Love Islander Teddy Soares and Liberty X singer Michelle Heaton doing their best to impress.

ALAN MUST WIN (E4, January): This new eight-parter sees a group of larger- than-life characters compete against each other to become the most popular.

But there’s a twist, as unbeknown to them, a team of celebs are battling behind the scenes to fix the game so the group’s underdog – dubbed Alan – wins.

THE APPRENTICE (BBC1, January): Lord Sugar gets down to business again as the show returns for its 17th run.

The latest wannabe entrepreneurs compete for a £250,000 investment in their business idea.

This year they include a glam hair salon owner, a lad who runs a theatre school in Glasgow, and a sweets firm boss and Instagram influencer.

Expect the usual shameless self-promotion, cringe one-liners and Karren Brady eye-rolls.

CLARKSON’S FARM (Prime Video, February): Sun columnist Jeremy Clarkson’s series became a surprise smash last year.

Now he and Diddly Squat Farm’s colourful cast of characters Kaleb, Gerald, Lisa and Cheerful Charlie are back for a second helping, alongside some new animals.

BIG BROTHER (ITV2, autumn): The Eighties hit is finally back after years of clamour from fans.

Originally on Channel 4 before moving to Channel 5, it birthed many of our most-loved TV stars, including This Morning favourites Alison Hammond and Josie Gibson.

Gameshows

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Gladiators will make a comebackCredit: Rex

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EastEnders star Danny Dyer turns quiz host for this brand-new show CheatCredit: Rex
CHEAT (Netflix, TBC): EastEnders star Danny Dyer turns quiz host for this brand-new show.

The actor will be joined by comedian and Strictly Come Dancing star Ellie Taylor for the series, where the audience plays to win £50,000 by answering questions.

The twist? You can still win if you don’t know the answer – by cheating.

SURVIVOR (BBC1, TBC): It was cancelled after two series in 2002, but the brutal survival show is back.

Based on the international reality franchise of the same name, the challenge sees 20 people dumped on a desert island and divided into two tribes to compete in a series of tasks.

Think Big Brother meets The Island With Bear Grylls.

It’s proven a hit worldwide so hopefully this 16-parter will deliver the goods.

GLADIATORS (BBC1, TBC): Gladiators, we’re ready!

The show where beefcake men and super-fit women battle it out to prove who’s the most athletic is returning.

Sun columnist Ulrika Jonsson hosted the all-action ITV show in the Nineties but the new line-up has yet to be confirmed.

SQUID GAME: THE CHALLENGE (Netflix, TBC): Grisly Squid Game was a smash last year, with viewers shocked and enthralled by the twists and turns of the deadly challenges.

Now Netflix has developed a real-life version for fans to play, which sees 16 people dropped on a tropical island.

Half of them have keys to a dream villa, while the other half have to survive in the woods and compete in daily challenges to earn their place in the lush pad.

As each new resident arrives, an existing one is booted out into the woods.

Only the occupants of the villa have a chance to take home the cash prize.

THE CHALLENGE UK (Channel 5, TBC): Former Towie star Mark Wright’s first TV presenting gig since returning to the UK is hosting our version of The Challenge.

It’s the first time the show – popular in the US – is being made with British contenders.

Filmed in Argentina, it sees 16 reality stars including Curtis and AJ Pritchard, Nathan Henry and James Lock compete against each other in a series of extreme challenges.

IT has long been thought that when Prince Harry allegedly called David Beckham to accuse him and his wife Victoria of leaking stories, that he also ended their long term friendship.

But one royal expert thinks it was actually David who decided to cut ties with Prince Harry, and not the other way around.

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Royal editor Sarah Hewson claims David Beckham is a ‘self proclaimed royalist’ who has picked the ‘side’ of Prince WilliamCredit: Arthur Edwards / The Sun

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The royal editor said cracks started to show in David and Prince Harry’s relationship when he wasn’t at son Brooklyn’s weddingCredit: Getty

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It has been portrayed that the Beckhams were ‘Markled’ by Harry and Meghan, but was it the other way round?Credit: Getty Images – Getty
Sarah Hewson, royal editor at Talk TV, exclusively told Fabulous: “Things turned sour between David and Harry over these leaked stories and it has been portrayed that the Beckhams were ‘Markled’ – cut out of their lives like they have Meghan’s father and her BFF Jessica Mulroney.

“But I’m not sure it’s so clear cut. Who dropped who? David is a self proclaimed royalist.

“He queued for 12 hours to see the Queen lying in State and he has worked with the royals on several charitable campaigns – perhaps it was David who pulled the plug and he is actually the one distancing himself from them rather than the other way around.”

Cracks first started emerging in the pair’s friendship last spring when the former footballer invited Prince William and Kate to his son Brooklyn’s wedding – and not Harry and Meghan.

At the time, a source said: “David’s attachment and history go back with William and Kate and they have a very strong relationship and they were their choice of wedding guests. It was always about them, it was never about Meghan and Harry.

“They are the people David and Victoria are attached to and it’s always been about them because they’ve had a long history together.”

And perhaps it wasn’t a coincidence that after the apparent snub, Meghan, 42, seemingly stopped wearing Victoria’s designs – while Kate appeared to be wearing them more than ever.

She wore one of the designer’s dresses to an engagement in January and was spotted donning a pair of VB glasses at Wimbledon over the summer.

She even reintroduced a Victoria Beckham bag to her wardrobe – taking the white Quincy tote out on a royal visit in May, the first time she had been seen with it since 2016.

Then, earlier this year, it was claimed that Prince Harry called David, 48, accusing him and wife Victoria, 49, of story leaks.

It was reportedly an “awkward” conversation which left David “absolutely bloody furious”, and since then the Beckhams have appeared to further distance themselves from the Sussexes.

And according to Sarah, it’s a move that can only strengthen David’s friendship with Prince William and the King.

She said: “Perhaps by distancing himself from Harry and Meghan, it has helped David cement his relationships with William and the King. After all, he is due to meet with Charles for dinner soon. I think David has made it very clear whose side he is on.”

Meanwhile, Denise Palmer-Davies, a PR expert and director of celeb firm Borne, said David choosing an allegiance with William over Harry is a “shrewd move” – and one he “won’t regret.”

She told Fabulous: “David has made no secret of the fact he is a royalist. He has always got involved in royal linked projects, he sings the national anthem with pride and showed such respect when the Queen died.

“He is also a family man, and I think given his respect for the royals and all they stand for, he was probably quite shocked by some of the mud Harry has been slinging at them. It wouldn’t surprise me if David wanted to distance himself from Harry and Meghan – it seems wherever they go, drama follows and I can’t see David wanting to be part of that.

“Taking a step back from his relationship with Harry, all while further cementing his friendship with William, and now the King, is a shrewd move, and I think it could end up being the best decision he has ever made.

“There will be so many opportunities for David to get involved in royal linked charitable projects, and I can see the royals benefiting from his popularity.

“Staying friends with Harry is unlikely to be as straightforward, and as I said, comes with lots of unnecessary drama!”

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David and Victoria secured a coveted invitation to Harry’s royal wedding in 2018Credit: Getty

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Earlier this year, it was claimed that Prince Harry called David, 48, accusing him and wife Victoria, 49, of story leaksCredit: Getty

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One PR expert said David choosing an allegiance with William over Harry is a ‘shrewd move’Credit: Getty

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According to experts, David is keen to strengthen his friendship with Prince William and the KingCredit: Alamy

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The Princess of Wales is said to have a friendship with Victoria Beckham too

MEGHAN Markle is set to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham with the launch of her lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard.

The Duchess of Sussex unveiled her brand earlier this month with a video of her cooking and arranging flowers in her home.

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Meghan Markle launched her business American Riviera Orchard earlier this monthCredit: AP

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Experts have their doubts that the business will succeed and one insider said that would be the ‘ultimate revenge’ for Victoria BeckhamCredit: Getty

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The lifestyle brand is expected to sell homewareCredit: Instagram / Internet
But experts have warned that the business could flop – and according to one brand expert this would be the ultimate revenge for Victoria Beckham.

Prince Harry and David have enjoyed a close friendship over the years, but cracks have formed in the last few years.

The Duke of Sussex allegedly called David to accuse him and his wife Victoria of leaking stories, leaving the Beckham’s ‘furious.’

And according to Denise Palmer-Davies, Brand expert and Director at Borne Media, Meg’s business backfiring would be the ‘ultimate revenge’ for Victoria.

Denise explains that the market is a tough one to crack.

“While this could potentially be a lucrative business long term, she should be under no illusion that she will get success overnight,” she says.

“Victoria Beckham and Gwyneth Paltrow have spent years and years building their businesses and perfecting their brands.

“It is a difficult market to crack – even Victoria has had her obstacles – as it is so saturated.

“Meghan will need a very good marketing and financial team behind her to make this work and ultimately she needs to put in the graft. These days a business can’t survive on a name alone.

“I do wonder what Victoria might think of Meghan essentially tapping into her market. She might think there is enough room for them all and welcome the competition.
Meghan Markle is quietly plotting her ‘Momtrepreneur’ comeback – but she’ll only make it work with backing from A-list celebs, expert says
“But given their fall out, the sceptic in me wonders if she’d be secretly pleased if it did backfire. That would be the ultimate revenge wouldn’t it?”

According to a report from Page Six, Meghan’s company will focus on home, garden, food, and general lifestyle content.

The brand will reportedly sell a variety of home goods, such as cookbooks, foods, and kitchenware.

The source said: “She’s been working on this for over a year and it’s all the things that are close to her heart — all the things she’s passionate about.”

A trademark application for ‘American Riviera Orchard’ showed Meghan is planning to sell cutlery, decanters, legume-based spreads and even napkin rings.

While many have been skeptical about the business, not everyone is so concerned.

INSIDE THE BECKHAM-SUSSEX FEUD

Prince Harry and David have enjoyed a close friendship over the years, but cracks have formed in the last few years.

The Duke of Sussex allegedly called David to accuse him and his wife Victoria of leaking stories, leaving David ‘furious.’

David was also “snubbed” by Harry after flying for 22 hours from London to Sydney at the royal’s request, for the 2018 Invictus Games.

Cracks first started emerging in the pair’s friendship last spring when the former footballer invited Prince William and Kate to his son Brooklyn’s wedding – and not Harry and Meghan.

At the time, a source said: “David’s attachment and history go back with William and Kate and they have a very strong relationship and they were their choice of wedding guests. It was always about them, it was never about Meghan and Harry.

“They are the people David and Victoria are attached to and it’s always been about them because they’ve had a long history together.”

And perhaps it wasn’t a coincidence that after the apparent snub, Meghan, 42, seemingly stopped wearing Victoria’s designs – while Kate wore them more frequently.

She wore one of the designer’s dresses to an engagement in January and was spotted donning a pair of VB glasses at Wimbledon over the summer.

She even reintroduced a Victoria Beckham bag to her wardrobe – taking the white Quincy tote out on a royal visit in May, the first time she had been seen with it since 2016.

Since the Beckhams have appeared to further distance themselves from the Sussexes, a royal expert has claimed the move has strengthened David’s friendship with Prince William and the King.

Sarah Hewson, royal editor of Talk TV, said: “Perhaps by distancing himself from Harry and Meghan, it has helped David cement his relationships with William and the King. After all, he is due to meet with Charles for dinner soon. I think David has made it very clear whose side he is on.

“David is a self proclaimed royalist.

“He queued for 12 hours to see the Queen lying in State and he has worked with the royals on several charitable campaigns.”

Royal expert Jennie Bond says she thinks that American Riviera Orchard is a step in the right direction for The Duchess of Sussex.

She explains: “I think this is precisely what Meghan should be doing.

“She has a good track record in this field. Her blog The Tig was a commercial success long before she had the added cache of a royal title, so I think she deserves to be taken seriously.

“She is a clever woman and, as long as she is in charge, I think she has a good business head on her.

“It is, however, a very crowded field so she will have to come up with some innovative ideas and quality products to take on the competition.

“So far her Instagram account has attracted around half a million followers — which is surprisingly few – Trinny Woodall, for example has 1.3m – but she hasn’t really posted anything yet beyond a glossy trailer.

“I think she stands every chance of success in this. Thanks to marrying Harry, she now has a global platform which could prove extremely lucrative and help maintain the LA celebrity lifestyle that she and her husband seem to want.”

Sussexes respond to Kate’s diagnosis

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have wished Princess Kate “health and healing” after her shock cancer diagnosis.

But an insider claimed the couple “had no idea” Kate, 42, was undergoing treatment for cancer until she shared a brave video message on Friday evening.

Kate said the diagnosis had come as a “huge shock” – but vowed: “I am well and getting stronger every day”.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex released a short statement following the announcement.

The pair said: “We wish health and healing for Kate and the family and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace.”

It is understood the couple reached out to Kate and William after news broke of the mum-of-three’s diagnosis.

Kate informed the world about her shock diagnosis in a poignant video released at 6pm on Friday.

A source claims Harry, 39, and Meghan, 42, did not find out about Kate’s diagnosis until this time.

The insider told the New York Post: “They had no idea, and only learned of the news around the same time the rest of the world found out.”

On Friday, sitting in front of a field of daffodils, the princess shared she had cancer.

The 42-year-old said she had waited to break the news at a time best for her children Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5.

MEGHAN Markle is set to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Victoria Beckham with the launch of her lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard.

The Duchess of Sussex unveiled her brand earlier this month with a video of her cooking and arranging flowers in her home.

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Meghan Markle launched her business American Riviera Orchard earlier this monthCredit: AP

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Experts have their doubts that the business will succeed and one insider said that would be the ‘ultimate revenge’ for Victoria BeckhamCredit: Getty

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The lifestyle brand is expected to sell homewareCredit: Instagram / Internet
But experts have warned that the business could flop – and according to one brand expert this would be the ultimate revenge for Victoria Beckham.

Prince Harry and David have enjoyed a close friendship over the years, but cracks have formed in the last few years.

The Duke of Sussex allegedly called David to accuse him and his wife Victoria of leaking stories, leaving the Beckham’s ‘furious.’

And according to Denise Palmer-Davies, Brand expert and Director at Borne Media, Meg’s business backfiring would be the ‘ultimate revenge’ for Victoria.

Denise explains that the market is a tough one to crack.

“While this could potentially be a lucrative business long term, she should be under no illusion that she will get success overnight,” she says.

“Victoria Beckham and Gwyneth Paltrow have spent years and years building their businesses and perfecting their brands.

“It is a difficult market to crack – even Victoria has had her obstacles – as it is so saturated.

“Meghan will need a very good marketing and financial team behind her to make this work and ultimately she needs to put in the graft. These days a business can’t survive on a name alone.

“I do wonder what Victoria might think of Meghan essentially tapping into her market. She might think there is enough room for them all and welcome the competition.
Meghan Markle is quietly plotting her ‘Momtrepreneur’ comeback – but she’ll only make it work with backing from A-list celebs, expert says
“But given their fall out, the sceptic in me wonders if she’d be secretly pleased if it did backfire. That would be the ultimate revenge wouldn’t it?”

According to a report from Page Six, Meghan’s company will focus on home, garden, food, and general lifestyle content.

The brand will reportedly sell a variety of home goods, such as cookbooks, foods, and kitchenware.

The source said: “She’s been working on this for over a year and it’s all the things that are close to her heart — all the things she’s passionate about.”

A trademark application for ‘American Riviera Orchard’ showed Meghan is planning to sell cutlery, decanters, legume-based spreads and even napkin rings.

While many have been skeptical about the business, not everyone is so concerned.

INSIDE THE BECKHAM-SUSSEX FEUD

Prince Harry and David have enjoyed a close friendship over the years, but cracks have formed in the last few years.

The Duke of Sussex allegedly called David to accuse him and his wife Victoria of leaking stories, leaving David ‘furious.’

David was also “snubbed” by Harry after flying for 22 hours from London to Sydney at the royal’s request, for the 2018 Invictus Games.

Cracks first started emerging in the pair’s friendship last spring when the former footballer invited Prince William and Kate to his son Brooklyn’s wedding – and not Harry and Meghan.

At the time, a source said: “David’s attachment and history go back with William and Kate and they have a very strong relationship and they were their choice of wedding guests. It was always about them, it was never about Meghan and Harry.

“They are the people David and Victoria are attached to and it’s always been about them because they’ve had a long history together.”

And perhaps it wasn’t a coincidence that after the apparent snub, Meghan, 42, seemingly stopped wearing Victoria’s designs – while Kate wore them more frequently.

She wore one of the designer’s dresses to an engagement in January and was spotted donning a pair of VB glasses at Wimbledon over the summer.

She even reintroduced a Victoria Beckham bag to her wardrobe – taking the white Quincy tote out on a royal visit in May, the first time she had been seen with it since 2016.

Since the Beckhams have appeared to further distance themselves from the Sussexes, a royal expert has claimed the move has strengthened David’s friendship with Prince William and the King.

Sarah Hewson, royal editor of Talk TV, said: “Perhaps by distancing himself from Harry and Meghan, it has helped David cement his relationships with William and the King. After all, he is due to meet with Charles for dinner soon. I think David has made it very clear whose side he is on.

“David is a self proclaimed royalist.

“He queued for 12 hours to see the Queen lying in State and he has worked with the royals on several charitable campaigns.”

Royal expert Jennie Bond says she thinks that American Riviera Orchard is a step in the right direction for The Duchess of Sussex.

She explains: “I think this is precisely what Meghan should be doing.

“She has a good track record in this field. Her blog The Tig was a commercial success long before she had the added cache of a royal title, so I think she deserves to be taken seriously.

“She is a clever woman and, as long as she is in charge, I think she has a good business head on her.

“It is, however, a very crowded field so she will have to come up with some innovative ideas and quality products to take on the competition.

“So far her Instagram account has attracted around half a million followers — which is surprisingly few – Trinny Woodall, for example has 1.3m – but she hasn’t really posted anything yet beyond a glossy trailer.

“I think she stands every chance of success in this. Thanks to marrying Harry, she now has a global platform which could prove extremely lucrative and help maintain the LA celebrity lifestyle that she and her husband seem to want.”

Sussexes respond to Kate’s diagnosis

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have wished Princess Kate “health and healing” after her shock cancer diagnosis.

But an insider claimed the couple “had no idea” Kate, 42, was undergoing treatment for cancer until she shared a brave video message on Friday evening.

Kate said the diagnosis had come as a “huge shock” – but vowed: “I am well and getting stronger every day”.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex released a short statement following the announcement.

The pair said: “We wish health and healing for Kate and the family and hope they are able to do so privately and in peace.”

It is understood the couple reached out to Kate and William after news broke of the mum-of-three’s diagnosis.

Kate informed the world about her shock diagnosis in a poignant video released at 6pm on Friday.

A source claims Harry, 39, and Meghan, 42, did not find out about Kate’s diagnosis until this time.

The insider told the New York Post: “They had no idea, and only learned of the news around the same time the rest of the world found out.”

On Friday, sitting in front of a field of daffodils, the princess shared she had cancer.

The 42-year-old said she had waited to break the news at a time best for her children Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5.

Kate bravely said: “Having William by my side is a great source of comfort and reassurance too.

“As is the love, support and kindness that has been shown by so many of you. It means so much to us both.”

SOURCES in Germany say that Max Verstappen’s management team are having talks with Mercedes following this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.

Verstappen’s dad, Jos, and his manager, Raymond Vermeulen, are expected to meet the three owners of the F1 team; Toto Wolff, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius, and Ineos and Manchester United shareholder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

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Max Verstappen is set to hold talks with Mercedes after the Miami GPCredit: Reuters

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A meeting is set to take place with Verstappen’s team and senior Mercedes figures including Toto WolffCredit: Getty
Wolff has made no secret of the fact he would love to sign Verstappen as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement.

Verstappen, 26, is under contract at Red Bull until 2028.

But boss Christian Horner has said he will not stand in his way if he wants to quit.

Verstappen Sr has admitted they are considering the three-time champion’s options before the 2026 regulation change.

Speaking during the Rally de Wallonie, via RacingNews365, he said: “I think everyone wants him, only I think Max is right for the moment.

“He has a fast car, but we also have to look further to 2026, so we are letting everything come to us at the moment. We stay very calm and see what will happen.”

WHO COULD REPLACE HAMILTON AT MERCEDES?

Mercedes will have a vacant seat for 2025.

Here, SunSport’s F1 correspondent Ben Hunt looks at FIVE potential candidates who could replace him and partner George Russell in the Silver Arrows.

Oscar Piastri – McLaren have sewn up Lando Norris to a new long-term contract that should (in theory) put him out of Mercedes’ reach. However, they are yet to tie down his teammate Piastri, 22. The Aussie has an excellent record and won the Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles before spending a year on the sidelines with Alpine and getting his chance in F1 with McLaren. He impressed on his debut season last year and has the potential to be a world champion.

Daniel Ricciardo – The experienced driver’s future remains in doubt as he bides his time at Red Bull’s B-team. Ricciardo would be low-hassle and offer some stability but by that time he would be 35. It seems unlikely that they would opt for him at this point in his career, but if he has a good season this year, he could come into the reckoning.

Kimi Antonelli – You may not have heard of the Italian, but he is mustard. Still only 17, he has won at all the junior categories and has been part of the Mercedes young driver programme since 2019. This season he has been promoted from F4 to F2, where he has been tipped to shine. A good debut season in F2 could sway Mercedes into taking a risk on him for 2025. Antonelli and his family are close to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.

Mick Schumacher – Wolff has always been so incredibly supportive of Schumacher and spoken highly of him, that you’d at least expect him to come into consideration. He knows the team from his role as reserve driver and consequently would get up to speed. But speed is also the problem. He was shocking at Haas and if he really was THAT good, he’d still be driving in F1.

Alex Albon – A more-sensible choice would be the London-born Albon. A great guy who is also very quick. He has a fantastic relationship with Russell and would be the low-maintenance quick partnership similar to Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas that swept to successive titles. Albon would take little convincing to join from Williams and Mercedes would not need to pay him half of the £50million they were dishing out to Hamilton.

On talk of signing Verstappen, Wolff said in Shanghai, China: “There are so many factors that play a role for a driver joining.

“Clearly when you look at it from the most rational point of view, you can say: ‘That’s the quickest car in the hands of the quickest driver’. But I don’t think this is the only reason you stay where you are.

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“I think, for simple minds, that might be the only reason why you stay in a car and that’s it but maybe there are more depths for some people that consider other factors too. I think that Max has that.

“In that respect, are we able to convince him? I don’t think it’s a matter of convincing.
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“I think that Max knows motor racing better than anyone, he will take decisions that he feels are good for him.

“I think a few factors play a role, but he’s the one that is going to trigger some more domino stones to fall in afterward. Everybody is waiting for what he’s going to do.”

The Horner-storm which has surrounded the team has been cited as a key factor in reports suggesting car designer Adrian Newey could leave the team amid heavy links to Ferrari and Aston Martin.

The internal power struggle at the team also saw advisor Helmut Marko placed under investigation, which is said to have left Verstappen angered and ready to leave if Marko was axed.

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Jos Verstappen, right, has previously hinted at his son leaving Red BullCredit: PA

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Verstappen threw his support behind his dad and advisor Helmut Marko when the latter’s job appeared to be threatened earlier this seasonCredit: Getty

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Care designer Adrian Newey is said to have been left uncomfortable following the Christian Horner storm earlier this seasonCredit: PA
Verstappen said at the time: “I am loyal to Helmut.

“He is a big and important part in my decision making and important he stays within the team including everyone else.

“It is important we keep people together because if an important pillar falls away, that is not good for my career as well.

“So for me, Helmut has to stay. He has built this team with [Red Bull co-founder] Dietrich Mateschitz from day one and been loyal.

Inside track on Hamilton’s life

LEWIS HAMILTON has driven his way into pole position as Formula One’s most prolific winner.

The British speedster lives life in the fast lane both on and off the track, with a string of high-profile romances and jet-set lifestyle.

Hamilton made his name at McLaren and Mercedes but stunned the racing world by signing a £100million deal to join Ferrari for next season.

His exploits have seen him rub shoulders with Hollywood icon Brad Pitt but Lew snubbed the chance to feature in Top Gun 2.

And fans can follow his fortunes on the latest season of Netflix’s smash hit Drive To Survive.

Hamilton’s talent saw him go from humble origins in Stevenage to boasting an £11m car collection.

He joined celeb dating app Raya after splitting from Brazilian beauty Juliana Nalu.

And his exes are said to include Rita Ora, Rihanna and Nicole Scherzinger.

Hamilton was embroiled in a bitter feud with Nico Rosberg but the pair buried the hatchet to sport £35k watches they were given for FREE.

He also shared high-profile battles with Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel.

But his most shocking showdown saw Max Verstappen handed the World Championship over him by a controversial safety car decision.

The Brit is chasing a record eighth world title – the first of which came in 2008 and has seen Felipe Masa sue F1 for £62m after a crash saw him miss out.

Check out all our Lewis Hamilton articles here.

“You need to give the man respect for what he has done and that  comes back to loyalty and integrity and is important to why he stays part of the team.”

British racing icon Johnny Herbert then suggested a Verstappen-Mercedes deal was edging closer last month.

MERCEDES could break the bank with a record-breaking deal to sign F1 world champion Max Verstappen as Lewis Hamilton’s replacement.

Sources in Austria claim the F1 team are tabling a whopping £128MILLION-A-YEAR package to lure the three time world champion.

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Totto Wolf wants Max Verstappen at MercedesCredit: Getty

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The Red Bull star could replace Ferrari-bound Lewis HamiltonCredit: Splash
It comes after Red Bull Racing were rocked by the news that design whizz Adrian Newey is stepping back from his role in the team.

SunSport reported on Tuesday how Verstappen’s father Jos and his manager, Raymond Vermeulen, are expected to meet the three owners of the Merc F1 team.

That includes team boss Toto Wolff, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius, and Ineos and Manchester United shareholder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

The Verstappen camp have made it clear that they are assessing their options following their spectacular fallout with team boss Christian Horner.

It comes after an internal investigation where Horner was cleared of allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards a female colleague.

Verstappen’s father said in Bahrain that Horner’s position in control of the team was ripping it apart.

Horner responded that he would not stand in his driver’s way if he wanted to leave, despite having a contract worth over £40 million a year that runs until the end of 2028.

It means that Mercedes however, could be forced to stump up compensation for Verstappen, who is on course to win his fourth straight title this season.

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Wolff has made no secret of the fact that he would love to sign Verstappen and is close with the family and they both live in Monaco.

He is desperate to return the team to winning ways but has so far failed to see them muster a challenge.
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However, Wolff knows he faces a tough task in trying to convince the driver to leave Red Bull for Mercedes.

Verstappen has seen Mercedes produce three duds in succession, leading somewhat to Hamilton’s decision to quit, while Red Bull have delivered him three title-winning cars.

Consequently there is a high degree of risk in making the switch, which Mercedes are hoping to acknowledge with a substantial contract that comes loaded with bonuses.

Verstappen meanwhile has tried to distance himself from the speculation linking him with Mercedes.

However, he is likely to come in for some questioning about his future at this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix.