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Kike Hernandez previously played for the Dodgers on two separate occassions.

Kike Hernandez (L) and LeBron James (R) [Image via SI]

In the midst of the ongoing spring training, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue to make moves. The National League west side have now re-signed one of their former players Enrique ‘Kike’ Hernandez.

The fan-favorite is returning to the Dodger Stadium in California on a one-year, $4 million deal. The news of his move was broken out by none other than Hernandez himself.

The 32-year spent six season with the team before moving to the Boston Red Sox. He would later find his way back to the Dodgers in 2023 and spent the second half of the season with them. At the end of the campaign he became a free agent and entered the free agency market.

This move of Hernandez comes after the team traded away veteran outfielder Manuel Margot to the Minnesota Twins. In exchange of this, they received one of Twins’ top prospect Noah Miller.

With Margot now gone, this opened up space for Hernandez on the roster. He will now take the superutility role on the team. The 2020 World Series took to his X account to announce this decision and wrote:
Sources say….. I’m back!!! 1st to break news @myself

Kike Hernandez announcing his return to Dodgers on X.

Related: WATCH: “Send that ump to Mars,” Tyler Wilson EJECTED for bat flip after game-tying grand slam sparks huge controversy on social media

Social media reactions towards Kike Hernandez re-signing with Dodgers

While the news of Kike Hernandez re-joining the Dodgers has brought out several positive reactions, there have also been some wild reactions with comparisons of him with LeBron James. At the end of last season, speculations regarding the retirement of NBA great had emerged.

However, during the ESPY awards, the Lakers star squashed this talks and claimed he will be returning for his 21st season. This words from James have somehow made it’s way in conversations regarding Kike Hernandez as both posted several cryptic messages prior to their main announcement.
Kike Hernandez (Image via Sportsnet)
Hernandez would take to his Instagram stories and reshare his message during his exit from the team in 2021. This led to concerns among fans. However, in the next story, he revealed the truth regarding his future.

Fans on X have since then trolled him and claimed “You’re not LeBron buddy“. Check out some reactions regarding this below:

pic.twitter.com/jm6tJ4F1mx

— Nick Right (@DodgerDougan) February 26, 2024

Need to hear it from Passan first.

— The Skippers View (@TheSkippersView) February 26, 2024

While the fans had their say, Hernandez will now be looking forward for his third stint with the team. Despite undergoing a sports hernia surgery during the Winter in 2023, the Puerto Rican star will be available for selection on Opening Day in Seoul, South Korea when the Dodgers face off against the San Diego Padres.

Brandon Crawford, the three-time All-Star shortstop, joins the St. Louis Cardinals and is set to serve

Brandon Crawford (Image via foxsports)

The St. Louis Cardinals have recently made waves in the baseball community with their signing of three-time All-Star Brandon Crawford.

The 37-year-old shortstop is poised to take on the role of a backup behind 21-year-old rookie Masyn Winn, filling the void left by the uncertainty surrounding Tommy Edman’s recovery from wrist surgery.

As Edman remains sidelined, the Cardinals strategically sought experienced depth at shortstop. This led them to secure the services of Crawford. The deal is currently pending a physical examination, emphasizing the team’s cautious approach to finalizing the agreement.

The Cardinals’ proactive approach to addressing their infield needs reflects the team’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge. The front office acted swiftly to secure a seasoned player like Crawford as Edman’s return timetable was uncertain.

Having spent his entire 13-year major-league career with the San Francisco Giants, Crawford brings a wealth of experience. His key contributions to the Giants’ World Series victories in 2012 and 2014 are noteworthy. However, it’s essential to note that Crawford’s performance saw a decline in 2022, with injuries limiting his appearances.
Related: WATCH: “Send that ump to Mars,” Tyler Wilson EJECTED for bat flip after game-tying grand slam sparks huge controversy on social media

Fan reactions to the situation

The announcement of Brandon Crawford’s move to the St. Louis Cardinals has triggered mixed emotions among fans, particularly those who have witnessed his impactful tenure with the San Francisco Giants.

Cardinals got a fucking retirement goin on in their locker room.

One fan said
Brandon Crawford (Image via eastbaytimes)
At 37 years old, Crawford’s transition marks a significant chapter in his illustrious career, bidding farewell to the team where he played a pivotal role in securing two World Championships.

As fans grapple with the bittersweet nature of Crawford’s departure, sentiments range from nostalgia to anticipation. While some may find it emotional to see Crawford don a different uniform, it’s crucial to celebrate his achievements and wish him success in his continued baseball journey.

The Major League contract with the Cardinals provides Crawford with a platform to showcase his skills unless unforeseen circumstances lead to a different outcome. Sharing a wide spectrum of reactions online, here’s what fans have to say:

In terms of performance, Crawford faced challenges during the 2023 season with the Giants. His batting average dipped to .194, and his overall offensive output declined.

However, his defensive prowess remained commendable, earning him three consecutive Gold Glove awards. Now, as Crawford joins the Cardinals, expectations for his offensive production should be tempered.

The team is relying on his leadership and defensive expertise to complement the young talent on the roster, recognizing the value he brings beyond his offensive statistics.

As Crawford embarks on this new chapter, fans can look forward to witnessing his contributions both on and off the field.

Shohei Ohtani will likely bat in second spot between Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman in the upcoming games

Dave Roberts (L) Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani (R) [Image via LA Times/X]

The MLB world on Tuesday finally got to see Shohei Ohtani appear in the colors of Los Angeles Dodgers. The Japanese star made his first start of the Spring training as his side faced the Chicago White Sox in the Cactus League game.

Ohtani’s day did not start off as he anticipated as he got struck out looking and then collected a groundout. With him down to his last pitch in the fifth inning, the 29-year-old smacked a two-run bomb leaving the fans happy. His manager Dave Roberts seemed happy with his performance but later dropped a bold take regarding him and his teammate Freddie Freeman.

Before the game, many expected Ohtani to bat in third position after Mookie Betts and Freeman. However, manager Roberts placed him between the two stars in second with the former Atlanta Braves star batting third.

Roberts later revealed that this was done in order to protect Ohtani.

If you’re looking at the DNA of the two hitters, Shohei is more of a free swinger than Freddie is. If you have somebody like Freddie behind him ... there’s also a chance they should be in the strike zone a little more ... Freddie is the biggest presence for protection behind Shohei.

Dave Roberts on Shohei Ohtani batting ahead of Freddie Freeman as per LA Times.
The 2023 AL MVP did not seem much bothered by the decision and admitted he was looking forward to see how it will work out. Just like Ohtani, fans are also eagerly waiting to see what kind of impact will this bring on the team.

We can get used to this. pic.twitter.com/axOJFc6TCF

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 27, 2024

Related: “Got a f****** retirement going on in their locker room” – Fans BLAST Cardinals as they acquire veteran shortstop Brandon Crawford from free agency

Social media reactions to Shohei Ohtani’s debut with LA Dodgers

Baseball fans on social media have been buzzing with Shohei Ohtani’s Dodgers debut since he penned down a massive $700 million deal. Though things did not start of well for him, he ended the day on top with a massive two-run opposite field home run.
Shohei Ohtani (Image via Imago)
This two-run shot from him saw the team bring down the White Sox’s lead to one. They would eventually go on and complete the comeback and walk away as 9-6 winners.

One user on X, awestruck with his performance wrote, “The Greatest Sho on earth” as a reference to him being called “Sho“. A section of fans was stunned with his power to pull the ball to the other side of the field. Apart from it there were some trolls as well, as some were not too pleased like the others.

Here are some top reactions of fans regarding Ohtani’s debut with the Dodgers:

THE GREATEST SHO ON EARTH

— Gray Williams (@graywilliamss) February 27, 2024

Dodgers fans seeing Ohtani in blue pic.twitter.com/h6RqpksAOF

— DraftKings (@DraftKings) February 27, 2024

HATERS MAD AHAHAHA

— JC (@jcwrld05) February 27, 2024

Dude bombed opposite field homerun off inside the plate, thats a pop up for any other player

— Kode (@kode_69) February 27, 2024

Stat padding against washed relievers

— dylan (@sfgsalsa2) February 27, 2024

Yall really posted about his homer 4 times?

— CCG ALTON (@CCGALTON) February 27, 2024

Against the White Sox doesn’t count I’m afraid

— Jonny’s Lasagna ⚾️ (@JLasagna43) February 27, 2024

White Sox should be allowed to defer that homerun to the next game.

— Matt (@RbiTriples) February 27, 2024

😔 as a Giants fan… pic.twitter.com/w7mvSiol2i

— C-Train Station! Sports Commentary/Analysis (@ctrainstation) February 27, 2024

pic.twitter.com/ACLC7Icacn

— Spokane Indians (@spokaneindians) February 27, 2024

2024 World Series champs confirmed!!!

— Jacob Paris (@JP_Vs_The_Wrld) February 27, 2024

The Dodgers are now still unbeaten in the Spring training. Their next game will see them face off the 2023 World Series winners Texas Rangers on Thursday. Whether Ohtani will take part in that game remains to be seen.

Kike Hernandez has opened up about why he choose the LA Dodgers over the NY Yankees in the offseason.

Kike Hernandez (Image via Sportsnet)

Kike Hernandez, the prominent utility player of the Los Angeles Dodgers is now back in South California for his third stint. The 32-year-old re-joined the team on a one-year, $4 million deal from free agency. He has now revealed the reason why he joined the Dodgers despite being “intrigued‘ by the New York Yankees.

These two teams have been super active in the offseason while actively bolstering their squad ahead of the 2024 season. Hernandez was one option that was explored by both sides.

In the end it, came to the player’s decision. Hernandez would choose the Dodgers and announce his return on social media. During an interview with Foul Territory, he explained how the National League team has more left-hand hitters and he knew them more than the Yanks.

I chose the Dodgers because they have a lot of left-handed hitters. Obviously, I have familiarity... The main reason was they were able to guarantee me to start at least against left-handed pitchers to start the year.

Kike Hernandez on why he choose the Dodgers on Foul Territory.

Kike Hernandez blasts free-agency market as several stars still struggle to find teams

The offseason in the MLB this year has produced mixed results. While several huge contracts have been offered to top stars, some big names are still waiting for a new team. Kike Hernandez has now blasted the free-agency market.
Kike Hernandez while playing for the LA Dodgers (Image via Sports Illustrated)
The Puerto Rican star was one of the players looking for a club in the offseason after becoming a free agent. In his conversation with the Foul Territory, he explained how long and slow the process had gone and claimed it was a “shame” that some of the best players are still not signed.

It’s been terrible. There’s still a lot of really good quality baseball players... and the fact that they’re still out there, it’s a shame.

Kike Hernandez on free agent market on Foul Territory.

The system is broken and parity along with it.

— Stony (@spillthewhine) March 1, 2024

Hernandez also alluded teams of collusion during the offseason. This strong claim from him comes after he informed that every team presented the same numbers (deal) to him.

Some of the established free agents that are still without a team are Jordan Montgomery, J.D Martinez and Blake Snell. In this list, the biggest shock comes from Snell.

The 2023 National League Cy Young Award winner has been on the crosshair of the Yankees for quite a while. However, the two parties are finding it difficult to come to a common target and thus agree a deal. With the start of March, the Opening Day is getting closer with no solution in near sight for these free agents. How much long will it take them to land a deal, is something fans are now worried about.

What Is Reba McEntire’s Net Worth and How Much Does She Make on ‘The Voice’? Here Are All the Deets

It should come as no surprise that Reba McEntire’s net worth is sky-high. (Well, $95 million, to be exact.)

Throughout her decades-long career, the Queen of Country, 68, has sold over 90 million records worldwide, earning three Grammys and 19 Academy of Country Music Awards along the way. Not to mention her Emmy-nominated sitcom, Reba, which ran for six seasons. And the singer was chosen to sing the National Anthem at the 2024 Super Bowl.

To top it off, it was announced last year that McEntire would join season 24 of The Voice, alongside Gwen Stefani, Niall Horan and John Legend. While speaking with USA Today about her experience so far, she said, “You always want to learn new things. That was what was so much fun sitting and listening to the other coaches, what they would say to the contestants. It just made it very interesting to apply to my own career, because you’re always looking for advice yourself.”

Not surprisingly, McEntire coached her first team like a pro and will return for season 25 on February 26—and we imagine that with her coaching gig her net worth will soar even higher. But how exactly did the country singer earn her fortune? And how much does McEntire make on The Voice? Keep reading for details on Reba McEntire’s net worth.

Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images

1. What Is Reba McEntire’s Net Worth in 2024?

According to Celebrity Net Worth, McEntire is worth an estimated $95 million. Not too shocking, since she’s one of the greatest country artists of all time.

John Shearer/Getty Images

2. How Much Did Reba Make from Her Music?

Her exact earnings from album sales haven’t been made public, but we do know that the Oklahoma native has released 32 studio albums—27 of which are certified gold. She also scored 13 number one albums on Billboard’s Top Country Albums, and 106 of her singles have made it to Billboard’s Hot Country Songs. But if you think that’s impressive, just wait until you hear about her live shows.

To date, the “I’m a Survivor” singer has headlined at least 23 tours, sharing the stage with artists like Kelly Clarkson, Martina McBride and Brad Paisley. Her profits are unknown, but we do know that in 2013, she earned $300,000 after performing at the New York State Fair, making her one of the highest-paid acts.

While it’s tough to estimate her earnings, we can safely assume that McEntire made a pretty penny, given the massive success of her live shows. For instance, McEntire extended her most recent tour, Reba: Live in Concert, due to a string of sold out shows in 2022.

She told Live Nation Entertainment, “I am very grateful we’re continuing this tour on into 2023. I’ve had so much fun being back out on the road and doing what I love to do most, entertaining people. And now getting to headline places like Madison Square Garden and bring my buddies Terri Clark and The Isaacs with me? Well, that’s just the extra icing on an already triple-layered, stuffed and filled, iced and frosted cake!”

TYLER GOLDEN/NBC/GETTY IMAGES

3. How Much Does She Make on The Voice?

Her salary hasn’t been made public, but in 2016, The Wrap reported that country star Blake Shelton was making about $13 million per season as a coach, after being on the show for ten seasons. Given that his replacement, McEntire, is a country icon who has already appeared on the series several times, we’d assume that she’s making at least $13 million as her starting salary.

4. How Much Did She Make from Her TV Shows?

According to The Wall Street Journal, McEntire was new to the small screen when she landed her own sitcom, Reba, and it was reflected in her paychecks during the show’s earlier seasons. Her co-stars reportedly made $100,000 per episode while she earned less, but her salary most likely increased significantly over time.

Although the show came to an end after season six, McEntire and her co-stars are still entitled to a percentage of syndication profits, which means she’s now earning extra bucks from those reruns. Plus, in addition to Reba, she landed lead roles in Malibu Country and Big Sky. You may have also spotted the star’s guest appearances in sitcoms like Young Sheldon, Baby Daddy and Working Class.

Casey Durkin/NBC/Getty Images

5. How Much Will Reba McEntire Get Paid for the Super Bowl?

McEntire will not get paid to sing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl. In fact, none of the artists receive a paycheck for their participation—including the Halftime performers.

Back in 2016, NFL spokesperson Joanna Hunter told Forbes, “We do not pay the artists. We cover expenses and production costs.”

Gety Images

6. What About Her Real Estate?

Per Variety, McEntire and her ex-husband, Narvel Blackstock, purchased a 9,000-square-foot Beverly Hills mansion for $9 million in 2003. In 2015, she sold the lavish estate for a whopping $22.5 million.

Additionally, according to Taste of Country, the singer sold another stunning waterfront property for $5 million in 2017. The buyer, a Nashville businessman named Deron Lichte, has since turned it into a venue called the Estate at Cherokee Dock.

7. Is It True That She Runs a Restaurant?

Call her the Jill of all Trades, because yes, she’s also a restaurant owner.

The singer officially launched Reba’s Place—a three-story restaurant, bar and entertainment venue—in January 2023. Naturally, the menu is inspired by McEntire’s own life, including items like beef steak, slow-smoked brisket and Nashville hot chicken.

According to Southern Living, the first floor includes the restaurant, bar and stage for live performances. Meanwhile, the second floor has private rooms for parties and a wrap-around balcony, and the third floor has the official store for merchandise.

The restaurant is pretty new, so there haven’t been any reports of earnings just yet. Still, it looks like McEntire is well on her way to multiplying her fortune.

Shohei Ohtani on Thursday announced on social media that he has gotten married

Hideki Matsui (L) and Shohei Ohtani (R) [Image via Pinstripe Alley/Imago]

The baseball world is still trying to come to terms about the recent announcement regarding Shohei Ohtani. The Los Angeles Dodgers’ star shocked the sports fraternity with the announcement of his marriage. This has now brought up an interesting theory on whether he followed in the footsteps of New York Yankees’ great Hideki Matsui?

It is no secret that Matsui was someone he had looked up while growing up. When Ohtani was still mastering his skills as a youngster, Matsui and his fellow countrymen Ichiro Suzuki were the biggest Japanese names in MLB. A reason this conversation has now come up is due to the fact that Matsui did something similar in his career.

Prior to the start of the 2008 season, the two-time All-Star surprised the world with his sudden marriage. Just like Ohtani, he would not disclose the details of his wife. He would instead hold a press conference and display a hand-drawn sketch of his bride.

Matsui’s announcement back in the day took everyone by surprise, the same way it has done with Ohtani. However, the person most stunned by it was Yankees captain Derek Jeter.

The two teammates had made a bet on who would marry first. The now Hall of Famer believed the Japanese star had swindled on his bet to get money from him.

That’s not hilarious, that’s sad, that’s real sad. If he wanted the money, all he had to do was ask. He didn’t really have to do it.

Derek Jeter on Hideki Matsui secret marriage as per NY Post.
So did Ohtani had a bet with something like this? The answer to this huge question can only be answered by him when he finally decides to disclose the secret about his marriage.

Shohei Ohtani’s wife continues to be a mystery

Ever since the announcement by Shohei Ohtani, fans are having only one thing in mind, Who is his wife? The mystery around his bride continues to prevail, leaving several people puzzled about his private life.
Shohei Ohtani (Image via CNN)
As of now, the only information regarding his wife is that she is a “Normal Japanese woman” who is “very special” to him and that they have known each other for a while. Apart from this, no more information such as her name or when did they get married has not been made public yet.

The 29-year-old is known for keeping his personal life private on social media. Only during the 2023 AL MVP award announcement did the world find out about his pet dog, Decoy. As per reports, he will reveal the identity of his wife in the near future.

In the face of a knee injury setback, Ronald Acuña Jr.’s concise social media reassurance signals his determination

Ronald Acuna Jr. (Image via CNN)

The Atlanta Braves, a powerhouse in Major League Baseball, are currently facing a wave of concern from their devoted fan base as their $18 million worth star, Ronald Acuna Jr. grapples with a minor knee issue during spring training. Αссоrdіng tо а rероrt bу Justіn Тоsсаnо іn Тhе Αtlаntа Jоurnаl-Соnstіtutіоn, аn МRІ hаs rеvеаlеd іrrіtаtіоn іn thе mеnіsсus оf Αсunа rіght knее.

As a precautionary measure, the 26-year-old plans to consult with a doctor in Los Angeles. Despite these developments, the Braves organization remains optimistic, expecting Acuna to be fully ready for the Opening Day clash against the Philadelphia Phillies on March 28.

The talented outfielder’s addressed the situation regarding his health to the fans in the form of a concise three-word message on social media – “I’ll be back.” This simple statement carries significant weight for Braves supporters eagerly anticipating Acuna return to the field.

Acuna Jr. will be entering his seventh MLB season this year after coming off from a stellar MVP campaign in 2023. He batted with a line of .337/.416/.596 with 41 home runs and 73 stolen bases in 159 games. The Braves, with aspirations of securing their third consecutive 100-win season, are keen on Acuna’s swift recovery.
Related: “I don’t forget a lot of things,” Yankees ace Gerrit Cole ANNOYED by Daniel Vogelbach’s slow HR trot in Spring training game

Ronald Acuna Jr. slams fan preaching to play baseball in ‘right way’

As Ronald Acuna Jr. faced a lot of questions from fans and the MLB community about his knee health, one incident gathered a different attention on social media. After the 26-year-old posted his reassuring message, a fan took the opportunity to preach about the ‘right way‘ to play baseball.
Ronald Acuña Jr. ( Image via Imago )
This prompted a robust response from the Braves’ MVP, who wasn’t inclined to take the unsolicited advice lightly. In a curt yet impactful reply, Acuna highlighted his achievements, stating, “Last year I played winter too and won an MVP, why didn’t you say something?”

This retort refers to his practice of playing winter ball in his home country of Venezuela, a tradition he upholds to stay in peak physical condition during the offseason and contribute to his community. Despite concerns surrounding his offseason activities and injury history, Acuna Jr. dedication to the sport has yielded remarkable results.

In the 2023 season, he made history by becoming the first MLB player to achieve at least 40 home runs and 70 stolen bases in a single campaign. This not only solidifies Acuna position as a formidable player but also underscores his potential as a role model for aspiring young ballplayers.

Ronald Acuna Jr.’s journey through a knee injury remains a focal point for Braves fans and the broader baseball community. His commitment to recovery and his stellar track record contribute to a sense of optimism surrounding his return to the field ahead of the 2024 season.

IMAGO / Laci Perenyi

Sergio Perez learned his lesson last season and is unwilling to go down that path anymore, as per Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko. The Austrian in his recent interview with SpeedWeek stated that the Mexican driver will no longer be experimenting with his car in 2024. This change in attitude has come after the 34-year-old struggled massively against Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen last year after he made several changes to the set-up of his car.

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Speaking about the same, Marko said, “This year he [Sergio Perez] is no longer experimenting, but is starting with more or less the same basic set-up as Max. It’s just more nuances in which they set up differently.”

Perez was keen to challenge Verstappen for the title last year but came up massively short. Despite finishing second in the championship with 285 points, Perez only managed less than half the tally of what Verstappen scored (575). As a result, rumors were rampant that Perez may lose his Red Bull seat if he failed to salvage the season with a P2 finish.

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Only since the Mexican managed to secure second in the championship last year, it is believed that Red Bull decided to stick with him in 2024. However, since the 34-year-old is currently in his fourth season with the Austrian team, he cannot afford any more slip-ups.

So far he seems to have begun the 2024 campaign on a positive note as he has finished second in both the opening two races. However, since he is still struggling massively to match Verstappen, there is still a chance that Red Bull might replace him next year.

Red Bull not short of options if they choose to replace Sergio Perez

Red Bull do seem to have a strong talent pool in case they choose to replace Sergio Perez in 2025. Apart from current Visa Cash App RB drivers Yuki Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo, Red Bull also have Liam Lawson as an option.

The New Zealander was mightily impressive during his short cameo last year, and as a result of his performances, many have tipped him to get a seat in F1 sooner rather than later. In case Red Bull decide to look for alternatives outside their two teams, they can also consider Carlos Sainz, who will be leaving Ferrari at the end of the 2024 season.

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However, since Tsunoda and Ricciardo are the ones who are currently driving in the junior team this year, it will most likely be a straight fight between the two if Red Bull do want to replace Perez. The Australian has made it clear that returning to Red Bull Racing is his sole goal at the moment.

Meanwhile, Tsunoda, who has now raced with Visa Cash App RB (formerly AlphaTauri) for four seasons now, would like to race for a top side at the earliest as well. Since most of the talks in recent times have been about who will replace Sergio Perez in 2025, the pressure is indeed massively on the Mexican to prove himself this year if he wants to retain his seat.

In a recent post on social media, boxing legend Mike Tyson melted hearts as he sent out a wave of special wishes, endearing himself further to fans worldwide. The former heavyweight champion, known for his ferocity in the ring, showcased a softer side with his heartfelt message.

Tyson’s post, which quickly gained traction online, featured him extending warm wishes to individuals celebrating various milestones, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and achievements. His genuine words resonated deeply with followers, who were touched by his kindness and sincerity.

Beyond his prowess in boxing, Tyson’s ability to connect with people on a personal level has solidified his status as a beloved figure. His humility and compassion shine through, reminding fans that behind the tough exterior lies a compassionate soul. The overwhelming positive response to Tyson’s gesture underscores the enduring impact of small acts of kindness, especially in today’s digital age. In a world often characterized by negativity, Tyson’s message serves as a beacon of hope and positivity, inspiring others to spread joy and goodwill.

As Tyson continues to engage with fans through social media, his latest display of warmth and empathy further cements his legacy as not just a sports icon, but also a beacon of positivity and compassion in the hearts of millions.

Australia’s birthday boy Tai Tuivasa has suffered a round-one submission defeat to Marcin Tybura in their heavyweight UFC showdown in Las Vegas.

Tuivasa, who turned 31 on fight night, entered Saturday’s bout (Sunday AEDT) ranked ninth in the world and keen to get back on the winners’ list following three straight losses.

But he was no match for Poland’s world No.9 Tybura, who was left bloodied after copping some early blows but gained the advantage when he tackled Tuivasa to the ground.

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Tai Tuivasa was submitted in round one against Marcin Tybura in their heavyweight showdown

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The Aussie cult hero has now not notched up a victory since February 2022 in the UFC

Tybura rained a flurry of blows on Tuivasa once the pair hit the canvas, but it was a rear naked chokehold that brought about the Australian’s undoing.

Tuivasa fought for breath as he struggled against the chokehold for as long as he could, but the referee stopped the bout with 53 seconds remaining in the first round.

‘I feel awesome,’ Tybura said after the win.

‘I got a win over a very strong opponent. Fights like these make me very happy.’

The loss is a huge blow to Tuivasa’s hopes of climbing his way back up the heavyweight rankings.

Tuivasa’s last win in the UFC octagon was in February 2022, when he beat Derrick Lewis in a second-round knockout.

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Tybura was left bloodied after copping some early blows but soon gained the advantage

Since then, the man known as ‘Bam Bam’ has lost to world No.2 Ciryl Gane, world No.3 Sergei Pavlovich, world No.6 Alexander Volkov – and now Tybura.

Fellow Australian Josh Culibao also endured a disappointing result in Las Vegas, losing his featherweight bout by split decision against US fighter Danny Silva.

The judges scored the three-round battle 29-28, 28-29, 29-28.