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Nicola Peltz Beckham first started dating Brooklyn Beckham in late 2019, with the couple officially announcing their relationship on the ‘gram in early 2020.

In those early days relationship snaps, Peltz, who’s just made her directorial debut with the upcoming drama Lola, was a vision of American style – casual tees, hoodies and thanks to her modelling work, the occasional show-stopping red carpet gown.

As the 29-year-old has grown ever closer to her husband’s family though, her style has undergone something of a transformation – with her fashion designer mother-in-law seemingly influencing everything from her hair to her premiere attire.

The sartorial stars haven’t always aligned for mother and daughter-in-law – remember that very awkward wedding dress conversation?

When Brooklyn and Nicola wed in 2022, the heiress – her mother and father, Nelson and Claudia Peltz, are said to be worth a cool $2.7billion – wore a stunning couture Valentino dress.

Chanelling VB! Nicola Peltz Beckham wore a custom Victoria Beckham outfit to the premiere of her latest project, Lola, last week – donning a white, corset top and low-waisted, white trousers with Victoria’s trademark flare

Victoria Beckham’s love of a white suit goes back to her Posh Spice days; and her daughter-in-law has clearly taken some style notes…wearing a VB corset and and flared leg trouser to the premiere of Lola last week

The classic white suit, here double breasted, has featured as a go-to throughout the designer’s career

Victoria Beckham dances to Spice Girls with Brooklyn and Nicola

But it wasn’t supposed to be that way. It was widely expected before the wedding that the bride-to-be would glide down the aisle in a gown made by her mother-in-law to be – Mrs VB.

However, the dress didn’t materialise, with the pop star-turned-designer apparently too busy to whip up a bridal dress.

Two years on, however, the pair appear to be getting on like a house on fire.

At the star-studded Lola premiere in Los Angeles last weekend, the family members posed in a stylish embrace for the awaiting paparazzi, with Nicola wearing an outfit by, you guessed it, Victoria Beckham.

Nicola was also joined on her big night by Brooklyn and close friend Selena Gomez.

On Instagram, Victoria posted that she ‘could not be more proud’ – and referenced that Nicola was head-to-toe in ‘custom #VictoriaBeckham’.

Clearly putting any fashion fracas behind them, the pair’s close relationship is increasingly reflected in Nicola’s current wardrobe.

The actress, model and director has, in recent years, adopted some of Victoria’s trademark looks, including adopting a more monochrome wardrobe, sporting leather and wearing her hair in a shade of deep, glossy chestnut. It’s all very Victoria Beckham.

An early Instagram photo of Brooklyn and Nicola, after they first started dating in 2019; Nicole’s sartorial style has been influenced by her fashion designer in-law

Brunettes have more fun? Both Nicola and Victoria have experimented with blonde hair…but are currently firmly brunette

Homage to a 90s statement? David and Victoria Beckham famously donned matching leather in 1999 at the Versace party, and nearly a quarter of a century later, their daughter-in-law offered up her take

The former pop star has always loved a baseball cap – often with the Yankees logo – teemed with a casual black vest and lycra

If the cap fits; Nicola’s casual attire also nods at Victoria’s trademark cap and vest look

The fashion powerhouse told Vanity Fair last week that her 90s looks have now caught the eye of her Gen-Z kids and their partners, with Nicole seemingly a particular fan.

She said: ‘It’s funny because the ‘90s have made such a comeback fashionwise, the kids are asking for some of our pieces from then.

‘A few years ago, we did sell a lot of our wardrobes for charity, but the kids cannot believe what we sold!’

Last week, Nicola shared ‘after party’ pics showing her in a sleek leather jacket and wearing shades – perhaps an homage David and Victoria’s famous biker jacket look at the Versace party in 1999.

Victoria is partial to a little pink – including a dress in her latest collection. And Nicola has also worn the shade from time to time (Pictured at a Wendy’s celebration of the Strawberry Frosty)

When she’s not rocking a sharp suit, Victoria’s casual attire often keeps to block colours, with simple accessories such as baseball caps.

The mother-of-four has been frequently seen through the decades in a Yankees cap, often teemed with lycra and a simple black vest.

And sure enough, Nicole is also a fan of a vest and cap look, sharing a photo on her Insta recently showing her wearing just that, and holding the family’s adorable white chihuahua.

When it comes to colour, like Victoria, Nicola has become increasingly averse to it for everyday looks, sticking with reliable neutrals.

However, the red carpet and big photo shoots occasionally call for a bold pop of colour, and Victoria has pale pinks in her collection this season, including a Cami Floor-Length Dress in Rosa.

What’s clear is that both women are now on the same page when it comes to fashion, which is probably the secret to their increasingly warm relationship.

Reba McEntire Reveals The Surprising Way She Communicates With Dolly Parton

Reba McEntire revealed the best way to contact Dolly Parton during a recent interview: via fax. McEntire spoke with Dave…

Reba McEntire; Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images, Dolly Parton; Photo by Andrew Wendowski

Reba McEntire revealed the best way to contact Dolly Parton during a recent interview: via fax.

McEntire spoke with Dave Cobb, a Grammy Award-winning producer and host of Southern Accents Radio on Apple Music Country back on Apr. 30, sharing how she got in touch with Parton to ask her to sing an updated version of the duet, “Does He Love You?” on her 2021 album, Revived Remixed Revisited.

“I can’t even imagine making that phone call for Dolly to be on [“Does He Love You?”], let alone singing with Dolly Parton,” Cobb said.

“Well, you don’t call Dolly, you fax her. And you fax your people and your people talk to her people,” McEntire shared. The “Fancy” singer went on to say that fax is the “only way [she] knows to get ahold of [Parton].”

“[Fax is] the only way I know to get ahold of [Dolly],” McEntire said. “I even asked Kenny Rogers one time, I said, ‘Do you have Dolly’s cell number?’ He said, ‘No.’ So you fax her,” she explained.
Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire; Photo Courtesy Reba
McEntire sang the “Jolene” singer’s praises, calling Parton “bighearted” and “different than anybody [she’s] ever met.”

“[Dolly] did tell me one time that she gets up early in the morning and she writes. She writes every day. But Dolly is different than anybody I’ve ever met, whether they’re in the business or not. She’s so creative, so witty, so spunky, so feisty. And biggest hearted person I’ve ever met in my life, and I’ve met some bighearted people,” McEntire revealed.

“But she’s a giver and I don’t know, I’m in awe of Dolly. I’m not intimidated, it’s just, I’m in awe of her. She’s just… I don’t know. I put her out there sometimes, God’s little sister because she helps so many people and takes care of so many people. It’s just like an angel on earth. I really respect her a lot,” she added.

In addition, McEntire and Cobb discussed her album, My Chains Are Gone, which features an array of the singer’s favorite hymns and gospel songs as well as preparations around her Oklahoma-based restaurant, Reba’s Place, and the late Merle Haggard’s influence on her singing with her siblings.

McEntire said she and her siblings had a country band at their high school and performed Haggard’s song, “Okie From Muskogee” during a 4-H club talent show. She also cited her faith as helping her cope with being homesick while on the road.

Additionally, McEntire shared she hopes her latest venture, Reba’s Place will open in the fall in Atoka, Oklahoma. Reba’s Place is a combination restaurant, bar, live music venue, and retail store.

The country singer formed the restaurant in partnership with the Choctaw nation of Oklahoma and the city of Atoka. She first revealed her plans to open a restaurant while on stage in Oklahoma back in 2021.

Her soon-to-open restaurant is not McEntire’s only venture. The singer is working with Harper Celebrate, an imprint of book publisher HarperCollins Focus, to release a lifestyle book, which is due out in Fall 2023.

Reba McEntire’s Boyfriend, Rex Linn, Praises Her ‘Brilliant’ Acting In ‘Big Sky’ And ‘The Hammer’

“She doesn’t stop moving,” Linn said of McEntire.

Rex Linn, Reba McEntire; Photo via Instagram

Reba McEntire’s boyfriend of two years, Rex Linn, is praising the country star on her ability to maintain her steady stream of acting gigs while also staying on top of her prominent music career and showing no signs of slowing down.

“She doesn’t stop moving,” Linn said of McEntire in TV Guide Magazine’s 2023 Preview issue (via TV Insider). “I’m telling you, man, she’s like a great white shark. Can’t stop or they’ll die in the water. [Laughs] At least that’s what the scientists tell us.”
Rex Linn, Reba McEntire in Big Sky; Photo Courtesy ABC
Linn continued to speak highly of McEntire’s work on set, claiming she is “brilliant” and “can look at a page of dialogue for five minutes and she’s ready to go.”

McEntire also stressed that she is having “a blast” working alongside her boyfriend as co-stars in several of their on-screen roles including the new Lifetime movie, The Hammer, and ABC’s Western crime thriller Big Sky: Deadly Trails. 

“Every scene was fun for me because I was working with her, and I mean that,” Linn added. “We’ll wink at each other in the middle of a scene.”
Reba, Rex Linn; Photo Courtesy Big Sky
Their relationship continues to thrive in the same setting that first brought them together. McEntire and Linn first met in 1991 when they met while working on the movie, The Gambler Returns with Kenny Rogers.

During this time, their friendship blossomed, but their romantic connection didn’t come to the surface until January of 2020 when they reunited on the set of the popular TV show, Young Sheldon. Things started to fall into place for the couple until the pandemic hit and they were forced to give long distance a try.
Rex Linn, Reba McEntire; Photo By ABC
McEntire previously shared with PEOPLE that they maintained their budding relationship by utilizing the power of technology. Since they couldn’t talk in person, they began to facetime “four to five times a day.”

“He was in Los Angeles, and I was in Oklahoma because my Mama had just died,” she says. “We didn’t get to see each other from March to June, but we’d talk over Zoom and FaceTime four to five times each day. We created a bond and an intimacy that was getting to know each other without being physical.”

Now that they are back together in person, McEntire and Linn have found that they are closer than ever, especially when playing the roles of husband and wife in the latest season of Big Sky.

In The Hammer, Linn will embrace his role that can be characterized as “a mysterious cowboy with unknown motives,” and the “Fancy” singer will portray the Nevada traveling judge Kimberly Wanker, which Linn says is “perfect for her.”

“She’s a kind, caring person but a little spitfire. I just fell in love with the character,” McEntire told the outlet about her powerful character.

Big Sky will return on Wednesday (Jan. 4) at 10/9c on ABC, and The Hammer is set to premiere Saturday (Jan. 7) at 8/7c on Lifetime.

On March 9, Reba McEntire will keep the momentum going when she kicks off the extended run of Reba: Live In Concert tour with special guests Terri Clark and The Isaacs.

It’s True: Reba McEntire Turned Down A Leading Role In The Legendary ‘Titanic’ Movie

“I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason,” Reba says of turning down the part.

Did you know that Reba McEntire turned down a role in Titanic?

The 11x Oscar-winning film, Titanic, is making its return to theaters in celebration of its 25th anniversary. While fans know the James Cameron movie for its impressive acting and dramatic storyline based on true events, many may not be aware that country music legend, Reba McEntire, was almost featured in the cast.

The singer/songwriter confirmed this fun fact during a previous appearance on an episode of Happens Live With Andy Cohen. While on the show, McEntire joined in on a game called, “The McEntire Truth,” which challenged the host and fellow guest, Morris Chestnut, to decide if the set of facts shared about her were true or not.

The final fact of the game revealed that McEntire was originally chosen to play Molly Brown in the critically acclaimed 1997 film, but the role was ultimately given to Kathy Bates after McEntire turned it down.

She went on to explain her reasoning behind walking away from the film that would end up making history.

“We were on tour and I had a lot of people on the payroll, and we had these three months already scheduled to do the movie and then they got behind on scheduling and said, ‘We’re gonna have to move it in this time,’” she shared. “We couldn’t reschedule all the arenas and everything.”

The “Rumor Has It” singer also discussed this missed opportunity during an interview with Howie Mandel back in the 1990’s.

At that time, she shared the same explanation, stating that the time required for her to be on set didn’t line up with her touring schedule. Mandel followed up by asking if she wished things would have worked out differently, giving her the chance to play the role in the film that went on to win dozens of awards and countless nominations since its debut.

“I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason,” she replied before adding, “So it didn’t work out for some reason or another, but I thought Kathy Bates was absolutely wonderful. She was perfect for that.”

The well-known love story between Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio’s characters, Rose Dewitt Bukater and Jack Dawson will return to theaters in February.

Paramount Pictures announced on Twitter that the movie will be back on the big screen in 4K and 3D for a limited time beginning Feb. 10. CBS also revealed that the remastered film will be paired with a new poster and trailer.

Titanic returns to the big screen in 4K 3D for a limited time on February 10. pic.twitter.com/cuhO6dMQc7

— Paramount Pictures (@ParamountPics) January 10, 2023

Music, Movies, TV

While McEntire may not have been a part of Titanic, she has still built an impressive acting resume over the years with a slew of TV shows, movies and Broadway performances.

She has appeared in numerous films like Tremors, alongside Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward, and the 1993 movie, The Man from Left Field, plus her starring role in her popular TV sitcom, Reba, which aired from 2001-2007.
Reba, Rex Linn; Photo Courtesy Big Sky
Most recently, McEntire found herself playing the role of Sunny Barnes in the latest season of ABC’s Big Sky, alongside her co-star and real-life boyfriend, Rex Linn. The couple also appeared in McEntire’s latest Lifetime movie, The Hammer, in which she plays the character Kim Wheeler. The new original movie premiered on January 7th at 8/7c on Lifetime. 

On top of her recent TV appearances, Reba McEntire is preparing for the extended run of Reba: Live In Concert tour with special guests Terri Clark and The Isaacs. This set of shows is scheduled to kick off March 9 in Jacksonville, FL and continue through the spring of 2023.

Reba McEntire’s emotional response on The Voice revealed as season 25 stars talk new coaches, surprises, and more

NBC’s The Voice welcomed new coaches Dan+Shay for season 25

The Voice returned for a milestone 25th season on February 26, and the competition is already raging as coaches Reba McEntire, John Legend, Chance the Rapper, and Dan+Shay vie for the top prize.

As the blind auditions continue, the first of the promising new members of each of the coaches’ teams speak with HELLO! about being behind-the-scenes of the NBC singing competition, working with their superstar mentors, and even more.

Read on as RLETTO, William Alexander, Anya True, Bri Fletcher, and Mafe open up about their journeys on The Voice and some of their highlights from the experience so far…

© Getty Images
This season featured the debut of the first dual coaches, Dan+Shay

Working with superstar coaches

RLETTO: Chance is literally the most chill person I think I’ve ever met. Gaining knowledge from Chance is a prize in itself. Living in the moment is incredible but, looking deeper into the future is what I live for and Chance truly opened my eyes to realizing that.

Mafe: The moment John Legend turned I knew he was the right choice for me. I am so grateful that all the coaches turned but when I saw John’s face and how much he was enjoying the performance, I knew he would be the right one for me and my journey.

© Getty Images
RLETTO, a member of Team Chance

Their favorite memories with their coaches

William Alexander: My favorite memory [with Reba McEntire] is actually from my blind audition, when I spoke about my grandfather and how much he meant to me, Reba got emotional as well which just made me that much more excited to work with her!!

© Getty Images
William Alexander, a member of Team Reba

Bri Fletcher: Chance is amazing! He wants the best for his team and is really encouraging. My favorite memory so far is him handing me the hat and welcoming me to his team. It was such an amazing moment. And yes, I was very starstruck. How could you not be?!

The most surprising and heartfelt thing about being on the show

Anya True: The most surprising thing about being on The Voice has been the outpouring of support I’ve received…In the music industry it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when you’re young, but my coaches and fellow contestants have supported me, believed in me, and grown my confidence.  For that, I’ll be forever grateful!

© Getty Images
Anya True, a member of Team Dan+Shay

WA: When I found out that season 25 would have THE DOUBLE CHAIR for the first time, I was shook to say the least, seeing it in person with Dan+Shay sitting in the chairs just made all that much more surprising and cool!

M: Being able to sing in front of such an amazingly talented panel of coaches has been one of the biggest highlights of my life. And to, on top of that, sing in Spanish? And represent my people? It was the best way for me to start my journey with The Voice.

Their biggest cheerleaders

R: To be honest I have 4! First being my coach, Chance! Second, Dan & Shay! They both literally hype me up every time I’ve been in front of them… Last but truly my favorite, Asher HaVon! We have exchanged great conversations of confidence, appreciation and joy.

© Getty Images
Mafe, a member of Team John

WA: My biggest cheerleader is definitely my family. My family has been through so much with me and have always supported me in everything that I do!!

M: My family, always my family. I am blessed with an incredible support system that will be there with me throughout any path I decide to take on in life.

AT: My biggest cheerleaders are my family. They have supported me throughout my journey leading up to The Voice. I’m so grateful for my parents and my sister for all of the support they have given me over the years.

© Getty Images
Bri Fletcher, a member of Team Chance

BF: My biggest cheerleader has been my husband. He is so supportive and always there to cheer me on. Seeing him and my mom scream and cheer for me brings happy tears to my eyes every single time!

3 Heartfelt Ballads That Will Always Make Reba McEntire Cry Onstage

Reba McEntire is a seasoned vet when it comes to performing, but she’s still human. Speaking to Taste of Country Nights, the actor/country star revealed the three heartfelt ballads that always seem to make her cry when she sings them.

We asked if she’s ever broken down onstage, emotionally speaking, and it was an immediate yes.

“Lots of times,” McEntire confirms. “Over many many years.”

The songs that always take her down?

“‘Somebody Should Leave’ is the one song I would always just break up and cry, I mean it was a very sad song — still is,” she says.

After a long pause, McEntire revealed even more ballads that she finds difficult to sing live.

“‘She Thinks His Name Was John’ is another one that always got me,” she explains. “I guess the one that got me more than anything was ‘The Greatest Man I Ever Knew.’”

McEntire still tours and plays live concerts for fans, but certainly not to the degree that she once did. Per Concert Archives, she played just 20 live shows in 2023.

But she’s had a long career, during much of which she balanced acting with singing. McEntire has played an estimated more than 800 concerts since she made her debut in the mid-1970s — for scale, Dolly Parton has played roughly 500 concerts in her career.

Catch McEntire on this season of The Voice — she just completed her team and is ready for battle!

Evan Paul is the host of Taste of Country Nights, a syndicated radio show heard on more than 130 country radio stations nationwide, every night from 7PM to midnight. He plays the best new country music and interviews today’s top stars, like Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Dan + Shay, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton, Lady A, + more! 

The 50 Saddest Country Songs of All Time

Each one of the 50 saddest country songs of all time tells a story. Some of those stories are about the pain of heartbreak, while others explore the grief of losing a loved one. Some are about more unconventional subject matter — from infertility to the loss of the beloved family dog — while others tap into the universal subjects of heartbreak and loneliness. Flip through the gallery below for a list of the saddest country songs, ever.

30 Photos of Reba McEntire Young

Reba McEntire is one of the most revered country stars of all time — but also in entertainment. She’s been successful as both an actor and a singer since the 1970s, and nearly 50 years later, she’s in headlines as much as ever. Look back at photos of Reba when she was younger, before she became the star we know today.

Reba McEntire Fakes a Call to Keith Urban on ‘The Voice’ [Watch]

Twenty-eight-year-old accountant Ronnie Wilson gave a head-turning Blind Auditions performance on Tuesday night’s (March 12) episode of The Voice: So much so that he had both Coach John Legend and Coach Reba McEntire ready to pull out all the stops to impress him.

During his pitch, Legend forged some common ground with Wilson by pointing out that he, too, once worked in finance: Legend’s first job was as a management consultant at a consulting firm.

But McEntire had something a little bit flashier than PowerPoint presentations up her sleeve: She whipped out her cell phone and pretended to dial up Keith Urban and his film star wife, Nicole Kidman.

“Nicole, would you put Keith on the line, please?” she said from her red coach’s chair. “Hey Keith, how ya doing? Yeah, we’re here at The Voice. If you were on the The Voice, who would you want to coach you? Me? Nicole said her too? Talk to you later. Bye.”

McEntire’s bid for Wilson’s attention wasn’t just a random mention of a fellow celebrity — though the young singer’s audition displayed his gospel roots, and he covered Zayn’s R&B hit “Pillowtalk,” he made it clear that country music was a favorite genre, too.

“So gospel music is a heavy influence, but also country music — a lot of country music,” Wilson revealed when Coach Chance the Rapper asked him about his favorite musical styles.

“You have a quality in your voice that just makes a person feel good,” McEntire told the young Voice hopeful. “And I’m thrilled to death that you love country music. I’ve been in the business for going on 50 years now, so I think I could help you to embellish, not change, because you’re absolutely wonderful. And I’d love to have you on my team.”

Even that compelling pitch, and Urban’s (fake) vote of confidence, couldn’t sway Wilson over to Team Reba. He ultimately went with Coach John Legend.

The Voice has now wrapped Blind Auditions. The show will continue to air Monday and Tuesday nights on NBC.

Famous Singers from The Voice, Then + Now

Ten years (and counting) made a huge difference for many of the most popular singers and stars of The Voice. Blake Shelton looks noticeably different, but so do some of country music’s most memorable performers.

Winners like Cassadee Pope and Danielle Bradbery wore baby faces when they auditioned during their respective seasons. The same can be said for Morgan Wallen, a forgotten castmember from the show who’s transformed more than anyone else on this list of The Voice stars then and now.

Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes

Boxing’s primary attraction, the heavyweight division, has been built on the back of American success, with all-time greats Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson paving the way for today’s giants.

The 70s represented a historically crucial and intensely competitive period in boxing, with US heavyweights Ali, Joe Frazier and George Foreman all squaring off, and titles ‘The Rumble in the Jungle’ and ‘The Thrilla in Manila’ still eminent to this day.

The 80s also hold a special place in history, largely due to the rise of Larry Holmes, the destructive emergence of Tyson, and, of course, that epic middleweight encounter between Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hearns. It also represented the end of the two-belt era, with the IBF installed alongside the existing WBC and WBA governing bodies.

Americans Muhammad Ali (left) and Mike Tyson (right) were pivotal in making heavyweight boxing the worldwide spectacle it is today

Deontay Wilder became America’s first heavyweight champion in nine years back in 2015

A notable shift came in the 90s. Indeed, there were American contenders galore, including the likes of Oliver McCall, Shannon Briggs, Riddick Bowe and Evander Holyfield, but it was Britain’s Lennox Lewis who ended the decade as the No 1, becoming undisputed champion in 1999.

He remains the division’s last undisputed champion.

US boxing at heavyweight continued to dwindle in the 2000s, with the Klitschko brothers, Wladimir and Vitali, embarking on their conquest for long-term dominance after Lewis hung up his gloves in 2003.

Fast-forward circa 20 years, and the heavyweight division is once again ruled by those placed outside of America. After their recent stints in the limelight, perhaps the onus is now on Deontay Wilder and Andy Ruiz Jr. to bring their country back to prominence in the land of the giants.

Two former champions looking to rebuild; two fighters signed to PBC; a bout that would offer a guaranteed knockout; and an opportunity to quickly climb back to the top of the division – a matchup between the pair certainly makes sense.

But first, some context: it was Wilder – or the Bronze Bomber – who ended America’s arduous nine-year weight for a heavyweight champion in 2015, when he dethroned the short-serving Bermane Stiverne to become the WBC titleholder with what is to this day his one and only points victory.

America’s most recent heavyweight champion, Briggs, was still making headlines with his relentless, but ultimately futile, pursuit of Wladimir Klitschko, but the freakishly powerful Wilder was finally bringing primetime heavyweight boxing back to the US.

A succession of KO wins over Eric Molina, Johann Duhaupas, Artur Szpilka, Chris Arreola, Gerald Washington, Stiverne and Luis Ortiz followed before the American’s first encounter with Tyson Fury, which controversially ended a draw.

Wilder maintained his reputation as one of boxing’s hardest-ever punchers as he and Tyson Fury shared a dramatic draw in 2018

Fury survived two knockdowns and came on strong in the dying seconds of the encounter

Wilder was largely out-boxed by Fury, who was competing in his first genuine fight following a two-year layoff and having lost a staggering 140 pounds, but the American scored two crucial knockdowns, with many still questioning how the Gypsy King survived the 12th.

His reputation as perhaps the biggest puncher in boxing history remained intact, though a blueprint to beat the Bronze Bomber was now there for all to see. Nonetheless, America still had their champion, and another would soon follow.

That came in the unlikely shape of Ruiz Jr – not just because he doesn’t quite share the Adonis physique of his sorry victim – as he shocked the world by knocking out Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden.

Joshua, in making his US debut, had intended to do so against Brooklyn-born Jarrell Miller, before ‘Big Baby’ rather emphatically failed a drugs test. Mexican-American Ruiz Jr – born in California – was drafted in and secured a result no-one had foreseen.

After being knocked down in round three, Ruiz Jr went on a four-round onslaught before finally getting rid of his British counterpart in the seventh. He collected the WBA, WBO and IBF world titles, and suddenly all the belts were held in the US.

With both Wilder and Ruiz Jr signed to PBC, a path to an historic all-American undisputed showdown materialized; perhaps the spell of European domination was at an end.

Ruiz Jr would just need to beat Joshua in their contractually-agreed rematch, while Wilder – who fought Dominic Brezeale and Luis Ortiz before taking on Fury once more – certainly had the time to fit in a clash for all the marbles.

Ruiz Jr became unified world champion with a shock victory over Anthony Joshua in 2019

 A more disciplined Joshua largely strolled to a unanimous decision win in their rematch

Wilder was also unsuccessful in his rematch, as Fury claimed his first of two stoppage victories over the American

Tyson Fury knocks out Deontay Wilder to retain WBC title

Boxing rarely goes to plan, however, and Ruiz Jr was soundly beaten by Joshua in their Saudi rematch, while Wilder more recently fell to a pair of brutal stoppage defeats to Fury, the second of which took place instead of an undisputed clash between AJ and the Gypsy King.

So, from the precipice of undisputed glory, both Wilder and Ruiz Jr instead find themselves back on the periphery of the heavyweight scene, with the Americans largely out of the equation once more.

Yes, you have the likes of Michael Hunter, Charles Martin and Jared Anderson in the mix – Jarrell Miller, too, following his return to the ring in June – but it’s unlikely at best that any of them will win a world title in the near future.

That’s where Wilder and Ruiz Jr come into play; the American duo – despite their reputations taking beating in recent years – are proven threats to those at the top of the division.

And importantly, both fighters are intent on restoring their pride and recapturing their titles. For Ruiz Jr, the chance to exhibit this intent will come on September 4, when he fights an aged but still handy Ortiz.

An overweight Ruiz Jr put in an uninspired performance as he claimed a unanimous decision victory over Chris Arreola in May last year – needing to overcome an early knockdown to do so – in what is his one and only outing since suffering defeat to Joshua.

Ruiz Jr has fought just once since losing to Joshua, claiming an unconvincing win over Chris Arreola

The Mexican-American will square off against Cuban heavyweight Luis Ortiz on September 4

Ortiz has suffered just two defeats during his 35-fight pro career, both to Wilder, and though now 43 years old – with speculation that number could actually be higher – a win over the Cuban would resemble a step in the right direction for Ruiz Jr.

What would come next for Ruiz Jr should he emerge victorious? Well, there’s only one man he wants. ‘We’re actually training hard,’ he told FightHype. ‘If I win [against Ortiz], I would want to fight Wilder if he comes out of retirement.

‘I got all these houses, but my dreams are not done,’ he continued. ‘I want that WBC belt. I told my son, “I’m not going to retire until I have this WBC belt”. Even if I lost again and lost another time, I’m still fighting until I get this belt.’

Wilder meanwhile in May outlined his intention to return to the ring, having previously contemplated retirement. ‘I can’t stop right here,’ he said. ‘I must continue my journey. I have to, I have to.’

The Bronze Bomber more recently in June revealed he was still only considering a return, but boxing promoter Frank Warren has since claimed he’s heard rumblings of a matchup between Wilder and Robert Helenius in October.

Wilder’s Manager Shelly Finkel has also recently confirmed his fighter’s return, stating they are keen on the winner of Joshua’s eagerly-anticipated rematch against Oleksandr Usyk on August 20. He also ruled out a possible bout against Derek Chisora.

Wilder’s manager Shelly Finkel (left) has confirmed his fighter will return to the ring this year

Wilder wants to fight the winner of the rematch between Joshua and Oleksandr Usyk (left)

There are reports that the American will make his return against Robert Helenius in October

‘Maybe the winner of Usyk and Joshua,’ Finkel told Planet Sport when asked who Wilder could fight. ‘I don’t know what Fury is doing?

‘Maybe if Joshua wins it’s a huge fight in the UK (between AJ and Wilder). There’s so many intangibles so we’re looking to see what happens in that fight (Usyk vs Joshua).’

Finkel did, however, acknowledge that Fury will get first dibs at the winner should he come out of ‘retirement’, and, regardless of what the Gypsy King says, that will almost certainly be the case – particularly if it’s Joshua who emerges victorious.

But even beyond Fury, neither Wilder or Ruiz Jr will likely be next in line to face the winner, with Joe Joyce patiently awaiting a shot at the WBO belt. The Bronze Bomber remains the No 1 contender for Fury’s WBC belt but, as stated, few believe we’ve seen the last of the Briton yet.

What would put either Wilder or Ruiz Jr into contention once more, though, is a win over the other. Given the timeframes of their returns, a match-up between the pair could conceivably take place in December or early 2023.

Where does Tyson Fury’s win leave the world heavyweight scene?

Fury will get the first shot at the winner of Usyk vs Joshua, with few believing his talk of retirement

A fight between Wilder and Ruiz Jr could reignite the US scene in the heavyweight division

Undoubtedly one of the best fights possible outside of the world title mix, and one that promoter Al Haymon is reportedly keen to make, a matchup would bring both fighters back into the spotlight and set the victor up for a title shot next year.

Wilder could send an ominous warning to the heavyweight division with a knockout win, while any victory for Ruiz Jr would put to bed the prevalent questions of his desire. A loss for either could well also spell the end.

With such a clash of personalities and styles, a fight between the two could also reignite the interest of US boxing fans in the heavyweight division.

While Terence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr take center-stage in the welterweight division, and the likes of Devin Haney and Gervonta Davis spearhead the lightweight division, the declines of Wilder and Ruiz Jr have left the heavyweight division lacking in terms of US representation.

That could all change if the pair are to be matched, however. And who knows, perhaps the winner could fight for – and win – a heavyweight world title next year, and America could once again have someone to cheer on in the land of the giants.

The world is watching as ‘The Problem Child’ Jake Paul (9-1, 6 KOs) puts on his finest boxing gloves in preparation to face the ‘Baddest Man on The Planet’ Mike Tyson (50-6-2, 44 KOs). With this rather unlikely matchup in the books, many names in the world of boxing have voiced their concerns about the fight. Meanwhile, Most Valuable Promotions co-founder Nakisa Bidarian laid to rest heavyweight champ Derek Chisora’s (34-13, 23 KOs) claims about the fight.

In a recent conversation with Radio Rahim, Chisora claimed that the duo would end up using headgear in the fight.

“I know for a fact they are using 18oz gloves and head guards if I’m not mistaken. So, we’d be watching a sparring match when pushed on whether it wouldn’t be a real fight. I dunno man; how old is Jake Paul? A guy who is 24, fighting a guy who’s f**king 56. It’s a f**king joke,” Chisora said.

Chisora further mentioned that he would not pay to watch the duo fight. “Only kids will pay to watch that. And parents will give their kids money to watch that,” he said.

However, it looks like his claims are far from true. In a tweet by Michael Benson, Bidarian revealed that Paul and Tyson will not use any headgear while fighting.

Not the only one who disputed Chisora’s claims

It looks like Bidarian was not the only one who felt like Chisora’s claims were baseless. Sports journalist Ariel Helwani believes the fight will be a ‘no strings attached’ affair.

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In the latest episode of The MMA Hour, Helwani mentioned that he had spoken to their teams and that they were working “on a few important details.”

“Is it pro or is it an exhibition? They want pro, but that’s up to the Texas commission. We’ll have to wait and see. Weight? I’m told heavyweight. Rounds? I’m working on that as well,” he said.

Helwani then turned his attention to Chisora’s statements and brushed them off as rumors. “I saw an interview with Derek Chisora where he said there would be headgear. I was told there’s absolutely no headgear involved. This is going to look like your typical boxing match,” he said.

Oliver Bearman has reflected on his stunning Formula One debut in Saudi Arabia and looked forward to Lewis Hamilton‘s switch to Ferrari at the end of the season.

The 18-year-old was drafted in to take the place of Carlos Sainz at late notice ahead of Friday’s qualifying last week, before going on to finish seventh overall in Jeddah, scoring six points for his side.

It was a whirlwind 24 hours for the driver, who reportedly only found out he’d be taking Sainz’s place a few hours before qualifying.

Bearman, who is participating in Formula 2 this season for the Scuderia, was lauded by the likes of Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Max Verstappen for his eye-catching start and he revealed it was a ‘proud’ moment to receive praise from the champions past and present.

‘It was a proud day for me. For them to say these kind words was really nice – especially the older guys like Fernando and Lewis.’ He told BBC Sport. 

Oliver Bearman enjoyed a whirlwind few days in Saudi Arabia last weekend after getting the call up to the F1 paddock

The 18-year-old showed little sign of inexperience or limited practice time with an impressive drive that saw him clinch seventh place

Lewis Hamilton (left) was seen in dialogue with the teenager at several points in Jeddah, ahead of his move to the Italian manufacturer in 2025

READ MORE: Oliver Bearman had to convince his mum to let him leave his grammar school to pursue his F1 dream… the teenager was just one when Lewis Hamilton made his bow but is already adjusting to life in the fast lane – including a TikTok superstar girlfriend

‘I grew up watching them. To share the track with them was an honour.’

Bearman will be joined at Ferrari by Hamilton next season after the seven-time world champion announced a sensational switch to the Italian manufacturer ahead of this campaign.

The teenager admitted that he is unlikely to deal with the 39-year-old on a day-to-day basis but he still expects much of his expertise to permeate the team.

‘Although I won’t be working directly with him, I’m sure his knowledge and experience will rub off in all departments.’ He added.

‘I’m doing a lot of [simulator] work with [Ferrari] so hopefully I can learn a thing or too from him and his wealth of experience.

‘It’s a real honour to even be associated with him in the same team and hopefully he can push everyone forward and bring great success.’

The 6ft 3in driver, who joined Ferrari’s driver academy at the age of 16, is considered among many within the sport as one of the next big talents rising through the ranks.

And there’s no doubt many team bosses will be keeping tabs on him over the coming years, with reports emerging this week that he could secure himself a permanent spot in Formula One next season.

The Essex-born driver joined Ferrari’s academy at the age of 16 and is considered among many within Formula One as the next big talent rising through the ranks

While Sainz is set to make way for Hamilton at Ferrari in 2025, there may be no seat for Bearman at the Prancing Horse just yet. But according to The Sun he may be a favourite to join their customer team Haas, with Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg out of contract at the end of the season.

Even so, Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur has revealed what this season could look like for the reserve driver, with Bearman set to return to F2 for the upcoming Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, before starting FP1 sessions with Haas.