Fri Oct 11 20:25:55 UTC 2024: ## Boxing Showdown in Riyadh: Beterbiev and Bivol Prepare for Title Unification Bout

RIYADH – Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, two undefeated light-heavyweight champions, held open training sessions in Riyadh on Wednesday, generating immense excitement for their highly anticipated title unification fight on October 12. The “IV Crown Showdown” will see Bivol, 23-0 with 12 knockouts, face Beterbiev, 20-0 and the only reigning champion with a 100 percent knockout record.

A large crowd of boxing fans gathered to witness the fighters’ preparations, which also included sessions for Chris Eubank Jr., Kamil Szeremeta, Fabio Wardley, and Fraser Clarke. A final press conference is scheduled for today.

## Zubimendi Ready to Step Up for Injured Rodri in Spanish Squad

MADRID – Spain’s national coach, Luis de la Fuente, expressed confidence in Martin Zubimendi to fill the void left by injured star midfielder Rodri Hernandez. The Manchester City player suffered a severe knee injury in September, ruling him out for the rest of the season.

Zubimendi, a 25-year-old Real Sociedad player, impressed in the Euro 2024 final, replacing Rodri at halftime and contributing to Spain’s 2-1 victory over England.

“Zubimendi is a sure bet,” said De la Fuente, emphasizing the midfielder’s experience and composure. Spain, missing several key players including Dani Carvajal and Nico Williams due to injury, face Denmark on Saturday and Serbia on Tuesday in Nations League matches.

## Saudi Arabia Calls Up Majrashi for Bahrain World Cup Qualifier

JEDDAH – Saudi Arabia’s head coach, Roberto Mancini, has called up Al-Ahli defender Ali Majrashi for the 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Bahrain on Tuesday. The move comes after a 2-0 loss to Japan on Thursday, marking the Green Falcons’ first defeat in the third round of Asian qualifiers.

Majrashi is expected to replace Saud Abdulhamid, who is suspended following two yellow cards. The Green Falcons will continue their preparations with a closed training session on Saturday.

## Djokovic Reflects on Nadal’s Retirement, But Remains Determined

SHANGHAI – Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, expressed his “overwhelmed” feelings following Rafael Nadal’s retirement announcement. He described Nadal as “the greatest rival I ever had” but confirmed his own intention to continue playing.

Djokovic, now the last remaining player from tennis’s “golden era,” acknowledged the impact of his rival’s departure. “I’m a bit overwhelmed, to be honest,” he said, “but I still have the desire to play.”

## Carvajal Undergoes Successful Knee Surgery, Contract Extension Confirmed

MADRID – Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal underwent successful surgery on his right knee on Friday. The injury, sustained during a Spanish league game last weekend, is expected to keep him out for the remainder of the season.

Despite the setback, Real Madrid has extended Carvajal’s contract until June 2026.

## Pakistan Revamps Selection Committee Ahead of Second Test Against England

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revamped its selection committee following a disastrous innings defeat to England in the first test. The new committee, tasked with choosing the squad for the second test starting Tuesday in Multan, includes former international umpire Aleem Dar, ex-test fast bowler Aqib Javed, ex-test captain Azhar Ali, and analyst Hasan Cheema.

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