The post Jaron 'Boots' Ennis talks family influence, promises to be boxing's next best pound-for-pound fighter appeared first on My Blog.
]]>“In and out like a robbery,” the 28-year-old Ennis said with a smirk.
Confidence is a necessity in boxing. A fighter must believe he will defeat his opponent no matter the odds. But Ennis, a Philadelphia native, seemed so sure of himself in that moment.
Granted, he was a heavy favorite, but this was his first fight at the 154-pound, junior middleweight division.
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Jaron Ennis celebrates his win over Eimantas Stanionis to capture the IBF, WBA and Ring Magazine welterweight titles at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall April 12, 2025, in Atlantic City, N.J. (Ed Mulholland/Getty Images)
Yet, he backed up every word, knocking down Lima twice before a first-round stoppage to be granted the interim WBA junior middleweight belt Oct. 11 in his home city. When you are an undefeated boxer who has knocked out all but four opponents as a professional (35-0), it’s hard not to be overly confident.
But for Ennis, the canvas, ropes and gloves feel entirely like home. There’s a comfort because, after all, it’s the family business.
“I guess just me being around the boxing game for so long and seeing my brothers come up, I kinda knew what to expect,” Ennis told Fox News Digital during a recent interview in New York City. “I knew what was going on. So, I’m just comfortable no matter where I’m at, whether it’s in the ring, doing interviews. Wherever, I’m always comfortable. I kinda see everything already. I’ve been here before.”
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In Philadelphia, the last name Ennis rings a bell in the boxing community. It starts with Derek “Bozy” Ennis, “Boots'” father and trainer, who was naturally harder on his boy than the rest of his clients.
“It’s expected because he knows what I can do,” “Boots” said of his father’s training. “I gotta deliver it, so that’s what I be on. I don’t take the criticisms hard from my dad. It’s actually motivation for me to keep going.”
“Boots” added that he prefers the tough love, saying, “I don’t want no yes men around me.” He wants to know what he’s doing right or wrong.
But his brothers also laid the foundation for that. Derek “Pooh” Ennis and Farah “The Quiet Storm” Ennis were also professional fighters with lofty expectations, though they never competed for a world title like their little brother.
“Very supportive of each other. They just led the way,” “Boots” said of his brothers’ influence. “They showed me what to do and what not to do, and I just followed their direction and always stayed in some type of shape and ready. You never know when you’re going to get that call. So, that’s what I do, try to stay in some type of shape, try to live the right lifestyle outside of boxing in case I do have to get a call, and I’ll be ready.”
Since he was in a jumper, “Boots” was running around his father’s gym observing, training and understanding what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Jaron Ennis poses for photos during media day ahead of an IBF welterweight title bout against Karen Chukhadzhian Nov. 6, 2024, in Philadelphia. (Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing)
“I’ve seen it all, so I know what it takes,” “Boots” said. “I know how everything goes and just having that confidence because I put the work in. I know what to do, and I know what I did. And I know can’t nobody do nothing with me. I’m in shape, I do everything right. I don’t cut no corners. My training camps be going great, so that’s where my confidence comes from for sure.”
Even though it was his third time fighting in the South Philly arena earlier this month, “Boots” considered his first-round knockout of Lima a “full-circle moment” due to how important this fight was, even if Lima wasn’t the biggest name in the game. It was “Boots’” first fight in a new division after previously being the unified welterweight champion, holding both the IBF and WBA titles before making the jump to junior middleweight.
He’s been training his whole life to get to this point in the sport, where the glorified “best pound-for-pound” debate involves his name. And he doesn’t mind the pressure or expectation, especially given his family history in the sport.
That was showcased with his patented confidence after the fight. He called out those in his new weight class, including Vergil Ortiz Jr., the WBC interim champion.
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It’s a fight that’s in the works and expected for 2026 after Ortiz fights Nov. 8.
“I want to knock them down one by one. I want to show everyone why I’m the best in the world,” he said.
The pound-for-pound conversation usually revolves around Terence “Bud” Crawford, especially after defeating Canelo Álvarez to become the undisputed super middleweight champion. He became the only male fighter in the four-belt era to be undisputed champion in three different weight classes, but that’s exactly what “Boots” is shooting for.
Jaron Ennis (L) and Eimantas Stanionis (R) during their fight for the Ring Magazine, IBF world & WBA world welterweight titles at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall on April 12, 2025 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. (Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing)
Some compare “Boots” to Crawford, but the former isn’t a fan of it. Not because he doesn’t respect Crawford’s fighting style.
“We’re totally two different fighters. I don’t like when they compare me and him together because we don’t fight nothing alike. He’s got his style, and I’ve got my style,” “Boots” said.
If there’s anything “Boots” wants to be compared to when it comes to Crawford, it’s their legacy within boxing. Crawford is at the twilight of his career, while “Boots” is in his prime. The potential is there to be the pound-for-pound best in the sport, and “Boots” believes that conversation will only grow as he works through the 154-pound class.
“My legacy, like I’ve said, I want to be a multi-division champ. And I want to show the world that I’m really him. And I will,” he said. “We started at [147 pounds] and I was lineal champion at 147. I’m in the history books at 147. Now, we’re at 154 now, and we just keep going. 154, 160 and possibly 168.”
“Boots” simply replied, “Facts,” when asked if he believes he’ll become that best-pound-for-pound boxer at some point in his career.
Jaron Ennis celebrates his win over Eimantas Stanionis to capture the IBF, WBA and Ring Magazine welterweight titles at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall April 12, 2025, in Atlantic City, N.J. (Ed Mulholland/Getty Images)
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But the weight of those expectations has the ability to crush the shoulders of the fighter who’s burdened with them. However, “Boots” has the skill and the support system necessary to go through that hard-fought journey, which includes his mother, who he says will do whatever he needs to support his dream.
“Family means everything. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today,” he said. “My brothers and my dad paved my way for me and my mom as well. They showed me what to do and what not to do and things like that. And treat people how you want to be treated. That’s how I carry myself.”
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Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
The post Jaron 'Boots' Ennis talks family influence, promises to be boxing's next best pound-for-pound fighter appeared first on My Blog.
]]>The post Fever's Sophie Cunningham inspired by fellow WNBA star Angel Reese's historic Victoria's Secret runway debut appeared first on My Blog.
]]>Cunningham said Reese’s historic move prompted her to consider taking her own strut down the catwalk.
During a recent episode of her “Show Me Something” podcast, Cunningham praised Reese and revealed that she sent her agents a message about potentially being in the 2026 edition of the popular fashion show.
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Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham (8) plays against the Phoenix Mercury during a WNBA game at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona, on Aug. 7, 2025. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)
“This has been a dream of mine since I’ve been in like second grade,” Cunningham said. “I’ve always wanted to be a Victoria’s Secret Angel.”
Reese was tapped by Victoria’s Secret to walk in the clothing and beauty retailer’s fashion show in New York City, where she will become the first athlete to walk the runway in the event’s history.
ANGEL REESE SPEAKS OUT AGAINST FANS CRITICAL OF HER LOOKS: ‘I’M REALLY NOT SORRY’
After attending last year’s show as a guest, Reese said she will now serve as one of the brand’s global ambassadors.
Angel Reese walks the runway for Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2025 on October 15, 2025 in New York City. (Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Victoria’s Secret)
“I literally could not stop smiling.” Reese told People. “It’s such a surreal and full-circle moment — just last year I was in the audience manifesting being on that runway, completely inspired and in awe of all the powerful women walking down the runway, and now I get to return as an Angel. This will be an unforgettable night that I’ll forever be grateful for.”
Reese added that she wants to encourage women to achieve in all areas.
Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) leaves the court after the game against the Los Angeles Sparks at Crypto.com Arena on May 25, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
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“I hope I can inspire women and girls everywhere and remind them that we can dominate in our field but also chase our goals outside of it — and for me, that’s getting to walk down fashion and entertainment’s most iconic runway,” the two-time WNBA All-Star added.
The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show returned last year following a six-year pause.
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Chantz Martin is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
The post Fever's Sophie Cunningham inspired by fellow WNBA star Angel Reese's historic Victoria's Secret runway debut appeared first on My Blog.
]]>The post 10-year-old chess prodigy defeats grandmaster in 'near-perfect game' appeared first on My Blog.
]]>The young talent, known as the “girl wonder,” defeated former women’s world champion and grandmaster Mariya Muzychuk in the first round of the European Chess Club Cup, hosted in Greece on Sunday.
Bodhana Sivanandan, 9, competes in the second round of the Delancey UK Chess Challenge Terafinal in Woodstock, Great Britain, Oct. 12, 2024. (REUTERS/Suzanne Plunkett)
Experts called the stunning victory a “near-perfect game,” The Times reported.
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Grandmaster David Howell took to social media to commend Sivanandan for her “incredible win.”
“It’s not every day a 10-year-old defeats a [grandmaster] (and former world champion) in such style,” his post on X read.
Sivanandan seemed quite pleased with her win, but told The Times she’s looking for more victories.
Bodhana Sivanandan, a 10-year-old chess prodigy, competes in the British Chess Championships at St. George’s Hall on Aug. 7, 2025, in Liverpool, England. (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
CHESS PRODIGY, 10, MAKES HISTORY AFTER DEFEATING 60-YEAR-OLD GRANDMASTER
“I’m happy to win, but hopefully I do even better in the future games … This will inspire me to keep doing better and trying harder to win more games,” she said.
Sivanandan made history this summer when she defeated Grandmaster Peter Wells, 60, in the final round of the 2025 British Chess Championships in August. According to the International Chess Federation, Sivanandan set the record previously held by American Carissa Yip, who set the record in 2019 at 10 years, 11 months and 20 days old.
Bodhana Sivanandan, center, a 10-year-old chess prodigy, competes in the British Chess Championships at St. George’s Hall on Aug. 7, 2025, in Liverpool, England. (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
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Sivanandan was 10 years, five months, and three days old when she defeated Wells.
She has made a name for herself since first picking up the game during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she was just 5 years old.
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Paulina Dedaj is a Sports Reporter for Fox News Digital.
The post 10-year-old chess prodigy defeats grandmaster in 'near-perfect game' appeared first on My Blog.
]]>The post Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith clash over FBI gambling probe allegedly involving NBA figures: 'That's stupidity' appeared first on My Blog.
]]>During ESPN’s “Inside The NBA,” the panel of Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley discussed the situation, but it resulted in a bit of a heated back and forth between Smith and Barkley.
Smith began with his lengthy take on the situation.
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Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups leaves the Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse after a hearing following his arrest on federal gambling charges in Portland, Oregon, U.S., Oct. 23, 2025. (REUTERS/John Rudoff)
“We look at players who are involved and people who are involved, we’re surprised when you have access and you’re at the top of the game, so to speak as a coach or a player or whatever at the top of the game, you have access to millions of dollars in this league. So, it was surprising that they put themselves in that position possibly. Innocent until proven guilty,” he said.
Smith’s next point is what ticked off Barkley, who was visibly frustrated at the desk.
“I think the other part is you have to realize gambling is an addiction, so the addiction of it is what makes you make illogical decisions,” Smith continued. “… The FBI Director [Kash Patel] said, there’s a man who lost $1.8 million. That means he has a lot of money, so he has an addiction to that. Those ‘fish’ that they talked about bringing in. So, gambling is an addiction which could make you make illogical decisions regardless of your ethnic background, regardless of your physical background, regardless of your financial status. So, let’s understand that.
OREGON SEN. RON WYDEN REACTS TO FBI PROBE INVOLVING TRAIL BLAZERS COACH CHAUNCEY BILLUPS: ‘VERY SAD DAY’
“I disagree in terms of the NBA dropping the ball. This is an ongoing investigation. There’s no way that any FBI, or police even, who anyone would say, ‘Hey, this is what we’re doing.’ The surprise element always makes it happen so they cannot overextend the information they’re receiving.”
As Smith told Barkley he would let him talk once he made his final point, Barkley couldn’t hold back.
“I wish you would because you’re making me mad right here,” Barkley said.
“I also think that because there’s people getting speeding tickets it doesn’t mean everyone in the league speeds. So, don’t look at this group of people that started to get investigated as the entire league,” Smith concluded.
Kenny Smith, looks on before the game between the New Orleans Pelicans and Los Angeles Lakers as part of the 2023 NBA In-Season Tournament on December 7, 2023, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Mike Kirschbaum/NBAE via Getty Images)
Then, it was Barkley’s turn to speak.
“First of all, these are two different things,” he began. “Take Chauncey out of the equation, and the reason I’m mad at Kenny is this has nothing to do with a damn gambling addiction. This ain’t got nothing to do with addiction. These dudes are stupid. You can, under no circumstances, fix basketball games. Under no circumstances. I love to gamble. Rozier makes $26 million. Him giving people information or taking himself out of games, how much is he going to benefit taking himself out of games to hit unders? He’s making $26 million.”
Smith butted in, as he said Barkley was proving his point.
“If you’re making $26 million to try to win $50,000, that’s illogical,” Smith said.
Barkley fired back, reiterating his belief that those involved were not gambling addicts, but rather “that’s stupidity.”
“The notion that guys are making all this money and giving information, stop that. That’s got nothing to do with addiction. It’s total stupidity on those two’s parts,” Barkley said.
O’Neal gave his take prior to the Smith and Barkley debate. He said the league gave forums to inform players about the dangers of gambling.
“All these guys knew what was at stake and I’m just ashamed that they put themselves, put their family and put the NBA in this position,” O’Neal said. “You all know the rules, we all know the letter of the law and it’s just unfortunate. Innocent until proven guilty, but usually when the FBI has something, they have you.”
College basketball analyst Charles Barkley on air before the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Final Four championship game. (Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
Billups, a Basketball Hall of Famer like the men on the panel, left an Oregon federal courthouse on Thursday, where he didn’t answer questions after being arrested as part of the FBI investigation. Billups was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering, as he was allegedly involved in the rigged poker games investigation.
Billups was released from custody under the conditions of turning over his passport, not contacting any of the 30-plus co-defendants charged, and not participating in any gambling activity.
Rozier was allegedly involved in the sports gambling ring, where schemers were allegedly giving non-public information about who would be sitting out future games or when they would be pulling themselves out early for injuries or illnesses.
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said Rozier faked an injury to leave a March 23, 2023, game between the Charlotte Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans. Rozier was alleged to have told co-defendant Deniro Laster that he would take himself out of the game so Laster could bet on it.
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The NBA cooperated with the investigation and placed Billups and Rozier on an immediate leave of absence.
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Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
The post Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith clash over FBI gambling probe allegedly involving NBA figures: 'That's stupidity' appeared first on My Blog.
]]>The post NFL Week 8 schedule: What to know about slate of games appeared first on My Blog.
]]>There is no international game this week as the league will turn its attention to games in Madrid and Berlin next month. There is also no doubleheader for “Monday Night Football,” allowing fans on the East Coast to get to bed at a reasonable time.
The Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Chargers will be tested first on a short week to kick off the week. As the days turn from Saturday to Sunday, there will be plenty of games to lock in to.
The New York Jets are still searching for their first win of the season, the New England Patriots are hoping to stay the darlings of the league with a win over the Cleveland Browns, the Buffalo Bills return from a bye week for a road game against the Carolina Panthers and the Denver Broncos and Dallas Cowboys clash in a crucial midseason matchup.
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Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) calls signals behind center during the first half of an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals in Cincinnati, Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)
Also, Aaron Rodgers has made it clear that his matchup against the Green Bay Packers won’t be “revenge game.” It will be the first time he’s going up against his former team since the two parted ways. The Steelers come into the game with a 4-2 record.
The Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Commanders will cap off the week. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs are back to their winning ways, but may have a tough time against veteran Marcus Mariota, who is reportedly starting for an injured Jayden Daniels. Mariota led the Tennessee Titans to a victory over the Chiefs in the 2017-18 playoffs. It was the last time the Chiefs failed to make it to the AFC Championship.
Read below for the rest of the Week 7 schedule.
Minnesota Vikings @ Los Angeles Chargers (8:15 p.m. ET)
Miami Dolphins @ Atlanta Falcons (1 p.m. ET)New York Jets @ Cincinnati Bengals (1 p.m. ET)Cleveland Browns @ New England Patriots (1 p.m. ET)New York Giants @ Philadelphia Eagles (1 p.m. ET)Buffalo Bills @ Carolina Panthers (1 p.m. ET)
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) runs during the second half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)
AARON RODGERS TELLS 311-POUND STEELERS TEAMMATE TO STOP TACKLING HIM AFTER TOUCHDOWNS: ‘I’M 41’
Chicago Bears @ Baltimore Ravens (1 p.m. ET)San Francisco 49ers @ Houston Texans (1 p.m. ET)Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ New Orleans Saints (4:05 p.m. ET)Dallas Cowboys @ Denver Broncos (4:25 p.m. ET)Tennessee Titans @ Indianapolis Colts (4:25 p.m. ET)Green Bay Packers @ Pittsburgh Steelers (8:20 p.m. ET)
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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes scrambles during the first half of an NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025, in Kansas City, Missouri. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
Washington Commanders @ Kansas City Chiefs (8:15 p.m. ET)
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Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.
The post NFL Week 8 schedule: What to know about slate of games appeared first on My Blog.
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