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Why Rory McIlroy casts doubt on Tiger Woods’ return to the Masters

Tiger Woods’ Masters 2026 Doubt Grows After Rory McIlroy Update

The Masters is far more than another golf tournament. For many fans, it is the cathedral of the sport, where the greens shine brighter and the stakes feel heavier than anywhere else.

But as the 2026 edition approaches, uncertainty surrounds one of golf’s greatest legends. With Augusta National only four weeks away, questions about Tiger Woods’ participation continue to grow.

Rory McIlroy hails Tiger Woods' involvement in PGA Tour discussions on LIV  Golf | CNN

Rory McIlroy Delivers a Clear Update

Recently, the golf world focused on the SoFi Center, home of the high-tech TGL league created by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.

Because Woods co-founded the league, fans hoped he might make a competitive appearance before the major season began.

However, McIlroy quickly ended that speculation.

During a Tuesday night TGL event, a reporter from the Palm Beach Post asked McIlroy whether Woods could play a match before the season ends.

McIlroy responded bluntly:

“No. Absolutely no. I don’t think so.”

His firm answer sent a clear message across the golf community. If Woods cannot compete in the controlled environment of TGL, many doubt he can handle the demanding 72-hole challenge at Augusta National.

Tiger Woods Faces a Difficult Recovery

Woods continues to battle a long list of injuries. The 82-time PGA Tour winner missed the entire 2025 season after suffering major physical setbacks.

Doctors performed surgery on his ruptured left Achilles tendon, a serious injury that requires lengthy rehabilitation. Just months later, in October 2025, Woods underwent his seventh back procedure to treat chronic pain and mobility problems.

Since that surgery, he has focused on recovery rather than competition.

Although fans spotted him publicly supporting his son, Charlie Woods, and hitting a single iron shot at the SoFi Center in January 2026, Woods has not played a full competitive round of golf.

With the Masters fast approaching, the golf world now waits to see whether one of the sport’s greatest champions can return to Augusta once again.

 Joshua Ready For Ring Return, Says Hearn

Anthony Joshua is preparing to return to the boxing ring, according to his promoter Eddie Hearn, who says the former champion is finally “physically and mentally ready” to resume his career after a difficult few months.

Hearn confirmed that Joshua has resumed training at his old amateur gym in Finchley, London, marking the start of his journey back towards a third world title reign.

Anthony Joshua, Knockout Machine. And He Can Box. - The New York Times

The promoter is optimistic that this could lead to a major fight later this year, potentially against fellow British star Tyson Fury.

The comeback comes after a tragic road accident in Nigeria three months ago, which killed two of Joshua’s close friends and left him with minor injuries and emotional scars.

Hearn acknowledged the psychological toll of the incident but believes that returning to the gym is a crucial step forward.

“For everything that he’s been through and all the pain, I don’t think that will leave,” Hearn told iFL TV.

“But he has a career and a job to do, and he wants to keep doing it. I’m excited to see him back.”

 

Why Rules For Mike Tyson vs. Floyd Mayweather was Revealed

Confirms Rules for Planned Fight With Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson says his planned exhibition fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr. in Democratic Republic of the Congo will have no weight limit.

Tyson revealed the details during a recent interview with veteran combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani. The 59-year-old said he has already signed the agreement and still expects the bout to take place on April 25 in Africa.

Mike Tyson CONFIRMS Floyd Mayweather fight date as boxing legends with  combined age of 107 to square off in Africa

He described the matchup as a free-weight, catchweight-style exhibition, confirming that neither fighter will face a weight restriction.

“There’s no weight limit,” Tyson said, outlining the unusual rules for the contest.

Size Difference Between the Fighters

The weight gap between the two fighters remains significant.

Tyson weighed just under 229 pounds when he faced Jake Paul in a November 2024 exhibition bout. By contrast, Mayweather has usually competed around the mid-150-pound range.

The undefeated former champion reached a career-high of just under 161 pounds during his 2024 exhibition against John Gotti III.

Fight Date and Location

Despite speculation that organizers might postpone the event, Tyson insists the fight will proceed as scheduled on April 25.

He made the statement even though he recently suffered a minor injury and has trained while wearing a cast.

Several outlets, including The Ring Magazine, have reported that organizers plan to stage the event in Kinshasa, the capital of Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Government officials in the country have publicly supported the proposal. Among them is Vice Premier Minister Mobutu Nzanga Ngbangawe, who described the event as an opportunity to bring a historic boxing spectacle back to the nation.

Historic ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ Connection

Tyson also revealed an ambitious promotional plan.

Organizers hope to use the same ring from the historic Rumble in the Jungle fight in 1974. That legendary bout saw Muhammad Ali defeat George Foreman in the eighth round to reclaim the heavyweight title.

Promoters view the historical connection as a major marketing angle. Several media outlets, including TNT Sports, have highlighted Tyson’s claim that he and Mayweather could share the same canvas Ali once used to shock Foreman.

However, promoters have not yet issued official confirmation about the venue or whether they can realistically use the original ring.


Exhibition Rules and Safety Concerns

More details about the rules continue to emerge.

Organizers expect the fight to last eight rounds, with each round running two minutes. Fighters will likely wear 14- or 16-ounce gloves to reduce the impact of punches.

The exhibition format means the result will not affect either fighter’s official record.

Still, the matchup has raised safety concerns. Tyson and Mayweather have a combined age of more than 100 years, and the potential 70-pound weight difference could intensify scrutiny from regulators and medical officials if the April 25 Congo event receives final approval.

Why Anthony Joshua Set For Ring Return After Difficult Months, Says Eddie Hearn

Joshua Preparing for Ring Return

Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is preparing to return to the boxing ring as he begins a fresh bid for a third world title, according to his promoter Eddie Hearn.

Hearn said the British-Nigerian fighter is now “physically and mentally ready” to resume full training after a difficult period marked by personal tragedy.

Anthony Joshua: 'I need to be a billionaire' | British GQ | British GQ

The promoter also expressed optimism that Joshua could feature in a high-profile bout later this year. One potential opponent is fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury, widely known as “The Gypsy King.”

Return to His Roots

Joshua, a gold medallist at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, has recently returned to training at his former amateur gym in Finchley.

The gym holds special significance for the former champion, as it was where he began his boxing career.

Tragedy in Nigeria

His planned comeback follows a traumatic road accident near Sagamu in Ogun State, Nigeria, about three months ago.

The crash claimed the lives of two of his close friends, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Joshua sustained minor injuries but was left dealing with the emotional aftermath of the tragedy.

Promoter Confident of Comeback

Hearn acknowledged the psychological toll of the incident but believes returning to the gym could help Joshua move forward.

“We’re very close to returning to training camp,” Hearn told iFL TV.

“I feel like AJ is physically and perhaps mentally ready to throw himself back into that environment, and it’s exciting.”

Focus on Future Title Shot

Hearn added that the emotional scars from the accident may remain, but Joshua remains determined to continue his boxing career.

“For everything that he’s been through and all the pain, I don’t think that will leave,” Hearn said.

“But he has a career and a job to do, and he wants to keep doing it. I’m excited to see him back.”

Joshua, a former two-time unified heavyweight champion, is widely expected to return to the ring later this year as he aims to re-enter the world title picture.

Why Mike Tyson vs Floyd Mayweather Bout to Have Surprising Rule

The bout is scheduled for April 25, 2026, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The highly anticipated exhibition match between Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather is one of the most talked-about spectacles in the boxing world.

Mike Tyson vs Floyd Mayweather rules emerge as boxing fight confirmed | The  Standard

Scheduled for April 2026 in the Democratic Republic of Congo and dubbed a “Legend vs. Legend” showcase, the event is being heavily marketed for its historical parallels, given it’s being hosted in the same region as the 1974 Rumble in the Jungle, the historic fight between Muhammad Ali vs George Foreman.

According to Tyson, the bout will have one surprising rule, which he revealed during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show.

Tyson vs Mayweather has no weight limit

Tyson explained the weight limit stipulation for the bout, saying “It’s just free fighting, catchweight, everything…”

Other modifications to the rules of the bout include eight two-minute rounds and heavier 14 or 16-ounce gloves, which will account for the size disparity. Tyson typically weighs over 220 lbs, while Mayweather has never fought above 150 lbs.

Tyson also went on to admit that he suffered an injury while training for the fight.

“It’s just a little sprain. I’ve got to go hard,” Tyson added. “It’s the only way I know how to go.”

Tyson slams today’s boxers for not fighting enough.

Elsewhere in the interview, Tyson said that his fight against Mayweather may be his last. He also took shots at today’s boxers because they don’t fight as much as the previous generation of fighters.

 “This is what fighters should be thinking right now about me. ‘How can this guy be 60 years old and break all the records?” Tyson said. “They should be disappointed with themselves. They fight once or twice a year. No one knows who they are. They need to have a story behind them.”

“It’s not that they’re getting paid too much, they just don’t wanna do it. If you like getting paid a lot of money, why not do that three times a year instead of once? It’s a no-lose situation,” Tyson continued. “It’s all up, all a win. You’re fighting, getting in shape, and getting paid more money than you ever did before.”

For Mayweather, 2026 will be his most active year in the ring in more than a decade. Along with the Tyson exhibition, Money will take on 18-time kickboxing world champion Mike Zambidis in another exhibition at the Telekom Center in Athens, Greece. And in what is considered an even bigger boxing event, Mayweather is signed on for a sanctioned rematch against Manny Pacquiao on September 19 at the Sphere in Las Vegas

Why Tiger Woods was banned from Players Championship was due to little-known rule

Tiger Woods Ruled Out of 2026 Players Championship

The 2026 Players Championship will take place this week at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Defending champion Rory McIlroy returns after defeating J. J. Spaun in a playoff last year.

Tiger Woods Fast Facts | CNN

Several top golfers will compete for the title, including Scottie Scheffler, Tommy Fleetwood, Collin Morikawa, Xander Schauffele, Akshay Bhatia and Justin Rose.

However, legendary golfer Tiger Woods will not participate in the tournament. He continues to recover from back surgery and has not confirmed a return date.

Entry Rules Keep Woods Out

Even if Woods were fit, he still would not qualify for this year’s Players Championship. Tournament rules require players to have at least one PGA Tour victory between last year and this year’s event. Players must also have won a major championship within the last five years.

Woods last won a major in 2019 when he captured the Masters Tournament. Because of that timeline, he does not meet the current eligibility requirements for the event at TPC Sawgrass.

Players React to Woods’ Absence

Fleetwood expressed surprise at the rule that keeps Woods out of the tournament.

“Is Tiger not eligible for this event? That’s unbelievable. I would love Tiger Woods to play. I can’t believe he’s not eligible,” Fleetwood said.

He added that Woods should have the chance to play anywhere in the world if he wants.

Thomas also voiced support for Woods’ participation.

“I’m always going to be for him playing. For the betterment of golf and the tournament, I don’t think anybody would be against it,” Thomas said.

Possible Return at Augusta

Woods previously said he hopes to return at the Masters Tournament in April at Augusta National Golf Club.

When reporters asked if he would compete there, Woods responded cautiously.

“I don’t know. Whether it’s a regular tour, a senior tour, or a member-guest, I don’t know.”

TGL League Continues to Grow

Woods remains active in the indoor golf league TGL. He helped create the league through TMRW Sports alongside sports executive Mike McCarley and McIlroy in partnership with the PGA Tour.

TGL features simulated indoor golf competitions and continues to attract many of the sport’s biggest names.


Kim Delivers Stunning Hole-in-One

During a recent TGL match, Jupiter Links—featuring Woods, Tom Kim, Max Homa and Kevin Kisner—faced Bay Golf Club, led by Ludvig Åberg and Shane Lowry.

Jupiter Links trailed 6–5 on the penultimate hole. Kim needed something special to keep his team’s playoff hopes alive.

The 23-year-old calmly delivered. He struck a smooth wedge shot that flew past the flag, spun back and rolled straight into the hole for a hole-in-one.

Before hitting the shot, Kim activated “The Hammer,” which doubled the hole’s value. The dramatic moment marked only the second hole-in-one in TGL history.

Woods and his teammates erupted in celebration as soon as the ball dropped. Woods hugged Kim and pumped his fist in the air.

After the match, Woods described the moment as the “best indoor experience ever.”


Jupiter Links Advance to Playoffs

Kim’s incredible shot secured victory for Jupiter Links. The team will now face McIlroy’s Boston Common in the TGL playoffs.

Woods continues to recover from a ruptured left Achilles tendon he suffered in March 2025. Because of that injury, he is unlikely to compete in the playoff match. Still, he has promised to attend and support his team.

Why Anthony Joshua exits UK, relocates N280bn business empire to Dubai

The 36-year-old boxer confirmed in corporate filings that he is now resident in the UAE, marking a significant move away from the UK, where he built both his boxing career and business interests.

Anthony Joshua, boxer who defeated Jake Paul, injured in car crash that  killed 2 in Nigeria

According to reports by the Daily Mail, paperwork submitted for two of Joshua’s companies, Sparta Promotions Limited and 258 Investments Limited, now lists the UAE as his official country of residence.

The filings are part of regulatory requirements in which company directors must disclose their place of residence.

Tax and business considerations

Dubai has become a popular destination for wealthy athletes and entrepreneurs due to its favourable tax environment, including the absence of personal income tax.

Joshua previously declared dividend payments of £10.1 million in 2024 and £6.3 million in 2023, which would normally be subject to UK tax.

His promotional company, Sparta Promotions, also recorded profits of £20.396 million in 2024 and paid £6.65 million in UK corporate tax during the same period.

Longstanding Dubai ties

Anthony Joshua has long maintained close ties with Dubai, frequently visiting the city for training camps, holidays and promotional work with brands he represents.

The emirate’s elite sporting infrastructure has made it a preferred base for several international athletes.

The move places him among a growing list of wealthy British figures who have relocated overseas, including Jim Ratcliffe, owner of Manchester United, and Stelios Haji‑Ioannou, founder of easyJet, both of whom reside in Monaco.

Family confirmation

Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, confirmed that the move had already taken place months earlier.
“He has already moved to Dubai. He doesn’t need to inform us before making such a move, but I know he moved a while ago, talking of months back now,” he was quoted as saying by Punch Newspapers.

Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, rose to global prominence after winning gold for the Great Britain Olympic Boxing Team at the 2012 London Olympics before becoming a two-time heavyweight world champion.

His relocation comes despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East, including security concerns linked to the broader regional conflict involving Iran.

The move marks the end of an era for the British-Nigerian icon in the UK, as he pivots his focus toward a new chapter in the Middle East.

 

Why Francis Ngannou and Jake Paul reignite feud: ‘Lasted longer with Anthony Joshua

Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has finally opened the door to a potential fight with YouTuber-turned-fighter Jake Paul after the two traded fiery insults at a press conference on Tuesday.

Jake Paul issued chilling warning over Francis Ngannou fight by promoter  who helped discover MMA star

The moment came ahead of Ngannou’s upcoming bout against fellow UFC veteran Philipe Lins. The two heavyweights will face off on May 16 at an event promoted by Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, with the fight serving as the co-main event of a stacked card at the Intuit Dome in California.

The headline fight will see MMA pioneers Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano come out of retirement to clash in a highly anticipated showdown.

Ngannou vs Lins Set for May 16

Ngannou (18-3) is preparing to return to MMA against Brazil’s Lins (18-5), another former UFC fighter. While Lins never reached Ngannou’s level in the UFC, he captured the PFL heavyweight title in 2018, proving he remains a dangerous opponent.

The bout will mark an important moment for Ngannou, who has fought only once in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) since leaving the UFC in early 2023. In that appearance, he delivered a brutal first-round knockout of Renan Ferreira in October 2024.

Jake Paul Calls Out Ngannou

During Tuesday’s press conference, Jake Paul stood up from the crowd and began taunting Ngannou, reigniting talk of a potential fight between them.

Paul reminded Ngannou that he had previously tried to arrange a boxing match.

“I’ve always been down,” Paul said. “You were the option before Anthony Joshua, and you ran like a duck.”

The American also mocked Ngannou’s performance against British heavyweight Anthony Joshua, who knocked out the Cameroonian star in two rounds in March 2024.

Paul added:

“I bet you didn’t think I would last longer than you did with Anthony either. You know you get worked in boxing. I’d love to see it someday.”

Ngannou Fires Back

Ngannou didn’t hold back in his response.

“No, I’m not interested in fighting Jake Paul… listen, I’m not done,” Ngannou said. “I’m interested in beating his ass.”

The 39-year-old explained that he had previously ignored Paul’s challenge because he felt the offer wasn’t serious.

Now, however, his mindset has changed.

“I really didn’t want to fight you before,” Ngannou said. “But now I want to beat you up. That’s the difference.”

Ngannou’s Boxing Journey

Ngannou shocked the combat-sports world when he stepped into professional boxing in 2023. In his debut, he pushed heavyweight champion Tyson Fury to the limit in a controversial split-decision loss that many fans believed he deserved to win.

His second boxing appearance ended in dramatic fashion when Anthony Joshua stopped him with a devastating knockout.

Despite the loss, Ngannou still carries a reputation as one of the most powerful punchers in MMA history.

A Future Super Fight?

With tensions now rising between the two fighters, a showdown between Ngannou and Jake Paul could become one of the biggest crossover fights in combat sports.

For now, Ngannou remains focused on defeating Philipe Lins on May 16. But after Tuesday’s heated exchange, fans may finally get the fight they’ve been waiting for.

Why Anthony Joshua quits UK, relocates to Dubai

Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has decided to leave the United Kingdom and relocate to Dubai, a move that has surprised many fans and observers.

Anthony Joshua Wins Our Sexiest Man Of 2025 Wild Card

The 36-year-old boxing superstar, born in Watford to Nigerian parents, confirmed his relocation through official company filings submitted last Friday. In the documents for his £150 million business empire, Joshua listed the United Arab Emirates as his new country of residence.

Joshua rose to global fame after winning a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics. He later built one of boxing’s most successful careers and received both OBE and MBE honours in the UK. Despite these achievements, he has now chosen to make Dubai his home.

Why Joshua Is Moving

Several factors appear to have influenced Joshua’s decision.

Tax benefits are a major attraction. Dubai does not impose income tax, which means Joshua could save millions each year. In the UK, he paid tax on dividend payments of £10.1 million in 2024 and £6.3 million in 2023. His company, Sparta Promotions, also reported profits of £20.396 million in 2024 and paid £6.65 million in UK taxes.

World-class training facilities also draw Joshua to Dubai. He frequently travels to the city to train, promote brands, and relax during breaks from competition.

One of his most memorable moments in Dubai came in 2017 when he held a sparring session on the helipad of the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel — a dramatic platform suspended 700 feet above the sea.

Strong Connections to Dubai

Joshua has spent significant time in Dubai over the years. He dined there with boxing promoter Eddie Hearn late last year and returned again recently for training sessions with MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov.

The city has become a popular base for wealthy athletes and entrepreneurs who value its modern infrastructure, luxury lifestyle, and favorable tax system.

A Difficult Year for the Boxer

Joshua’s move also follows a difficult personal period. Last year, he lost two close friends — personal trainer Kevin “Latz” Ayodele and therapist Sina Ghami — in a tragic road accident in Nigeria.

Since then, Joshua has focused on recovery and rehabilitation. He recently shared photos of his rib rehabilitation sessions on Snapchat, writing:

“When you go through certain things, you realise that you are stronger than you think you are.”

Joining Other Wealthy Expats

Joshua now joins a growing list of high-profile British figures who live abroad. Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe resides in Monaco, as does EasyJet founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou, while Pimlico Plumbers founder Charlie Mullins has settled in Marbella.

Despite reports of regional tensions and drone attacks affecting nearby areas, Joshua has moved forward with his relocation plans.

For the boxing star, Dubai offers more than just sunshine — it provides financial advantages, elite training facilities, and a fresh chapter after a challenging year.

Why Anthony Joshua made shock offer to leave Eddie Hearn as screenshot revealed

Anthony Joshua Rejects Shock Offer to Leave Eddie Hearn as Screenshot Reveals His Response

Anthony Joshua recently received an offer to leave Matchroom and join Zuffa Boxing, but he quickly rejected it. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, revealed the details.

Anthony Joshua to fight again on November 26, says Eddie Hearn | Boxing News | Sky Sports

 

 

Conor Benn left Matchroom on February 20 and joined Zuffa Boxing, a new promotion backed by UFC president Dana White and funded partly by Saudi Arabia.

Reports say Benn signed a one-fight deal worth an eight-figure purse, believed to be around $15 million.

Last week, Hearn also made headlines when he signed reigning UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall to the newly created Matchroom Talent Agency.

As chairman of the agency, Hearn plans to manage top athletes, build their brands, and guide their careers.

Eddie Hearn Reacts to Conor Benn’s Exit

Hearn admitted he felt “devastated” when Benn decided to leave Matchroom. Speaking to iFL TV, he said he exchanged several messages with the 29-year-old after learning about the decision.

“I just felt that everything we gave him — the loyalty and support — would be enough for us to talk it through and agree on a number,” Hearn said.

“But he didn’t really show interest in negotiating.”

Hearn described the decision as both surprising and painful.

“Very surprising. Very painful. But it’s another moment in life that you learn from,” he added.

Anthony Joshua Quickly Rejected Zuffa Approach

Losing Benn was a blow for Matchroom, but the situation could have been much worse if Anthony Joshua had also decided to leave.

During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Hearn revealed that Zuffa Boxing approached Joshua with an offer.

However, Joshua immediately informed him and had no intention of leaving Matchroom.

“AJ got an approach a couple of weeks ago,” Hearn said.

“Do you know how quickly he sent me the screenshot? Seconds. He messaged me and said, ‘Let me know what you want to reply.’”

Hearn praised Joshua’s loyalty and their strong working relationship.

“We’re a team. Until the wheels come off, we’re a team,” Hearn said. “I’ve always got his back.”

Hearn Questions Zuffa Boxing’s Business Model

Hearn also raised concerns about Zuffa Boxing and comments made by Dana White during a recent press conference.

White suggested that Conor Benn earning a huge payday would benefit UFC fighters. Hearn disagreed.

“Dana White said in a press conference last night, ‘Conor Benn making all this money is great for UFC fighters.’ How?” Hearn asked.

He argued that many UFC fighters will struggle to understand that logic.

“Every UFC fighter will look at that and think, ‘This doesn’t make sense.’”

Hearn also dismissed the idea that Saudi adviser Turki Alalshikh simply pays the bills.

“You can’t hide behind the fact that Turki is paying for it,” he said. “It’s still the same company.”

For now, Hearn says he prefers to watch events unfold quietly while he focuses on building his own projects.

“For the first time in my career, I’m working a bit in silence,” he explained. “I need to get this right.”

He believes the boxing world could see major developments soon.

“It’s going to be very interesting to see what unfolds over the next couple of months.”