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Du Plessis Fights Adesanya in UFC’s ‘Battle for Africa’

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The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to host its first ever all-African title fight in the early hours of Sunday, August 20, 2024, pitting South African champion Dricus du Plessis against Nigeria-born Israel Adesanya.

This highly anticipated middleweight bout has been framed as the “battle for Africa,” highlighting a cultural dispute between the fighters and showcasing the growing importance of the African market for mixed martial arts (MMA).

Cultural Clash and African Identity

The build-up to the fight has been marked by a heated debate over African identity in MMA. Adesanya, 35, who moved to New Zealand at age 10, has accused du Plessis, 30, of disrespecting the ‘African Kings’ – a title given to Adesanya, Kamaru Usman, and Francis Ngannou when they all held UFC belts simultaneously.

Du Plessis, who became South Africa’s first UFC champion in January 2024, has countered by questioning the authenticity of these fighters’ African credentials, given that they live and train overseas. “Did those belts ever go to Africa?” du Plessis provocatively asked, emphasizing his status as a champion based on the continent.

Impact on African MMA

The fight’s significance extends beyond personal rivalries, potentially shaping the future of MMA in Africa. At the Wellness Martial Arts Academy in Lagos, Nigeria, coach John Anene has witnessed a surge in fighters inspired by Adesanya and Usman.

However, he notes that while MMA is progressing in Nigeria, challenges remain, particularly in terms of facilities and comprehensive training systems.

In South Africa, du Plessis’ success has had an “unbelievable” impact on public perceptions of the sport, according to Stephan de la Rey, coach at the CIT Performance Institute in Pretoria. De la Rey reports a significant increase in youth participation and growing confidence in MMA as a viable career path.

UFC’s African Ambitions

The UFC sees Africa as a huge market with rapidly growing audience potential. Despite long-standing discussions, the organization has yet to hold an event on the continent in its 31-year history.

UFC executive David Shaw confirmed that plans for an African event are in the works, with South Africa and Nigeria identified as standout countries for fan base growth.

UFC President Dana White has stated that a fight will take place in South Africa if du Plessis wins. This commitment underscores the UFC’s recognition of Africa’s importance to the sport’s global expansion.

Cultural Significance and Marketing

The focus on du Plessis and Adesanya’s dispute over African identity is viewed by some, like coach Anene, as a savvy marketing strategy that will increase awareness of MMA in Africa.

Bokang Masunyane, a top-ranked South African strawweight who trains at du Plessis’ gym, sees the fight as a positive spotlight on African fighters.

As the MMA world turns its attention to this historic bout, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the sport’s development in Africa.

Whether Adesanya reclaims the middleweight title or du Plessis defends his championship, the fight represents a significant milestone in the UFC’s engagement with the African continent and its fighters.

A bbc.com story

Kenyan City Eldoret Removes Controversial Athlete Statues After Public Outcry

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Authorities in Eldoret, Kenya, have removed statues of three athletes following widespread ridicule and criticism. The statues, unveiled ahead of Eldoret’s city status ceremony on Thursday, August 17, 2024, were described by local residents and online commentators as “embarrassing” and a poorly executed “joke”.

Eldoret, known as the “home of champions” due to its location in the Rift Valley where many of Kenya’s world-class athletes originate, had erected the statues along with other monuments to represent the area’s sports and agricultural heritage. The artworks included representations of a maize cob and a milk fountain, placed at strategic roundabouts throughout the town.

However, the statues immediately drew criticism for their alleged poor resemblance to the athletes they were meant to represent. Social media users speculated that one statue was meant to depict Faith Kipyegon, the 1,500m world-record holder, while another was thought to represent marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge.

One Kenyan social media user described the works as representing “our collective mediocrity as a country,” while another stated that “whoever did this will not see heaven,” referring to the purported statue of Kipchoge.

Local media reported that county officials removed the three statues overnight on Wednesday, taking them to an undisclosed location. The authorities have not officially identified who the statues were meant to represent, nor have they indicated whether the statues will be replaced.

The removal of the statues occurred just before President William Ruto officially designated Eldoret as Kenya’s fifth city. During the ceremony, Ruto hosted athletes who won medals at the 2024 Olympics, rewarding them with monetary prizes as part of a government scheme to motivate athletic performance.

Kenya ranked 17th on the Olympic medal table, the highest among African countries, with four golds and a total of 11 medals. Faith Kipyegon won the 1,500m title with a new Olympic record and also took silver in the 5,000m. However, Eliud Kipchoge did not finish the marathon due to a back injury.

The controversy surrounding the statues has sparked a broader discussion about public art and representation in Kenya, with many welcoming their removal and calling for higher standards in commemorating the country’s athletic achievements.

Nigerian Lawmaker Withdraws Controversial Counter Subversion Bill Amid Public Outcry

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Nigerian legislation that critics argued would allow the government to suppress dissent has been withdrawn. Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of Nigeria’s lower chamber of parliament and sponsor of the bill, announced the withdrawal in a statement on Wednesday, August 16, 2024, citing public concerns and careful consideration of Nigeria’s current circumstances.

The Counter Subversion Bill, which contained 24 clauses, had reached the first reading in parliament after its introduction in late July. The proposed legislation called for severe penalties, including jail terms for refusing to recite the national anthem, erecting illegal roadblocks, proposing illegal curfews, conducting illegal processions, and disobeying constituted authority.

The bill’s introduction followed recent anti-government demonstrations across major Nigerian cities, protesting actions such as the removal of fuel subsidies. These protests turned violent when security agents reportedly used excessive force to disperse demonstrators, resulting in 23 deaths according to Amnesty International.

Human rights activists and civil society groups strongly criticized the bill. Damilare Akinola, an Abuja-based human rights activist, called it “thoughtless,” stating that Nigeria’s civic space was already stifled before the bill’s introduction.

Isa Sanusi of Amnesty International described the legislation as “draconian, repressive and adds no value,” warning that it could be manipulated to target government critics. Sanusi urged lawmakers to focus instead on addressing corruption, mismanagement, hunger, and growing inflation.

This is not the first time Nigerian authorities have faced backlash for proposing legislation perceived as repressive. In 2019, a bill calling for regulation of social media was dropped after widespread protests.

While authorities often cite national security concerns for such legislation, many citizens disagree. Abuja resident Godswill Effiom expressed relief at the bill’s withdrawal, emphasizing the importance of free expression in a democracy.

The withdrawal of the Counter Subversion Bill marks a significant victory for civil liberties advocates in Nigeria. However, activists and citizens remain vigilant, monitoring lawmakers for any potential reintroduction of similar legislation in the future.

South Sudan’s Controversial Security Bill Becomes Law Without Presidential Signature

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South Sudan’s controversial security legislation, which permits the arrest of individuals without warrants, has officially become law despite the absence of President Salva Kiir’s signature. Parliament spokesperson Oliver Mori confirmed on Thursday, August 17, 2024, that the bill automatically became law in accordance with the constitution after a 30-day period elapsed since its presentation to President Kiir on July 12.

The new law has faced criticism from human rights activists and several nations. In July, nine Western envoys, including representatives from the United States and Britain, expressed concerns that the law could infringe on South Sudanese citizens’ rights to participate freely in political and civic expression without fear of arbitrary arrest or intimidation by security personnel.

The legislation’s enactment comes at a critical time for South Sudan, which is scheduled to hold its first election on December 22, 2024, under the transitional government established after the 2018 peace agreement that ended a five-year civil war.

Yasmin Sooka, chair of the UN Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan, warned that the new law would empower security agencies to conduct “more arbitrary detentions and enforced disappearances.” Sooka urged the president and parliament to review the law to align with democratic processes and build credibility and legitimacy.

Local human rights organizations have also voiced their opposition. Ter Manyang Gatwech, executive director of the Center for Peace and Advocacy, announced plans to challenge the law in court, stating that it poses “a direct threat to the nation.”

The law has become a contentious issue in talks between the government and opposition groups not included in the 2018 peace agreement. Its implementation may impact the upcoming elections and South Sudan’s efforts to establish a stable democratic process.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller emphasized last month the need for South Sudan’s transitional government to create an environment where people can express their views openly and without fear.

As South Sudan approaches its crucial election period, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with particular focus on how this new law may affect political freedoms and human rights in the country.

AP

More Nationwide Protests in India Over Doctor’s Rape and Murder at State Hospital

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Thousands of protesters marched through major Indian cities on Friday, August 18, 2024, demanding justice and improved security at medical facilities following the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at a government hospital in Kolkata. The demonstrations, which began on August 9 after the discovery of the 31-year-old victim’s body at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, have spread nationwide.

In New Delhi, protesters gathered near Parliament holding signs calling for accountability. Similar demonstrations occurred in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. The protests have remained largely peaceful but have led to walkouts by doctors and paramedics at public hospitals across India, demanding safer working environments.

Police have detained a police volunteer in connection with the crime, but the victim’s family alleges it was a gang rape involving multiple perpetrators. The case, initially handled by state government officers, has been transferred to federal investigators following a court order amid accusations of mishandling.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has called for a “nationwide withdrawal of services” for 24 hours starting Saturday, August 19, excluding essential services. The IMA stated, “Doctors, especially women are vulnerable to violence because of the nature of the profession. It is for the authorities to provide for the safety of doctors inside hospitals and campuses.”

The incident has reignited discussions about violence against women in India. In 2022, police recorded 31,516 rape reports, a 20% increase from 2021, according to the National Crime Records Bureau. However, many cases go unreported due to stigma and lack of faith in law enforcement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue during his Independence Day speech on August 15, stating, “Monstrous behavior against women should be severely and promptly punished.”

The case has drawn comparisons to the 2012 New Delhi bus gang rape, which led to legal reforms including harsher penalties for sexual crimes and the establishment of fast-track courts for rape cases.

As protests continue, the medical community and general public are calling for immediate action to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and women across India.

AP

UK’s Top Cancer Doctors Reveal 2 Foods That Could Be Driving Cancer in the Under 50s – As Early Onset Cases Surge by 25%

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A disturbing trend is emerging in cancer diagnoses worldwide, with a significant increase in cases among adults under 50. Over the past three decades, early-onset cancer diagnoses have surged by 80% globally and 25% in the UK, according to a 2023 international analysis. Leading UK cancer experts are now shedding light on potential culprits behind this alarming pattern.

North Carolina’s Duke University oncologist Dr Nicholas DeVito says he and his colleagues have experienced a complete demographic switch in recent years

Professor Charles Swanton, oncologist and Chief Clinician at Cancer Research UK, has pointed to emerging links between this “disturbing” cancer trend and the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods, commonly known as junk food. Speaking at the American Society of Clinical Oncology, Professor Swanton highlighted studies showing that some early-onset bowel cancers may be “initiated” by gut bacteria prevalent in those who consume low-fiber, high-sugar diets.

“What we are seeing in some studies is some tumours from patients with early-onset colorectal cancer harbour mutations that might be initiated by these microbial species,” Swanton explained. These mutations are thought to reduce the body’s ability to combat pre-cancerous cells.

Dr. Cathy Eng, a bowel cancer specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Centre in Nashville, corroborated this observation, noting that many young cancer patients also suffer from lifestyle-related conditions linked to poor diets, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

Matthew Lambert, nutritionist and health information and promotion manager at World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), advised: “We advise that people eat less overly processed, high in saturated fat, sugar and salt food. This includes food like cakes, biscuits, pastries, crisps, sugar-sweetened drinks, and fast food like pizza and burgers.” Lambert emphasized that these foods lack fiber and essential nutrients and should be consumed only occasionally and in small amounts.

While the direct link between junk food and cancer risk is still being studied, it’s well-established that obesity, often a result of poor diet, is a direct cause of at least 13 different types of cancers.

In addition to junk food, Professor Swanton has warned about the regular consumption of red and processed meats. At the National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Cancer Conference in 2015, he stated that bowel cancer risk is “much higher” for those who eat red or processed meats, like ham or bacon, daily. A study presented at the conference showed that people who eat red and processed meat every day are 40% more likely to develop bowel cancer compared to those who eat it once a week or less.

The risk is believed to stem from substances called nitrates within the meat that combine with compounds in the body to damage cells. Studies show that bowel, breast, throat, and prostate cancers have seen the biggest increase in patients under 50.

However, it’s important to note that early-onset cancers are still relatively uncommon. Approximately 90% of all cancers still affect people over the age of 50, with 50% affecting those over 75, according to Cancer Research UK.

The situation is equally concerning in the United States. Dr. Nicholas DeVito, an oncologist from Duke University in North Carolina, revealed that the majority of his patients are now under 45. He attributes this shift to the prevalence of junk food diets, noting that nearly 75% of food consumed in the US is considered ultra-processed.

A 2023 study in the journal Clinical Nutrition found a “consistent significant association between intake of UPF and the risk of overall and several cancers,” including colon, breast, and pancreatic cancers. Another meta-analysis linked diets high in ultra-processed foods to more than 30 health conditions, including various cancers, obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

As the medical community grapples with this rising trend, experts are calling for increased awareness and action. Dr. DeVito emphasizes the critical role of food in cancer prevention and urges for measures similar to those taken against tobacco use to be applied to harmful food products.

This emerging crisis underscores the importance of dietary choices in long-term health outcomes and highlights the need for public health initiatives to address the consumption of ultra-processed foods and red meat, particularly among younger populations.

Daily MailOnline

Putin’s Nuke Bomber CRASHES After Takeoff in Russia in Another Crippling Blow as Vid Shows $40m Jet Plunge in Fireball

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A $40 million nuclear-capable Tu-22M3 bomber jet, a key component of Vladimir Putin’s nuclear arsenal, has crashed in a fiery blaze shortly after takeoff in Siberia. This incident marks another embarrassing setback for the Russian military, occurring as Ukraine continues its successful incursion into Russian territory.

Dramatic footage captured the moment the valuable Russian aircraft broke apart mid-air before crashing amid fierce explosions. Witnesses reported seeing the Tu-22M3 disintegrate in the sky, followed by an enormous fireball as it hit the ground near the Cheryomkhovsky district of the Irkutsk region, approximately 3,300 miles east of Moscow.

According to reports, the crew of four managed to eject safely before the high-tech plane made impact. Russian state media attributed the crash to a “technical malfunction,” though no clear explanation has been provided.

This incident comes at a particularly sensitive time for Putin, who is currently struggling to repel a Ukrainian border incursion in the Kursk region. Earlier this week, in an apparent show of force, Putin had deployed two Tu-22 planes to threaten the West in a nuclear drill over the Baltic Sea.

Simultaneously, two Tu-95 strategic nuclear missile carriers were reported flying over the Norwegian Sea, escorted by MiG-31 combat warplanes, in a path that brought them close to northern Britain.

The timing of this crash is particularly notable, as it occurs almost exactly one year after Ukraine’s impressive kamikaze drone strike on a Russian military airbase, which destroyed another of Putin’s prized Tu-22 bombers.

The Tu-22, first deployed by Russia in its war against Ukraine during the “carpet-bombing” of Mariupol, is a formidable weapon in Russia’s arsenal. With an operational range of nearly 7,000km, it puts all of Europe and the east coast of the United States within its scope. Russia is reported to have approximately 60 of these aircraft in operation.

These Soviet-designed bombers can carry a variety of payloads, including general-purpose high-explosive bombs, Kh-15 nuclear or anti-radar missiles, and Kh-22 long-range naval strike missiles.

This latest crash represents not only a significant financial loss for the Russian military but also a blow to morale and international prestige. As Ukraine continues to make advances into Russian territory, incidents like these further undermine Putin’s military capabilities and strategic positioning in the ongoing conflict.

the-sun.com

Jennifer Lopez Snubs Ben Affleck on His 52nd Birthday with Stunning New Portraits

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On Thursday, August 15, 2024, Jennifer Lopez notably abstained from publicly wishing her husband Ben Affleck a happy 52nd birthday on social media. Instead, the Bronx-born diva chose to share a series of captivating photos showcasing herself in a sheer Dior gown, taken during her own 55th birthday celebration in the Hamptons last month.

The “Atlas” actress stunned her 251 million Instagram followers with three images that highlighted her toned physique. Lopez was captured standing in front of a car, wearing a sexy dress that accentuated her legs. Her hair was styled in a flirty ponytail, complemented by diamond earrings and a beaded purse.

Fans quickly took to the comments, with user debrajlo1 exclaiming, “You look perfect.” Many speculated that the timing of these posts was intentional, aimed at reminding Affleck, who has been spotted in Los Angeles for weeks, of what he’s been missing.

In addition to the glamorous photos, Lopez took to her JLo Beauty Instagram page to share a new video. The former “Fly Girl” appeared in a colorful robe, seated in a hotel room, noticeably without her wedding rings.

She demonstrated the ease of using her face mask product, which she claimed was “firming and lifting.” The video showcased Lopez applying a JLo Beauty mask and then removing it to reveal her makeup-free face, devoid of wrinkles or blemishes.

As of the time of reporting, Affleck has not been seen publicly on his birthday. Sources believe that both Jennifer and Ben are currently in Los Angeles, though they haven’t been photographed together since June. Just days before his birthday, Lopez was spotted visiting Affleck’s rental home in Brentwood on Sunday, after taking his son to the mall.

Recent reports from People magazine suggest that Lopez is seeking a “fresh start.” The singer and actress has been house hunting after putting the Los Angeles home she shared with Affleck up for sale. Sources close to Lopez insist she “always has [a] good attitude even when things are not perfect.”

An insider revealed that Lopez has been touring homes in Beverly Hills, including one described as “truly exceptional” and “an ideal setting for those seeking seclusion.” She has also been looking at properties not officially on the market.

This house hunting comes in the wake of Affleck’s recent $20 million purchase of a new home in the affluent area of Pacific Palisades. TMZ reported that Ben’s new property features five bedrooms, six bathrooms, a media room, and a guest house – a significant downsize from the couple’s previous Beverly Hills mansion.

As speculation continues about the state of their relationship, Lopez’s social media activity on Affleck’s birthday has only fueled further discussion among fans and media alike.

The couple’s journey, from their early 2000s romance to their reunion and subsequent marriage, continues to captivate public interest, with each social media post and public appearance scrutinized for hints about their current status.

Daily MailOnline

DOJ Says Doctors Arrested for Matthew Perry Drug Death Allegedly Texted: ‘Wonder How Much This Moron Will Pay’

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The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced charges against five individuals in connection with the death of former “Friends” star Matthew Perry. During a press conference on August 15, 2024, U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada revealed shocking details about the alleged exploitation of Perry’s addiction issues.

The DOJ has charged Jasveen Sangha, allegedly known as “The Ketamine Queen,” Dr. Salvador Plascencia, a licensed physician, Kenneth Iwamasa, Perry’s personal assistant, Erik Fleming, and Dr. Mark Chavez. These individuals are accused of knowingly supplying and administering ketamine to Perry, taking advantage of his addiction. Estrada stated that Perry had relapsed into addiction in Fall 2023, shortly before his death in October.

Doctor Salvador Plascencia, 42, allegedly referred to the Friends star as a ‘moron’ while earning thousands of dollars for the ketamine he supplied him with in the days before his death

According to the DOJ, Dr. Plascencia allegedly contacted Dr. Chavez to obtain ketamine for Perry. In text messages, Plascencia reportedly wrote, “I wonder how much this moron will pay” and “Let’s find out,” highlighting the alleged exploitation of Perry’s vulnerability.

Alleged drug dealer Sangha could be facing life in prison if convicted of all offences

Kenneth Iwamasa admitted to “repeatedly” injecting Perry with ketamine without medical training, including on the day of his death. Dr. Chavez, who previously operated a ketamine clinic, allegedly supplied the drug. Jasveen Sangha faces multiple charges related to drug distribution and maintaining drug-involved premises.

Jasveen Sangha, 41, is better known as the ‘Ketamine Queen’ of north Hollywood. Prosecutors say she is the lynchpin for a ‘broad underground criminal network’ which supplied the Friends star the fatal dose which killed him in October 2023

Iwamasa has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death. Dr. Chavez will plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine. Erik Fleming pleaded guilty to conspiracy and distribution of ketamine resulting in death. Sangha and Plascencia will be arraigned later on August 15.

Investigators said they discovered a ‘drugs emporium’ at Sangha’s home during a raid in March 2024 including 79 bottles containing a clear liquid that field tested positive for ketamine

Perry’s autopsy, released in December 2023, revealed his cause of death as acute effects of ketamine. The nature of death was determined to be “accidental.” At the time, Perry was undergoing ketamine infusion therapy.

Montana Supreme Court Rules Minors Don’t Need Parental Consent for Abortion

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The Montana Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that minors in the state do not require parental permission to obtain an abortion. This decision, delivered on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, upholds a lower court ruling that found the parental consent law violates the privacy clause in the state constitution.

Justice Laurie McKinnon, writing for the court, stated, “We conclude that minors, like adults, have a fundamental right to privacy, which includes procreative autonomy and making medical decisions affecting his or her bodily integrity and health in partnership with a chosen health care provider free from governmental interest.”

This ruling comes at a significant time, as Montana voters are expected to face a ballot initiative in November 2024 asking whether they want to protect the right to a pre-viability abortion in the state constitution. Supporters of the initiative claim that county officials have verified enough signatures to qualify the issue for the ballot, with the Secretary of State’s Office required to certify general election ballots by August 22.

The parental consent law, passed by the Montana Legislature in 2013, had been blocked by an injunction agreed to by the attorney general at the time and never took effect. A series of judicial substitutions, recusals, and retirements delayed a ruling until February 2023, when a state judge ruled that the law violated the constitution based on a 1999 Montana Supreme Court decision.

Martha Fuller, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood, which challenged the law, expressed satisfaction with the decision, saying it “affirms the right to privacy and we are pleased that the Court upheld the fundamental rights of Montanans today.”

The state had argued that the law was necessary to protect minors from sexual victimization, ensure parental involvement in post-abortion complications, protect minors from poorly reasoned decisions, and safeguard parental rights. However, the justices disagreed, noting that the state “imposes no corresponding limitation on a minor who seeks medical or surgical care otherwise related to her pregnancy or her child.”

Republican Governor Greg Gianforte expressed disappointment with the ruling, stating he was “concerned and disappointed” that it “states parents do not have a fundamental right to oversee the medical care of their young daughters.”

This decision places Montana among the minority of states regarding parental involvement in minors’ abortion decisions. According to the Guttmacher Institute, 36 states require some form of parental involvement, either through notification or consent.

The ruling highlights the ongoing debate surrounding abortion rights and parental rights in the United States. It also underscores the significance of state constitutions and their interpretation in shaping reproductive rights policies, especially in the wake of recent federal changes to abortion law.

As Montana prepares for a potential ballot initiative on abortion rights, this Supreme Court decision is likely to play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and potentially influencing voter decisions in the upcoming election.

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