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EastEnders accidentally leak HUGE spoiler in now-deleted post about Linda Carter – and it’s months ahead of being on TV

EASTENDERS has accidentally leaked a major spoiler in a now-deleted post and it’s bad news for one Walford family.

Eagle eyed fans of the BBC soap are convinced that a huge change is coming on the soap as they notice major clue in a now-deleted post shared to the show’s TikTok account.

The Queen Victoria pub in Albert Square, from the EastEnders TV show.

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Fans noticed that a for sale/auction sign had been placed on the side of the Queen VicCredit: TikTok / @bbceastenders
Still image from EastEnders episode 7116 featuring Linda Carter, George Knight, and Elaine Knight.

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Is Linda Carter about to lose the pub?Credit: BBC
Elaine Peacock and George Knight in a pub scene from EastEnders.

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Some believe that George Knight could have something to do with itCredit: BBC

In a post uploaded to the account on Tuesday afternoon, fans noticed that a for sale/auction sign had been placed on the side of the Queen Vic – suggesting that current owners Linda Carter and the Knight family are set to lose the pub in a shock new storyline.

Taking to the EastEnders Reddit, many fans suggested their theories as to how Linda and the Knights could lose the pub – with some believing that George Knight (played by Colin Salmon) could have something to do with it. 

One wrote: “There was a rumour before that George was going to mess up the insurance on the pub and they were going to be forced to sell it, so I wonder if that’ll be what’s happening here.”

A second asked: “Interesting. I wonder if Linda and the Knights are selling the Vic in an auction.”

A third questioned: “The Knights were so happy to get it back, I wonder why they’ll lose it?”

“Perhaps they can’t afford the Vic, and I’m predicting if Phil and Linda do get closer, like a lot of people are saying that he’ll bid on it and own it while they run it,” this person speculated.

This viewer suggested: “Oh dear. Why do I have a sinking feeling it’ll go to the new Mitchells?”

The Sun have reached out to EastEnders reps for comment.

The iconic pub at the heart of Albert Square underwent a recent transformation following the devastating explosion that rocked Walford.

EastEnders star’s secret romps revealed as they’re caught on camera and blackmailed in shock twist

With a shiny new sign, fresh windows, and a sleek new front, the Queen Vic was ready to welcome punters once again.

EastEnders viewers know that the iconic Queen Vic pub went up in flames as part of the show’s 40th anniversary last month.

Fans were left horrified as the huge explosion ripped through the square, which resulted in Martin Fowler (James Bye) dying in the arms of his ex-wife Stacey Slater (Lacey Turner).

The Queen Vic pub was destroyed as the windows broke, ceiling structure beams fell down, walls collapsed and upstairs furniture crushed residents.

The Knight family were forced to move out until renovations were complete after they received the good news that the insurance would be paying out.

Elaine Peacock and George Knight in a pub scene.

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Is the Queen Vic getting new landlords?Credit: BBC

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U.S., UAE agree to defensive pact, develop technologies ‘to stay ahead of emerging threats’

United Arab Emirates Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan greets President Donald Trump in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on Thursday. Photo by UAE Presidential Court/EPA-EFE

May 20 (UPI) — The United States and United Arab Emirates are deepening their commercial and defensive ties following President Donald Trump‘s recent diplomatic trip to the Middle East.

Officials with the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit and the UAE’s Tawazun Council signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen defense cooperation between the two nations, the Department of Defense announced Tuesday in a news release.

“We are building a global network by fostering collaboration to stay ahead of emerging threats,” DIU Director Doug Beck said.

“We are accelerating the integration of commercial technologies into the defense markets,” Beck added.

He said the accelerated integration of technologies will occur by working together to develop technologies with the help of national security and private sector experts and non-traditional companies.

The MOU includes using “non-traditional practices” to develop and access “cutting-edge technologies” to improve both nations’ defensive capabilities.

The collaborative effort expands defensive investments and industrial partnerships while building a “strong international community of defense innovation entities, according to the DOD.

The Defense Department “is enhancing best practices for harnessing and sharing the best commercially derived technologies for the warfighter in defense of the free and open international system through mission-driven collaboration among the many nations that rely on that system,” the DOD release said.

Trump on Thursday also announced $200 billion in commercial agreements between the United States and the UAE.

The agreement includes forming an artificial intelligence alliance and launching a 1-gigawatt and jointly run AI technology cluster that will be located in the UAE’s capital of Abu Dhabi.

Other elements of the $200 billion deal include the UAE’s Etihad Airways spending $14.5 billion to buy 28 U.S.-built Boeing 787 and 777X aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines.

Emirates Global Aluminum will invest another $4 billion to develop an aluminum smelter in Oklahoma and double that nation’s annual aluminum production capability.

UAE entities also will collaborate with U.S.-based oil and natural gas producers to expand production of both inside the United States and to lower energy costs in both nations.

Many other deals were secured during Trump’s visit to the Middle East last week and total $2 trillion in investment agreements, according to White House officials.

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U.S. women’s soccer calls up Naomi Girma ahead of friendlies

Naomi Girma was called up to the women’s national soccer team Tuesday for the first time this year, joining 23 others for friendlies with China and Jamaica.

Girma, who was named to FIFA’s global Best XI last year, has been sidelined with calf injuries but recently returned to fitness, going 90 minutes in two of Chelsea’s last three games in the Women’s Super League. Her last appearance for the U.S. came in the gold medal final of the Paris Olympics in August.

Sisters Alyssa and Gisele Thompson, who started their second senior national team match together last month, were also called up but this time with Gisele, a defender, making the roster as a winger. Alyssa has four goals and two assists this season for Angel City, for whom her sister also plays.

“Everyone always earns their call-ups but there are some much-deserved call-ups in this camp for players who have shown consistency in league play,” USWNT coach Emma Hayes said in a statement. “We have two different types of opponents ahead of us so we’ll have to be creative in breaking down those teams in different ways.”

In addition to Girma, seven other players from the Olympic championship team were called up. But Hayes also summoned three uncapped players in Orlando Pride defender Kerry Abello, Kansas City Current midfielder Lo’eau LaBonta and Seattle Reign goalkeeper Claudia Dickey. Canyon Country teenager Olivia Moultrie, who hasn’t played for the U.S. since Hayes took over last May, is also on the roster.

“This camp and the following camp are going to be two amazing opportunities to develop squad depth,” Hayes said.

Still missing from the team are forwards Sophia Wilson (née Smith), Trinity Rodman and Mallory Swanson. Smith and Swanson are on maternity leave while Rodman is injured. The trio combined for 10 of the 12 U.S. goals in last summer’s Olympics.

The U.S. will play China at Allianz Field in St. Paul, Minn., on May 31 and Jamaica on June 3 at Energizer Park in St. Louis. Here’s the roster:

Goalkeepers: Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC), Mandy McGlynn (Utah Royals), Phallon Tullis-Joyce (Manchester United).

Defenders: Kerry Abello (Orlando Pride), Crystal Dunn (Paris Saint-Germain), Emily Fox (Arsenal FC), Naomi Girma (Chelsea FC), Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit), Avery Patterson (Houston Dash), Emily Sams (Orlando Pride), Emily Sonnett (Gotham FC).

Midfielders: Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC), Lindsey Heaps (OL Lyonnes), Claire Hutton (Kansas City Current), Lo’eau LaBonta (Kansas City Current), Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC), Lily Yohannes (Ajax).

Forwards: Lynn Biyendolo (Seattle Reign FC), Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current), Catarina Macario (Chelsea FC), Emma Sears (Racing Louisville), Ally Sentnor (Utah Royals), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC), Gisele Thompson (Angel City FC).

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The amazing omens for both Man Utd AND Tottenham ahead of Europa League final

TOTTENHAM and Manchester United will meet in Bilbao on Wednesday for a Europa League date with destiny.

The Premier League strugglers both hold a golden opportunity to salvage their season by seizing glory in Spain.

Noussair Mazraoui of Manchester United controls the ball during a match against Tottenham Hotspur.

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Man Utd and Tottenham are set for a date with destiny in BilbaoCredit: Getty
Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou embracing another manager after a match.

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Ange Postecoglou and Ruben Amorim are both desperate to salvage their seasonsCredit: Getty

Languishing 17th and 16th in the Prem respectively, Spurs and United have endured woeful league campaigns.

But several omens suggest that it could be a glorious end to a difficult season for either side.

TOTTENHAM

It’s been well documented that Spurs have not won a trophy since lifting the League Cup in 2008.

Ange Postecoglou has come under fire for his side’s awful league campaign.

But Juande Ramos and George Graham being Tottenham’s most recent trophy-winning managers suggests that it’s not necessarily their best or most popular bosses that can get them over the line.

Spurs can also take heart from seeing teams on far longer trophy droughts than them breaking their ducks.

In March, Newcastle upset the odds to beat Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final – earning their first silverware since lifting the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1969.

And just last week, Italian side Bologna won the Coppa Italia – beating AC Milan 1-0 in Rome to end a 51-year wait for a trophy.

Former Tottenham hero Harry Kane recently won the Bundesliga at the second time of asking, scoring 26 goals along the way to earning the first trophy of his career.

CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS

Robbie Keane of Tottenham Hotspur celebrating a Carling Cup victory.

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Tottenham won the League Cup in 2008Credit: Getty
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United celebrating with the Carabao Cup trophy.

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Newcastle ended their trophy drought earlier this seasonCredit: Reuters
Bologna soccer team celebrates Coppa Italia victory.

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Bologna won their first silverware in 51 years last weekCredit: Getty
Crystal Palace players celebrating with the Emirates FA Cup trophy.

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Crystal Palace earned the first major trophy in their entire history last SaturdayCredit: Getty
Harry Kane holding the Bundesliga trophy.

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Harry Kane recently got his hands on the BundesligaCredit: PA
Illustration of San Mamés Stadium with facts about its history and features.

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Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash

Most recently, Crystal Palace upset Manchester City in the FA Cup final to lift the first major silverware in their entire history.

It’s been the season of fresh trophy winners – and Spurs will be hoping to join the party by earning their third Europa League triumph, having won its former iteration, the Uefa Cup, in 1971 and 1984.

How Europa League final will be decided – four key Man Utd vs Tottenham tactical battles

MAN UTD

The Red Devils’ mid-season managerial change is yet to bear fruit.

Erik ten Hag oversaw a dismal start to the campaign and was sacked following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham in October.

In came Ruben Amorim, but the 40-year-old has managed to mastermind just six victories in 26 Premier League matches at the helm.

Ahead of Wednesday night, however, United fans can cling to what happened the last time that they won the Europa League.

The Red Devils beat Ajax 2-0 in Stockholm eight years ago, courtesy of goals by Paul Pogba and Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

On that occasion they were managed by a Portuguese in Jose Mourinho, who had replaced a sacked FA Cup-winning Dutchman in Louis van Gaal.

Amorim is a Portuguese boss and replaced sacked Dutchman Ten Hag, who lifted the FA Cup last season…

In addition to this, United’s rivals Manchester City last went trophyless in 2017.

By losing to Palace on Saturday, Pep Guardiola‘s side were condemned to their first season without silverware since the 2016-17 campaign.

United fans will be hoping that these omens can work in their favour come Wednesday night.

Illustration of the Road to Bilbao, showing the tournament bracket for Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur's paths to the final.

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Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash

Louis van Gaal holding the FA Cup trophy.

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Louis van Gaal was sacked after winning the FA Cup in 2017Credit: Getty – Contributor
Erik ten Hag holding the FA Cup trophy.

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Erik ten Hag lifted the FA Cup last seasonCredit: Reuters
Pep Guardiola giving instructions to Vincent Kompany during a soccer match.

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Man City failed to win a trophy in the 2016-17 seasonCredit: AFP
Erling Haaland of Manchester City looking dejected.

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Man City have gone trophyless this termCredit: Getty

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Emmerdale’s Mackenzie Boyd ‘goes missing’ ahead of John and Aaron wedding

Emmerdale spoilers have teased one character goes missing next week despite them planning to be at the wedding of Aaron Dingle and John Sugden, with a new mystery

There's a new mystery on Emmerdale next week it seems
There’s a new mystery on Emmerdale next week it seems(Image: ITV)

There’s a new mystery on Emmerdale next week it seems, with spoilers suggesting a character goes AWOL in the build-up to a wedding.

While an explanation is hinted at, fans will no doubt fearing the worst amid recent trouble with killer John Sugden. It’s his wedding to Aaron Dingle next week, and a key guest appears to be missing.

So has something bad happened to Mackenzie Boyd amid their run-in with enemy John? Perhaps not, as he’s involved in a separate storyline – but it is a bit weird that Mackenzie would go missing on Aaron’s big day just as things got heated with John.

According to the spoilers, as Aaron and John prepare to say their vows Mack has mysteriously vanished and no one knows where he is. Whether he shows up remains to be seen.

That said, he finds himself caught up in Ross Barton’s drama with his new brother Lewis Barton next week. After the pair try to steal Lewis’ cannabis plants from his secret farm in the attic of his home, Lewis catches them and Mack becomes trapped.

READ MORE: Emmerdale spoilers: Cancer diagnosis, wedding ‘nightmare’ and killer ‘exposed’

Emmerdale spoilers have teased one character goes missing next week
Emmerdale spoilers have teased one character goes missing next week (Image: ITV)

Prior to this, Ross gets Lewis’ keys and manages to get Mack to help him, with them soon finding the farm in the attic. But when Lewis gets an alert on his phone that suggests an intruder is in the attic he opens up a camera app and makes a discovery.

He realises it’s Mack and calls out Ross who he’s with, wanting an explanation from both of them – seemingly trapping Mack in the process amid the wedding. Lewis agrees to let Mack go on one condition, he wants to know the truth about his his mother Emma Barton died.

Whether something else happens to Mack after this and it causes him to go AWOL remains to be seen. There’s also every chance he’s vanished because he’s simply trapped at the home of Lewis.

It comes as John risks being exposed next week when more than one secret threatens to come to light.

While an explanation is hinted at, fans will no doubt fearing the worst
While an explanation is hinted at, fans will no doubt fearing the worst (Image: ITV)

Next week it’s confirmed that his ex Aidan has woken from his coma, and soon John is fearful Aidan will expose his lies and the truth about their past.

Then there’s the fact the lake is being dredged due to the slurry leak, caused by John to frame Mack last week. Viewers know that John dumped Nate Robinson’s body in this very lake after killing him in September – so is this the moment the body is found?

With that and Aidan being awake and Aaron having pre-wedding jitters, not to mention John plotting an escape, will the big day go ahead? Will they even make it to the vows? Of course the last thing John will need on top of all of this is for Mack to target him once more – so might John be pushed over the edge?

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .



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Christine McGuinness’ Celebs Go Dating replacement makes bold promise ahead filming

Celebs Go Dating have made a late addition to their lineup for the upcoming E4 series, adding a Celebrity Big Brother star following the surprise withdrawal of Christine McGuinness

Celebs Go Dating logo
The Celebs Go Dating lineup is complete(Image: E4 )

A Celebrity Big Brother star has become a late addition to the latest Celebs Go Dating lineup – and made a bold promise. Donna Preston is ready to swap one reality TV show for another and dip her toe in the on-screen dating world on the E4 show.

However, she has admitted she won’t be easily pleased and will make her feelings known if she feels her match isn’t up to scratch. Donna, 38, is set to appear alongside Atomic Kitten’s Kerry Katona, The Chase’s Mark Labbett, S Club 7’s Jon Lee, Love Island’s Olivia Hawkins and Too Hot To Handle’s Louis Russell.

Donna’s late addition comes following the shock exit of Christine McGuinness. The ex-wife of Paddy McGuinness had initially signed up, but quickly realised she wasn’t ready for the scrutiny that came with it.

Donna Preston in Big Brother Diary Room
Donna was recently on Celebrity Big Brother(Image: ITV/Celebrity Big Brother)

Donna’s fellow CBB housemate, Chris Hughes, had also been lined up to take part, but shunned the opportunity shortly after leaving the house.

Opening up about her inclusion, Donna said: “I’m buzzing to be joining the show and finally crack the code on what men really want, besides snacks and not being asked what they’re thinking.

“I’m intrigued to meet new people, but let’s be honest, if a date’s boring, I won’t waste anyone’s time. Life’s too short to sit through tales of someone’s coin collection, I’ll be gone before the starter arrives.”

While she was a late name to join the series, there had been talk of her taking part prior to her spell in ITV’s Big Brother house. Before last month’s show, a source had said: “Donna was toying with dipping her toe in the dating pool on TV and had been in talks with bosses on the E4 show, but then she was also offered CBB.”

Speaking to the Sun, the source added: “She felt it was the better career move.”

Earlier this month while speaking to the Mirror at the BAFTA TV Awards, Christine opened up on her decision to step back from the show. She also teased her inclusion in a new project.

Speaking on the red carpet at the event, she admitted she focusing on work which takes her mind off wanting to find a companion in the future.

She went on to add: “There’s going to be an announcement in a few weeks which i’m very, very excited about for a new project I’ve been working on.”

She had previously said: “I joined Celebs Go Dating with great intentions but have realised that dating on a public platform and the attention is brings is just too soon for me.”

Without ruling out the possibility of returning to the show in the future, she added: “They’ve said the door is always open for me which I’m so grateful but for now I’m returning home to my family.”

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

READ MORE: Beauty buffs find ‘genius’ way to make fake tan last longer – it sells every 20 seconds



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Jake Paul, Julio César Chávez Jr. trade jabs ahead of bout

One of Jake Paul’s nicknames is the “Problem Child,” but that nickname could just as easily fit Julio César Chávez Jr.

After becoming World Boxing Council (WBC) middleweight champion of the world in 2011, Chávez defended his crown three times and came to be considered on the same level as his contemporary Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez. But a disappointing loss to Sergio Martínez in 2012, lack of discipline needed to train properly and make weight, as well as a crushing defeat to Álvarez in 2017, sent his career into a free fall.

From 2019-21, he picked up three losses in four fights, including falling to former champion Daniel Jacobs and mixed martial arts veteran Anderson Silva.

Now at 39, Chávez will face Youtuber turned boxer Jake Paul in a cruiserweight contest scheduled for June 28 at the Honda Center in Anaheim. Chávez (54-6-1, 34 KOs) has fought 61 professional bouts since his debut in 2003 and could be the toughest test of Paul’s (11-1, 7 KOs) career to date, although it all depends on the level of the Mexican’s fitness for the matchup.

Boxers Jake Paul and Julio César Chávez Jr. point at each other during a news conference while Oscar De La Hoya watches.

Boxers Jake Paul, left, and Julio César Chávez Jr. point at each other during a news conference while promoter Oscar De La Hoya watches at the Avalon Hollywood Theatre in Los Angeles on Wednesday. Paul and Chávez will fight in June in Anaheim.

(Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press)

During a press event held at The Avalon in Hollywood on Wednesday, Paul strongly criticized Chávez while mentioning the addiction problems Chávez has faced as well as his “lack of mentality.”

“I’m going to embarrass him and run him down like he always does,” Paul said. “I’m going to expose him. He will be the embarrassment of Mexico. There are two things you can’t beat — me and your drug addiction.”

Outside the ring, Chávez’s personal life has not been free of problems. The Culiacan native was arrested in January of last year in Los Angeles and charged with illegal possession of weapons, specifically an assault rifle, which was found in his home. He eventually pleaded not guilty and committed to entering a rehabilitation program.

On Wednesday, the legendary Julio César Chávez Sr. stood by his son’s side to support him in the face of Paul’s verbal attacks. For Chávez Sr., if his son continues to train the way he has seen him lately, the American doesn’t stand a chance. Chávez Jr. will be looking to be the second opponent to beat Paul after Tommy Fury scored a win in 2023.

“He’s an overrated fighter. He hasn’t fought anybody. He only fights old guys,” said Chávez Jr., who added he will arrive in Anaheim as the best version of himself and that the first five rounds will be difficult, but that he will tip the scales in his favor from the seventh round on.

Chávez Sr., as on many occasions, has mentioned that his son is training like never before.

“There is no way Jake Paul can beat my son, the way he is training,” Chávez Sr. said.

Paul responded he could beat Chávez Jr. and his legendary father, criticizing Chávez Jr.’s lack of discipline.

Boxer Jake Paul swings his arm in the air after challenging Julio César Chávez Jr., during a news conference.

Boxer Jake Paul insulted Julio César Chávez Jr. during a news conference at the Avalon Hollywood Theatre in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

(Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press)

“It’s not a champion’s mentality to only train hard when you have a big fight. I train hard every time I have a fight, no matter who I’m facing. That teaches you the type of person he is,” Paul said.

After the news conference, Chávez Jr. noted that he expected Paul to pick on his dad, but understood it was a mental tactic by his opponent.

“In boxing you learn step by step, and he is missing several,” Chávez Jr. said.

Paul, a 28-year-old from Cleveland, will return to the ring since he last fought in November, when he outpointed heavyweight legend Mike Tyson in an eight-round bout in Arlington, Texas. The event disappointed many due to a lack of competitiveness from 58-year-old “Iron Mike.”

During this fight, Paul will likely have much of the crowd against him by choosing to fight a Mexican star in Southern California, although he believes there are many who will support him.

“Mexicans love me. People love me more than they love him. Mexico doesn’t even love him. I’m going to show him who the real Mexican warrior is,” Paul said.

Boxers Julio César Chávez Jr. and his father, Julio César Chávez Sr., sit beside each other during a news conference.

Boxers Julio César Chávez Jr., left, and his father, Julio César Chávez Sr., sit beside each other during a news conference Wednesday.

(Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press)

The showdown between Paul and Chávez Jr. comes after a proposed showdown between the Youtuber and Álvarez fell apart earlier this year.

Paul could be close to a fight against Álvarez, although before that he could consider a matchup against Mexico’s Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez, who will be defending his cruiserweight crown against Cuban Yuniel Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs) on the Anaheim card.

“He has done a good job. Maybe someday we can fight for titles. Now I’m the champion,” Ramírez, 33, said about facing Paul.

Ramírez (47-1, 30 KOs) said he would prefer to unify the Boxing Assn. title against Jai Opetaia, the International Boxing Federation champion. But before that, he will have to dispatch Dorticos, who is known for his powerful punch.

“Los Angeles is going to shake. The knockout doctor is back,” said Dorticos, 39.

The card is promoted by Most Valuable Promotions in conjunction with Golden Boy Promotions, and will air on pay-per-view via DAZN.

This article first appeared in Spanish via L.A. Times en Español.

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WHSmith store to close within hours ahead of chain disappearing off UK high street for good

ANOTHER WHSmith store will shut its doors for the final time this weekend as the retailer continues its slow retreat from Britain’s high streets.

Shoppers in Stockton, County Durham, will say goodbye to their local branch on Saturday, May 17, as it becomes the latest casualty in the chain’s ongoing wave of closures.

Exterior view of a WH Smith store with a clearance sale sign.

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Shoppers in Stockton, County Durham, will say goodbye to their WH Smith on Saturday, May 17Credit: Alamy

The move follows a string of recent shutdowns across the country, with WHSmith axing high street locations after being snapped up by Hobbycraft owner Modella Capital earlier this year in a £76million deal.

The dramatic shake-up means the WHSmith name will vanish from town centres altogether, although its stores in airports, train stations and hospitals will stay open.

Locals in Stockton have been left gutted, with many now forced to travel to travel hubs or shop online for books, stationery, and gifts.

The high street giant has a number of stores in recent months – and more are set to follow.

Branches in Halstead and Woolwich shut on April 12, while Halesowen and Diss followed on April 19.

Just a week later, stores in Newport and Haverhill also pulled down the shutters.

And there’s no sign of the cuts slowing.

Two more sites are due to close by the end of July:

  • West Mall, Frenchgate Centre, Doncaster – May 31
  • Bedford, Bedfordshire – July 5

Many of the shutting stores are currently holding closing-down sales, with shoppers able to grab big bargains before they go.

The 1p WHSmith stationary essential which transforms your car into a cinema

Already gone

At least ten WHSmith branches have already vanished from high streets this year, including:

  • Bournemouth (Old Christchurch Road), Dorset
  • Luton, Bedfordshire
  • March, Cambridgeshire
  • Basingstoke, Hampshire
  • Long Eaton
  • Newtown, Powys
  • Winton (Bournemouth), Dorset
  • Rhyl, Denbighshire
  • Bolton, Greater Manchester
  • Accrington, Lancashire

The retailer, which first opened in 1792, has faced growing pressure from rising costs, online rivals and changing shopper habits.

The end of WHSmith on the high street

The closures mark the beginning of the end of a 233-year stint on the high street for WHSmith.

Earlier this year, it put its entire high street estate up for sale as it focuses instead on its more profitable travel arm.

As previously mentioned, its remaining 480 high street stores were snapped up by Modella Capital last month, and the move saved the jobs of roughly 5,000 employees.

However, the famous WHSmith name is set to be lost to the high street as the shops will be gradually rebranded to TGJones.

The brand opened its first shop in 1792 in Little Grosvenor Street, London, later becoming the UK’s main newspaper distributor.

High street struggles

WHSmith’s departure from the high street comes just a few years after rival Wilko collapsed, with the brand partially rescued by The Range.

Retailers that had once seemed resilient now appear to be buckling under recent pressures.

They have had to deal with rising inflation and costs, a move to online shopping, and customers having less money to spend amid the cost of living crisis.

RETAIL PAIN IN 2025

The British Retail Consortium has predicted that the Treasury’s hike to employer NICs will cost the retail sector £2.3billion.

Research by the British Chambers of Commerce shows that more than half of companies plan to raise prices by early April.

A survey of more than 4,800 firms found that 55% expect prices to increase in the next three months, up from 39% in a similar poll conducted in the latter half of 2024.

Three-quarters of companies cited the cost of employing people as their primary financial pressure.

The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) has also warned that around 17,350 retail sites are expected to shut down this year.

It comes on the back of a tough 2024 when 13,000 shops closed their doors for good, already a 28% increase on the previous year.

Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR said: “The results for 2024 show that although the outcomes for store closures overall were not as poor as in either 2020 or 2022, they are still disconcerting, with worse set to come in 2025.”

Professor Bamfield has also warned of a bleak outlook for 2025, predicting that as many as 202,000 jobs could be lost in the sector.

“By increasing both the costs of running stores and the costs on each consumer’s household it is highly likely that we will see retail job losses eclipse the height of the pandemic in 2020.”

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Much-loved independent fashion retailer launches closing down sale ahead of shutting down in weeks

A BELOVED clothing store that has been in business for nearly 50 years has launched a massive sale ahead of its closure.

Ginger, in Norwich, will shut for good on June 7 after the owners were forced to make an “incredibly difficult decision”.

Exterior view of Ginger clothing shop.

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The family-owned business is one of Norwich’s oldestCredit: Facebook

The shop was founded by David and Rodger Kingsley in 1978 following the success of their sister company Jonathan Trumbull in 1971.

Beckie Kingsley broke the sad news on social media that her family’s shop was soon to be no more.

The store manager blamed the current economic climate and the aftermath of Covid-19 for the business’s hardship.

She said: “It’s with truly heavy hearts that, after 46 unforgettable years, we have made the incredibly difficult decision to close the doors at our beautiful, beloved and historic Timber Hill home.

“We’ve weathered many storms over the decades, but there’s been ongoing challenges of today’s financial climate – coupled with the lasting impact and huge shifts within the retail landscape since Covid.

“This led us to ask – does it still work for us? After deep reflection, the answer, sadly, is no.

“We’ve had the privilege of watching generations grow, celebrating precious life milestones, sharing joys and deepest sorrows.

“Being part of people’s stories has been beyond a privilege – more than some may ever know.

“They’ve always been more than just customers – they’ve become wonderful friends.”

Ginger is one of the city’s oldest businesses and loyal customers rushed to share their praise.

“You will be missed! Sending hugs,” one wrote.

Another commented with a sad face emoji.

Dozens of shops are set to close across the country before the end of the month in the latest blow to UK high streets.

One of these include Smiggle, known for its colourful, quirky pens, lunchboxes and school bags, which revealed it is shutting up shop at the Darwin Centre in Shrewsbury.

Meanwhile, family business B.D Price, a beloved toy and bike store in Dudley, West Midlands, announced its closure after 160 years.

The 84-year-old owner blamed the cost of living crisis for a drop in sales and the costs of running the business skyrocketing.

Rising living costs leaving shoppers with less cash to spend and an increase in online shopping have battered retailers in recent years.

In some cases, landlords are either unwilling or unable to invest in keeping shops open, further speeding up the closures.

Smiggle isn’t the only stationary shop shutting its doors, more WHSmiths stores are set to close this month.

Sports Direct axed its Newmarket Road store in Cambridge on April 18 while Red Menswear in Chatham in Medway, Kentshut for the final time on March 29 after selling men’s clothing since 1999.

RETAIL PAIN IN 2025

The British Retail Consortium has predicted that the Treasury’s hike to employer NICs will cost the retail sector £2.3billion.

Research by the British Chambers of Commerce shows that more than half of companies plan to raise prices by early April.

A survey of more than 4,800 firms found that 55% expect prices to increase in the next three months, up from 39% in a similar poll conducted in the latter half of 2024.

Three-quarters of companies cited the cost of employing people as their primary financial pressure.

The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) has also warned that around 17,350 retail sites are expected to shut down this year.

It comes on the back of a tough 2024 when 13,000 shops closed their doors for good, already a 28% increase on the previous year.

Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR said: “The results for 2024 show that although the outcomes for store closures overall were not as poor as in either 2020 or 2022, they are still disconcerting, with worse set to come in 2025.”

Professor Bamfield has also warned of a bleak outlook for 2025, predicting that as many as 202,000 jobs could be lost in the sector.

“By increasing both the costs of running stores and the costs on each consumer’s household it is highly likely that we will see retail job losses eclipse the height of the pandemic in 2020.”

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EastEnders spoilers: Fears for Stacey ahead of exit and baby Jimmy’s life-changing diagnosis

EastEnders spoilers for next week confirm Stacey Slater’s loved ones are deeply concerned after worrying scenes on the BBC soap, while there’s also an emotional storyline for baby Jimmy

EastEnders spoilers for next week confirm Stacey Slater's loved ones are deeply concerned
EastEnders spoilers for next week confirm Stacey Slater’s loved ones are deeply concerned(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

There’s some huge moments with emotional scenes on EastEnders next week according to the new spoilers.

Viewers will see concern grow for Stacey Slater, amid the news that actress Lacey Turner is taking a break from the BBC soap later this year. There’s also concern for Lauren Branning as she grows convinced something isn’t right with her baby son Jimmy.

But when she rushes him to the hospital, her and her family are rocked by a diagnosis. Also next week there’s news from former character Whitney Dean as Zack Hudson takes action after threats from Nicola Mitchell.

It’s a big week in Walford, with some highly emotional twists and turns. One of the big storylines of the week is baby Jimmy’s diagnosis, with the soap confirming he will be diagnosed as severely sight impaired.

When Lauren grows concerned for her newborn baby son, her panicked behaviour leaves partner Peter Beale and their family worried she might be struggling. When her son Louie makes a comment about seeing her taking some pills, it sparks concern that she’s relapsed after her painkiller addiction.

READ MORE: Coronation Street Craig Tinker’s death ‘revealed’ in first look at ‘horrific’ final scenes

There's some huge moments with emotional scenes on EastEnders next week
There’s some huge moments with emotional scenes on EastEnders next week (Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Prior to this, Lauren is struggling with her baby boy and is convinced something isn’t right with Jimmy. She’s urged to investigate, but her health visitor is soon telling Peter that Lauren may be experiencing symptoms of post-natal depression.

As tensions rise, there’s a worrying moment when Lauren notices something concerning when looking at Jimmy’s eyes. Struggling to get an appointment with the doctor she heads to the hospital and demands to be seen.

Lauren’s midwife calls Peter who joins them at the hospital, and soon Lauren’s fears are taken seriously. When a consultant checks the newborn over, she tells a shocked Lauren and Peter that their son is severely sight impaired.

The soap is working with advice from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) on the storyline, with the scenes set to show how the diagnosis will impact Jimmy and his family as a whole. Elsewhere there’s concern for grieving Stacey, as she refuses to leave her bedroom.

Lauren Branning grows convinced something isn't right with her baby son Jimmy
Lauren Branning grows convinced something isn’t right with her baby son Jimmy(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Stacey has been in a bad way ever since her ex Martin Fowler died in the Queen Vic explosion back in February, just after he asked her to remarry him. Her daughter Lily Slater tries to cover up what’s going on despite things taking their toll, but soon Stacey’s loved ones find out.

As Kat Slater heads to the house she is left worried by what she uncovers. She tries to take control of the situation and calls a family meeting, with Kat, Alfie, Suki and Eve planning to help with childcare, as they question whether Stacey needs professional help.

As Stacey continues to hide away in her bedroom, Lily breaks down. Soon, Stacey, who is taking a break from the show, takes her first trip out of the house in weeks, but she worries Kat with her plans for a family meal.

When Stacey’s phone is misplaced and she realises it’s in the laundry bag which is now on its way to the laundrette, she panics as she explains it contains voicemails, photos and texts from Martin and they’ll be lost forever if the phone is damaged.

She rushes off to find it before it’s too late, and in her absence her son Arthur shocks Alfie with a secret. Meanwhile as Stacey reaches the laundrette her behaviour concerns Kat and Lily who fear she’s experiencing a bipolar episode.

Viewers will see concern grow for Stacey Slater, amid the news that actress Lacey Turner is taking a break
Viewers will see concern grow for Stacey Slater, amid the news that actress Lacey Turner is taking a break(Image: CREDIT LINE:BBC/Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron)

Soon, an incident between Stacey and Lily leaves their relationship at breaking point. Also next week, it seems Nicola Mitchell will go to any lengths necessary to stop Zack from telling Barney that he’s his biological father.

Nicola will target Whitney it seems, as Whitney tells ex Zack that she’s found a safe place for her and the girls to live, somewhere Nicola won’t find them. Zack is encouraged to go and visit them, but he soon sparks concern when he plots to take Barney with him.

Finally, Nigel Bates is urged to reconnect with his estranged daughter Clare to build bridges by Yolande Trueman. But she soon gets on the wrong side of him. Also Harvey Monroe is sacked by Kat after he moves on with Kathy Beale.

EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .



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