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Daniel Carvajal, born January 11, 1992, in Leganés, a Madrid suburb, is a 30-year-old Spanish footballer (as of May 2022). Growing up, Dani developed a passion for football, inspired by his idolization of Real Madrid. He honed his skills through informal games with friends at school and in the streets. Recognizing his dedication, his parents, Mariano and Lola, enrolled him in Real Madrid’s youth academy, paving the way for his future success in the sport.Dani’s talent and hard work propelled him through the ranks, and he eventually joined the Real Madrid B team. His impressive performances earned him a promotion to the first team, where he has since become an integral part of the squad. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, speed, and dedication, Daniel Carvajal has become a beloved figure among Real Madrid fans and a respected player in the world of football. On July 1, 2002, Daniel Carvajal embarked on his football journey by joining Real Madrid’s esteemed academy. Starting with the Under-11 team, he consistently demonstrated his skills and dedication, progressing seamlessly through every age category. His steady ascent culminated in 2010 with a well-deserved promotion to Real Madrid’s reserve team, Castilla, a crucial milestone in his development as a top-tier footballer. Daniel Carvajal’s journey took a significant turn when he joined Real Madrid Castilla in 2010. Over two seasons, he not only played 38 games but also led the team as captain, contributing to their promotion to the Segunda Division. However, he struggled to break into the senior team and was sold to Bayer Leverkusen in 2012 for $5.3 million.At Leverkusen, Carvajal flourished, becoming a formidable force on the right flank. He played a crucial role in the team’s third-place finish in the Bundesliga, behind only Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, and secured a spot in the 2013/14 UEFA Champions League. His impressive performances caught the attention of several top clubs, but ultimately, his boyhood club, Real Madrid, won the race to sign him. In 2013, Dani returned to the club that had nurtured his talent, finally getting the opportunity to prove himself at the highest level. His homecoming marked a new chapter in his career, one that would be filled with success and triumphs. Real Madrid exercised a clause in Daniel Carvajal’s contract to re-sign him from Bayer Leverkusen for $6.9 million, bringing him back to the club where his journey began. On August 18, 2013, he made his La Liga debut against Real Betis, marking the start of a remarkable career with Los Blancos. Since then, Carvajal has become one of the most accomplished right-backs in both Real Madrid’s history and the sport as a whole. He has consistently demonstrated his defensive prowess while also providing significant attacking contributions, making him an invaluable asset to the team. His ability to balance his defensive responsibilities with his attacking flair has made him a standout player in his position. Today, Dani Carvajal’s career serves as a model for aspiring footballers, a testament to his hard work, dedication, and natural talent.Daniel Carvajal made his debut for Spain on August 29, 2014, in a friendly match against France. Since then, he has been a key player for the national team, winning titles at both the youth and senior levels.Daniel Carvajal’s remarkable career has been adorned with numerous accolades, solidifying his position as one of the most accomplished defenders in football world. His time at Real Madrid has been a remarkable one with over 20 titles with the club, among which is three consecutive Champions League titles, he’s a record 6times winner of the competition. Carvajal’s success also extended to the international stage, where he has played a vital role in Spain’s triumphs. He has won the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, the UEFA European Under-19 Championship, and most recently, the UEFA Euros Nations cup 2024. Outside of his football career, Daniel Carvajal values the time he spends with his loved ones, including his family, friends, and long-time girlfriend, Daphne Cañizares, a talented model with Dutch and Spanish roots. The couple’s relationship has blossomed over the years, and they’ve embarked on a new chapter together with the arrival of their first child, Martin, born on December 7, 2021. As he navigates the demands of his professional life, Carvajal finds comfort and joy in the warmth and love of his personal relationships.

M.I Abaga, born Jude Abaga on October 4, 1981, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, hails from the Jukum descent of Takum, Taraba State. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Abaga, raised him and his two younger siblings, Jesse Jagz and Jason Abaga, in Jos, where he developed a fluency in Hausa. M.I’s passion for music was evident from an early age, prompting his mother to support his interest with music notations and a 7-key mini piano. Growing up, he drew inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Lauryn Hill, Bob Marley, Sarah Maclachlan, Pablo Neruda, Jay-Z, DMX, and Fela Ransom Kuti. After attending Baptist High School in Jos, M.I pursued higher education at Calvin College in Michigan, USA, initially studying Engineering for a year before switching to Business and Economics. M.I Abaga’s artistic journey began with explorations in poetry and comedy, but he ultimately found his calling in music. During his time at Calvin College (1999-2003), he regularly performed at hip-hop shows and concerts, notably earning third place at the HipHopera event.After relocating to Nigeria in 2003, M.I launched his music career by producing mixtapes with Djinee, leading to the breakthrough single “Safe.” The song gained widespread recognition, airing on African radio stations and music video platforms like MTV Vibe. M.I co-founded Loopy Music with his brother Jesse Jagz, Ice Prince, and other artists. His big break came when Chocolate City, a prominent Nigerian music label, signed him. This led to a move to Abuja and a successful music career. Today, M.I Abaga is a renowned artist, hailed by DIV as the future of African Hip Hop M.I Abaga’s production credits include work with various artists, showcasing his versatility and talent. He has collaborated with notable names in the industry, including Don Jazzy, Threadstone (Nigeria’s first rock band), and Wizkid, among others. In addition to his role as CEO of Chocolate City, M.I also runs his own production company, Rytchus Era Productions, in partnership with his brother Jesse Jagz. This venture allows him to continue producing music and fostering talent outside of his label responsibilities.M.I Abaga’s music has made a significant impact, cementing a Northern presence in the Nigerian industry. By bridging cultural divides, he’s seen as a unifying force, using music to bring Nigeria together. This endeared him to fans, earning him the title “Nigeria’s Hip Hop Messiah”.

Born in July 1966 in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, Farooq Oreagba began his educational journey at Ijebu-Ode Grammar School before attending King’s College Lagos.He pursued higher education at Edward Greenes College, Oxford in London, where he graduated with distinction. Oreagba furthered his academic credentials with:A Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Combined Engineering Studies from Coventry University (1985-1989).A BTec Diploma in Business & Finance from the University of East London (1991-1993).Various certifications from both local and international institutions.Career HighlightsFarooq Oreagba’s career in the financial services sector is marked by several notable achievements. He is known for his:Expertise in deal origination.Deep understanding of capital markets.Proficiency in investment banking.Strategic vision and leadership, which have significantly contributed to the growth and success of numerous financial institutions.Over the last four decades, Oreagba has worked in the financial sector in Nigeria and abroad. He is a former Member of the Derivatives Product Advisory Committee of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. September 2023, he was appointed MD/CEO of NG Clearing Limited, a role that marks his return to the financial sector after a hiatus due to health issuesIn April 2014, Farooq Oreagba was diagnosed with osteosarcoma and carcinoma, types of bone marrow and skin cancer, respectively. Despite the incurable nature of these cancers, Oreagba has continued to battle bravely. His experience with cancer has profoundly influenced his personal and professional life. Farooq Oreagba’s appearance at the 2024 Ojude Oba festival garnered significant media attention. His refined style and charisma stood out, earning him accolades for his “swag sense” and “steeze.” Photos and videos of Oreagba at the festival, where he made a grand entrance on horseback and wore a full aso-oke agbada regalia, showcased his impeccable fashion sense and elegance. His stylish display and the beautiful tattoo on his arm, symbolizing his battle with cancer, captivated citizens across NigeriaFarooq Oreagba’s remarkable career in the financial services sector, coupled with his impressive educational background, has solidified his reputation as a distinguished professional. His appearance at the Ojude Oba 2024 festival highlighted his elegance and charm, making him a noteworthy figure in both the financial and social spheres. Despite keeping certain aspects of his personal life private, Oreagba continues to be a significant influence in his field.

Kevin Darnell Hart, a renowned comedian, actor, and producer, was born on July 6, 1979, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His mother, Nancy Hart, raised him and his older brother as a single parent, after their father, Henry Witherspoon, struggled with cocaine addiction and legal issues. Hart’s early life was marked by challenges, but he went on to graduate from George Washington High School and briefly attend The Community College of Philadelphia. He later moved to New York City and Boston, Massachusetts, where he began to pursue a career in comedy, eventually rising to become one of the industry’s most prominent figures. Despite his father Henry’s frequent absence and struggles with incarceration, Kevin Hart found solace in humor as a child. He used comedy as a coping mechanism to deal with the pain and difficulties of his childhood. However, Henry has since turned his life around, and the two have reconciled. From a young age, Hart was fascinated by stand-up comedy and idolized comedians like Chris Tucker and J.B. Smoove, who would later become significant influences on his own career. After high school, Kevin Hart moved to New York City and later Brockton, Massachusetts, but it was back in Philadelphia that his stand-up career took off. Initially, he struggled, performing under the name “Lil’ Kev the Bastard” at small comedy clubs, with few laughs and even fewer fans. But with guidance from mentor Keith Robinson, Hart began performing as himself, drawing material from his own life experiences. This shift led to success, with Hart winning amateur stand-up competitions and eventually becoming a regular performer at clubs nationwide.Kevin Hart’s comedy style is a nod to the greats, blending the humor of Steve Harvey, Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, and Bernie Mac. As his stand-up career skyrocketed, ABC took notice and handed him the lead role in The Big House. The 2004 sitcom starred Hart as a version of himself – a young comedian caught up in a financial scandal and forced to move in with quirky relatives in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, the show’s quirky charm didn’t quite click with audiences, and it was canceled after a brief six-episode run. Kevin Hart’s career continued to soar with the release of his stand-up albums: I’m a Little Grown Man (2006), Seriously Funny (2010), Laugh at My Pain (2011), Let Me Explain (2013), and What Now? (2016). However, it was the Laugh at My Pain tour that truly catapulted him to stardom. The tour, which spanned 90 cities and grossed $15 million, was later turned into a concert documentary. Hart’s fearless approach to comedy shone through as he delved into personal experiences, including his mother’s passing and quirky family dynamics. His signature catchphrase, “All right, all right, all right,” became a crowd favorite, solidifying his position as one of comedy’s brightest stars.Kevin Hart’s film career gained momentum with his breakout role in Ride Along (2014), opposite Ice Cube. He further solidified his movie star status with Get Hard (2015), a comedy alongside Will Ferrell. Hart continued to impress audiences with Ride Along 2 (2016) and Central Intelligence (2016), showcasing his versatility. His most notable role came in Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017), co-starring with Dwayne Johnson, followed by a voice role in The Secret Life of Pets (2016) and its sequel (2019). With each film, Hart’s star power continued to rise, cementing his status as a leading man in Hollywood. In 2012 he hosted the MTV Music Awards, and around the same time, he landed a recurring role on the ABC comedy Modern Family. He has also appeared on such series as Real Husbands of Hollywood and Workaholics. In 2015 Hart was the host of the Comedy Central Roast of Justin Bieber. Kevin Hart’s personal life has been filled with love and family. He married comedian Torrie Hart in 2003, with whom he had two children, Heaven Leigh and Hendrix, before their divorce. In 2014, Hart proposed to model Eniko Parrish, and they tied the knot in 2016. Their family grew with the arrival of son Kenzo Kash in 2017, and daughter Kaori Mai in September 2020. Hart’s journey as a husband and father has been a significant part of his life, bringing him joy and fulfillment.

Meet Vinicius José Paixão de Oliveira Júnior, born on July 12, 2000, in São Gonçalo, Brazil. Despite facing financial struggles, Vinicius’s family instilled in him the power of love and resilience. Growing up in a tough neighborhood, his parents, Vinicius Sr. and Tatiana, worked tirelessly to provide for their family. His uncle Ulysses played a vital role in supporting Vinicius’s journey, helping him overcome the odds. From humble beginnings to a promising future, Vinicius’s story is one of determination and hope. In the streets of São Gonçalo, Vinicius’s passion for football was ignited, fueled by his idolization of Robinho’s legendary “chapeau” move. As he honed his skills, financial challenges led his family to make sacrifices, relocating to be closer to his futsal training ground. This move paved the way for Vinicius’s rapid ascent in the sport. His exceptional talent soon caught the attention of Flamengo, marking the beginning of his remarkable journey to football stardom.Vinícius Junior’s football journey began in 2006 at Flamengo’s offices in São Gonçalo. Despite financial struggles, he honed his skills in futsal classes and trials, eventually joining the club in 2010. His professional debut in 2017 was a breakout success, earning him a contract extension and European interest. At the 2017 South American U-17 Championship, he scored seven goals, winning top scorer and best player awards. Vinícius’s rise to fame was underway, inspiring young players worldwide. As Vinícius Junior’s star rose, European giants Barcelona and Real Madrid clamored for his signature. Though initially drawn to Barcelona, Vinícius ultimately chose Real Madrid, inking a €46 million deal. Despite speculation about familial influence, his uncle revealed that Vinícius made the decision independently, driven by his desire to join the Spanish powerhouse. This move, delayed until July 2018 to allow him to further develop at Flamengo, marked a pivotal moment in Vinícius’s career, propelling him into the esteemed world of Real Madrid and cementing his status as a rising star in global football.Vinícius Jr’s dynamic playing style is marked by versatility, agility, and acceleration. Deployed as a left winger or second striker, he showcases exceptional dribbling skills, swift changes of direction, and remarkable balance. Despite his slender build, he possesses impressive power and technical finesse, allowing for precise ball control at high speeds. Initially recognized for his creative flair and vision, Vinícius has evolved to prioritize teamwork over individual play. His breakthrough season in 2021-2022 saw a significant increase in goal-scoring and assists, forming a formidable partnership with Karim Benzema. This growth was marked by improved composure, tactical awareness, and finishing abilities, drawing comparisons to Neymar.Vinícius Jr’s defensive contributions and refined game temperament have also earned praise from manager Carlo Ancelotti. His evolution has positioned him as a promising talent in world football, garnering recognition from peers and analysts alike for his developing prowess on the pitch. With his exceptional skills and dedication, Vinícius Jr is destined to leave an indelible mark on the football world. As he continues to flourish, his name is sure to become synonymous with excellence, creativity, and success. The future of football is bright, and Vinícius Jr is shining testament to its limitless potential. Vinícius Jr has won numerous trophies with Real Madrid, including two Champions League titles, three La Liga championships, two Club World Cups, three Spanish Cups, one UEFA Super Cup, and the Under-17 South American Championship, as well as individual honors such as TM LaLiga Player of the Season, and most recently, the Champions League and La Liga titles in the current season, solidifying his status as a talented and accomplished player in the world of football.

Ademola Olajade Alade Aylola Lookman, a London-born Nigerian forward born on October 20, 1997, in Wandsworth, Greater London, attended St Thomas the Apostle College in Peckham and has played for clubs in England, Germany, and Italy.Ademola Lookman’s professional career took off in 2014 when he joined Charlton Athletic’s academy from London’s Waterloo youth club. He rapidly rose through the ranks due to his impressive goalscoring for the U18 and U-21 teams. On November 3, 2015, he made his first-team debut for Charlton, scoring his first goal a month later against Brighton & Hove Albion. He continued to impress, netting a brace against Bolton Wanderers soon after. In January 2017, Everton signed Lookman for a reported £7.5 million, with the potential for add-ons based on performance. He made a dream debut, scoring the final goal in a 4-0 win over Manchester City, and even featured in Everton’s Europa League qualifying campaign. However, under manager Sam Allardyce, regular playing time became scarce, and the club explored loan options to provide more consistent playing experience.Lookman pushed for a permanent move to a higher level, and in the 2017-18 season, RB Leipzig offered him a loan deal. He seized the opportunity to join the Bundesliga club, seeking more playing time and new challenges. Ademola Lookman’s loan spell at RB Leipzig marked a turning point in his career. He made an instant impact, scoring a dramatic winning goal on his debut. Although Everton brought him back permanently, regular playing time remained elusive.Lookman embarked on another loan adventure, joining Fulham in 2020 and quickly scoring his first goal. He continued his loan spells with a move to Leicester City in 2021, making a significant impact with a winning goal against Liverpool. Despite limited opportunities, Lookman demonstrated his resilience and adaptability as a footballer. Ademola Lookman’s career was marked by loan spells, earning him a “journeyman” reputation. However, his move to Atalanta in August 2022 proved to be a turning point. He impressed immediately, scoring on his debut and maintaining his form throughout the season. A spectacular run in January 2023 saw him net braces in three consecutive matches, cementing his status as a key player at Atalanta and a rising star in Italian football. Ademola Lookman made history by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a Europa League final, leading Atalanta to their first-ever major European trophy. This victory marked a personal milestone for Lookman, securing his first major trophy at senior level after nine years of professional football. He cemented his place among Nigeria’s Europa League champions and etched his name in the history book. Ademola Lookman’s international career has been marked by a tale of divided loyalties. Born in England to Nigerian parents, he was eligible to represent both countries. Initially, he progressed through England’s youth ranks, winning the U-20 World Cup in 2017. However, in 2020, he switched his allegiance to Nigeria, despite still hoping to play for England. FIFA approved the switch in 2022, and he made his debut for the Super Eagles in March 2022. He quickly became a vital player, scoring crucial goals in their run to second place at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Philip Walter Foden Born in Stockport in 2000, the talented 23-year-old emerged from Manchester City’s youth academy, where he honed his skills from a young age.”At just 9 years old, he entered Manchester City’s youth development system, and six years later, in July 2016, he formalized his commitment to the club by signing an academy scholarship.”Foden’s exceptional talent and progress through Manchester City’s youth ranks caught the attention of Pep Guardiola, who included him in the first-team squad for a Champions League group stage match against Celtic in December 2016. Although he didn’t make his debut that night, remaining an unused substitute, this marked a significant milestone in his career. Notably, at just 16 years and 192 days old, Foden became the third youngest player in Manchester City’s history to be named in a matchday squad, following in the footsteps of Glyn Pardoe and Paul Simpson The 2017-18 season proved to be a pivotal one for Foden, as he began to make his mark on the first team at Manchester City. His breakthrough moment came in a pre-season friendly against Manchester United in the United States, where he made his debut appearance for the Citizens, signaling the start of an exciting new chapter in his career At just 17 years and 177 days old, Foden made his Champions League debut, becoming the fourth-youngest English player to feature in the competition. During the 2017-18 season, he made a total of 10 appearances across all competitions, contributing to Manchester City’s triumphant Premier League campaign. On September 25, 2018, Foden scored his first senior goal for the club, On December 10, 2018, Foden committed his long-term future to Manchester City, signing a five-and-a-half-year contract extension that would keep him at the club until the summer of 2024. In the following seasons, Foden solidified his position as a regular starter at The Etihad, playing a crucial role in City’s back-to-back Premier League title wins. In the 2018-19 campaign, he made 13 league appearances as City lifted the trophy, and in the 2020-21 season, he featured 28 times in the top flight, scoring an impressive nine goals to help Manchester City secure another championship title.” Foden has achieved incredible success with Manchester City, surpassing 250 appearances and contributing over 100 goals. His exceptional performances earned him the prestigious Premier League Player of the Season award for the 2023/2024 campaign, a historic first for an English player at City. As a key member of the team, he played a vital role in securing the treble last season, joining an elite group of English players to achieve this feat. Furthermore, Foden holds the record for the most Premier League titles won with Manchester City, boasting an impressive six championships.” Foden’s talent was evident from a young age, earning him recognition and praise for his performances at various youth levels for England. His standout moment came at the 2017 FIFA Under-17 World Cup, where he was named player of the tournament after scoring twice in the final, helping England secure the title. This impressive display earned him the prestigious BBC

Pharrell Lanscilo Williams, a renowned American singer-songwriter, rapper, record producer, and fashion designer, was born on April 5, 1973, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. His parents, Pharoah Williams and Caroline Randall Williams, raised him in a creative environment that nurtured his artistic talents from a young age.He hails from a family with a rich history in Virginia and North Carolina, where his ancestors have lived for generations. He is the eldest of four brothers and was raised in a household that valued music. During his time at Princess Anne High School, Pharrell joined the school band, where he crossed paths with future collaborator and friend, Chad Hugo. Pharrell Williams’ musical journey began when he met Chad Hugo at a seventh-grade summer band camp, where Williams played drums and Hugo played tenor saxophone. After two years at Northwestern University, Williams left college to pursue music. Reuniting with Hugo, they formed The Neptunes, a hip-hop and R&B production duo. In 1999, the duo teamed up with Shay Haley to form the N.E.R.D band.The Neptunes produced hits like “Steal Away” (Mary J. Blige), “Drop It Like It’s Hot” (Snoop Dogg), and “Rock Your Body” (Justin Timberlake). They were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2022. As N.E.R.D, Williams, Hugo, and Shay Haley released four albums: In Search Of… (2001), Fly or Die (2004), Seeing Sounds (2008), and Nothing (2010). After a hiatus, they reunited in 2017 with No_One Ever Really Dies, a more politically charged album. Pharrell Williams released his debut album “In My Mind” in 2006. He co-wrote and featured on Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” (2013) and released the hit single “Happy” for “Despicable Me 2”. In 2014, he won two Grammys for Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky” and collaborated with Hans Zimmer on “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” soundtrack. He also joined “The Voice” as a coach.Pharrell Williams is a prolific artist with four studio albums and numerous collaborations to his credit. He is a 13-time Grammy Award winner, recognized for his outstanding contributions to music. In addition, he made history by being the first artist to release a 24-hour music video, showcasing his innovative and creative approach to music. Pharrell Williams has made a lasting impact in the fashion industry, building a reputation as a style icon and entrepreneur. He partnered with Japanese streetwear pioneer Nigo in 2005, co-founding Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream. Williams has collaborated with top fashion houses, including Chanel, Moncler, and Adidas. In 2023, he succeeded Virgil Abloh as Louis Vuitton’s men’s creative director. His fashion sense has earned him numerous accolades, including Esquire’s “world’s best-dressed man” title in 2005, recognizing his influence in bringing luxury to hip-hop fashion. He expanded his creative reach into television and film, showcasing his versatility as a producer, narrator, and actor. Notable credits include co-producing the Oscar-nominated film Hidden Figures (2017), narrating the animated movie The Grinch (2018), and appearing in Entourage (2015) and Pitch Perfect 2 (2015). Williams also served as a coach on the reality TV singing competition “The Voice” from 2014 to 2016. His music production skills were featured in Disney’s 2019 remake of The Lion King, where he produced five songs. Additionally, he co-wrote and co-produced the song “Letter to My Godfather” for Netflix’s The Black Godfather with Hugo. Williams has received two Oscar nominations, recognizing his impressive contributions to the film industry. In 2008, Williams founded the nonprofit organization One Hand to Another, dedicated to providing educational resources and support to underserved youth. Through this initiative, Williams aims to empower young individuals with the tools they need to succeed and reach their full potential.Pharrell Williams is married to Helen Lasichanh, and together they have a family of six. They are parents to four children, including a set of triplets.

Francis Ngannou: A Fighter’s Journey to GreatnessBorn on September 5, 1986, Francis Ngannou in the small village of Batié, Cameroon, Francis Ngannou’s life was marked by adversity from a young age. Despite the challenges he faced, including a lack of access to formal education, Ngannou found solace in martial arts and began training in boxing. This passion would eventually become his ticket to a better life.Ngannou’s path to success was not without its obstacles. He migrated to Europe in search of opportunities to train and compete professionally, eventually settling in Paris, France. It was here that he discovered MMA and began honing his skills. His dedication and natural talent quickly caught the attention of coaches and promoters, leading to his professional MMA debut in 2013. Rise to Prominence Ngannou’s rise through the UFC ranks was meteoric. With a combination of athletic ability, technique, and an unwavering work ethic, he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division. His reputation as one of the most feared punchers in the sport was cemented by his ability to finish fights with a single punch, making him a fan favorite. Crowning Achievement2021 was a pivotal year for Ngannou, as he defeated Stipe Miocic in a title rematch at UFC 260 to become the UFC heavyweight champion. This victory was a moment of validation for Ngannou, solidifying his position as an icon in the world of MMA.Today, Francis Ngannou is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication. From humble beginnings to UFC champion, his journey is an inspiration to fans around the world. In a shocking move, Francis Ngannou traded in his MMA gloves for a pair of boxing mitts in late 2022, announcing his bold switch to professional heavyweight boxing. Leaving behind his UFC heavyweight championship title, Ngannou embarked on a new challenge, seeking to conquer the sweet science. On October 28, 2023, Ngannou made his highly anticipated professional boxing debut in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, facing off against the formidable Tyson Fury. The battle was intense, with both fighters giving it their all. In the end, Fury emerged victorious by a split decision, but Ngannou proved he belonged in the ring. This marked a thrilling new chapter in Ngannou’s combat sports career, as he continues to push boundaries and test his limits in the world of professional boxing.On March 9, 2024, former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou faced Anthony Joshua in his second professional boxing match in Saudi Arabia. Despite his best efforts, Ngannou was defeated by Joshua via second-round knockout. Ngannou’s transition to boxing has been highly publicized, and his fight against Joshua was a crucial test of his skills in the sweet science. Joshua, a formidable opponent, pushed Ngannou to his limits, but the former UFC champion showed promise and determination, hinting at his potential to become a force in the boxing world.

Tony Elumelu, born in 1963 in Jos, was driven by a relentless determination and insatiable curiosity from an early age. Despite modest beginnings, he held aspirations that transcended the limitations of his hometown.With an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Tony secured admission to the esteemed University of Lagos. His tenure there served as a crucible for his emerging entrepreneurial spirit, delving deep into the realms of economics and business management. In 1997, Tony Elumelu’s entrepreneurial odyssey began as he spearheaded a consortium of investors to acquire a struggling Nigerian bank. Armed with strategic acumen and unyielding determination, he orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, metamorphosing the ailing bank into a flourishing financial powerhouse. Thus, the inception of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) stood as a testament to Tony’s visionary leadership and unwavering resolve. Just a year after completing his Master’s degree in Economics at the University of Lagos, Tony defied the odds by applying to join Allstates Trust Bank, despite not meeting the qualification criteria. Through a stroke of serendipity, the CEO stumbled upon Tony’s application letter and personally invited him for an interview. This chance encounter led to Tony securing the position.At the tender age of 26, Tony found himself entrusted with the remarkable responsibility of becoming a branch manager at AllStates Trust Bank, making him the youngest to hold such a role in the entire country at that time. This pivotal opportunity profoundly impacted Tony’s trajectory, instilling in him a fervent desire to extend similar opportunities to young talents.Tony’s ascent to prominence in the Nigerian banking arena was solidified when he achieved what seemed improbable. Initially a relatively obscure figure in the industry, he made waves by acquiring the struggling financial institution, Crystal Bank, and assuming the role of its CEO. This bold move not only garnered attention but also earned him and his cohorts the affectionate moniker of “the cowboys of banking.” At a daring 34 years old, Tony, the youngest banking CEO in the country, embarked on a transformative journey with Crystal Bank, rebranding it as Standard Trust Bank (STB). Armed with an aggressive strategy, he propelled STB from the shadows of obscurity to the forefront of the financial landscape, positioning it as Nigeria’s fifth-largest bank within a mere seven years.In 2005, Tony made history yet again by leading the largest merger in sub-Saharan Africa, combining Standard Trust Bank Plc with the established United Bank for Africa (UBA), then Nigeria’s third-largest financial institution. In less than a decade, he transformed UBA from a local bank to a pan-African powerhouse, serving millions across 20 African countries and expanding its reach to global financial centers like Paris, London, and New York. This cemented his reputation as a business turnaround expert and one of Africa’s most influential leaders.In 2010, Tony left UBA to establish Heirs Holdings (HH), an African investment firm focusing on key sectors like finance, hospitality, energy, and technology. He also founded The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) the same year, dedicated to empowering African entrepreneurs through training and funding. HH and its portfolio employ over 30,000 people, while TEF has funded nearly 10,000 entrepreneurs and built a digital network of over one million Africans, illustrating Tony’s commitment to Africa’s growth and youth empowerment. In 2020, Tony Elumelu was recognized globally as one of Time100 Most Influential People in the World. He was also bestowed with Belgium’s highest national honor for his exceptional business leadership and dedication to empowering young Africans. Additionally, he was honored as one of “Africa’s 50 Most Influential Figures” by The Africa Report, solidifying his status as a prominent leader and advocate for African progress.Tony Elumelu is married to Awele Vivian Elumelu, and together they are blessed with seven children.