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‘Have cut drying time significantly’ shoppers rave over £5 buy that dries their clothes with NO heating on

MILLIONS of cash-strapped households are wondering how to dry their clothes effectively without forking out for heating.

As the cold weather sets in, many of us are on the lookout for easy ways to cut the drying time, whether it’s by using the viral ”burrito method” or other bizarre hacks.

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Shoppers have been raving over an affordable bargain to speed up the drying process
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a dunelm store with a car parked in front of it
Getty
Cleaning fans can also order the bargain buy from Amazon where it sells for £5.99[/caption]
Pack of 2 Minky Dryer Balls
What’s more, the drying balls are also said to soften the garments – a win-win

But sometimes these tricks fail – and it may be better to use savvy gadgets and products that promise to help with speeding up the drying process.

This is exactly what money-smart Dunelm shoppers have been doing, raving over a purse-friendly bargain they can no longer live without in the chilly months.

Priced at just £5, Dunelm’s Minky Dryer Balls feature ”plastic spikes that retain heat” and allow ”warm air to circulate effectively”.

What’s more, the popular retailer also claimed that not only will the two-pack of balls help with the drying process – but it will also make the garments super soft.

The laundry essential is ideal for thicker fabrics such as towels and bedding – no more wet bedsheets that take forever to dry whilst you’re saving money on heating.

This two-pack of durable balls is all you need for efficient drying, as they are built to last and can be reused over and over again, saving you both time and energy with every cycle.

Also available on Amazon for £5.99, they’re designed to be placed in the dryer with your clothes, helping to speed up the drying process.

Forget about using chemical fabric softeners that can irritate sensitive skin – these eco-friendly dryer balls provide a natural alternative that’s safe for the whole family.

Another added bonus is that their vibrant colours are fade-resistant, so the colours won’t fade or transfer onto your garments.

As winter is lurking around the corner, online shoppers have been racing to snap up this mini bargain buy, which has won an impressive 4.3-star rating on Amazon.

One delighted customer said: ”I was a bit sceptical that they would make any difference…….how wrong I was.

”I don’t put fabric softener in my towel wash as it stops them being absorbent.

”I found that even after part air drying my towels, if I popped these balls in the dryer to finish them off, my towels came out beautifully soft. Highly recommended product!”

Another chimed in: ”Saw these mentioned in an online review & purchased them.

”Great quality and value for money & have cut drying time significantly.”

More winter laundry tips

Tackling laundry in the winter can be a challenge, but these handy tips can help you stay on top of it:

  • Use a Dehumidifier: Place a dehumidifier in your drying area to speed up the drying process and prevent dampness.
  • Spin Cycle Boost: Run an extra spin cycle on your washing machine to remove excess water from clothes, reducing drying time.
  • Indoor Drying Rack: Invest in a good-quality indoor drying rack and position it near a radiator or in a well-ventilated room.
  • Tumble Dryer Balls: Add tumble dryer balls to your dryer to help clothes dry faster and reduce static cling.
  • Space-Saving Hangers: Use space-saving hangers or a retractable washing line to maximise indoor drying space.
  • Microfibre Towels: Lay microfibre towels over your drying rack to absorb extra moisture from hanging clothes.
  • Partially Dry Outside: On dry days, hang clothes outside for a short period before bringing them in to finish drying.

These hacks can help you keep your laundry routine efficient and your clothes fresh, even during the colder months.

A third penned: ”These dryer balls were value for money and are reusable so will last quite a while, would recommend.”

However, despite the dozens of rave reviews, not everyone had had the best experience with the £5 product.

One disappointed Amazon shopper warned: ”Not a good product very poorly made and makes clothes smell a plastic sort of odour.”

Someone else quipped; ”They stank! Then completely disintegrated.

”Rubber pieces entered the filter system and condensing unit.”

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Primark drops brand new dupe for sell-out viral make-up primer that’ll save you £30 – and shoppers say it’s ‘amazing’

BEAUTY buffs are racing to Primark for a brand new make-up primer. 

Not only does it have rave reviews, but it’s also a dupe of a £35 sell-out buy from a luxury brand. 

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instagram/primark
Primark has dropped a brand new primer[/caption]
a woman is applying a green bottle of lotion to her hand
instagram/primark
It’s said to be a formulation dupe for a viral £35 buy[/caption]

The PS… Prep + Perfect Ultra Grip Primer will set you back £5. 

Primark bosses have described it as “a make-up primer with strong grip and great hydration”.

“Our PS… Prep + Perfect Ultra Grip Primer is a skincare and make-up hybrid that’s a must for any beauty collection,” they said.

“Designed with ultra grip that helps ensure make-up lasts longer and sits smoother on the skin.

“This invisible primer is a great first step before applying any base products like foundation and concealer. 

“It’s formulated with niacinamide, mushroom extract, hyaluronic acid and aloe vera juice to help hydrate and revitalise the skin. 

“We have a feeling you’ll be reaching for this time and time again.”

According to the beauty community on Instagram, the formulation is a dupe for the Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer. 

One 45ml bottle of this will set you back £35. 

Just like Primark’s rendition, it has a green-tinted finish and all the same hydrating ingredients (hello, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid). 

The fast fashion giant’s social media team took to Instagram to promote the product – and shoppers flocked to the comments with their reviews. 

One quipped: “I’ve tried this.

“It’s amazing and doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin.”

A second penned: “Best primer I’ve ever used and I’ve tried lots of brands.”

Best beauty dupes

Fabulous' Beauty Editor, Tara Ledden revealed the cheaper version of your favourite beauty products that you should have in your cupboard.

“A huge 55% of us would like to spend less on our beauty routines according to new research from E.l.f. Cosmetics, so it’s no wonder there’s millions of #dupe videos on Tiktok.

“While some dupes are easy to spot given their look-a-like packing, they’re often lacking when it comes to the contents.

“In fact, some of the best dupes look nothing like the luxury product they’re a dead-ringer for – and, trust me, they’re the ones you want.”

REAL: Benefit Hoola Matte Bronzer, £32.50 DUPE: Natural Collection Bronzer, £3.50 which is a saving of £29. The Natural Collection Bronzer comes in more shades, although it doesn’t have a mirror in the compact. 

REAL: Milk Make-up Hydro-Grip Primer, £35 DUPE: E.l.f. Power Grip Primer, £10. These two share a similar green hue, as well as the same long-wearing, mattifying properties – although, E.l.f’s is so popular it’s just as hard to get hold of. 

REAL: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick, £28 DUPE: L’Oreal Paris Color Riche Satin Lipstick Beige A Nu, £8.99. The shades of these two lipsticks are virtually identical on the lips, although while Charlotte Tilbury’s is matte, the L’Oreal Paris Lipstick has a satin finish – which actually makes it more comfortable if you’re wearing all day. 

REAL: Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation, £40 DUPE: Collection Lasting Perfection Matte Foundation, £6.99. While they don’t look alike from the outside, the formula, consistency and staying power of both foundations is pretty similar – unfortunately, the Collection only comes in 20 shades vs Estee Lauder’s 60 options. 

REAL: Glossier Boy Brow, £20 DUPE: Essence Make Me Brow Gel, £2.50. There’s a whole Reddit thread dedicated to this dupe, so you know it’s got to be good. They both have a waxy consistency and added fibres to make brows look fuller. I have to say, the shade range is far better with Boy Brow, but if you’re brunette, there’s plenty of Essence shade options to try. 

*If you click on a link in this story we may earn affiliate revenue.

A third gushed: “Okay, now I need another trip to Primark.”

Primark’s make-up and skincare aisles have become a dupe lovers heaven in recent years. 

At the start of this month, the Irish retailer launched THREE brand new MAC and Dior beauty dupes that are £82 cheaper than the real deal. 

It also has a dedicated autumn skincare range. 

You’ll find a full Vitamin C collection and a £3 buy designed to ‘replace lip filler’.

Read More »

I’m more than a social media sensation & OnlyFans star, I’m a real UFC fighter who deserves respect, says Alice Ardelean

ALICE ARDELEAN built a massive following on social media as she cut her teeth outside of the UFC.

But it wasn’t the sole reason she got the call to finally compete in mixed martial arts’ premier promotion at UFC 304 this past July.

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GETTY
Alice Ardelean made her Octagon debut at UFC 304 in July[/caption]
two female fighters wearing ufc gloves are fighting
GETTY
The Romanian suffered a split decision defeat to Shauna Bannon[/caption]
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Trolls branded Ardelean nothing more than a model and OnlyFans star after the setback[/caption]
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INSTAGRAM@ALICEARDELEAN
But the Fearless MMA standout – who won two titles before the UFC – could care little what her detractors think[/caption]

The Romanian rattled off a six-fight win streak – in which she claimed two world titles – before reaching the promised land of MMA.

But detractors and trolls deemed her not worthy of a spot in the promotion after her split decision defeat to Shauna Bannon in a fight many experts believe she won.

The Fearless MMA standout was branded by some as nothing more than a “social media and OnlyFans star,” despite her having won titles outside of the UFC.

Ardelean happily embraces being a jack of all trades and how she’s built her following, although she wants fans to know she’s much more than meets the social media eye.

“I’m known for what I am,” she told SunSport. “I am doing social media, I’m doing fighting, I’m shaking my ass. I’m I am what I am.

“Call me whatever you want or whatever you think I am. I don’t care. I know what I am.

“I’m everything, you know. I don’t care.

“I’m not gonna say, ‘Oh, yeah, I want people to know me for the fight.’ But I’m not just the fighter.

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Alice Ardelean began competing in martial arts 14 years ago[/caption]
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INSTAGRAM@ALICEARDELEAN
Ardelean has worked hard to make it to the promised land of mixed martial arts[/caption]

“I started with fighting like 14 years ago. And, I worked hard to get to where I am.

“But at the same time on the side, I did social media and I did OnlyFans and I did all of that. I don’t care.

“People can call me whatever. Yeah, I’m a model. Call me a model as well. Yeah, I’m a fighter as well.

“Yeah, I’m a TikToker as well. All, all of that, like I don’t mind, I don’t mind”

Having a massive social media following opens people up to comments from the dregs of society, which Ardelean has become an expert at filtering out.

She said: “I choose to waste my energy on better things than thinking [about what people say].

“I don’t even know any random guy or girl on the internet that said I’m a model would think.

“Because if in their eyes I’m a model, then that’s what I am. Okay, cool. Move on with your life.

“I’m just gonna go to fight.

“And after the fight, I’m gonna post on TikTok and after the TikTok, I’m gonna go post a video to my OnlyFans fans and this is me.”

Ardelean will be hoping to share a series of celebratory and hilarious post-fight social media posts after her UFC Vegas 99 showdown with Melissa Martinez early on Sunday morning.

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UFC
Melissa Martinez will be Alice Ardelean’s assignment for his second UFC outing[/caption]

But unlike her Manchester melee with Bannon, she’ll have the benefit of a full training camp behind her for her Sin City showdown with the former LFA star.

She said: “I would say this is my real UFC debut in that sense. Because I’m super fit [and] my weight’s low.

“I also came to the States state for the past for the last part of my camp to get used to the food, heat and all of that.

“I had a great team here in Orlando at Fusion X-Cel. Julian Williams, as head coach, and everybody there was helping me so much.

“I’m super confident in this time [around].”

On her match-up with the returning Martinez – who hasn’t fought in over two years – Ardelean said: ” She’s a great striker, I’m not gonna lie.

“She’s a great striker. I think it’s a great matchup as well. Hopefully, we’re gonna have a super nice fight.”

Alice Ardelean takes on Melissa Martinez at UFC® FIGHT NIGHT: HERNANDEZ VS PEREIRA on Saturday, October 19.

To watch the fight please tune in to TNT Sports. TNT Sports is available through its streaming destination discovery+ and across all major TV platforms. See here for more information.

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‘Do the crime, do the time’ – Shaun Murphy makes feelings clear on match-fixer Stephen Lee’s potential snooker return

SHAUN MURPHY has given his take on the potential return of match-fixing snooker star Stephen Lee.

Englishman Lee, 50, was handed a 12-year ban in 2012 after being found guilty of seven match-fixing charges.

Shaun Murphy has made his feelings clear about Stephen Lee’s potential return
Getty
a man holding a pool cue with chinese writing on his vest
Stephen Lee was found guilty of seven match-fixing charges
Getty

That suspension has now been served and Lee is yet to confirm whether he will attempt a comeback.

Murphy is unsure the former world No5 will return to the game due to money he owes snooker‘s governing body.

However, The Magician was also quick to insist he has no issue with Lee given he has served his ban.

Speaking on the OneFourSeven podcast, Murphy said: “I don’t think so[he will return]. Not until he pays his fines that are outstanding to the WPBSA and the legal costs and all the rest of it.

“But, you know, we live in a society where you do the crime, you do the time, and everyone is entitled to a second chance aren’t they?

“He was an incredible player with a Rolls-Royce cue action and just a great guy off the table. I never had a cross word with him.

“He was a beautiful player to watch, a winner. He beat me in the final of the 2006 Welsh Open and won many, many ranking events.”

Murphy also urged people to put the betting scandal aside if Lee, who still reportedly has to pay a six-figure sum in fines, was to return to snooker.

He added: “I can’t believe how quickly those 12 years have gone. I’m sure Stephen Lee doesn’t think they’ve been quick and he’s been through some trauma away from the table.

“It’s been a difficult time for him, I’m absolutely certain of that, but his path back to the tour isn’t obstacle-free. He has over six figures in fines and costs to pay before he can even think about returning to the sport.

“So he did the crime, he’s served his 12 years, and if he pays the money he owes, he’ll be free to come back to try his hand at the game. And let’s put all of that aside, we’re talking about someone who was a wonderful snooker player.”

Lee’s career titles include the Scottish Open, Welsh Open and Players Tour Championship Finals.

His best run at the world championships came in 2003 when he reached the semi-finals before losing to Mark Williams.

He also made it to the final of the 2008 Masters, before he lost 10-3 to Mark Selby.

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People label £5 Amazon buy for keeping house warm ‘ingenious’ – and it helps them sleep better too

IF your home is prone to winter draughts, a budget buy may be able to help.

Amazon shoppers heaped on the praise for a handy item that can help keep your house warm in the cold weather.

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Amazon shoppers heaped on the praise for a budget buy that helps keep your home warm in winter (stock image)
a picture of a door with a snowy scene in the background .
Supplied
The draught blocker is available for less than £5 and can help you save on your energy bills[/caption]

Research published by Liberty Insurance found that over 25 million homes in the UK suffer with draughts.

As well as heating up your space, draught excluders can help save you money.

Draughts are most often caused by gaps around your exterior doors as well as windows.

The keyholes and letterboxes on your doors can also contribute to draughts.

Just Value Doors reported on the effectiveness of draught excluders in the home.

According to the research, blocking a draught can significantly reduce heat loss, potentially saving you up to 30% on your energy bills in extreme cases.

Even in less extreme situations, savings of 10% to 20% are quite common.

The Suptikes Draft Stopper is available in a pack of two for £4.91 from Amazon.

Part of a limited time deal, the budget buy can be fitted to the bottom of your door, blocking out both draughts, light, dust, and noise.

Measuring at 1.8-inches in width and 37-inches in length, the product is designed to fit most doors.

As well as helping save on heating bills, the product is also advertised as promoting better sleep.

This is due to its light and noise blocking quality, which allows your room to be completely dark and quiet at night.

It has been designed for easy installation, complete with adhesive backing.

Manufacturers recommend preheating the strip with hairdryer in cold winter to help it stick well.

The product has received an average rating of 4.3 out of five stars.

5 ways to keep your house warm in winter

Property expert Joshua Houston shared his tips.

1. Curtains

“Windows are a common place for the outside cold to get into your home, this is because of small gaps that can let in air so always close your curtains as soon as it gets dark,” he said.

This simple method gives you an extra layer of warmth as it can provide a kind of “insulation” between your window and curtain.

2. Rugs

“Your floor is another area of your home where heat can be lost and can make your home feel chilly,” he continued. “You might notice on cold days, that your floor is not nice to walk on due to it freezing your feet.

“Add rugs to areas that don’t already have a carpet, this provides a layer of insulation between your bare floor and the room above.”

3. Check your insulation

Check your pipes, loft space, crawlspaces and underneath floorboards.

“Loose-fill insulation is very good for this, and is a more affordable type of insulation, with a big bag being able to be picked up for around £30,” Joshua explained.

4. Keep your internal doors closed

“Household members often gather in one room in the evening, and this is usually either the kitchen or living room,” Joshua said.

“This means you only have to heat a small area of your home, and closing the doors keeps the heat in and the cold out.”

5. Block drafts 

Don’t forget to check cat flaps, chimneys and letterboxes, as they can let in cold air if they aren’t secure.

Amazon shoppers shared their thoughts on the buy in the review section of the website.

“Super easy to use. Just wipe down door. Does the job great and the adhesive is no joke,” wrote one impressed buyer.

“You can’t even tell they are on the door. Matched perfectly, easy to install, and [they] work better than we hoped for. Five stars and we highly recommend,” said another person.

“I want to say that whomever came up with this concept is INGENIOUS!” commented a third Amazon user.

“It keeps out the drafts and somewhat deters insects from entering without an invitation.”

a picture of a cold and warm room with the words block the cold and hot air cross help you saving energy reduce electric cost
Supplied
The product is designed to keep the heat in your home while blocking out cold draughts[/caption]

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I’m a lawn pro and it’s so important to look after your grass in autumn – follow my 7 tips for a lush lawn in spring

SPRING may still be a while away – however, according to experts, now is the perfect time to get your lawn ready for the warmer season ahead.

Whether it’s raking the garden or spreading grass feed, there are several simple and effective ways to prep the lawn for the harsh winter.

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One guru has listed seven tips to ensure a lush lawn for spring[/caption]

Ensuring your lawn has vital nutrients will help strengthen the roots and resist any disease – the two key components for a running start for the spring.

To ensure you have the best lawn next year, one whizz, Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love, has come to rescue with five easy tips gardeners must follow this autumn.

Clear Out Weeds and Dead Plants

While weeds are most visible in summer, they grow all year round – and it’s essential to tackle them, Jeremy explained.

By weeding out dead or dying plants, you will make room for brush and ground coverage plants, as well as keep the soil full of key nutrients.

Water Well 

Since autumn ”is a recovery and preparation time for your lawn, it needs plenty of water”, the guru said.

According to the whizz, avid gardeners should be aiming for about an inch of water per week, with more or less depending on rainfall.

Once freezing temperatures hit, he urged to stop watering completely to prevent freeze damage.

Rake Regularly

Whether it’s leaves, pine needles, or fallen sticks, Jeremy explained that keeping the grass clear of natural debris will promote lawn growth whilst also reducing slipping and fire hazards.

Not only will your garden look neat, but the lack of any fallen leaves and debris will also keep any unwanted pests away.

Aerate

Another important task to add to your list is aerating – which means creating small holes in the soil to promote better circulation of essential nutrients, light, water, and air.

Gardeners can do so manually with a pitchfork and even shoe spikes, or a liquid solution consisting of enzymes.

Mow the Grass Low 

As we’re approaching winter, don’t be afraid to give the grass a shorter cut, Jeremy said.

This is because the shorter blades will prevent the grass from becoming matted and growing mould.

Once the grass completely stops growing, stop mowing until sprint arrives.

October gardening jobs

The Sun’s Gardening Editor, Veronica Lorraine, has shared the jobs you need to tackle in October.

“It’s a good time to trim deciduous hedges – like box, yew, hawthorn, hornbean and beech – plus hedge trimmers are a great upper body workout!

Make leafmould – gather up all the fallen leaves and fill either bin bags or plastic carrier bags. Seal the top, stick a few small holes in the bag – and then store for a year or more. Free compost!

It’s unlikely you’ll get any more red tomatoes so have one final harvest and chuck the plants on the compost. See if you can get the green ones to ripen by putting in a drawer (some say with a banana). Also keep the seeds from a couple – and plant again next year if they went well.

Finish getting in your spring bulbs. Ideally you’d have done daffs and alliums, but tulips are better in the ground when the soil temperature gets a bit colder. 

It’s good to leave some plant litter in the ground – it adds to the nutrients as it rots down, and provides shelter and food for insects. But remove the manky brown bits collapsing all over the lawn/winter structure. 

Mulch – it not only suppresses weeds, but keeps the soil warm, improves water retention and adds a little winter duvet to your outside space. 

October’s a good month for carrots, peas, asparagus, broad beans, and rhubarb.”

Dethatch

Have you ever wondered why your lawn looks like a mat of dead grass, roots, and lifeless plants?

Chatting with Real Simple, the lawn pro explained that this combo of organic matter is called thatch, which can build up if your lawn is regularly mowed – but not raked or aerated enough.

To ensure your lawn is not covered in broken grass, Jeremy advised to rake the area manually – although power rakes can help just as well.

Plant Seeds, If Needed

Last but not least, the pro said that some lawn seeds need to be seeded in autumn for the ultimate grass for spring.

However, if you’ve missed the chance, there will still be time to try again when the warmer weather arrives.

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Liam Payne ‘was dropped by record label Universal’ days before his tragic death at 31

LIAM Payne was dropped by his record label Universal just days before his tragic death, according to reports.

The singer, 31, died on Wednesday afternoon after falling from the third floor balcony of his hotel room in Argentina.

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Rex Features
Liam Payne was reportedly dropped by his music label prior to his death[/caption]
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AP
His second album was shelved amid career turbulence[/caption]

Pictures from inside his trashed hotel room paint a harrowing picture as white powder and burnt aluminium foil cover a messy table, while his TV screen was completely smashed.

Liam was reportedly acting “erratically” in the hours before his death, and a chilling 911 call from a member of the hotel’s staff described him as under the influence of drink and drugs and being aggressive.

Now it has been claimed Liam’s music career had been hit by a major blow ahead of the tragedy when his label axed him from their roster.

A source told the Mail: “Liam’s advance was massive and he didn’t recoup [it].

“Out of all of the One Direction boys, Liam was on the wrong path musically.”

Liam’s second album was put on hold after his latest solo single, Teardrops, failed to chart upon its release in March.

Last month Liam parted ways with his longtime public relations manager, too.

The source continued: “It is like all of Liam’s music career that he had built up since he went solo eight years ago was crumbling, there was very little left for him.

“It must have absolutely devastated him.”

Following Liam’s death, Universal shared a statement on social media.

It read: “We are devastated by the tragic passing of Liam Payne.

“His legacy will live on through his music and the countless fans he inspired and who adored him. 

“We send our deepest condolences to Liam’s family and loved ones.”

The star appeared in good spirits on his South American stay in the days prior to his death. He had watched bandmate Niall Horan perform in Buenos Aires before enjoying some downtime with girlfriend Kate Cassidy.

He was caught on video talking to fans and comparing tattoos outside a hotel in the days before the tragedy.

Girlfriend Kate left the country days ago, having grown restless being in the same place for two weeks.

It was reported overnight that Liam may have been unconscious when he fell to his death.

The One Direction star’s autopsy found he died from severe injuries sustained in the fall but that he didn’t adopt a reflex position.

an aerial view of a building with balconies and a pool
Reuters
Liam was staying at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires before he fell from the third floor balcony[/caption]

Prosecutors said that given this, the position he was found in and the injuries he sustained, he may have been partly or fully unconscious when he fell.

A post-mortem revealed that Liam died after suffering “internal and external haemorrhaging” caused by the severe injuries.

He was found dead in the inner courtyard of Hotel CasaSur in Palermo at around 5pm local time (9pm UK time).

Argentinian police are currently waiting for more tests to establish the details of the singer’s death.

Photos published by local media appeared to show the inside of his luxury suite on the day he died, with traces of white powder and aluminium foil on a tabletop.

Buenos Aires police confirmed the room was in a state of “total disorder”.

They released a statement saying: “Upon entering, total disorder was observed, with various elements broken.

“The balcony area was inspected in order to establish access to it.”


It comes as:


Clarin, Argentina’s biggest newspaper, published the images alongside a report saying: “Damage and drugs in the hotel room Liam Payne was staying in in Buenos Aires.”

The singer had been open about his battles with addiction in the past.

But cops are yet to confirm what the substances found in the room are and are due to run tests on them shortly.

His One Direction bandmates released a joint statement before sharing their individual tributes.

The group release said: “We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. 

“But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly. 

“The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. 

“We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam. – Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry.”

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Clarin
White powder and burnt aluminium foil was allegedly pictured inside Liam’s hotel room[/caption]
a broken television is sitting on a wooden shelf
Clarin
A smashed up TV and champagne glasses were also pictured[/caption]

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Francis Ngannou ‘ready to take on all comers’ with Jon Jones called out for biggest heavyweight fight in MMA history  

FRANCIS NGANNOU is “ready to take on all comers” including Jon Jones – paving the way for the biggest MMA fight in heavyweight history.

Ngannou walked out on the UFC in 2022 to cross over and pursue boxing a year later.

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AFP
Francis Ngannou walked out on the UFC[/caption]
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Getty
Jon Jones inherited Ngannou’s old UFC title[/caption]

In his absence, Jones inherited the UFC title leaving the question of world’s best heavyweight still up for debate.

And Professional Fighters League founder Donn Davis – who signed Ngannou – is open to putting the super-fight together to find out.

He said: “We want to give fans what they want, that’s the best fights in the world.

“Francis Ngannou has said he’ll take on all comers. I think Jon Jones wants to cement his legacy.

“There’s only one obstacle to that fight and we know who that is.”

Ngannou, 38, never lost his UFC belt in the cage and was instead stripped when he left the promotion.

And he did so to box Tyson Fury, 36, losing a split-decision before being knocked out by Anthony Joshua, 34, in March.

But UFC boss Dana White claimed Ngannou walked away from £6million to fight Jones, 37.

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Instead, the Cameroonian doubled that for his two boxing bouts.

Now, he returns to MMA on Saturday in Saudi Arabia against 6ft 8in Brazilian Renan Ferreira, 34.

Davis said: “This is the biggest fight in MMA in heavyweight this year.

“Francis, when he left the UFC was pound-for-pound No1 and the heavyweight champion.

“Renan Ferreira is the biggest rising star and ESPN No5 ranked so this is the fight everybody wants to see.

“Whoever comes out of this fight is the No1 in the world. So whoever wants to claim the No1 spot goes through this fight, not through UFC.”

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Infamous Jabulani could return with ball that caused mayhem at 2010 World Cup recently seen selling for £415

ADIDAS could re-release the infamous Jabulani football, according to reports.

The Jabulani was memorably used in the 2010 Fifa World Cup in South Africa.

an adidas jabulani official match ball from south africa 2010
AP:Associated Press
The Jabulani was unveiled ahead of the 2010 World Cup[/caption]
a soccer player with the number 11 on his jersey
AP:Associated Press
The Jabulani famously gave goalkeepers nightmares[/caption]
soccer player wearing number 10 kicking a ball
AFP
Diego Forlan was the forward who truly mastered the Jabulani[/caption]

It is best remembered for violently swerving and dipping, with many players struggling to master it.

According to Footy Headlines, the Jabulani could go back on sale in the coming years.

They point to the fact that Adidas have been re-releasing iconic footballs from the 2000s.

The Roteiro used at Euro 2004 was re-released back in March.

While the Teamgeist used at the 2006 World Cup in Germany is set to return in March 2025.

Footy Headlines reckon that if this trend continues, the Jabulani could make its return in 2026 or 2027.

The original version can sometimes be found on various resale sites for as much as £415 – more than four times its price upon release.

Its unusual design is what made it so difficult for players to predict.

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The Teamgeist used at the previous World Cup, for example, was built with a 14-panel structure – while the Jabulani consisted of just eight panels.

One player who did master it was Uruguay‘s former Manchester United star Diego Forlan.

The forward, who has dabbled with a career in tennis since retirement, lit up the tournament, scoring several brilliant goals as his country reached the semi-finals.

They went on to lose 3-2 to the Netherlands in the semis, however, with the Dutch then falling 1-0 in the final courtesy of Andres Iniesta’s winner for Spain.

Who are these famous footballers?

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Max Verstappen vs Lando Norris: F1 star has James Bond car collection and dates Brazil beauty but rival to inherit £205m

MAX VERSTAPPEN and Lando Norris are going head-to-head in the F1 Drivers’ World Championship.

This weekend, the motorheads face off against each other at the United States Grand Prix.

a man in a red bull outfit holds up a trophy
Max Verstappen is the current F1 world champion
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Cristiano Barni/REX/Shutterstock (14651904cq) Zandvoort, Netherlands. 22-25 August 2024. Formula 1 Heineken Dutch Grand Prix. Saturday, Race.#4, Lando NORRIS, GBR, McLaren F1 Team, MCL38, Mercedes engine, winner of the race, celebrating on the podium. F1 Dutch Grand Prix, Race, Circuit Zandvoort, The Netherlands - 25 Aug 2024
Lando Norris is the pretender to Verstappen’s throne and his biggest challenger

Young pretender Norris, 24, trails the current world champion by 52 points with just six rounds remaining.

The Bristol-born driver can’t afford any slips as he aims to close the gap at the top.

Away from the track, the pair live glam lives you would expect from two of the world’s best boy racers.

Verstappen, worth a reported £165million, has splashed his cash on a £5million car collection and boasts a stunning partner in Brazilian beauty, Kelly Piquet.

While playboy Norris, the heir to a £205million fortune, enjoys a jet-set life and has dated a string of the world’s most beautiful women.

SunSport compares the champ and the challenger’s lifestyles.

Money, money, money

One thing the two aren’t short of is money.

Since making his debut in F1 in 2015, Verstappen has established himself as the highest paid driver on the circuit.

In 2022, he signed a five-year deal with Red Bull, described as one of the most lucrative in the history of the sport.

According to reports his contract is worth £45million a year, and is likely to increase if his winning streak continues.

Max also benefits from endorsement deals from brands like G-Star RAW, Red Bull and EA Sports.

The Dutch driver also has his own MV merchandise company, selling caps, clothing and accessories.

Back in 2022, Norris inked a longterm deal with McLaren that will keep him with the team till 2026.

It is believed to be worth around £15million-per-year, which puts him behind Verstappen by some way.

However, he was born into wealth as the second child of businessman Adam Norris, who boasts a £205million fortune.

He grew up in Glastonbury, Somerset with his older brother Oliver and younger sisters Flo and Cisca, and went to nearby Millfield public school, where boarding fees cost more than £40,000 a year.

Max Verstappen - Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/maxverstappen1/
Verstappen is F1’s highest paid driver on £45m-per-year
Lando Norris - Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/landonorris/
Norris is also paid handsomely – earning around £15m-per-year
Fears Lando Norris' extreme fitness regime is UNSUSTAINABLE as F1 star's workout and diet are revealed, , LFG
Norris stands to inherit some of his father’s £210m fortune
two men posing for a picture with one wearing a red bull shirt
Verstappen is heavily sponsored by the likes of Red Bull and EA Sports

Fast cars

F1 drivers are renowned for their incredible car collections.

And Max Verstappen’s garage would leave some with envy.

After becoming the youngest ever racer to score a podium finish at the Spanish Grand Prix, aged just 18, Max splashed out on a Porsche 911 GTS R3 worth around £190,000.

His car collection has been heavily inspired by James Bond – he owns a 007-type Aston Martin DB11, a follow-up to the DB10, driven in the movie Spectre that cost around £200,000.

Alongside a 2018 Vantage and a DBS Superleggerais, Verstappen also reportedly bought an Aston Martin Valkyrie that carries a price tag of £2.2million.

Astonishingly, various reports say that Norris doesn’t own a car.

As is one of the perks of the job, McLaren has loaned him several over the years.

Speaking to Scott Mills and Chris Stark on their BBC Sounds podcast, however, he confessed he is not materialistic.

Lando said: “I don’t own many things. I’ve not really treated myself.”

TIMESGRAB // Aston Martin //  Aston Martin Valkyrie // https://www.instagram.com/astonmartinlagonda/?hl=en
Verstappen is believed to own a Aston Martin Valkyrie worth a whopping £2.2m
MOTORS - THURSDAY 1 AUGUST 2024 :
A Porsche 911 GTS worth around £190k sits in Verstappen’s garage
https://twitter.com/McLarenF1/status/1124324390383095809
https://f1worldwide.com/lando-norris-cars-collection/
F1 star Lando Norris' car collection boasts £166k McLaren GT & 765LT Spider worth £313k... plus VERY humble Fiat 500

Lando Norris
Norris reportedly uses £166k McLaren GT as his company car

Ladies’ men

Notoriously, F1 drivers are linked to the world’s most beautiful women.

Verstappen is in a longterm romance with Brazilian model Kelly Piquet.

They began dating in 2020, and have been inseparable since – reportedly living in Monte Carlo together.

She is the daughter of Nelson Piquet, who won three world titles in the 1980s with Brabham.

Kelly was previously in a romance with former Russian F1 star Daniil Kvyat, who she shares a daughter with.

PARIS, FRANCE - OCTOBER 04: Kelly Piquet attends CYBEX La Parisienne launch event at Hotel Ritz on October 04, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Marc Piasecki/Getty Images for Cybex)
Kelly Piquet is the longterm partner of Max Versappen
Kelly Piquet The Brazilian Model And Beau Of Max Verstappen Pictured Wearing A PrettyLittleThing £15/$19 Swimsuit Soaking Up The Sun In Miami The F1 beau is currently in Miami resting before Fashion month begins and the F1 seasons starts in just a few weeks. The current Vogue Netherlands cover model exhibited her jaw dropping figure in a cream crochet lace up swimsuit by PrettyLittleThing whilst enjoying her time in Nobu Hotel Miami Beach The Brazilian beauty accessorised her look with denim shorts, a shades and beach bag. Pictured: Kelly Piquet Ref: SPL5516997 240123 NON-EXCLUSIVE Picture by: SplashNews.com Splash News and Pictures USA: +1 310-525-5808 London: +44 (0)20 8126 1009 Berlin: +49 175 3764 166 photodesk@splashnews.com World Rights,
Brazilian beauty Kelly is the daughter of F1 legend Nelson Piquet
Margarida Corceiro - newly single Norris was spotted with footballer Joao Felix’s ex-girlfriend, Margarida Corceiro. That’s when the rumors started. Soon after the two were spotted, Corceiro confirmed her breakup with Felix. From visiting the paddock to driving around with Norris in the McLaren 765LT, Magui has been seen with and around Norris a lot., , https://www.essentiallysports.com/f1-news-lando-norris-rumored-gf-magui-caught-keeping-an-eye-despite-three-thousand-miles-separating-the-lovebirds/, , https://www.instagram.com/p/C5HDhy1LQ7p/?img_index=1
Norris recently split with Portuguese supermodel Margarida Corceiro
Luisinha Barosa Oliveira (Lando Norris), , https://www.instagram.com/p/CvDR22VIPYd/, , Instagram @luisinhaoliveira99
Before Margarida, Norris dated another Portuguese stunner called Luisinha Oliveira

Norris is currently single, after splitting with Portuguese supermodel Margarida Corceiro.

The break-up came months after he joked he had “many girlfriends” during a lie detector test for a Sky Sports segment.

A source told The Sun: “”Lando and Margarida had a fun time together and hung out a lot. But it wasn’t working out so they cooled off. He’s free and single and just wants to focus on his sport.”

Before Margarida, he dated another Portuguese beauty Luisinha Oliveira.

However, she suffered death threats, forcing Lando to say: “Whether it’s about my personal life, me and my girlfriend, especially the amount of hate pages dedicated to Luisa now, it is pretty horrific.

“They are on Instagram and Twitter, they are the main ones.”

Jet set

According to reports, Verstappen lives in a £13million apartment overlooking the Mediterranean sea.

Norris also moved to Monaco, admittedly for financial reasons, where many of his F1 rivals call home.

Verstappen shared glimpses of his home during the coronavirus pandemic, which he and Kelly also share with their two Bengal cats, Jimmy and Sass.

In his spare time he likes to take the water on a Red Bull-branded jet ski, said to be worth around £16,000.

For all his travels around the world, Max is said to have bought a Falcon-900EX private jet from Sir Richard Branson, worth £12million, which costs over £830,000 to maintain.

Norris also loves to fly privately, sometimes bringing along his DJ decks – his favourite pastime – along for the ride.

His need for speed is also fuelled by watersports like water-skiing.

While both boast similarities in their lives, only one can be the next world champion. So, who will it be?

a graph showing the age of max verstappen and lando norris
Max Verstappen Monaco home
Verstappen lives in a £13m Monaco home overlooking the Mediterranean sea
with father jos * Max verstappen 
, https://www.instagram.com/maxverstappen1/
Verstappen, pictured with dad Jos, also owns a private jet worth £12m
Max Verstappen - Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/maxverstappen1/?hl=en
Lando Norris - Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/landonorris/
Norris is a keen DJ and takes his decks with him when he flies privately
Lando Norris - Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/landonorris/
Like Verstappen, Norris is keen on watersports and likes to water ski

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