CHICAGO (WLS) — It is full velocity forward to the beginning of the second-annual NASCAR Chicago Road Race weekend.

Drivers made their means across the 2.2 mile circuit in an round Grant Park Saturday, with Shane van Gisbergen successful the XFinity Sequence race after successful the Cup Sequence final yr in Chicago.

NASCAR LIVE BLOG | 2024 NASCAR Chicago Road Race: Stay updates

About 2,000 concrete boundaries had been introduced in to form the insane avenue course, taking drivers on a tour all through Chicago’s Loop.

With the enduring skyline as backdrop vehicles will race down main metropolis streets like Michigan Avenue and DuSable Lake Shore Drive reaching high speeds properly over 100 mph on the quick straightaways and taking tight turns across the difficult observe.

“The individuals of Chicago got here out to strive one thing completely different… that was actually cool to be aside of,” resident Zackary Cohen mentioned.

Rundown of occasions:

Gates opened at 8:45 a.m.

Qualifying periods for the Cup Sequence race on Sunday befell between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Kyle Larson gained the pool.

The NASCAR Xfinity Sequence race began at 2:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon. It was a 50-lap course.

Buddy Man carried out on the DraftKings Stage from 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday

The Black Keys carry out on the DraftKings Stage from 5 p.m. to six:30 p.m. Saturday.

The Chainsmokers took the stage at 8 p.m. Saturday.

The Cup Sequence, which is a 75-lap race, will run at 3:30 p.m. Sunday.

READ MORE | 2024 NASCAR Chicago Road Race weekend schedule, reside concert events and competition data

“I feel it brings individuals from all walks of life collectively… each Chicagoans and the remainder of the nation… we may use that proper now,” mentioned Michelle Prifer, who’s visiting from Michigan.

Fan race expertise

With engines revving and tires squeezing, NASCAR Chicago yr two received underway.

“They’ve all of it,” NASCAR fan Jake Kern mentioned. “They wanna make it inclusive. There’s one thing for everybody right here.”

Longtime followers and rookies alike expressed their pleasure.

“It’s my first race and I am so excited,” NASCAR rookie Kay Lewis mentioned.

Saturday’s race, The Loop 110, is a warmup for Sunday’s predominant occasion, the NASCAR Cup Sequence race. With the solar shining, it is a perfect day for hitting the streets of downtown at high speeds properly over 100 miles an hour.

“I feel it is nice,” South Carolina NASCAR fan Ryneshia Pauling mentioned. “Everybody popping out, and that is completely different for me as a result of it is avenue racing, not on a dragstrip.”

The races attracted followers from everywhere in the nation, in addition to a global crowd.

“It is great,” Canadian NASCAR fan Sylvain Simard mentioned. “The format is great. NASCAR is top quality… The race within the metropolis is great, the whole lot is cool… near Michigan lake… the vehicles are superior… the primary flip is the most effective.”

Whereas the races are the star attraction, there may be a lot extra for followers, together with freestyle motor-cross. Riders fly up the ramp, performing methods in mid-air with the Chicago skyline an impressive backdrop.

“That is sick. It is superior,” NASCAR fan Jeremy Chung mentioned. “Actually digging it. First NASCAR occasion. Cool to see them it the streets. It is fairly wonderful.”

Chicago treasure, blues legend Buddy Man, was appropriately the primary musician to kick off the weekend. It was large enchancment from final yr’s inaugural race weekend when heavy rain compelled the cancellation of the concert events and delayed the races.

“That is means higher than final yr. I find it irresistible,” NASCAR fan Isaiah White mentioned. “I could not expertise the way in which I wished to, however this yr I’ve.”

Extra fan experiences

Simply exterior the observe in Grant Park, followers received to expertise the fun and pleasure of getting a NASCAR race in Chicago.

“The climate is nice,” a fan named Mark mentioned. “Every thing is nice in regards to the NASCAR racing right here. The financial system… the whole lot. I do know they weren’t going to do it for 2 years, however I hope they do it. Make it an annual factor.”

A particular automotive unveiled within the Fan Zone stored followers busy all day.

“I feel that is actually cool. It is my first time at NASCAR…” attendee Jayah Morris mentioned.

The race weekend has formed as much as be a lot drier than the final yr, when heavy rainfall impacted most of the weekend’s occasions.

“There’s so much to do. Loads for youths too,” attendee Andrew Burns mentioned. “We did not actually have something to do in any respect final yr, as a result of all this was closed and flooded, so it is a new expertise for us too.”

New this yr are free occasions for followers at Butler Subject in NASCAR Village, incorporating interactive shows, racing simulators, and appearances from NASCAR drivers.

“It is fairly cool,” fan Henry Pink mentioned. “I attempted out the racing simulator. I received to take a seat within the automotive. I gained one in all this stuff from the spin recreation, in order that’s fairly cool.”

Extra occasions had been added this yr with hopes of constructing race weekend extra inclusive and consultant of Chicago’s communities.

“That is very nice. It is really good to have it open this yr in comparison with final yr too,” attendee Brian Castongia mentioned. “There was nothing hardly happening, however that is nice.”

NASCAR is teaming up with the Chicago Loop Alliance to verify Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods are represented.

“Now we have 20 distributors which are of us that we work with on our Sundays on State,” mentioned Michael Edwards with the Chicago Loop Alliance. “They’re from all Chicago, they’re small corporations, large corporations.”

Domestically-owned eating places and companies in Grant Park provided ticketholders a style of Chicago from the Pullman, Chatham, and historic Bronzeville neighborhoods. It’s a true reflection of Chicago communities and NASCAR’s increasing attain.

“All of the individuals which are coming right here from world wide it is a chance for them to be taught extra about Chicago, but in addition for us to be taught extra about NASCAR,” Edwards mentioned.

Road closures

Main avenue closures went into impact on Friday.

Starting at 12:01 a.m., northbound and southbound DuSable Lake Shore Drive is now closed between Randolph Road and McFetridge Highway.

Southbound Michigan Avenue is closed between Roosevelt Highway and Jackson Drive.

The northbound lane of Indiana Avenue is closed at thirteenth Road.

Monroe Road is closed between Columbus Drive and DuSable Lake Shore Drive.

READ MORE | Chicago NASCAR race course route map, avenue closures, parking restrictions

The KP.3 COVID-19 variant is continuous to steer because the dominant variant, the most recent Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention (CDC) knowledge reveals.

For a two-week interval beginning on June 23 and ending on July 6, the CDC’s Nowcast knowledge tracker confirmed the projections of the COVID-19 variants. The KP.3 variant accounted for 36.9% of constructive infections adopted by KP.2 at 24.4%.

“Estimates predict that KP.3 is the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variant making up 31.2 to 43% of viruses nationally. KP.3 is projected to proceed rising as proportions of the variants that trigger COVID-19,” CDC Spokesperson, Rosa Norman, advised USA TODAY in an announcement. “KP.3 advanced from JN.1, which was the foremost viral lineage circulating since December 2023.”

The info additionally reveals that the brand new variant LB.1 has fallen again 3% by accounting for 14.5% of instances however was beforehand at 17.5% of infections. JN.1, the earlier ring chief since 2023, solely had 1.0% of constructive instances which is a 0.6% lower from the earlier two-week interval.

On July 2, the CDC stated that the COVID-19 infections are rising in 39 states, secure or unsure in 10 states and declining in zero.

Right here’s what it is advisable to know concerning the KP.3 variant.

Extra COVID-19 Information:Do you have to get the up to date COVID-19 vaccine? See present pointers from CDC.

What’s the KP.3 variant?

Like JN.1 and “FLiRT” variants KP.1.1 and KP.2, KP.3 is an identical pressure. Norman stated that the KP.3 variant is, “a sublineage of the JN.1 lineage” which comes from the Omicron variant.

Signs of COVID-19

The CDC has not stated if KP.3 has its personal particular signs. Norman stated the signs related to KP.3 are just like these from JN.1. Nonetheless, the federal government company outlines the fundamental signs of COVID-19 on its web site. These signs can seem between two to 14 days after publicity to the virus and might vary from gentle to extreme.

These are among the signs of COVID-19:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or problem respiration
• Fatigue
• Muscle or physique aches
• Headache
• Lack of style or scent
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nostril
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

The CDC stated it is best to search medical consideration you probably have the next signs:

• Bother respiration
• Persistent ache or strain within the chest
• New confusion
• Incapability to wake or keep awake
• Pale, grey or blue-colored pores and skin, lips, or nail beds

How can we defend ourselves from KP.3 and different variants?

The CDC recommends for everybody ages 6 months and older, with some exceptions, obtain an up to date 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine to guard towards the illness, regardless whether or not or not you have got beforehand been vaccinated towards the virus.

CDC knowledge reveals the COVID-19 take a look at positivity by state

CDC knowledge reveals which states has the bottom and highest COVID-19 positivity charges from June 29 to July 5, 2024. 

Cannot see the map? Click on right here to view it.

Throughout the previous week COVID-19 take a look at positivity has risen 9%, the CDC knowledge reveals.

Adjustments in COVID-19 take a look at positivity inside every week

Based mostly on knowledge collected by the CDC it confirmed that 5 states had the largest improve of 4.7% in constructive COVID-19 instances from June 29 to July 5, 2024.

This is the record of states and their modifications in COVID-19 positivity for the previous week.

State	Change in COVID-19 take a look at positivity in (%)
Alabama	+2.6
Alaska	+3.4
Arizona	+2.1
Arkansas	+4.7
California	+2.1
Colorado	+2.6
Connecticut	+0.7
Delaware	+2.3
District of Columbia	+2.3
Florida	+2.6
Georgia	+2.6
Hawaii	+2.1
Idaho	+3.4
Illinois	+2.9
Indiana	+2.9
Iowa	+2.3
Kansas	+2.3
Kentucky	+2.6
Louisiana	+4.7
Maine	+0.7
Maryland	+2.3
Massachusetts	+0.7
Michigan	+2.9
Minnesota	+2.9
Mississippi	+2.6
Missouri	+2.3
Montana	+2.6
Nebraska	+2.3
Nevada	+2.1
New Hampshire	+0.7
New Jersey	+2.2
New Mexico	+4.7
New York	+2.2
North Carolina	+2.6
North Dakota	+2.6
Ohio	+2.9
Oklahoma	+4.7
Oregon	+3.4
Pennsylvania	+2.3
Puerto Rico	+2.2
Rhode Island	+0.7
South Carolina	+2.6
South Dakota	+1.5
Tennessee	+2.6
Texas	+4.7
Utah	+2.6
Vermont	+0.7
Virginia	+2.3
Washington	+3.4
West Virginia	+2.3
Wisconsin	+2.9
Wyoming	+2.6

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the Nationwide Trending Group at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking information, automotive recollects, crime, well being, lottery and public coverage tales. E-mail her at aforbes@gannett.com. Comply with her on Instagram, Threads and X (Twitter) @forbesfineest.

Contributing: Emily DeLetter

Jon Landau, the Oscar-winning producer who made the desires of James Cameron come to life by overcoming excessive logistical challenges to deliver the filmmaker’s Titanic and Avatar blockbusters to the massive display, has died. He was 63.

Landau’s son Jamie Landau confirmed his demise to The Hollywood Reporter. He died Friday in Los Angeles after 16-month battle with most cancers, a Disney spokesperson mentioned.

A son of producers — his father was an Oscar nominee — the passionate Landau produced movies together with Honey, I Shrunk the Children (1989) and Dick Tracy (1990) earlier than spending some 5 years as an government at Fox, the place he oversaw manufacturing on Die Onerous 2 (1990), The Final of the Mohicans (1992), Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) and Cameron’s True Lies (1994).

If Cameron had an issue on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s True Lies, he was advised by then-Fox Filmed Leisure head Peter Chernin, “Don’t name me, cope with Jon,” Landau recalled in a 2011 interview. He spent 4 months on location within the Florida Keys with the director.

When Landau determined to depart Fox to return to producing, he mentioned he had provides from three administrators to collaborate on their subsequent initiatives. He determined to go along with Cameron, who wished to make a film code-named “Planet Ice.” That, after all, would grow to be Titanic (1997).

Landau supervised the 100-day development of Fox Baja Studios, the 40-acre oceanfront facility in Rosarito Seashore, Mexico, that housed enormous film units, the most important capturing tank on this planet and 5 soundstages, one concerning the measurement of a soccer area.

He needed to rewrite the movie’s total manufacturing schedule when it was decided that the principle exterior of their R.M.S. Titanic was going to take two months longer to construct than deliberate. In the meantime, the movie’s unique $120 million finances had ballooned past $200 million.

“There was plenty of strain all through the course of filming and all through postproduction and prerelease,” Landau advised the Los Angeles Occasions in 1998.

Fox, which was financing the movie with Paramount, “was very robust however rightfully so. And I used to be the man who I consider bought the brunt of it. It was very tough as a result of I wished to please all three masters: the studio, the director and the film. And it was my job to steadiness that … to not lose sight of that.”

All of it labored out when Titanic, which opened on Dec. 19, 1997, nabbed the highest spot on the field workplace for a outstanding 15 consecutive weeks en path to grossing $1.84 billion worldwide in its preliminary run, simply crusing previous earlier report holder Jurassic Park (1993). Subsequent releases through the years raised its field workplace tally to $2.3 billion. (Learn THR’s unique evaluate right here.)

The love story/catastrophe epic additionally collected a record-tying 11 Academy Awards — Landau and Cameron shared one of the best image prize — off one other record-tying 14 nominations. On the podium on the Shrine Auditorium on Oscar evening, Landau may need set one other report, for the variety of folks thanked.

Avatar (2009) got here with its personal set of imposing obstacles.

Cameron had written a remedy of about 100 pages in 1994, however the visible results know-how to adequately deliver the Na’vi denizens of Pandora to the display (at the least in Cameron’s thoughts) didn’t exist. It could take the filmmaker, New Zealand’s Weta Digital and others years to get to that, and principal pictures wouldn’t start till 2007.

With an official finances of $237 million — some estimates put it past $300 million — Fox’s Avatar, made in 3D, premiered in London on Dec. 10, 2009. With its preliminary run of $2.7 billion, it bested Titanic to develop into the highest-grossing movie of all time (with rereleases, its gross now stands at $2.92 billion). (Right here’s THR’s unique evaluate.)

13 years later got here Disney’s Avatar: The Means of Water (2022), with its intensive results, underwater shoots, pandemic challenges and $2.3 billion gross. The 2 Avatar photos collectively gained 4 Oscars, with Landau and Cameron choosing up two extra finest image noms.

“If certainly one of Cameron’s superpowers is the depth of his focus, that focus is partly made attainable as a result of Landau is someplace close by, with one Airpod protruding of his ear, concurrently having a telephone dialog with Burbank about one deadline and an in-person dialog with a crewmember in Wellington [the New Zealand home of Weta] about one other,” Rebecca Keegan wrote for a THR cowl story in 2022.

“I’ve seen an evolution of him,” Landau advised her about Cameron. “Jim learns from each certainly one of his experiences. He appears to be like again and goes, ‘That is what labored, that is what didn’t work, how do I make it higher?’”

As Landau was in the midst of this sentence, Keegan wrote, “There was a tough knock on his workplace door, and Cameron pops in, Kramer-style. ‘Did he inform you we’re like an previous married couple?’ I don’t wish to say good issues in entrance of him — it’ll go to his head — however I really feel like there’s no drawback we will’t resolve.”

Landau was born in New York on July 23, 1960. His mother and father, Ely A. Landau and Edie Landau, owned Manhattan film homes, based the American Movie Theater and produced greater than a dozen movies, together with Lengthy Day’s Journey Into Night time (1962), The Pawnbroker (1965), The Iceman Cometh (1973) and The Chosen (1981).

(In 1971, Ely obtained an Oscar nom for the documentary King: A Filmed File … Montgomery to Memphis. After his demise in 1993, Edie had a protracted relationship with actor Martin E. Brooks.)

Landau performed soccer at his Bronx highschool earlier than he and his household moved to L.A.’s Brentwood neighborhood in his junior yr. He helped out on The Chosen whereas attending the USC Faculty of Cinematic Arts and after commencement in 1983 returned to New York to work as a set manufacturing assistant, largely directing site visitors, on a TV film of the week.

When that was completed, he was provided an opportunity to do some submitting work in accounting. “I had little interest in accounting and positively had little interest in submitting, however I mentioned sure,” he famous. “I learn all the things I filed. I don’t know that I used to be speculated to, however I did. I realized [a lot] in these two weeks.”

He then served as a manufacturing supervisor on Beat Avenue (1984), a break-dance film, and Key Trade (1985), a romantic comedy, and as a manufacturing supervisor on F/X (1986), Manhunter (1986) and Making Mr. Proper (1987).

Landau obtained his first producer credit score on Paramount’s Campus Man (1987), then co-produced two Disney movies, Joe Johnston’s Honey I Shrunk the Children and Warren Beatty’s Dick Tracy.

At simply 28 in 1989, he was employed to supervise bodily manufacturing at Fox. “I actually checked out this as an excellent alternative to see how the business works from the within out,” he mentioned.

Landau rose to government vp on the studio as he additionally supervised Residence Alone (1990), Aliens 3 (1992), Mighty Morphin Energy Rangers: The Film (1995) and the Cameron-produced Unusual Days (1995).

When Cameron shared an early draft of Titanic with him, Landau mentioned he “fell in love with it. It was not simply the script however the concept that this could possibly be the final time that an epic, old style film is made, with lots of and lots of of extras — who aren’t digital.”

Titanic was meant to be a one-off job, however Landau would quickly be a part of Cameron’s Lightstorm Leisure.

“It was going by means of that have with Jim, the place we constructed up a higher mutual respect and a mutual bond with one another, [when he said], ‘Wait, reasonably than you going off and doing your individual factor, why don’t you come into the Lightstorm fold?’ Be part of it, and we’ll do issues collectively. … What higher filmmaker may I’ve who not simply makes nice motion pictures, he challenges you daily?”

An excellent salesman, the gregarious Landau traveled all over the world to pitch the potential of Avatar in 3D to exhibitors. “Once we began out, we might have been completely satisfied if worldwide there have been 1,000 theaters that might play a film in 3D,” he mentioned. “I feel we ended up with almost 5,000 screens.”

Later, The Means of Water would deliver moviegoers again into theaters within the wake of the pandemic. In THR‘s evaluate, David Rooney wrote, “the expanded, bio-diverse world-building pulls you in, the visible spectacle retains you mesmerized, the eagerness for environmental consciousness is stirring, and the warfare is as visceral and thrilling as any multiplex viewers may want.”

“What I, as a lover of movie and a lover of going to the films, am most pleased with, is that our movie has illustrated that on this post-pandemic or pandemic period — whichever you wish to name it — there nonetheless is that potential to attract folks out of their properties to go to this unimaginable expertise that known as motion pictures,” he advised THR’s Mia Galuppo.

“And I don’t consider there’s the rest prefer it on this planet. As producers, as administrators, as studios, as exhibitors, we’ve a accountability to proceed to protect that have for generations to come back.”

At Lightstorm, he and Cameron additionally produced Steven Soderbergh’s Solaris (2002), the conflict documentary Past Glory (2015), and Robert Rodriguez’s Alita: Battle Angel (2019). Additionally they had been consistently pushing on the Avatar franchise, with the following sequels deliberate for 2025, 2029 and 2031.

Along with Jamie, survivors embrace his spouse of almost 40 years, Julie, who as soon as labored as a movie accountant; one other son, Jodie, a vocalist, composer and percussionist; his sisters, Tina Landau, a theater director, and Kathy Landau, government director of the Manhattan arts group Symphony House; and half-brother Les Landau, a director on Star Trek collection.

One has to marvel how Cameron will go on with out his right-hand man. In any case, “James comes up with the nice desires,” Landau advised The Jewish Journal in 2010, “and it’s my job to make these desires come true.”

Right here is Cameron’s reply: “You’ll be able to’t resolve the fragility of life itself.  I’m grateful for yearly, daily, each minute we had collectively. I’m grateful for the assumption he had in me and what his partnership allowed us to perform collectively. Part of myself has been torn away. However the wonderful workforce he assembled and led nonetheless stays, and we’ll dedicate ourselves to fulfilling Jon’s legacy.  Not simply the movies but to come back, however the love and connection that binds the Avatar and Lightstorm household collectively.”

Jon Landau, the Oscar-winning producer of “Titanic” and each “Avatar” motion pictures, died of most cancers on Friday, July 5. He was 63.

Landau, a longtime producing companion to James Cameron, was behind three of the highest 4 highest-grossing motion pictures of all time. Landau helped make historical past with “Titanic,” the primary movie to cross $1 billion on the international field workplace. He topped that film’s record-breaking grosses twice, with 2009’s “Avatar” and its sequel, 2022’s “Avatar: The Means of Water.”

Earlier than his demise, Landau was deeply concerned within the manufacturing of the “Avatar” sequels. Cameron is planning to fill his blockbuster sci-fi franchise with 5 motion pictures in whole, with the fifth tentatively popping out in 2031.

Chatting with Selection on the “Means of Water” premiere, Landau recalled screening the film for the principal solid. “After I noticed them tearing up, I needed to tear up,” he mentioned.

At age 29, Landau turned the chief vp of function movie manufacturing at twentieth Century Fox, the place he oversaw movies similar to “Die Exhausting 2,” “Energy Rangers,” “The Final of the Mohicans” and 1994’s “True Lies,” on which he labored with Cameron. When Landau left Fox, Cameron requested him if he needed to learn the script for a venture with the code identify “Planet Ice,” which Landau boarded and which finally turned 1997’s “Titanic.”

Landau would go on to work with Cameron for the remainder of his life, changing into chief working officer at Cameron’s Lightstorm Leisure banner. He moreover was the architect of Lightstorm’s ancillary initiatives, similar to Darkish Horse Comics and Penguin Random Home’s varied “Avatar” print spinoffs. Landau additionally suggested the creation of “Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora,” the well-received Ubisoft sport that launched in December, in addition to a web based multiplayer role-playing sport from Tencent Video games’ Degree Infinite known as “Avatar: Reckoning.”

Landau’s different producing credit embrace 1987’s “Campus Man,” 2002’s “Solaris” and 2019’s “Alita: Battle Angel.”

In a 2022 interview with The Talks, Landau mentioned of his profession in Hollywood: “I might by no means simply sit at a desk and log off on something. Not simply as a producer, however in life. I wish to take part, I wish to have a voice, I wish to have an affect. I would like to have the ability to encourage individuals to transcend what they suppose their very own capabilities are, for them to really feel pleasure in what we’re doing. I believe that’s a really large factor. I by no means wish to be that man simply at a desk wherever in life.”

He leaves behind his spouse, Julie Landau, to whom he was married for nearly 40 years, in addition to their two sons, Jamie and Jodie Landau. He’s additionally survived by his siblings, Tina, Kathy and Les Landau.

Those that labored with Landau supplied tributes, together with co-chairman of Disney Leisure Alan Bergman, who mentioned, “Jon was a visionary whose extraordinary expertise and keenness introduced among the most unforgettable tales to life on the massive display. His exceptional contributions to the movie business have left an indelible mark, and he will likely be profoundly missed. He was an iconic and profitable producer but an excellent higher individual and a real drive of nature who impressed throughout him. Our ideas are with Jon’s spouse, Julie, and his household and family members throughout this tough time.”

Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh, whose Wētā FX firm was the visible results home for the “Avatar” motion pictures, additionally launched an announcement: “We communicate for the complete Wētā FX workforce after we say we’re devastated by the lack of Jon Landau. Jon was not solely a monumental determine within the movie business but additionally a cherished collaborator and pal. Jon introduced unparalleled ardour to the initiatives he labored on and his affect will proceed to encourage for years to return. Our deepest condolences are with Jon’s household and family members, in addition to Jim and the Lightstorm Leisure workforce.”

Joe Letteri, who was the VFX supervisor on the “Avatar” movies, added in his personal assertion, “I’m heartbroken on the lack of our pal Jon Landau. He was an incredible and beneficiant man, and a world-class movie maker who leaves a legacy that may final for generations. On behalf of all of us at Wētā FX, it was an honour to work beside him. His dedication to the artwork of filmmaking impressed us day by day. Our ideas are together with his household and family members.”

Stephen Rivkin, an editor on the “Avatar” movies, mentioned in an announcement to Selection, “Jon was our hero.  He’s and can all the time be the best champion of the Avatar motion pictures and the guiding gentle of the Avatar household who’ve labored and proceed to work on these movies. He was a one-of-a-kind big in our business. I’m so lucky to have identified him and to have had him in my life, each professionally and as a pricey pal. We’ll miss him past what phrases can specific. He’ll proceed to reside in our hearts eternally.”

“Titanic” VFX supervisor and collaborator Robert Legato wrote to Selection: “It completely breaks my coronary heart to have to write down this tribute to Jon. I used to be terribly fortunate to be concerned in two of the largest movies ever made, and I couldn’t consider my success in getting an opportunity to work with a legendary determine like Jon. For me, loving movie historical past as I do, it felt like working with David Selznick, Darryl Zanuck, Sam Spiegel, and Louis B. Mayer all wrapped into one. The very best-grossing movies of all time, most Oscar wins—Jon is in that very small pantheon of probably the most profitable producers this enterprise has ever seen. Personally, he was an amazing pal, an encouraging colleague, and a grasp at making you are feeling such as you had been crucial voice within the room. He did this for everybody, and the collective contribution he fostered confirmed on display as a present for audiences the world over. The deep unhappiness I really feel should pale compared to the loss felt by his fantastic and proficient household that he simply adored. All of us simply cherished him.”

“Titanic” actor Frances Fisher paid tribute to Landau on X, writing, “Relaxation in Energy Jon.”

Landau was born in New York, N.Y., on July 30, 1960, to Ely and Edie Landau, who had been additionally each movie producers. He attended USC’s Faculty of Cinematic Arts.

Novak Djokovic (2° del rating mundial) sigue escribiendo la historia grande del tenis. El serbio pasó de estar en duda para disputar Wimbledon 2024 a ya insertarse entre los 16 mejores, luego de imponerse ante Alexei Popyrin (47°) por 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 y 7-6 (3). Su próximo rival será Holger Rune (15°).

Sin embargo, luego de conseguir la victoria ante el australiano, el ganador de 24 títulos de Grand Slam se metió en un selecto lote de tenistas: se convirtió en el sexto jugador de todos los tiempos en superar los 1000 aces en el main británico. Se unió a Roger Federer, Goran Ivanisevic, Pete Sampras, John Isner e Ivo Karlovic.

Además, alcanzó la segunda semana en el All England por séptima vez de manera consecutiva: ya había podido en 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021 (en 2020 no se jugó por la pandemia), 2022 y en 2023.

En esta edición, buscará conseguir su octavo título en el césped londinense, para igualar a Federer y compartir el liderato de máximos campeones de Wimbledon y desquitarse de la remaining perdida con Carlos Alcaraz en cinco units en el año anterior.

El encuentro se disputará el próximo lunes 8 con horario a confirmar. Sigue la acción de todas las canchas de Wimbledon EN VIVO por Disney+.

James Rodríguez scored one aim and arrange two extra as Colombia completely dismantled Panama in a 5-0 win on the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, on Saturday to march into the Copa América semifinals.

Los Cafeteros are by means of to the semifinals for the third time in 4 editions and they’re going to face Uruguay, who beat Brazil in a shootout afterward Saturday, in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Wednesday.

“An important factor remains to be to return. We hope to achieve the ultimate,” stated Rodriguez, who was named participant of the match.

“I’m very comfortable as a result of we’re going by means of second. Immediately we performed recreation and scored the objectives shortly.”

Striker Jhon Cordoba outmuscled his marker to move in a nook and provides Colombia the lead within the eighth minute, earlier than captain Rodriguez smashed house a penalty after Panama goalkeeper Orlando Mosquera introduced down Jhon Arias.

Rodríguez stepped as much as the spot and smashed his effort into the roof of the online within the fifteenth minute.

Panama had a quick spell of strain halfway by means of the primary half, with their finest likelihood coming within the nineteenth minute when Roderick Miller’s header bounced off the submit and instantly at goalkeeper Camilo Vargas, who displayed nice reflexes to swat it away from aim.

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Colombia weathered the storm and punished their opponents from one other set piece within the forty first minute, as Rodriguez performed in Luis Díaz with a fast free kick and the Liverpool winger lobbed his shot over Mosquera from the sting of the world.

“We all know what sort of foot James has and one look is sufficient. He noticed me and I scored the move. It was a pleasant aim. We’re very in sync and we hope to maintain on successful for the followers,” Díaz stated.

Colombia eased off the throttle within the second half as they regarded to regulate the sport and see out the victory, however they had been nonetheless the higher aspect by far.

They scored their fourth aim within the seventieth minute after Richard Ríos took benefit of some confusion within the Panama ranks within the aftermath of a foul to rifle in a low drive from vary, which caught Mosquera off guard.

Panama’s frustration with the proceedings appeared to point out when defender José Córdoba clattered into Santiago Arias simply contained in the field to reward Colombia a transparent penalty in stoppage time, which substitute Miguel Borja netted with the final kick of the match.

The win extends Colombia’s unbeaten run to 27 matches, with their final defeat coming in a 1-0 loss to Argentina in February 2022.

Colombia will play their semifinal match in Charlotte, North Carolina on Wednesday. Defending champions Argentina tackle Canada — the one remaining Concacaf aspect within the match — within the different semifinal in New Jersey on Tuesday.

The match marked the tip of Panama’s fairytale run within the competitors, which included a memorable 2-1 win over Concacaf rivals and hosts the USA.

It was their best-ever efficiency on the Copa América, enhancing on their group stage exit on their debut in 2016.

“I’m very pleased with my gamers, of what they’ve achieved on this Copa América,” Panama coach Thomas Christiansen advised reporters.

“In fact, nobody likes shedding and far the much less 5-0, however now we have to commend the gamers for this Copa América. It didn’t finish as we wished, however that is additionally a studying expertise.”

Ons Jabeur (10ª de la WTA) tuvo un lindo gesto con Novak Djokovic, número 2, en la previa de sus respectivos encuentros por la tercera ronda de Wimbledon.

La tunecina aprovechó la ocasión para regalarle al serbio una caja de dátiles que, por supuesto, le sacaron una sonrisa al exnúmero 1 del mundo. “Ministra de la felicidad. Hoy Ons me dio un regalo delicioso. Mi snack favorito en las canchas. Gracias, Ons”, escribió posteriormente Nole en sus redes sociales.

Acto seguido, la africana le respondió que lo disfrute con dos emojis de corazones. Dentro del circuito hay muy buena convivencia entre los jugadores de la ATP y las de la WTA y esta vez no fue la excepción.

Por lo pronto, los dos se encuentran firmes en el certamen londinense. Curiosamente, ambos buscarán defender la ultimate que alcanzaron el año pasado. En el partido decisivo, el balcánico no pudo superar a Carlos Alcaraz, mientras que Jabeur cayó frente a Marketa Vondrousova.

En su camino para avanzar a los octavos de ultimate del tercer Grand Slam de la temporada, Djokovic se medirá contra el australiano Alexei Popyrin (47°), quien viene de eliminar al argentino Tomás Etcheverry.

La tunecina, por su parte, deberá enfrentar a la ucraniana Elina Svitolina (21ª) con quien tiene un historial desfavorable con tres derrotas y solo una victoria.

Sigue la acción de todas las canchas de Wimbledon EN VIVO por Disney+.

LONDON — Novak Djokovic shrugged off a sluggish begin to energy previous unseeded Australian Alexei Popyrin 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-6(3) and into the Wimbledon fourth spherical Saturday.

Djokovic’s bid for a record-extending twenty fifth Grand Slam title seemed below menace when Popyrin took a 4-3 lead with a blistering crosscourt forehand winner and sealed the opening set with a second-serve ace.

“It was one other powerful match. I did not anticipate something lower than what we skilled on the courtroom as we speak from Alexei,” mentioned Djokovic, who was additionally taken to 4 units by Popyrin at this yr’s Australian Open. “I do know he was going to come back to the match with confidence, lots of self-belief. He was near profitable (once we performed) in Australia earlier this yr.”

Showing rejuvenated after the roof was closed, Djokovic went 4-1 up within the second set. Then, followers erupted on Centre Courtroom as information trickled by way of about England beating Switzerland to make the Euro 2024 semifinals.

The amused second seed simulated a penalty kick that Popyrin pretended to avoid wasting to the delight of followers.

Djokovic had little hassle within the second and third units however confronted extra resistance within the fourth. Popyrin dug deep seeking his first win within the pair’s third assembly, saving three break factors to carry on within the eleventh recreation.

After making certain a tiebreak, nevertheless, Djokovic switched on the afterburners to shut out the win, ending with a fiery serve that Popyrin despatched into the online.

“I performed an excellent second and third set and the fourth was anyone’s recreation,” Djokovic mentioned.

“He was serving very nicely. It was very troublesome to learn his serve. It was only a very difficult match, mentally as nicely to hold in there.

“I am not allowed to have too large focus lapses. I feel I’ve executed nicely in that regard in top-of-the-line tiebreaks I’ve performed this yr, that is for certain.”

Djokovic arrived at Wimbledon weeks after having surgical procedure on his proper knee, which he injured on the French Open. He mentioned he was getting higher with each match.

“My feeling of motion, confidence notably excessive balls, reaching, sliding. I positively acquired higher as we speak than in my second match,” Djokovic mentioned, referring to his four-set win over unseeded Briton Jacob Fearnley.

“Hopefully the course or trajectory will hold stepping into a constructive means. Let’s have a look at what occurs within the subsequent one.”

Up subsequent for Djokovic is fifteenth seed Holger Rune, who superior after getting back from a two-set deficit towards Quentin Halys on Saturday.

Reuters contributed to this report.

John Cena made a shock return at WWE Cash within the Financial institution 2024 and had a surprising announcement, too. The 16-time world champion confirmed up in Toronto to disclose that he’ll retire at subsequent yr’s WrestleMania 41 occasion in Las Vegas.

After Sami Zayn defeated Bron Breakker to retain the Intercontinental Championship, WWE Corridor of Famer and Cash within the Financial institution host Trish Stratus appeared on-stage to disclose a particular visitor. Cena, one of many greatest stars in professional wrestling historical past, entered the Scotiabank Area to a thunderous ovation solely to drop an surprising bombshell.

In a heartfelt speech, Cena thanked the followers in Toronto and knowledgeable the WWE crowd that subsequent yr’s Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber occasions—the ultimate two stops on the street to WrestleMania—could be his final. So, too, will WrestleMania 41, the two-night extravagana which can happen in Allegiant Stadium.

Though Cena’s surprising announcement got here out of nowhere, maybe it shouldn’t have.

In quite a few latest interviews, Cena had hinted at retiring within the close to future. Throughout an look on The Kelly Clarkson Present (h/t Speak Sport) earlier this yr, the 47-year previous wrestler and actor mentioned that he didn’t plan on wrestling previous the age of fifty. He doubled down on that whereas showing on TODAY, saying, “I’ll by no means be away from the WWE household. However so far as in-ring and falling down…the clock is restricted on that one.”

Little did WWE followers know simply how restricted time Cena’s could be.

ForbesWWE Cash In The Financial institution 2024 Outcomes: Sami Zayn Upsets Bron Breakker To Retain TitleBy Blake Oestriecher

Mere minutes after Breakker misplaced to Zayn in a surprising upset that had Zayn’s Canadian followers using excessive, Cena’s shocking announcement introduced followers again to actuality. Arguably the best all-around performer to ever grace a WWE ring, Cena final appeared for WWE again in April on the Uncooked after WrestleMania 40, teaming with The Miz and R-Fact to defeat The Judgment Day.

Only one night time earlier than, Cena made a shock run-in in the course of the epic WrestleMania 40 primary occasion between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns. His final singles match befell final November when he was destroyed by The Bloodline’s Solo Sikoa in a lopsided match that, maybe not sarcastically, clearly hinted at Cena’s impending retirement.

Now, 22 years after his WWE debut in 2002, Cena has let or not it’s know that the clock is ticking, hinting at having simply three remaining matches, with a Royal Rumble look and a closing match at WrestleMania 41 because the cherry on high of what has been a exceptional profession.

Though it stays to be seen precisely how what’s left of Cena’s legendary profession will play out, relaxation assured that will probably be a significant second for WWE and all of professional wrestling when the person who has been synonymous with WWE for two-plus many years calls it quits subsequent yr.

Shortly after Cena’s retirement announcement shook the followers contained in the Scotiabank heart, WWE CCO Triple H took to Twitter to name Cena “The Biggest of All Time:”

A former Royal Rumble winner, WrestleMania primary eventers, United States Champion and world champion, Cena actually has the accolades that warrant such a title for the person who famously mentioned, “You may’t see me.”

And by this time subsequent yr, wrestling followers certainly can have seen the “GOAT
VanEck Vectors Morningstar International Vast Moat ETF
” of professional wrestling competing in his denims shorts and tennis footwear for the final time.

Shakur Stevenson made his first protection of the WBC light-weight title and beat Artem Harutyunyan in the principle occasion of Prime Rank’s card from Newark, New Jersey by a unanimous choice.

However this may occasionally not have been the story of the evening.

The massive story got here within the co-main combat the place Robson Conceicao shocked O’Shaquie Foster to win the WBC junior light-weight title. This was a shocker as Conceicao landed simply 11 % of his punches. Foster outpunched him 109-76.

Stevenson is a three-division world champion, having held titles at featherweight and junior light-weight earlier than transferring as much as 135 kilos in April. Stevenson grew to become a light-weight champion final November when outpointed Edwin De Los Santos in a traditionally sluggish affair to assert the vacant WBC belt.

Listed here are our reside updates all through the Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat card.

Followers fashioned an extended line, strolling out of the combat. That they had seen sufficient. Boos are again. The hometown Stevenson is not impressing his followers tonight. He simply outlasted Harutyunyan. Stevenson wins by unanimous choice and improves to 22-0 to retain his WBC light-weight title. Harutyunan falls to 12-2.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 11

Extra boos. What we have seen listed here are back-to-back fights of boxers recognized for his or her protection. Stevenson is not successful individuals over together with his energy. He’s simply sporting out Harutyunyan with physique and avoiding punches.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 10

Stevenson wished to cease this combat early. However Harutyunyan is not going away. This may go the space barring one thing bizarre occurring. Harutyunyan is aware of he will not win by factors, so he has to turn out to be the aggressor for the final two rounds.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 9

Stevenson was the aggressor the primary two minutes of the spherical, hitting completely different mixtures. He even seemed to be on the verge of ending off the combat. However Harutyunayan closed out the spherical, hitting Stevenson with a number of mixtures.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 8

Stevenson has a great deal of vitality. He dances again to his ring after the bell. A lot of what we have seen the primary a number of rounds. Stevenson is working the physique. However Harutyunyan is not breaking down.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 7

Stevenson continues to put on down Harutyunyan with physique blows. However Harutyunyan is not utterly slowing down. He is countering. This is not going to be a knockout except one thing adjustments shortly.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 6

Stevenson had maybe his finest spherical of the evening. He is beginning to wear down Harutyunyan together with his physique photographs. He is sporting him out with these physique photographs.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 5

Stevenson is not backing up the way in which he did the primary two rounds. He is turning into extra of the aggressor. However Harutyunan is not going away quietly. This seems like it is going to go the space. Stevenson landed 21 of his punches to eight by Harutyunyan.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 4

Stevenson is heating up and turning into somewhat extra aggressive. Harutyunyan is engaged on Stevenson’s physique. However Stevenson is beginning to work Harutyunyan now after a quiet first three rounds. Stevenson has possible received three of the primary 4 rounds.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 3

The boos in Stevenson’s hometown of Newark, New Jersey are noticeable as Stevenson is limiting his engagement towards Harutyunyan. Stevenson hit two fast jabs that introduced some cheers. However Harutyunyan comes again with a counter. Stevenson has landed extra punches 19-10 by three rounds.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 2

One other gradual begin within the second spherical. Proper now, neither boxer is touchdown a lot of an assault on the opposite. Stevenson, because the champion, appears to be backing up whereas Harutyunyan is taking the combat to him. He simply is not touchdown many punches. Nonetheless, the earlier combat confirmed that will not be vital.

Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat: Spherical 1

After a controversial co-main occasion the place Robson Conceicao grew to become the brand new WBC junior light-weight title regardless of touchdown simply 11 % of his punches, Shakur Stevenson got here out cautious within the opening spherical vs. Harutyunyan. Harutyunyan did not land many punches, however was the aggressor.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 12

Conceicao, a former Olympic gold medalist, shocks the gang. He pulls out a cut up choice to win the WBC junior light-weight title. It is a particular shocker. Conceicao improves to 19-2-1. Foster falls to 23-3. Foster misplaced regardless of Conceicao touchdown simply 11 % of his punches. Foster landed 109-76 extra punches.

“I need this rematch. They stole this combat from me,” Foster stated in a put up combat interview.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 11

Foster has this combat wrapped up and it exhibits. He stays on the defensive. He is content material simply utilizing his ft to keep away from Conceicao’s tried offense.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 10

Conceicao comes out with depth. Lands some sturdy physique photographs. However Foster then counters. However Conceicao has been the aggressor. Proper now Foster leads punches landed 91-58.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 9

Foster is pulling away. Conceicao wants to begin considering knockout. Conceicao has a pair good mixtures. However Foster has a counter.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 8

Conceicao has mixture. He is urgent extra, however Foster continues to elude him. Thus far Foster is working away with this combat. Foster has received seven of eight rounds.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 7

Foster stays on the defensive. He is touchdown just a few photographs afterward, however not many. The issue for Conceicao is Foster’s velocity has stored him from touchdown something severe. Foster has a 58-39 punch benefit. Neither is connecting a lot.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 6

Foster is on the defensive, taking his photographs after Conceicao mixtures. Conceicao has a pleasant physique mixture late within the sixth spherical.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 5

Conceicao goes to have to show it up quickly on Foster. Foster is methodical, slowly engaged on Conceicao. Followers are somewhat stressed, wanting some extra pleasure.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 4

Conceicao is touchdown simply 9 % of his punches. Foster has received every spherical thus far.

Foster’s quickness is bothering Conceicao, who cannot join sufficient on Foster as a result of that fast ft.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 2

Foster lands a pair mixtures, however Conceicao has counter. Like the primary spherical, proper now each boxers are patiently ready for his or her alternatives.

O’Shaquie Foster vs. Robson Conceicao: Spherical 1

It was a gradual spherical to begin Foster’s protection of the WBC junior light-weight title. Each labored slowly, taking alternatives when given.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 10

Davis dominated the combat, touchdown shot after shot to enhance to 11-0. Madueno suffers his third defeat and is now 31-3. Davis even shows some showmanship, appearing like he is a matador. The 2 hug after. Davis landed 122 punches. He wins by a unanimous choice.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 9

Big ending to the ninth spherical with Davis touchdown some large blows. Madueno slowed. However he refuses to be knocked downs.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 8

OK, issues have calmed down. We’re late within the combat. Davis nonetheless touchdown a lot on Madueno. However Davis is beginning to seize and maintain on extra. He is landed so many punches he is getting fatigued.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 7

Issues have gotten loopy. Madueno accidently hit the ref after the bell after the 2 boxers exchanged phrases after the spherical. Madueno picks up Davis at one level. Davis tags Madueno with an enormous shot and Madueno motions for extra.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 6

Davis has landed 93 punches to 40 by Madueno by the primary 5 rounds. That is paying off for Davis in Spherical 6.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 5

Madueno refuses to be shocked by the onslaught that he is endured from Davis by the primary 4 rounds. The tempo slowed within the fifth spherical. Davis is ready to land some physique photographs.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 4

Davis has dazed Madueno. He is sporting him out. He hits him with a three-punch mixture that forces Madueno to take a step again. However Madueno comes again for extra.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 3

Davis had a reasonably mixture early within the third spherical. However Madueno countered and had Davis towards the ropes the place he was capable of join a pair mixtures. Davis proper now has the sting. He is touchdown 52 % of his jabs.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 2

Madueno is bringing his offense to Davis. Davis would not look comfy.

Keyshawn Davis vs. Miguel Madueno: Spherical 1

Davis bought some early photographs in on Madueno, who tried to begin the combat on the offensive.

Abdullah Mason vs. Luis Lebron: Spherical 3

Mason exhibits off one other good mixture. The combat ends with Lebron in bother and Lebron’s coach waiving his white towel. Mason wins by technical knockout, 1:18 into the third spherical.

Abdullah Mason vs. Luis Lebron: Spherical 2

Mason has proven quantity of mixtures and higher cups. He has lower Lebron on his nostril. Mason is in full management.

Mason stuns Lebron for a standing rely. He stuns him once more within the last seconds of the spherical.

Abdullah Mason vs. Luis Lebron: Spherical 1

Lebron began slowly, edging as much as Mason. Mason confirmed off good mixtures on this light-weight showdown.

watch Shakur Stevenson vs Artem Harutyunyan combat?

The Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat in the principle occasion of Prime Rank’s card from New Jersey shall be broadcasted reside on ESPN and ESPN+ on July 6.

• watch: ESPN or ESPN+

Shakur Stevenson vs Artem Harutyunyan combat begin time, ring walks

Prime Rank’s combat card, headlined by Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan, kicks off at 8 p.m. CT with the principle occasion ring walks anticipated at roughly 10 p.m. CT.

• Struggle card begin time: 8 p.m. CT
• Stevenson vs. Harutyunyan ring walks: approx. 10 p.m. CT

Shakur Stevenson vs Artem Harutyunyan combat location

The Shakur Stevenson vs. Artem Harutyunyan combat will happen on the Prudential Middle in Stevenson’s hometown of Newark, New Jersey.

This shall be Stevenson’s fourth combat on the Prudential Middle, and his third combat there in his final 4 outings. The Prudential Middle is dwelling of the New Jersey Devils and Seton Corridor basketball.

Shakur Stevenson vs Artem Harutyunyan full combat card

The undercard of Stevenson-Harutyunyan includes a 130-pound title showdown between present champion O’Shaquie Foster and Robson Conceicao together with one in all Prime Rank’s brightest prospects, Keyshawn Davis, returning to the ring.

• Essential occasion: Shakur Stevenson (21-0, 10 KOs) vs. Artem Harutyunyan (12-1, 7 KOs); WBC light-weight title
• Co-main: O’Shaquie Foster (22-2, 12 KOs) vs. Robson Conceicao (18-2-1, 9 KOs); WBC junior light-weight title
• Keyshawn Davis (11-0, 7 KOs) wins by unanimous choice over Miguel Madueno (31-3, 28 KOs)
• Abdullah Mason defeats Luis Lebron by technical knockout within the third spherical.

Shakur Stevenson vs Artem Harutyunyan combat prediction

This has one-sided written throughout it. Stevenson is ranges above Harutyunyan and whereas he seemed fairly poor in his final outing, that ought to spur him to return out stronger on Saturday.

It’s exhausting to shake the considered the De Los Santos bout as a result of it was actually that unhealthy of a combat, however Stevenson stays probably the most proficient and difficult fighters within the sport. Defensively, there’s arguably no person higher and Harutyunyan can have his arms full simply making an attempt to land on Stevenson.

Whereas Harutyunyan gave Frank Martin a stable take a look at final summer time, Stevenson is a much better fighter in nearly each manner and Harutyunyan is prone to get picked aside, assuming Stevenson is at his finest (or perhaps a fraction of it). We see a stoppage on this one as Harutyunyan is unable to hold with Stevenson into the late rounds.

Predictions: Stevenson def. Harutyunyan by TKO-8; Foster def. Conceicao by UD; Davis def. Madueno by UD

Shakur Stevenson vs Artem Harutyunyan combat odds

• Shakur Stevenson to win: -3500
• Artem Harutyunyan to win: +1100
• Over 10.5 rounds: -180
• Below 10.5 rounds: +130

Odds through DraftKings, as of June 29

Shakur Stevenson combat file

Shakur Stevenson is 21-0 with 10 wins by knockout.

Stevenson is a 3 division world champion and silver medalist on the 2016 Olympic Video games. Stevenson received the WBO featherweight title over Joet Gonzalez in 2019, the primary world title of his profession.

He later grew to become a unified champion at junior light-weight, defeating Jamel Herring and Oscar Valdez in back-to-back fights. He moved to light-weight in 2023 and final November Stevenson received the vacant WBC title, outpointing Edwin De Los Santos in a snooze-fest of a combat.

Stevenson is ranked No. 4 at light-weight by The Ring, while ESPN ranks him No. 3 at lightweight and No. 8 pound-for-pound.

Artem Harutyunyan fight record

Artem Harutyunyan is 12-1 with seven wins by knockout.

Harutyunyan was a bronze medalist for Germany at the 2016 Olympics. He turned pro in 2017 and had never fought outside of his home country until his last fight against Frank Martin, who just lost to Gervonta Davis earlier this month.

Harutyunyan gave Martin a test but ultimately, Martin passed it, winning by unanimous decision in a somewhat sloppy fight, handing Harutyunyan his first loss. Harutyunyan hasn’t fought since that fight nearly 12 months ago.

Harutyunyan is ranked No. 7 at lightweight by the WBC.

Shakur Stevenson stats

Statistically speaking, Shakur Stevenson is one of the best fighters in all of boxing.

Stevenson leads all boxers in plus/minus, which measures how many times you hit an opponent versus get hit by them. Stevenson’s plus/minus is an eye-popping 20.4, the only fighter with a plus/minus above 20.

While Stevenson doesn’t throw a ton of shots, he’s very effective with the punches he does throw, ranking third in boxing for power punch connect percentage, landing 46.8% of his power punches.

Defense is where Stevenson really stands above the rest. His opponents land an average of just 5.2 punches per round on him, the lowest in all of boxing, while connecting on just 13.3% of shots. He gets hit with an average of 3.9 power punches per round and his opponents land only 16.7% of their power punches on him.

Shakur Stevenson vs ‘Tank’ Davis?

Shakur Stevenson has long been linked to a potential fight with Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis. With Stevenson now in the same division as Davis, the cries for a fight between the two have only intensified.

Each hold a lightweight title with Stevenson in possession of the WBC belt and Davis the WBA and it’s not a stretch to call Stevenson and Davis the top two fighters in the division. After Davis’ destructive eighth round knockout of Frank Martin earlier this month, it seems he’s looking for a title unification in his next bout.

While Stevenson represents the most enticing matchup, pitting the one-punch knockout power of Davis against the elite defense of Stevenson, it doesn’t seem likely to come next. Top Rank and Bob Arum are currently in talks with Davis’ team for a unification bout against another, equally talented title holder, Vasiliy Lomachenko.

It seems likely Top Rank will be able to strike a deal with Davis’ team for that bout, which could potentially set up an even bigger unification bout between Stevenson and the winner.

More:Gervonta Davis vs Frank Martin fight: Who won, fight analysis and what’s next

Shakur Stevenson weight

Shakur Stevenson fights in the lightweight division, which has a maximum weight limit of 135-pounds.

Stevenson started his career at featherweight (126-pounds) and won a title there in 2019 before moving up to the junior lightweight division (130-pounds). At junior lightweight, Stevenson established himself as one of the best fighters on the planet, becoming a unified champion before growing too big for the division and once again moving up.

Since coming to the lightweight division in April 2023, Stevenson has won two fights, claiming the vacant WBC title in his last fight over Edwin De Los Santos.

Harrison Campbell covers boxing for The Tennessean and high school sports for The Daily Herald. Email him at hcampbell@gannett.com and follow him on Twitter @hccamp.