MEMORY foam mattresses have come a long way since they were first introduced back in the ‘90s and now incorporate pretty high-tech features.

The best memory foam mattresses offer support and comfort, and when teamed with springs create a sleeping environment that’s second to none.

They’re ideal for anybody suffering from aching joints or back pain, as they mould to the shape of your body while keeping your spine and neck in alignment and relieving pressure on your hips and shoulders.

Memory foam can be hot to sleep on and it retains body heat. However manufacturers have gotten round this by adding a top layer with a more open structure, which allows air to circulate and so helps keep you cool.

Side and back sleepers will notice greater support than with a traditional sprung mattress, while people who sleep on their front should opt for a medium to firm foam mattress or a hybrid model (a clever combination of memory foam and pocket springs) to make sure they don’t sink into the foam too much.

This type of mattress comes in at all price points so there’s something to suit all budgets, though you will pay more for the most feature-rich versions.

We tested a selection of the best memory foam mattresses available in the UK right now so read on for our thoughts and find the one that will help you sleep soundly each night.

Best memory foam mattresses at a glance:

• Best mattress overall: Simba Hybrid
• Best luxury hybrid mattress: Panda
• Best value memory foam mattress: Emma Original mattress
• Best value hybrid mattress: Brook and Wilde Lux Mattress
• Best for longest guarantee: Dormeo Octasmart Plus

Simba Hybrid Mattress

Clara Wolsey

Support your sleep with the Simba Hybrid mattress.[/caption]

Simba Hybrid Mattress, from £599

Pros: Supportive, comfortable, 200-night trial, 0% finance option, 10-year guarantee

Cons: Very heavy, especially when in the box, may require deep-fitted sheets, plastic smell when first unboxed

Rating: 4.5/5

Our reviewer found the Simba Hybrid Original easy to unbox but heavy to move into position. It took around three hours for the mattress to expand enough to sleep on and around 24 hours before it reached its full size.

The mattress is 25cm deep so may require deeper sheets, though our tester found her regular sheets fitted – just. The initial plasticky smell on unpacking disappeared within days.

The Hybrid Original has five layers, including a breathable sleep layer and one of Aerocoil springs, which work together to keep you cool.

While the Simba Hybrid Original is more expensive than similar bed-in-a-box mattresses, it is often discounted and currently has 25% off in the Simba sale.

Although the Simba was firmer than our tester was used to, she slept amazingly from the off and found it comfortable and supportive. She had been suffering from insomnia before trying out the Simba Hybrid Original so was delighted when her sleep improved during the trial.

‘The mattress has transformed my sleep, and I feel more rested than I have done in years,’ she revealed.

‘I would (and have) recommend this mattress to close family and friends, especially since the 200-night trial and 10-year guarantee means you can always return it if you don’t love it as much as I did.’

Type: Hybrid, Trial period: 200 nights, Guarantee: 10 years

Read our full Simba Hybrid Mattress review.

Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Pro

Lisa Burn

Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Pro, from £950

Pros: Feels supportive, really comfortable, cooling bamboo, sustainable, several layers of foam and 1,200 individually enclosed springs, helped sort out my morning aches

Cons: Heavy to move, expensive, took a couple of weeks to get used to the firmness

Rating: 4/5

The Panda Hybrid Pro is made up of six layers, including a layer of 800 springs and several layers of foam that work together to provide optimal support and comfort.

It cradles your body so there’s no pressure on your hips or shoulders, and it keeps your spine nicely in alignment.

Memory foam can retain heat so if you’re a hot sleeper it can disturb you, however the Hybrid Pro has a top layer of BioCell Foam to help stop this. It has an open structure so allowing more air to circulate helping keep you cool.

Below this is a layer of orthopaedic grade foam, which supports you as you sleep, while on top is a cooling – and naturally antibacterial – bamboo cover.  

I found this mattress a dream to sleep on, though firmer than I’m used to. It took a week or so to get used to after having slept on a soft mattress for too long, and now not only do I sleep really well, but I wake with fewer aches in the morning.

Type: Hybrid, Trial period: 100 nights, Guarantee: 10 years

Emma Original Mattress

Emma Lake

Emma’s Original is the perfect memory foam mattress.[/caption]

Emma Original Mattress, from £339

Pros: Super comfortable, good support, doesn’t get too hot, trial period

Cons: More expensive than many traditional mattresses, needs to be left to expand when first unpacked

Rating: 4/5

The Emma Original mattress aims to be the ultimate “bed in a box”. It has won several awards and is a hit with shoppers, with over 2,000 five-star reviews, according to its website.

Our reviewers found the vacuum-packed mattress easy to open and manoeuvre into place, thanks to the handles on the side.

Though at first glance it was thinner than expected, it expanded to full size within a few hours and was found to be comfortable and sturdy from the get-go.

The Original incorporates several layers of memory foam within a removable, temperature-regulating outer cover.

This includes a 3cm Airgocell foam layer, which helps ensure a cool night’s sleep, allowing heat to escape, while the remaining layers offer ‘advanced zoning’, which the company says gives support in all areas, adapting to any body shape.

One of our reviewers found the mattress absorbed the movement of their restless partner, minimising the impact – a bonus that helped them sleep better.

Currently, the Emma Original is on sale for £254.15, which is slightly cheaper than other comparable products. Emma offers sales during the year so it’s worth waiting for one of those before buying; you can also take advantage of the 200-night trial period to test it and the mattress comes with a 10-year guarantee.

Type: Memory foam, Trial period: 200 nights, Guarantee: 10 years

Read our full Emma Original Mattress review.

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READ MORE

• Best mattress deals and sales
• Emma Original mattress review
• Simba Hybrid Pro mattress review
• Nectar mattress review

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Brook & Wilde Lux Mattress

Joel Watson

The Lux mattress from Brook & Wilde will be comfortable for years.[/caption]

Brook & Wilde Lux Mattress, from £500

Pros: Supportive, comfortable, stands the test of time

Cons: Nothing notable

Rating: 5/5

Our reviewer tested the Brook & Wilde Lux mattress in medium firm and though it seemed a little spongy at first, it was supportive to sleep on and very comfortable.

The vacuum-packed mattress was delivered to the bedroom and unpacked onto the bed by the delivery team. After several hours it had expanded to its full size and was ready for use.

With five layers, the Lux incorporates cooling memory foam, support foam, 1,00 pocket springs and a specialised support foam base, all within a breathable mattress cover.

The five layers work together to provide lumbar, leg and foot support as well as keeping your spine in alignment.

Overall, our tester gave the Lux the thumbs up. While it is on the expensive side, regular discounts and sales bring the price down – currently, there’s a 60% discount on purchases over £749, which reduces the price of a double mattress to £359.60 (from £899).

In conclusion, our reviewer said: ‘Overall we love the Lux. It’s so amazing to have a proper mattress to sleep on after years of back-breaking cheap versions – and we’re still sleeping like babies on it more than two years later.’

Type: Hybrid, Trial period: 200 nights, Guarantee: 10 years

Read our full Brook & Wilde Lux Mattress review.

REM-Fit 400 Hybrid Mattress

News Corp

The REM-FIT 400 Hybrid is ideal for back support.[/caption]

REM-Fit 400 Hybrid Mattress, from £399.50

Pros: Provides excellent back support, incredibly comfortable, good to share

Cons: Nothing notable

Rating: 5/5

The REM-fit 400 arrived in plain plastic wrapping as the manufacturer is keen to reduce unnecessary packaging. Once freed from its wrapping our testers noticed a slight plasticky smell, but that quickly dissipated.

It had expanded to its full size after a few hours and our reviewers found it the comfiest mattress they’d ever slept on. It was also very supportive and helped relieve the sporadic back problems they’d suffered over the years.

The mattress is made up of several layers, including cool open-cell memory foam and 2,000 pocket springs that help ensure correct spinal alignment.

Edge-to-edge side support walls prevent roll-off and the cover is removable for washing.

Due to its 25cm depth, fitting regular sheets to the mattress can be a bit of a struggle so our reviewers suggest investing in a couple of sets of deep bed sheets will make life easier.

While the mattress is more expensive than some models, it compares with other bed-in-a-box brands in price – and regular discounts bring down the price further. Currently, the REM-Fit 400 is on sale with 60% off, which reduces the price to £399.60 for a UK double.

Type: Hybrid, Trial period: 100 nights, Guarantee: 15 years

Read our full REM-fit 400 Hybrid Mattress review.

Dormeo Octasmart Plus

Dormeo

Dormeo’s Octasmart Plus mattress regulates your temperature.[/caption]

Dormeo Octasmart Plus, from £499.99

Pros: Lightweight, supportive, great for cold sleepers

Cons: Warm sleepers may need lighter sheets in summer

Rating: 4/5

The Dormeo Octasmart Plus is a lightweight, thin mattress that is easy to manoeuvre into place and once opened, expanded to its full size within four hours.

Unlike some other bed-in-a-box mattresses, the Octasmart doesn’t require deep sheets and because it’s lightweight, fitting sheets is easier too.

Our tester slept well on the Octasmart Plus from the get-go but found it softened up a little over the first week. They found it to be between soft and medium-firm, and quite warm – great during the winter, but perhaps requiring a thinner blanket in summer.

They found the mattress supportive, and despite a fidgety partner, they slept soundly. In conclusion, they said they’d struggle to go back to their previous mattress after sleeping on this one.

Our tester commented: ‘The new mattress managed to be soft, snug and supportive and came in a small enough package that it was practical, as well as incredibly comfortable.’

While the price can be more expensive than similar mattresses, regular deals throughout the year make the Octasmart Plus an affordable buy.

Type: Memory foam, Trial period: 60 nights, Guarantee: 18 years

Read our full Dormeo Octasmart Plus Mattress review.

Where to buy memory foam mattresses in the UK?

The best place to buy memory foam mattresses in the UK is usually the websites of individual brands. That way you don’t miss out on the latest discounts and sales, which may not be offered elsewhere.

We found the memory foam mattresses our reviewers tested at:

• Brook & Wilde
• Dormeo
• Emma
• Furniture Village
• Panda
• REM-Fit
• Simba

What are the benefits of a memory foam mattress?

A memory foam mattress adapts to your shape so no matter how you sleep – on your back, side or front – it will support and cushion you. The foam also absorbs movement so if you or your partner move around a lot at night, the movement is isolated and you won’t disturb each other much.

If you suffer from back pain or have other aches, then the best memory foam mattresses could help that, as they support your shoulders and hips, help keep your spine in alignment and relieve pressure points.

What are the drawbacks of a memory foam mattress?

Memory foam mattresses can give off a plasticky smell when first unpacked, however, this fades after a few days.

They can be hot because the memory foam moulds to your body. Although they’re supportive you also sink into the top layer to varying degrees depending on your mattress, which can make you too warm. Many memory foam mattresses however have specially designed open-cell upper layers to keep you cool; some contain gel, which also has a cooling effect on the body.

On the other hand, if you’re a cold person or it’s snowing outside, this characteristic of memory foam mattresses could well be a bonus!

How much are memory foam mattresses?

Prices for memory foam mattresses vary according to materials and size, but expect to pay around £400 for a double.

Mattresses that incorporate more layers, cooling technology, removable top covers and different degrees of firmness are more expensive, but there are often special offers available – check the home page of the individual websites for discounts and offer codes.

The most expensive memory foam mattresses can cost several thousand pounds, but all of the big players in the sector offer a home trials so if you buy and you’re not happy you can return your purchase.

Memory foam mattress types

Traditional

Traditional memory foam became popular in the 1990s and offered support and comfort to enhance circulation and decrease stress on your joints. It is very good at absorbing heat.

Best for: Those with back or joint pain and cold sleepers.

Open Cell

Once manufacturers realised that the heat absorption of memory foam was putting some people off buying it, they modified the structure so the foam had more air pockets, making it better at dispersing heat and therefore regulating body temperature better.

It also responds more quickly to pressure, so helps avoid the feeling of sinking often associated with traditional memory foam.

Best for: Hot sleepers who prefer more freedom of movement.

Gel

This memory foam has been infused with gel to offer better cooling properties. Like open-cell designs, gel is helps regulate body temperature, but has a firmer feel than open-cell.

Best for: Hot sleepers who want greater support.

Hybrid

These types of mattresses are made up of a traditional spring layer together with a layer or more of memory foam.

They offer the pressure relief of memory foam yet have the classic feel of a sprung mattress. They are both cosy and supportive.

Best for: Those looking to switch from spring to foam for the first time.

A YOUNG woman from the traveller community has revealed the truth on whether the women can work.

Zoey, from the UK, took to social media to share her thoughts on the matter.

tiktok/@zoey_pon

I’m a traveller and people constantly ask if us girls can work – yes we can, but there’s certain lines we won’t cross, , https://www.tiktok.com/@zoey_pon/video/7421501863243091233, , NO PERMISSION[/caption]

tiktok/@zoey_pon

I’m a traveller and people constantly ask if us girls can work – yes we can, but there’s certain lines we won’t cross, , https://www.tiktok.com/@zoey_pon/video/7421501863243091233, , NO PERMISSION[/caption]

Looking after the family is a huge part of being a woman in the traveller community – with many opting to stay at home cooking, cleaning and looking after the children while their partner goes out to work.

But Zoey revealed that times were changing.

Responding to a comment that asked if women would be supported by their family to stay in school and work she shared the modern way of life for people.

She said: “Years ago, traveller women would never, ever work.

“Traveller women would stay home, babysit the children, clean the house, cook for the men, cook for the children.”

Nowadays though, Zoey revealed it wasn’t common for women to stay in the home for most of the day and they did indeed go out to work.

Although many do help bring money home now – she said there was still lines they wouldn’t cross.

Working at a bank or a post office wouldn’t happen she said, but they do tend to work for themselves.

“But when a traveller girl does work, it’s either hair, makeup, selling stuff on social media, lips (aesthetic practitioners),” she added.

Finishing off her video, she revealed families would definitely support the women going off to work and making money for herself.

The clip has since gone viral on her TikTok account @zoey_pon with over 890k views and 33k likes.

People were quick to share their thoughts in the comments.

One person wrote: “If a traveller girl chooses to work as well, does her husband help with chores etc, as she doesn’t have as much spare time? Or is she still expected to do everything?”

Another commented: “Quite a few of the traveller ladies around my village have businesses. Mostly eyebrows and tanning salons. Good quality and good prices too.”

“Some travellers have gone to college and got degrees. Nothing should hold ye back. Education is freedom,” penned a third.

Meanwhile a fourth said: “I’m so glad someone is speaking about traveller life, because I used to know nothing about the traveller community but now after watching your videos I feel so much more educated. Thank you.”

Fabulous will pay for your exclusive stories. Just email: fabulousdigital@the-sun.co.uk and pop EXCLUSIVE in the subject line.

A MISSING horseback rider has been found dead – days after disappearing while on a trail.

Meghan Rouns’ remains were discovered by divers as they combed the Missouri River on Tuesday afternoon.

Lewis & Clark County Sheriff

The tragic development came five days after the avid horseback rider disappeared while on a trail in Helena, Montana, on October 4.

Her remains were discovered after officials revealed the search for the woman, 27, had turned into a recovery probe.

Police revealed her body was found in 11 feet of water, as reported by the NBC affiliate KTVH-DT.

A cause of death has not yet been announced as forensic teams examine her remains.

Police don’t believe there was any foul play but are probing how the body ended up in the water.

Officers are probing whether Rouns fell off her horse because of the winds, as reported by The New York Post.

Cops revealed they had deployed divers to scour areas of the Missouri River.

Rouns was last heard on Friday when she uploaded a picture to her Snapchat account.

More to follow… For the latest news on this story, keep checking back at The U.S. Sun, your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, sports news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures, and must-see videos.

Like us on Facebook at TheSunUS and follow us on X at @TheUSSun

A FORMULA 1 star swapped his racing car for the bike to compete in the World Gravel Championships on Sunday.

The F1 paddock is enjoying a four-week break before the United States Grand Prix on October 20.

Zuma Press

Zuma Press

He completed the World Gravel Championships and placed 134th[/caption]

So far, 18 of the 24 races have been completed this season, with the finale set to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 8.

But one driver that is filling his free time with more competition is a 10-time race winner.

He may not have claimed victory since 2021, but he remains on the grid in his 12th season in F1.

And while his place at current team KICK Sauber remains unclear for 2025, he is already pursuing a post-F1 career in the form of gravel racing.

The driver in question is, of course, Valtteri Bottas.

The Finnish racer looked unrecognisable in lycra as he successfully finished the World Gravel Championships in the men’s 35-39-year-old category in Belgium.

Prior to the start, he admitted he was “more nervous” for the cycling event than before an F1 race.

Bottas completed it in a time of five hours and 40 minutes, placing 134th out of 233 entries.

CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS

Rex

Speaking on X, he said: ” Completed it! Gravel WC done .

It was hard as expected! With the huge amount of people attending, queuing up for the single track sections in the beginning, and having to fix a puncture 5km before the finish, I was well happy with my day on the bike otherwise .

“Thank you for all the support on the course, it was unreal! And thank you for the best support leading up and during the event to everyone involved .

“I’ll definitely remember this day!”

Both of Sauber’s drivers Bottas and Zhou Guanyu do not yet know whether they will be driving in F1 next year.

Nico Hulkenberg is the only confirmed driver for Sauber in 2025.

 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year

AMAZON Prime Day ends at midnight TONIGHT and there’s plenty of amazing deals in the sale.

From Fitbits to wireless earphones, nutribullets to massage guns, there’s something for every Prime member.

This is the second of Amazon’s Prime Day events that they’re treating us with each year.

But you need to be quick to get involved as Prime Big Deals Day finishes at midnight TONIGHT (Wednesday 9th October).

Looking for some savings in the top sports and fitness industry?

We’ve gathered the top deals for you right here, from massive savings on equipment to incredible prices on home supplements.

Here is a look at what is there for the taking:

• Fitbit Smartwatch: Save up to 37% – shop here
• beats Studio Pro headphones: Save up to 37% – shop here
• Handheld massage gun: Save up to 20% – shop here
• Electrolyte Powder Mix Bundle: Save up to 20% – shop here
• Ninja Thirsti Water Bottle and Flask: Save up to 43% – shop here

Amazon’s not stopping there either. If you’re a Prime member, you can snag 4 months of Amazon Music Unlimited free, or grab 3 months of Kindle Unlimited for just £7.99.

But you’ll need a Prime membership to score these deals. 

If you’ve never signed up before, you can still get in on the action with a 30-day free trial.

Amazon sports and fitness deals

1. Google Fitbit Smartwatch, £169 (was £269) – shop from Amazon here

Amazon

Google Fitbit Smartwatch[/caption]

Fitbit is one of the most recognisable brands when it comes to fitness wearables, and the Google Fitbit Sense 2 is no different.

It comes with built-in GPS, advanced health features and up to SIX days of battery life.

It’s compatible with iOS 15 or higher & Android OS 9.0 or higher and can measure and improve sleep quality, including giving a Sleep Score.

But it’s not just for fitness as it’s designed for all-day wear, with on-wrist Bluetooth calls, texts, phone notifications and customisable clock faces.

• Google Fitbit Smartwatch, £169 (was £269) – shop here

2. beats Studio Pro headphones, £219.99 (was £349.99) – shop from Amazon here

Amazon

beats Studio Pro headphones[/caption]

The utmost in headphone quality, beats continue to lead the way when it comes to bringing music (and podcasts!) to your ears.

There’s two distinct listening modes: fully-adaptive Active Noise Cancelling and Transparency mode.

With up to 40 hours total battery life, there’s also a 10-minute Fast Fuel charge provides up to four hours of additional playback.

Right now, you can grab the most popular headphones with an incredible 37% off.

• beats Studio Pro headphones, £219.99 (was £349.99) – shop from Amazon

3. Handheld massage gun, £99 (was £124.29) – shop from Amazon here

Amazon

Theragun handheld massage gun[/caption]

Suffer from aches, pains, tension and stiffness? And in search of fast and effective relief?

Theragun’s easiest to use handheld massage gun comes with three high-quality attachments:

• The Dampener for soothing aches and pains in tender or sensitive areas
• The Standard Ball for overall use on small and large muscle groups
• The Thumb for trigger points and lower back pain relief

And just now it comes with a 20% saving!

• Handheld massage gun, £99 – shop from Amazon here

4. Electrolyte Powder Mix Bundle, £28.80 (was £36) – shop from Amazon here

Amazon

Electrolyte Powder Mix Bundle[/caption]

Single serving and travel friendly, these Electrolyte sachets are a popular choice to aid sports and fitness routines.

These include vitamins B3, B5, B6, B12 and vitamin C – and are also gluten free.

With a 20% saving, these on-the-go sticks are a perfect companion to help restore electrolyte balance lost through exercise, travel, adventure and heat.

• Electrolyte Powder Mix Bundle, £28.80 – shop from Amazon here

5. Ninja Thirsti Water Bottle and Flask, from £16.99 (was £29.99) – shop from Amazon here

Amazon

Ninja Thirsti Water Bottle[/caption]

Coming from our Air Fryer favourites, Ninja’s Thirsti water bottle and flask is another excellent companion on your day-to-day travels.

It’s not just cold drinks that benefit from the technology – you can keep hot drinks and even FIZZY drinks at their optimum for longer too!

You can expect 24+ hours of cold drinks, while hot drinks stay hot for eight hours and ice that lasts for 2 days – all in a bottle with a leak-proof lid.

They’re also dishwasher safe and can be hand washed with warm, soapy water.

There’s five colours to choose from with a top saving of 43%!

• Ninja Thirsti Water Bottle and Flask from £16.99 – shop here on Amazon

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A MUM-of-two died from a heart attack while waiting for an ambulance for more than two hours, a court has heard.

Julie Hurn, 43, died at her home in Attleborough, Norfolk on June 25, 2022, having suffered a myocardial infarction – a blood clot stopped her heart.

Hurn Family

Julie Hurn, 43, waited for an ambulance for two hours after experiencing chest pains[/caption]

She called 999 after experiencing chest pains.

An inquest into her death at Norfolk Coroner’s Court heard that it was likely she would have survived if she had received immediate treatment.

Rajesh Logasundaram, who carried out a post mortem examination, said: “An earlier 999 call would have made a significant difference to her chances of survival.”

The court heard she had originally phoned for an ambulance at 3.26pm after she experienced chest paints, with her call given category two status.

Serious conditions such as strokes or chest pain which may require rapid assessment and urgent transport are classed as category two.

Julie called again around an hour later after she began vomiting, but it was not until shortly before 5pm that her call was escalated.

A neighbour had phoned again to say she had gone into cardiac arrest – meaning her heart stopped beating – and paramedics arrived at 5.14pm.

Mrs Hurn, who worked as a contracts manager for Norfolk County Council, died at 5.48pm, 142 minutes after her first call to emergency services.

It was revealed in court that when her original call was made, 50 of the region’s ambulances were stranded outside Norfolk’s three main hospitals.

The incident happened during a “black surge”, a phrase used to describe a period of acute demand on emergency services and acute hospitals.

Chris Hewitson, a patient safety specialist officer at the East of England Ambulance Service Trust, said Mrs Hurn’s initial call was correctly categorised.

But at that time there were also 50 outstanding calls with the same priority level.

He added that there were 19 ambulances stranded outside of the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital alone.

Yvonne Blake, area coroner for Norfolk, said: “The medical evidence we have heard so far is that if she had a cardiac arrest and either received immediate treatment or was in hospital, that given her age it is more likely than not that she would have survived.”

On Monday, Prof Saul Myerson, a consultant cardiologist based at the University of Oxford, said at the inquest that a faster response would have improved her chances.

He said that while was unlikely her heart attack would have been prevented, had she been in hospital when it occurred her survival chances would have been better.

In a statement read to the court, her brother Gary Hambling said: “As a family we believe the NHS has let us down.

“The time taken to get an ambulance to her was unacceptable.”

Clare Gooch, a medical negligence lawyer from Switalskis, who is representing the family, said “This has been an incredibly difficult time for Mrs Hurn’s family who are still coming to terms with their loss.

“They now hope this inquest will help to provide some further insight into the circumstances leading up to her death.”

The inquest continues.

PATRICK MAHOMES appeared to escape a penalty for a “violent gesture” during Monday Night Football.

NFL fans have spotted the moment they believe the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback should have been flagged.

AP

NFL fans spotted Patrick Mahomes escaped a penalty against the New Orleans Saints[/caption]

ESPN

The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback appeared to make a ‘violent gesture’[/caption]

The Chiefs extended their perfect record this season to 5-0 with a 26-13 win over the New Orleans Saints at Arrowhead Stadium.

However, the victory was not without controversy relating to the NFL’s new rules on “violent gestures”.

The league is looking to crack down on the miming of firing a pistol, shotgun or bazooka, with nine fines already handed out.

That includes five in week four, with New York Jets receiver Allen Lazard amongst them for a finger-gun gesture.

Mahomes avoided a penalty after he celebrated having ran the ball to secure a first down against the Saints.

He could be seen holding his hands up and pointing forward after the play, with fans quick to react on social media.

Commenting on the incident, one fan wrote: “By now we know some rules don’t apply to the Chiefs.”

Another added: “He’s a Chief, shouldn’t be surprised it wasn’t a flag.”

Reuters

Mahomes made the gesture after running the ball to secure a first down[/caption]

Others defended the three-time Super Bowl champion, though, as criticism of the new rules continues.

Backing Mahomes, a third fan said: “He did nothing wrong.”

Meanwhile, one more commented: “Let’s please not do this, he’s clearly pointing the first down.”

Mahomes and the Chiefs went on to claim victory over the Saints ahead of a bye this weekend.

The 29-year-old completed 28 of his 39 passing attempts for 331 yards with one interception during the game.

Getty

Fans on social media claimed ‘some rules don’t apply to the Chiefs’[/caption]

BACK in 2009, Nikolai Valuev went eye-ball to eye-ball with David Haye in the ring.

Or maybe, it was Haye’s eyeballs to Valuev’s chest.

AFP

Valuev is now an MP in Russia and an ally of Vladimir Putin[/caption]

The British boxer’s then foe stood at 7ft tall and weighed a gargantuan 316 pounds.

It was no wonder the fight was billed as David Vs Goliath, with Haye the victor after 12 gruelling rounds by majority decision.

But since hanging up his gloves in 2009, the Russian boxer known as the ‘Beast from the East’ surprisingly became a politician.

The tallest and heaviest boxing champion in history rose to become a member of parliament for the United Russia party, and is now a henchman for Vladimir Putin’s dictatorial regime.

Chillingly, Valuev recently revealed he was upset Great Britain still existed – saying there would be less problems in the world if it didn’t.

“If you imagine that in any of the past six centuries, the British Isles suddenly sank into the ocean, then for the rest of the world, indeed, there would be fewer problems for a certain time,” he said.

He added, in warning, if Britain no longer existed “others will take the place that becomes vacant.”

Valuev’s life has been nothing short of interesting, if not controversial.

Boxing

From 1993 to 2009, Valuev’s life was dedicated to the ring.

And he was a fighter with some pedigree too.

In 2005, he took on American John Ruiz for the WBA heavyweight title in Berlin, Germany.

It was a historic moment for the ‘Russian Giant’ who would earn a 12-round majority decision.

He would become the tallest and heaviest boxer of all time.

However, he would lose the belt in 2007 to Uzbekistani fighter Ruslan Chagaev by majority decision.

Redemption would come again in 2008, when Valuev would regain the belt after defeating Ruiz for a second time.

British boxing fans will remember Valuev best for his fight with David Haye in 2009.

The Brit managed to outmove and outbox the huge frame of Valuev, winning by majority decision after 12 hard-fought rounds.

Haye later revealed he suffered a broken hand in the fight – comparing hitting Valuev’s head to striking a wall.

Three days later, the Russian retired from the sport. He underwent a series of operations in 2010, with his doctor saying he treating Valuev for “serious bone and joint problems”.

EPA

Valuev was a two-time WBA heavyweight champion[/caption]

In 2013, he refused to return to the world of boxing citing medical reasons.

A new chapter in politics

But, by this time, Valuev had already found a new calling.

He got involved in politics – using his fame and standing to aide his country.

In December 2011, the sports star became a member of the State Duma, the lower house of the Federal Assembly of Russia, through the United Russia Party.

Controversies soon followed.

In 2012, Valuev supported the law in Russian Parliament banning adoption of Russian orphans by citizens of the US.

The same year, following the IOC’s decision to suspend Russia from participating in the Olympics under its flag because of the Russian-state-sponsored doping scandal, Valuev came out firing.

He said that Russia should go to the Olympics and “tear everyone apart to spite these bastards who want to kill our sport.”

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In his short time in Russian parliament, Valuev has caused controversy[/caption]

Joining the fight

In 2022, Valuev revealed he had been summoned to fight for Vladimir Putin’s Russian army in Ukraine.

“In my opinion, everyone has received a summons, I also received a summons,” Valuev told Russian outlet Izvestia.

“Will I go? Of course, I will go to the enlistment office now.  

“My colleagues [fellow MPs] are good, they were registered for military service in the State Duma and received summons here, but I have to go home.

“I received the summons right before my trip to Donbas, and I was not at home. Next week I will definitely go and report to the enlistment office.”

However, weeks later he was rushed to hospital after complaining about a leg injury.

Russian magazine Life revealed the dash to a Moscow medical centre, claiming he received treatment overnight.

However, a source played down the severity of the injury.

A spokesman for Valuev revealed: “No one broke his legs.”

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Valery Kunzekov, a second spokesman for the sportsman, told Life: “Nikolai Sergeevich jumps, dances. Yesterday he was in the State Duma until late.

“No one broke his legs, and no one put him in the hospital. He is alive and well, smiling and walking on two legs. Now he is at home.”

Putin’s ally

In 2023, Valuev was seen clapping in the crowd, as Putin claimed Russia is engaged in a “real war” with the West during his Victory Day speech in Moscow’s Red Square.

During the 10-minute speech, Putin told the crowd: “Soldiers and seamen, and officers, generals, admirals, fighters and commanders, to all participants of the special military operation, I congratulate you on Victory Day.

“It is the celebration to honour our fathers and grandfathers who fought for their motherland and through their sacrifice they saved the world from Nazism.”

Putin, who has often referred to the invasion of the Ukraine as a repeat of WWII, revealed that a “special military operation” was needed to free Donbas of the chains of ‘Nazi’ rulers in Kyiv and the West.

“Today civilisation is once again at a decisive turning point,” Putin said.

“A real war has been unleashed against our Motherland.”

He added: “Today we have a real war waged against us but we will be defending ourself from terrorism, we will defend the citizens of Donbas.”

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Putin addresses the crowd at the 2023 Victory Day parade[/caption]

PEYTON Manning gave ESPN viewers an incredible insight into Andy Reid’s play calling.

The 48-year-old quarterback icon took a deep dive into play sheets during the ManningCast on Monday.

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Peyton Manning took a deep dive into a play sheet on Monday Night Football[/caption]

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Manning said that Andy Reid would have 350 play calls on his card, which fans likened to a ‘book’[/caption]

Manning won two Super Bowls and was a five-time NFL MVP in his legendary 17-year playing career.

He is widely considered one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game.

And Manning showed exactly why as he broke down what Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid would have on a play card.

The former quarterback went to a big screen during Monday’s broadcast of the Kansas City Chiefs against the New Orleans Saints.

And on there he showed a play card from a game in which he played for the Denver Broncos in 2014.

“What’s on that card sheet?” Manning said. “A lot of different situations and answers.”

Manning went on to detail what was on the card – including red zone situations and what coverages to expect from defenses.

There were also plays to call when backed up, and when they had a lead to hold onto late in the fourth quarter.

The sheet also featured plays designed to get specific receivers the ball.

Manning noted that Reid’s play sheet would’ve featured plays designed for Travis Kelce and Xavier Worthy.

And he said there would be around 350 plays on the sheet.

Fans were amazed at how detailed the play sheet was.

“Right?! Andy Reid’s play sheet is like a whole book,” one noted.

Another said, “Wow, Peyton really knows how to dissect those play sheets.

“It’s impressive to see the attention to detail in Andy Reid’s game plan.”

And a third added, “Wow, Peyton Manning really knows his stuff.

“Breaking down Andy Reid’s play sheet like a pro.”

Kansas City beat the New Orleans Saints 26-13 on Monday night.

The Chiefs improved to 5-0 for the season in their bid for a third straight Super Bowl win.

Their hot start comes despite injury problems to offensive weapons Rashee Rice, Marquise ‘Hollywood’ Brown and Isiah Pacheco.

A POPULAR convenience store has shut down after 50 years and fans aren’t happy.

A rival to 7-Eleven, Wawa in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, served its last cup of coffee on October 8.

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Wawa in Cherry Hill closed on October 8, leaving fans of the store upset[/caption]

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It had been in the same location for more than 50 years[/caption]

The 50-year-old store located on Route 70, in Cherry Hill was part of a dying breed of small convenience stores.

The company said the decision to close the store was made after an “extensive evaluation.”

In a statement, Wawa said: “While this was a very difficult decision to make, we have determined that this store cannot deliver the experience customers deserve or continue to meet performance expectations.

“Over the years, our product offerings and services have changed and whenever possible we expand, relocate or modernize our older stores to meet our current offer and standards rather than close them.

“We have considered options, but have determined it is just not feasible for us to do so here.”

The store did not have any public restrooms and didn’t sell gasoline.

Two smaller Wawa’s have recently closed, one in Mt Laural and one in Port Richmond.

Fans of the store took to Facebook to express their rage at the closure.

One person said: “I used to go there all the time all I had to do is walk and it was right there.

“It was great especially when I needed something for dinner when going to work.”

Another added: “The end of an era came when Wawa stopped selling the good items on their menu and started selling hamburgers and pizza.”

A third lamented the loss the of Wawa from Mt Laural, adding: “I’ve been lost since the Wawa in Mt Laural closed!

“I don’t understand why it closed.. It was jammed packed from early morning to after dinner?”

The first Wawa Food Market opened in 1964 in Pennsylvania, and according to the company, saw its first stores open in New Jersey and Delaware by 1969.

The Cherry Hill location first opened in 1973, ranking it among the oldest locations in the state.

RETAIL BLOODBATH

Several other retailers across the United States have undergone mass closures after bankruptcy filings this year.

Big Lots recently confirmed its Chapter 11 filing after weeks of speculation and detailed plans for around 545 store shutdowns.

LL Flooring will also close half of its over 400 locations after a quiet bankruptcy filing and revert to an old name under its new ownership.

Some clothing retailers also took similar actions.

Express filed for bankruptcy in April and confirmed nearly 100 locations would shutter for good.

Rue21 also submitted another bankruptcy filing after one in the early 2000s and confirmed it would shut down all of its remaining stores.