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Movies in Concert: Abu Dhabi Brings Blockbuster Films to Life with Live Orchestra

January 11, 2025 | Entertainment

This January, Abu Dhabi is set to host a one‑of‑a‑kind cinematic and musical celebration that brings iconic movies to life with live orchestral performances. The “Movies in Concert” series takes place at the Etihad Arena on Yas Island from January 16 to 18, 2025, featuring blockbuster films paired with the mesmerizing sound of a world‑class orchestra. What Is Movies in Concert? Rather than simply watching a movie with its recorded soundtrack, audiences will enjoy live performances of the film scores by the acclaimed 21st Century Orchestra, conducted under the artistic direction of Ludwig Wicki, a maestro known for his mastery of cinematic music. This immersive blend of visuals and live music is designed to offer a completely new and emotional way to experience beloved films. Event Highlights & Schedule Here’s what’s set to headline the Movies in Concert series: January 16—Jung Jaeil Live in Concert The opening night pays tribute to composer Jung Jaeil, known for his evocative scores in Parasite and Squid Game. Expect rich, immersive soundscapes performed live, celebrating some of his most powerful work. January 17—Frozen in Concert A magical cinematic moment, this performance pairs Disney’s animated classic Frozen with a live orchestra playing Christophe Beck’s Grammy‑nominated score—including beloved songs such as Let It Go. Film: Frozen Music: Live orchestral accompaniment Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi 🇦🇪 Date: Friday, 17 January 2025 Time: Doors open at ~3:00 PM (show starts later) January 17—Jurassic Park in Concert Step back into the age of dinosaurs as Jurassic Park unfolds on a giant screen while the orchestra performs John Williams’ legendary score in perfect sync with the film—bringing thrills and nostalgia to life. Film: Jurassic Park Music: Live performance of John Williams’ iconic soundtrack Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi 🇦🇪 Date: Friday, 17 January 2025 Time: Doors open ~8:00 PM January 18—The Lion King in Concert Experience Disney’s classic The Lion King like never before. Hans Zimmer’s Oscar‑winning score, along with music by Elton John and Tim Rice and African choral elements, will be performed live, transporting audiences back to the Pride Lands. Film: The Lion King Music: Live orchestral and choral performance Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi 🇦🇪 Date: Saturday, 18 January 2025 Time: Early afternoon show January 18—Top Gun: Maverick in Concert Closing the series with adrenaline‑fueled energy, Top Gun: Maverick returns to the skies with its dynamic soundtrack performed live. Expect electrifying music that enhances the high‑flying action on screen. Film: Top Gun: Maverick Music: Live performance featuring Lone Balfe, Harold Faltermeyer, Lady Gaga & Hans Zimmer Venue: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi 🇦🇪 Date: Saturday, 18 January 2025 Time: Evening show Tickets & Experience Tickets for the event start at approximately AED 75, with various seating categories available for the more premium experience. These concerts are ticketed experiences, and you can purchase passes directly through the Etihad Arena or authorized ticketing partners. Some packages also include dinner and show experiences across Yas Island’s restaurants and attractions, making it a full‑day outing rather than just an event—perfect for families, couples, or music and cinema lovers. Why It’s a Must-See This Movies in Concert series is an exceptional fusion of film and music: you’re not just watching a movie—you’re feeling it. With live performances bringing each soundtrack to life in real time, audiences can rediscover classics in a whole new way. Whether it’s the sweeping emotional score of The Lion King or the thunderous excitement of Jurassic Park, the event promises unforgettable moments for all ages.

They Didn’t Care What UFC Said”: How Khabib & Daniel Cormier Built MMA’s Most Dominant Gym

January 11, 2025 | Sports

When talking about the greatest training gyms in mixed martial arts history, few names carry as much weight as the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA)—and according to those who were there, its dominance wasn’t accidental. In a recent interview, AKA veteran and former UFC contender Josh Thompson revealed what truly set the gym apart during its heyday: an unbreakable sense of unity and loyalty, even in the face of pressure from the world’s biggest MMA promotion. A Historic MMA Dynasty Under the guidance of head coach Javier Mendez, AKA established itself as a powerhouse in MMA by consistently producing elite fighters who reached the pinnacle of the sport. Fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Daniel Cormier, Cain Velasquez, Islam Makhachev, and others all passed through its doors—contributing to a remarkable 19 fighters who became champions or elite contenders in MMA, second only to American Top Team in numbers. Two‑division UFC champion Daniel Cormier, himself an AKA product, once reflected on that era as something that “will never be replicated again in the sport of mixed martial arts.” But what exactly made that gym so special? Unspoken Rules: Loyalty Over Promotion Demands According to Thompson, AKA’s legacy was built on one simple but powerful philosophy: teammates would not fight each other unless necessary. “Even to this day,” Thompson said, “our guys decided not to fight each other. They didn’t care what the UFC said.” That meant when the UFC tried to line up fights between AKA teammates—such as Josh Koscheck vs. Jon Fitch—fighters and coaches pushed back hard. In some cases, this stance even jeopardized fighters’ careers, but the gym never wavered from its internal code. Thompson explained that this loyalty extended across weight classes and eras, making it possible for fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev to train and rise together without ever having to clash inside the Octagon. Unity in Action: Why AKA Was Unique In a sport where allegiances often end at the cage door, AKA’s approach was different. Fighters trained together, grew together, and protected one another’s careers. For example: Daniel Cormier moved up to light heavyweight instead of fighting a teammate champ, Cain Velasquez—a decision rooted in respect and strategic unity. When Thompson prepared for his iconic fight against Nate Diaz—where he scored Diaz’s first career knockout—he trained alongside Khabib and Islam, tapping into their elite grappling and pressure styles. This culture of cooperation—rather than competition between teammates—created a training environment where fighters were sharpened by their peers rather than worn down by internal rivalries. AKA’s Legacy in MMA Today, AKA is remembered not just for its championship pedigree but for a team ethos rarely seen in professional sports. The gym produced some of the most dominant fighters in UFC history—most notably Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired with a perfect 29‑0 record and is widely regarded as one of the greatest lightweights of all time. Even longtime teammates like Cormier continued to praise the gym’s impact long after leaving their prime. Reflecting on the era, he acknowledged that such a collective dominance and camaraderie may never be seen again in MMA. Why This Story Matters This isn’t just nostalgia—it’s a look at how culture and cohesion can elevate athletes beyond individual potential. In an era where promotions, contracts, and media narratives often divide fighters, AKA’s example shows a different path: one where loyalty and shared purpose fueled a dynasty that changed MMA forever

Arsenal Handed Huge Title Boost as Man City and Aston Villa Drop Points

January 9, 2025 | Sports

London, England—Arsenal have received a significant boost in the Premier League title race without even taking the field, as both Manchester City and Aston Villa dropped points on Wednesday—reinforcing the Gunners’ position at the top of the table. City and Villa Slip Up Manchester City drew 1–1 with Brighton & Hove Albion, despite Erling Haaland scoring his 150th goal for the club from the penalty spot. Kaoru Mitoma equalized for Brighton, securing a share of the points for the visitors. The result marked City’s third consecutive draw, further denting their momentum in the title chase. Aston Villa were held to a 0–0 draw by Crystal Palace, leaving them unable to close the gap on Arsenal. After these results, both City and Villa remain five points behind Arsenal. If Arsenal can secure a win over Liverpool in their next fixture, they could extend their lead to eight points at the summit of the Premier League. Arsenal Miss Opportunity to Capitalise However, Arsenal were unable to take full advantage of their rivals’ dropped points in their own recent match. The Gunners were held to a 0–0 draw by Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium in a lackluster encounter, meaning they remain six points clear at the top. Despite dominating possession and creating chances, Arsenal failed to convert—and only registered a shot on target late in injury time. The stalemate leaves them with a gap over their Premier League challengers, but not as large as it might have been. Title Race Context Arsenal’s position at the top of the Premier League table has been strengthened by recent draws for both Manchester City and Aston Villa. City’s inability to turn their chances into wins, coupled with Villa’s inability to secure victory at Selhurst Park, gives the Gunners breathing room in what has become a tightly contested title race. Manchester City has dominated the English top flight for much of the last decade, but their recent streak of dropped points raises questions about their title credentials this season. Meanwhile, Villa’s challenge has faltered at key moments, keeping Arsenal in clear control at the summit—even if Arsenal’s own recent draw shows they cannot rest on their lead. What’s Next Arsenal will be hoping to build on their position with another crucial match — next up against Liverpool, where a win could significantly increase their lead. Manchester City continue to chase but must find a way to convert draws into wins if they hope to overhaul the Gunners. Aston Villa, while still in the hunt, must string together victories to remain genuine title contenders. As the season progresses, every dropped point by Arsenal’s rivals strengthens their bid for a first Premier League title since 2004—a long-awaited triumph that fans will be desperate to see materialize.

Give or Take $100 Million”: Kevin O’Leary Goes All-In on Sports Trading Cards

January 9, 2025 | Entertainment

Kevin O’Leary—the Canadian businessman, television personality, and “Mr. Wonderful” from Shark Tank—has become one of the most discussed figures in the booming world of sports collectibles. What started as a casual interest has snowballed into a portfolio worth well over $100 million, marked by one of the most iconic memorabilia purchases in history. A Record-Setting Card: Michael Jordan & Kobe Bryant Dual Logoman In August 2025, a rare trading card featuring Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant smashed auction records when it fetched $12.932 million at Heritage Auctions. This 1-of-1 2007–08 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual Logoman Autograph card carries signatures from both NBA legends, along with actual NBA logo patches cut from game-worn jerseys—making it the most expensive sports card ever sold. O’Leary later confirmed that he purchased the card not alone but as part of a syndicate with fellow collectors Matt “Shyne150” Allen and Paul Warshaw. From Skeptic to Serious Collector Once skeptical about the value of sports cards, O’Leary’s thinking shifted dramatically as he observed both market performance and cultural trends. In interviews and public appearances, he has described high-end trading cards as “cultural artifacts” and alternative assets—likening them to fine art, watches, and other rare collectibles that can appreciate over time. O’Leary has discussed using historical sales data and broader market growth to justify trading cards as part of a diversified investment approach, viewing these collectibles similarly to more traditional asset allocations like gold or cryptocurrency. A Massive Portfolio According to collectible industry reports, O’Leary has been quietly building a “massive portfolio” of rare sports cards over the past few years, with many individual pieces valued between roughly $600,000 and $1.7 million. While he hasn’t publicly disclosed every card in his collection, bitcoin-style analogies and strategic plans to index these assets hint at a long-term vision for both cultural relevance and financial return. Why O’Leary Thinks Cards Matter O’Leary has said that these collectibles represent more than just cardboard — they celebrate entrepreneurship, sports excellence, and family connections, resonating far beyond the hobbyist community. His embrace of trading cards reflects a broader trend in which rare memorabilia is increasingly seen as institutional class assets, attracting investors and collectors alike. For O’Leary, who needed no convincing on the value of entrepreneurship and risk-taking long before entering the card world, the move into collectibles signifies both a cultural belief and a strategic investment decision.

Chelsea Appoints Liam Rosenior as New Head Coach—Full Story

January 9, 2025 | Sports

London, England—Chelsea Football Club has confirmed the appointment of Liam Rosenior as the club’s new head coach, marking a major managerial change at Stamford Bridge. The 41-year-old English coach joins the Blues with a long-term vision and a deal running until 2032 as he succeeds Enzo Maresca, who left the club earlier this month. Rosenior’s Arrival at Chelsea Chelsea officially announced Rosenior’s appointment earlier this week, welcoming him as the head coach of the men’s first team. The club’s statement highlighted its excitement about the future and Rosenior’s fresh approach as a leader. Rosenior comes to Chelsea from RC Strasbourg in France’s Ligue 1, a club also part of the BlueCo ownership group, which also owns Chelsea. During his time in Strasbourg, he helped guide the team to a strong league position and European qualification—achievements that raised his profile and made him a standout managerial candidate. Contract and First Matches The new head coach signed a six-plus-year contract that extends until 2032, signalling the club’s long-term belief in his project and ideas. Rosenior observed Chelsea’s recent Premier League fixture against Fulham from the stands, with his official managerial debut set for the upcoming FA Cup third-round match against Charlton Athletic. Rosenior Speaks In his first public remarks since his appointment, Rosenior expressed his pride and gratitude at joining one of England’s most famous clubs. He spoke about the unique spirit and history of Chelsea and his commitment to building a team that reflects these values on the pitch. Backroom Team Changes Rosenior has also reshaped his coaching staff at Chelsea, bringing in several trusted assistants from Strasbourg: Kalifa Cissé and Justin Walker as first-team coaches Ben Warner as first-team analyst Calum McFarlane, formerly Under-21 head coach, joins the first-team coaching ranks Ben Roberts continues as goalkeeper coach Bernardo Cueva remains set-piece coach These appointments aim to ensure continuity while establishing Rosenior’s tactical and training philosophies. What This Means for Chelsea Rosenior’s appointment comes at a critical point in Chelsea’s season. The club currently sits outside the Premier League’s top four and is involved in several competitions, including domestic cups. The decision to hand a lengthy contract to a relatively young coach—one without prior Premier League experience—signals Chelsea’s belief in a longer-term rebuild and a fresh footballing direction under his leadership. In summary: Liam Rosenior’s arrival marks a new chapter at Chelsea, blending fresh managerial ideas with a long-term plan. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely as he prepares to take charge and begin his tenure at one of English football’s most historic clubs.

Anirudh Ravichander Brings His Electrifying Live Concert to Dubai in January 2026

January 9, 2025 | Entertainment

After electrifying global audiences with performances around the world, Indian music sensation Anirudh Ravichander is set to bring his high-energy live show to Dubai this January. The concert will take place at one of the UAE’s premier entertainment venues, offering fans an unforgettable night of music, rhythm, and celebration. Event Details Artist: Anirudh Ravichander—often hailed as one of the most influential contemporary composers and performers in Indian cinema today. Date & Time: Sunday, 11 January 2026—doors typically open in the evening for a prime night show. Venue: Coca-Cola Arena, City Walk, Dubai—a world-class live entertainment venue known for major concerts and performances. Ticket Starting Price: From Dhs 175 (equivalent to standard entry tickets). Where to Book: Tickets are available via Ticketmaster UAE, Platinumlist, and the official Coca-Cola Arena channels. About Anirudh Ravichander Anirudh has shaped the sound of modern Indian film music across multiple languages—Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi—with massive hits that have been streamed billions of times and are beloved in film soundtracks worldwide. His work fuses cinematic flair with pop, electronic, and cultural influences, making him a favorite across generations of fans. His rise began with the global viral sensation “Why This Kolaveri Di,” and he’s continued delivering memorable music through blockbuster cinema and chart-topping singles ever since. What to Expect at the Show Expect a high-impact, fully immersive live experience—one that blends: His most iconic tracks from film soundtracks Energetic arrangements and visuals A dynamic stage performance tailored for a large arena audience As part of Dubai’s entertainment calendar, the concert also closes out the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) festivities, making it one of the city’s most anticipated musical highlights of the season.