Latest news with #RockyBalboa
Irish Independent
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
PJ Gallagher: ‘Having kids is pretty amazing and all, but the first time I won a motorbike race was the best day of my life'
The comedian and Radio Nova host talks boxing mishaps, memorable motorcycle races and epic goals… I found out I was never going to be a professional sportsperson after I entered a boxing ring for the first time. I was 20 years old and my friend Ger took me to a boxing club. I had two fights in the same day and I was fighting two German guys. With the first guy, I remember thinking I was Rocky Balboa. The first guy was walking backwards, I was throwing punches at him and it felt easy. I was like, 'I'm a natural born fighter'. Then the next guy got in and he hit me so hard it turned my head gear around. That was the moment I knew I could never be a proper athlete. I just remember seeing light coming through the ear hole in the head guard and hearing the referee laugh. I thought, 'This is me done, I'll probably just remain a spectator for the rest of my life,' which I have done.
India Today
27-05-2025
- India Today
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge review: Welcome to the light side
The Galaxy S25 Edge isn't just a phone. It's a reminder that you should never take Samsung lightly. Like all seasoned heavyweights, it, too, gets hit, sometimes hard, but what's important is that it keeps moving forward. In the golden words of Rocky Balboa, 'That's how winning is done.'For a few years now, it seemed like Samsung had run out of ideas, that perhaps it had become too complacent. But turns out, it was silently working on its next big thing. Now, I have a strong feeling that the Galaxy S25 Edge - despite all its outward appearance - is not it. It is a trailer for what's potentially coming it's a teaser, Samsung is allowed to show a few things now, set the stage up, and let viewers sit and speculate about the rest. Anticipation is key. It's been a while it surprised people. They had become comfortable, a little too much, maybe. It was time to show them what Samsung is and what it can do, despite what they might be thinking. Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge next to Apple TV 4K remote. One of the things it is sharing goes above and beyond any paper spec. It is the acknowledgement that, yes, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is a bit much. Given a choice, many people would want to trade it for something slimmer. With the Galaxy S25 Edge, Samsung has given a small glimpse of what that phone might look like. This may not even be its final form, but one of many probable simulations and in some of them - or at least in one of them - I bet that Samsung would have allowed itself to break the rules and gone completely crazy. After all, it's the same company that made us believe it was possible to bend glass at will and do all sorts of unimaginable things with it. But today, it must practice some restraint. Not because it is not thinking about the future, but because it has a past to live choices, calculated risksadvertisementAnd so, I can perfectly understand why the Galaxy S25 Edge has a 3,900 mAh battery, the smallest of any Galaxy S25 series phone. Even the Galaxy Z Flip 6 has a bigger battery. Calls for Samsung to use a silicon-carbon battery are not unfounded. I wish I could have told you better, but the fact is, it is using a conventional Lithium-Ion battery. You can take it or leave it. But again, I have a feeling that it was discussed. It's just one of those things where Samsung chose to let its brand name and recall do the heavy is not to say it has set itself for abject failure. It is a calculated risk. Hardware and software have reached a point where numbers don't tell the full story. While the Galaxy S25 Edge's battery life may not blow your mind, it won't leave you high and dry, either. It is somewhere in the best thing to do is, spend some days with the phone with an open mind, during which the phone will watch and analyse your usage patterns, too. Then, when both of you get used to each other, in time, things will become a little easier. There is always a silver lining. It all depends on whether you are willing to look for it. And for those keeping score, the Galaxy S25 Edge achieved a respectable 13 hours and 38 minutes in PC Mark, which - to be completely honest - was better than what I had expected. It may not be an apt comparison, but a 5,010 mAh battery phone one of my colleagues is reviewing could only pull off 9 hours and 43 minutes. So, things could have been worse. Anyhow, it is best to keep a charger around with the Galaxy S25 Edge just in case you run out of juice when you most need it. The phone supports 25W wired and 15W wireless majority of the juice is going into driving, a) the processor, and b) display. Both are flagship level. This was mostly expected, but it is still worth mentioning that Samsung did not cut any corners in these super-important areas. The Galaxy S25 Edge has extremely thin bezels. The Snapdragon 8 Elite - Qualcomm's latest - offers performance comparable to the rest of the Galaxy S25 series phones day-to-day, though it is more prone to throttling when pushed - like during intense gaming sessions – so that is something to keep in mind. This is a defence mechanism built in to save the internal components – and invariably the phone – from frying up. The Galaxy S25 Edge does this a tad more aggressively given it is not your typical flagship phone. But it doesn't come at the expense of user experience, which holds up well regardless of how you use it. This is thanks to some intricate optimisation from Samsung on the software side. [You're more likely to observe these knee-jerk reactions during benchmarks or when you go specifically looking for them.]advertisementA refined One UI, no cut cornersOne UI 7 deserves every bit of praise it has been widely receiving. The general impression is that Samsung can do no wrong at this point. Everything it has put out, or plans to put out, is adding to what is already one of the most cohesive Android skins available on the market, in ways that are both visually appealing and functionally meaningful – even AI. While Google may be spearheading a lot of these advancements at the base level, Samsung is making them more accessible, so more people can understand and use them – not just the will take time, but Samsung has laid out the groundwork early and is continuing to build on it each day, every day breaking barriers and giving competitors, particularly Apple, something to think about. What's impressive is that the Galaxy S25 Edge gets the same love and commitment as the rest of the Galaxy S25 series phones, and this is across the board. Samsung isn't keeping any Galaxy AI feature exclusive to the Ultra, or intentionally made the Edge any less capable. It is neck-and-neck down to 7-years of all-round support. Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge benchmarks The same is also true about the screen, though here, Samsung had to make some structural changes. So, while on a pure spec-level, it has the same 1440p 120Hz LTPO AMOLED panel as the Galaxy S25 Ultra (the screen size is smaller and matches the Galaxy S25 Plus's) and delivers exceptional quality as a result, the display protection required reengineering to make it as thin as possible. Samsung is calling it 'Ceramic 2.' What you should know is that while it is very durable, it is not as resilient as the Armor 2 protection on the Galaxy S25 Ultra. Both glasses are made by Corning, but Ceramic is built to survive drops from 2 metres height while Armor can go as far as 2.2 metres. It is a small difference on paper, but when it comes to accidents, every bit counts much in the same way we can all be more careful with our phones in general. It is a two-way perfectSpeaking of which, the Galaxy S25 Ultra has two rear cameras. The primary uses a 200-megapixel ISOCELL HP2 sensor and a 23mm f/1.7 aperture lens with optical image stabilisation. There is ample evidence that this is the same exact setup as the Galaxy S25 Ultra, in which case, there are two parts to it. 1.) it is remarkable how Samsung was able to put a sensor this big and a lens so powerful in such a small space, and 2.) how it was able to pull such consistently good performance out of main camera of the Galaxy S25 Edge works in ways that challenge conventional wisdom, spewing out photos with lots of detail, rich colours, and wide dynamic range. It's not easy and yet, somehow, it makes all this look simple. Even in low light, this camera leans to giving more-than-ideal shots which are only accentuated and made better when the night mode kicks in. The only caveat is that it doesn't trigger night mode as readily (as some of the other competing phones), maybe because the sensor is so big (and the lens is so bright), the algorithm thinks it can pull off the impossible every time you fire up the system. It is false bravado as low-light photos without it come out soft and noisy – night mode is the way when the light goes away, the absence of a true telephoto, the Galaxy S25 Edge uses a 2x crop from the main sensor, to simulate portraits (as well as regular zoom shots). This workaround works surprisingly well, which is testament to Samsung's years of experience with both the sensor and underlying tech. The secondary 12-megapixel camera uses a 13mm f/2.2 ultrawide lens. It has autofocus which brings enhanced macro shooting capabilities by default. The output is respectable, not great. The front 12-megapixel camera takes good selfies with natural colour tones and exposure mostly on out full camera samples below; Click to access more The Galaxy S25 Edge has top-class video recording credentials, including 8K@30ps and full 4K@60fps as well as support for LOG format, which gives creators the tools to edit in post. Samsung also lets you tweak audio profiles using AI to cut out noise and enhance dialogue depending on what you're shooting Edge isn't the endSamsung is shooting for the moon with this phone, not in terms of how far its cameras can go, but how far it can bend perception and reality to make you think – and believe – you need the Galaxy S25 Edge, that you must have it, even if logic dictates that you go buy the Galaxy S25 Ultra instead, or the Galaxy S25 Plus maybe. The titanium frame and sharp 5.8 mm dimensions give it a very 007 vibe. But despite whatever side you pick, it is important that the Edge exists, because only then will we know for sure that Samsung is not beat but wants to beat the competition, including Apple which is expected to launch its own slim iPhone in the coming months. The wheels are in Galaxy S25 Edge isn't just any phone. The next version could be entirely different. There is an off chance that Samsung might not even launch it. But, it is certain that it will put some of this learning into the next Fold or Flip or maybe something even more ambitious. The Edge is a vision and statement that Samsung is willing to take risks again. Whether it makes sense as a purchase will depend on how much you're willing to trust Samsung. It has made a great phone and a unique phone (with a few obvious downsides those are not necessarily deal-breakers). The ball's in your court now.
Rakyat Post
06-05-2025
- Business
- Rakyat Post
TikTok Ads Surge In Malaysia's Digital Marketing Space
By Faiz Alavi This story was first published on our tech-focused website Remember when Facebook and Google ads were the kings of the digital marketing hill? Well, make way because there's a new contender climbing fast—and it's all about catchy music, viral dances, and the mysterious algorithm that somehow knows what you want before you do. Yep, I'm talking about TikTok Ads, and they're taking Malaysia by storm! Since 2021, searches for 'TikTok Ads' have been on the rise in Malaysia, according to Google Trends. And I'm not talking about a casual stroll in the park. It's more like they've been running up the stairs, Rocky Balboa style. Soon enough, it looks like TikTok Ads will be as widely searched as the reigning champs, Facebook Ads and Google Ads. Marketers, are you taking notes yet? The Rise of TikTok Ads: A New Challenger Appears TikTok started as the platform for Gen Zers to show off their dance moves, but now it's one of the most powerful marketing tools around. In Malaysia, businesses have clearly caught on. You know things are getting serious when the search trends start catching up to the big guns like Facebook and Google. It's not just about cool videos either. TikTok has become the go-to platform for businesses to reach out to younger audiences. The creative, short-form video style is a refreshing change from the usual 'Buy Now!' static ads you see plastered all over the internet. Guess what? People actually WANT to watch these ads. Crazy, right? TikTok Is Especially Booming in Kelantan and Terengganu If you thought TikTok Ads were just popular in Kuala Lumpur, think again. Our friends in Kelantan and Terengganu are really leading the charge. According to Google Trends data, these two states are hot spots for TikTok Ads searches. Kelantan, Terengganu—you guys are setting the pace! Why are TikTok Ads so popular there? Well, if we're speculating, it's likely that smaller businesses and local entrepreneurs are seeing just how effective TikTok can be in reaching their communities. Think about it: you could spend a fortune on billboards or—get this—you could spend a fraction of that on a TikTok video and go viral. Seems like an easy choice to make, right? Why TikTok Ads Work (And Why You Should Care) High Engagement – TikTok isn't just an app people check occasionally; it's an app they LIVE on. The average user spends almost 90 minutes a day on the app. That's an hour and a half of pure, uninterrupted attention—something other platforms can only dream of. Creative Potential – TikTok Ads aren't your run-of-the-mill banners. They're creative, engaging, and often just as entertaining as the content they interrupt. The fact that you can play around with effects, sounds, and music makes it a playground for brands who want to get noticed. Algorithm Magic – TikTok's algorithm knows your audience better than they know themselves. It's scary accurate, which means your ads get shown to exactly the right people—no wasted budget, no guessing. You want to grab attention? TikTok Ads do that. You want conversions? TikTok Ads can do that too. Just throw in a trending dance, and boom, you've got a hit on your hands. Are TikTok Ads Catching Up to Facebook and Google? In the advertising world, Facebook and Google have been the undisputed champions for years, but TikTok is the scrappy newcomer, gaining on them with every viral trend. In Malaysia, TikTok Ads are creeping up the search trend rankings, and it looks like they might give the old-timers a serious run for their money. Will TikTok Ads overtake Facebook and Google? It's a little early to say, but the signs are all there. If you're a business owner or marketer in Malaysia, it's probably time to stop asking 'Should we try TikTok Ads?' and start asking, 'Why haven't we started yet?' The Future is Clear Ads Day and it is TikTok TikTok Ads are clearly more than just a passing fad. Their rise in Malaysia—especially in places like Kelantan and Terengganu—shows that they're here to stay. So, let's be honest: with search interest continuing to soar, it's only a matter of time before TikTok Ads become just as big as Facebook and Google Ads, if not bigger. So, if you're a marketer, start brushing up on your TikTok dances because this platform is where the future of advertising is headed. Who knows? The next viral ad sensation could be yours. Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
Time of India
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Power Couple Energy: Zodiac Duos That Could Literally Run the World
Aries + Leo This combo enters a room like it's a finale episode of Bigg Boss . Sparks? Yes. Ego battles? Also yes. But together, these fire signs don't burn out—they become the blaze. Aries brings raw drive; Leo adds the glittering drama. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Imagine Rocky Balboa dating Beyoncé—with joint PR. Taurus + Capricorn Power meets patience. Stability meets strategy. These two build dreams like Ambani builds skyscrapers—quietly, expensively, and with no tolerance for chaos. Taurus funds the vision, Capricorn schedules the launch party. Together, they're basically the Google Drive of the zodiac: practical, reliable, and slightly smug about it. Gemini + Libra Flirt meets finesse. Gemini talks fast; Libra listens pretty. Social butterflies with fashion week-level charm. Their dates are half TED Talk, half Vogue spread. These two could run a startup, crash it, start a podcast about it, and still walk out with 200k followers and a Netflix deal. Cancer + Pisces Feelings? Check. Empathy? Overflowing. Emotional manipulation? Highly likely—but make it poetic. Cancer nurtures; Pisces dreams. Together, they build relationships like a Sanjay Leela Bhansali film—soft focus, dramatic music, occasional crying in the rain. Also, telepathic communication? Practically yes. Scorpio + Virgo Scorpio plots. Virgo plans. Together, they're the kind of couple who'd never get caught doing crime because they'd never leave evidence. This pair blends laser-sharp focus with emotional X-ray vision. They don't do casual; they do empires—slowly, quietly, and with matching black outfits. Sagittarius + Aquarius One buys tickets. The other invents the spaceship. Sagittarius brings the wild ideas, Aquarius turns them into blueprints. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Together, they talk philosophy, cancel capitalism, and leave halfway through the party to start a global revolution. This is the duo most likely to date on different continents and still feel more connected than everyone in the same room.
BBC News
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Manchester's self-styled 'Rocky' jailed for selling guns and drugs
A professional Mixed Martial Arts fighter who once described himself as Manchester's answer to Rocky Balboa has been jailed for dealing drugs and selling Menga, who also called himself The Italian Stallion, was caught when the National Crime Agency (NCA) infiltrated a once-encrypted messaging service. The NCA said Menga, 37, boasted in Encrochat conversations that he had Skorpion automatic machine guns that were "always good for a rainy day".Menga, of Salford, was sentenced to 15 years and five months when he appeared at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on Tuesday. Menga, of Mount Street, Swinton, admitted conspiracy to sell or transfer banned weapons and cocaine detectives trawled through thousands of anonymous Encrochat messages which detailed drug deals, firearms sales, and assassination attempts, the NCA identifying Menga through messages in which he openly spoke about his girlfriend, knee injuries from fighting, and his home gym, detectives knew Menga was the man behind the handle "wirelessshark". 'Evidence trail' A drugs expert estimated Menga was involved in drugs with a street value of between £490,000 and £620, was arrested when his home was raided on 15 January NCA said: "Menga, like many criminals before him, thought he was hiding behind a secure communications system."Instead, he created his own evidence trail that has led them straight to jail."In December 2017 Menga told BBC Three of his ambitions to rise up the UFC (Ultimate Fight Club) rankings as a had just received notice of his debut UFC fight."For me this is a Manchester Rocky story," he said. "A lad from Manchester takes a fight on 12 days' notice."The Rocky movie franchise features a rags-to-riches story of fictional boxer Rocky Balboa, played by Sylvester Stallone. Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on BBC Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer
