Men's Journal's Blog, page 60
July 5, 2025
Oasis Dedicates One Classic Song to Diogo Jota, Following His Death
On July 3, Diogo Jota, the beloved Portuguese footballer, was tragically killed in a car accident along with his brother, André Silva. A forward for Liverpool, Jota was a popular soccer player even among those who didn't necessarily root for that particular team. Case in point, the Gallagher brothers of the recently reformed rock band, Oasis, have long been supporters of Manchester City. But, because game recognizes game, Liam and Noel Gallagher took a moment to call special attention to the tragic death of Jota during the kick-off of their massive reunion tour on July 4, 2025.
While Oasis played many hits from their popular 1990s albums (and a few songs from elsewhere in their canon), they also dedicated one song in particular to the memory of Jota. And that song was the 1994 hit single, "Live Forever."
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Oasis Mania Fanpage (@oasismaniaofficial)
As fans pointed out on Instagram, this was a touching moment at the concert. As one fan wrote in a comment: "Class from the lads. When sadness hits, teams don’t matter, football is united."
Sadly, Jota was only 28. His funeral, which was held in Portugal on Saturday, July 5, was attended by his wife, Rute Cardoso. The couple had been married for less than a month. Cardoso was seen crying inconsolably at the funeral.
Related: Photos Show Diogo Jota's Grief-Stricken Liverpool Teammates at His Funeral
MLB All-Star Bobby Jenks Dies at 44. Who are His Wife and Family?
Former pitcher for the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox Bobby Jenks, 44, died July 4, 2025, leaving behind a wife and four children, whom he fathered with his first wife.
The White Sox a day after his death announced Jenks died in Sintra, Portugal, of adenocarcinoma, a form of cancer that spread in his stomach.
Jenks was married to Eleni Tzitzivacos, actress, model and founder of several small businesses, according to her Instagram page.
She played the role of ice cream shop customer in the sci-fi comedy drama Emmageddon in 2020, and founded Moosa Jewels as well as Mia Anasa Retreats.
Jenks and Tzitzivacos had two children together, Zeno and Kate, according to the Associated Press.
Jenks also left behind four children he had during his first marriage, Cuma, Nolan, Rylan and Jackson. His was first married to Adele Romkee.
Chicago White Sox' Bobby Jenks, Jim Thome and A.J. Pierzynski celebrate their sweep of the three game series with the Detroit Tigers August 13, 2006 at U.S. Cellular Field in Chicago, Illinois. The White Sox defeated the Tigers 7-3. (Photo by Chuck Rydlewski/Getty Images)Chuck Rydlewski/Getty Images
The White Sox team on its X page posted a video in remembrance of California native with the caption, "Bobby will forever hold a special place in all our hearts."
"I mean, everyone knows and loves Bobby," Rick Hahn, former assistant general manager of the team, said. "And what he did was remarkable. He deserves his place among the icons of this franchise's history."
Jenks pitched for the White Sox 2005-2010 before signing a two-year contract with the Boston Red Sox, whom he was only able to play 19 games with before being diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism that sidelined him.
He also helped the White Sox win the World-Series in 2005, making the series' final pitch to beat the Houston Astros. In 2006, Jenks was selected for the American League All-Star team, and then again in 2007.
Bobby Jenks #45 of the Chicago White Sox ACTIONVERBS during Game 3 of the 2005 World Series against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Field on October 25, 2005 in Chicago, Illinois. The White Sox defeated the Astros 7-5. (Photo by Ron Vesely/MLB Photos via Getty Images) He ended his MLB career on July 7, 2011 with 351 strikeouts and 173 saves.
Jenks also gave a statement in the White Sox' video.
"You play for the love of the game, the joy of it; It's what I love to do," he said. "I'm playing to be a world champion. And that's what I wanted to do from the time I could pick up a baseball."
Related: Beloved MLB Pitcher's Cause of Death Released After He Dies at 44
Cristiano Ronaldo Skipped Diogo Jota's Funeral. Here's Why:
Portuguese soccer star Diogo Jota and his brother, fellow footballer Andre Silva, were laid to rest on Saturday, two days after they were killed in a car crash.
Jota, who played for Liverpool in the English Premier League since 2020 and was a member of the Portuguese national team since 2019, was with Silva in a car near Zamora, Spain when it crashed. The accident remains under investigation, with speeding and a tire blowout looked at as possible causes.
A wake for the two brothers was held yesterday, and their funeral was earlier today in in Gondomar, Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo, Jota's close friend and Portugal teammate, did not attend.
Ronaldo had previously shared a heartfelt tribute to the recently-married 28-year-old on Instagram Friday.
"It doesn't make sense. We were just together in the national team, and you had just gotten married" Ronaldo said of Jota. "To your family, your wife and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you will always be with them. Rest in peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you."
Diogo Jota's wife Rute Cardoso (C,R) and her sister. While some may have been wondering why Ronaldo was MIA from Jota's memorial, the global soccer icon had a valid reason for staying away.
According to the Portuguese outlet A Bola, via Goal, Ronaldo did not wish to draw "excessive attention" to himself by attending, preferring that the focus be on the late brothers.
"According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Ronaldo spoke directly with Jota’s partner, Rute Cardoso, and was also in contact with Jota’s parents," Goal wrote. "The Al-Nassr star's decision to stay away was agreed to be the "best option" as his presence would have drawn 'excessive attention' at a time when discretion was required. His gesture was meant to show empathy and solidarity without igniting a potential media frenzy that would have been 'more harmful than beneficial.'"
Ronaldo's absence has been a major topic of discussion, but assuming this report is accurate, we don't blame him for handling things this way.
The reality is, Ronaldo is the most famous soccer player--and one of the most famous athletes--on the planet, so it's likely that him showing up would have drawn attention away from Jota and his family.
'F1' Actor Damson Idris Addresses if He’d Play the New 'Black Panther' if Asked
While Damson Idris is far from a “new” name in the bright lights of Hollywood, it’s fair to say that his starring role alongside Brad Pitt in F1: The Movie was a breakout performance.
The 33-year-old British actor has had his fair share of noteworthy roles, including starring in the FX series Snowfall, which ran for six seasons. However, his performance in F1 has earned strong reviews, and it's immediately led to Idris being linked to various other high-profile roles.
Among the most noteworthy Idris has been asked about is Ryan Coogler's upcoming Black Panther 3. Idris was asked previously during a sit-down with the Today Show if he'd play the new Black Panther, should the opportunity present itself.
(L-R) Brad Pitt and Damson Idris attend the European Premiere of F1 ® The Movie at Cineworld, Leicester Square.Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for Warner Bros. Pictures
The emerging star had a simple one-word answer to that question.
"Yes," Idris replied.
When asked if he's had conversations about playing the role, Idris quickly joked by responding "yes, no," seemingly insinuating that he couldn't give much away on that front.
While he didn't openly state it, it does seem that the F1: The Movie star could be a legitimate candidate to become the next Black Panther, filling the shoes of the late Chadwick Boseman, who passed away from colon cancer in August 2020.
Time will tell, but there's been little revealed by Marvel, Coogler or anyone around the Black Panther universe as preparation for the film ramps up. Black Panther 3 is expected to hit theaters in February 2028, according to IMDb.
Related: Brad Pitt Says Lewis Hamilton Sparked an 'Out of Body' Moment in 'F1' He'll Never Forget
July 4, 2025
What Airport Agents Found in This Traveler’s Bag Could Wreck U.S. Farms
A seemingly routine trip through Detroit Metro Airport took a sharp turn when federal agents uncovered something alarming in a traveler’s luggage—something that could have jeopardized America’s food supply.
The BBC reported that authorities say Zunyong Liu flew into the United States from China carrying Fusarium graminearum, a crop-destroying fungus responsible for Fusarium head blight, a disease that plagues staple grains like wheat, barley, and rice.
Liu told officials he brought the fungus to study with his girlfriend, Yunqing Jian, who works in a University of Michigan lab.
Both Liu and Jian now face serious federal charges, including conspiracy, smuggling, false statements, and visa fraud, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Michigan.
Fusarium graminearum isn’t new to the U.S. In fact, it’s already a major issue in North American agriculture.
But experts say importing new or potentially more virulent strains of the fungus could worsen the problem, potentially leading to widespread crop failure and supply chain disruptions.
The fungus spreads more aggressively in warm temperatures and not only damages crops, but also produces toxins that can cause vomiting, dizziness, and even raise the risk of cancer if consumed. That’s part of why federal prosecutors have cited scientific literature calling it a potential “agroterrorism weapon.”
Despite the dramatic charges, some experts are urging perspective.
“It’s extremely prevalent in North America,” Harold Kistler, an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota, told CBS News. “It’s not like a foreign agent coming in—it likely arose here.”
Still, the incident highlights just how vulnerable the agricultural system is, especially at the intersection of global travel and science. Security officials didn’t release details about how the fungus was discovered, but its presence in a passenger’s bag has raised fresh concerns about biosecurity lapses at ports of entry.
So far, no widespread contamination has been reported, but the case remains under investigation.
In the age of rising global temperatures and shifting supply chains, a single missed bag could mean disaster for crops, and by extension, the food millions depend on.
Related: Strange Reason Flights to This Popular Country Are Being Canceled
Costco Recalls Popular Items Over Safety Concerns, Urges Shoppers to Act Fast
Costco customers are being urged to check their homes after multiple recalls were announced this week for products sold at the retailer, ranging from workout equipment to window air conditioners.
Newsweek reported that one of the most urgent notices involves Danby U-shaped window air conditioners purchased between June 10, 2021, and February 2, 2022.
According to Midea America Corp., the supplier, the units have a design flaw that allows water to pool inside, creating a risk for mold growth. With summer in full swing, it's imperative to pay attention if you have one of these units.
Exposure to mold can cause respiratory problems and infections. Costco is offering a full refund at any of its warehouses or a free repair kit, depending on the model. Affected units are labeled DAC080B6IWDB-6.
Another recall targets the BowFlex 552 adjustable dumbbells. Manufacturer Johnson Health Tech Trading issued a voluntary recall after reports that the weight plates could unexpectedly fall off during use, posing a potential injury risk. Customers are advised to stop using the product and return it to Costco for a full refund.
Anker also recalled several of its Model A1257 power banks over battery safety concerns. Though the company claims the risk is minimal, it is offering replacements to affected customers who provide proof of purchase.
Finally, Michelin has recalled certain Agilis CrossClimate C-Metric tires in the 185/60R15C size.
The tires reportedly failed to meet federal safety standards, increasing the chance of a crash. Specifically, the tread rubber may detach from the shoulder block. Customers who purchased these tires are being directed to their local Michelin retailer for free replacements.
Each of these recalls highlights different hazards, ranging from mold exposure and fire risk to physical injury, underscoring the importance of taking prompt action.
Costco members with any of the affected products are encouraged to stop using them immediately and follow the provided instructions for a refund or replacement.
July Fourth Incident Has Locals Calling Infamous Lake ‘Haunted’ Again
An accident on Lake Lanier on Friday did little to shed the longstanding belief that the body of water is cursed.
A 23-foot cabin-cruiser burst into flames during Fourth of July festivities while being towed across the infamous lake in Atlanta, Georgia. The explosion reportedly injured all seven passengers aboard, including one child who had to be airlifted off the vessel.
None of the passengers were in critical condition upon rescue. Some of them suffered second and third-degree burns.
While the official cause of the explosion remains under investigation, several people blamed it on something more sinister. Many called Lake Lanier "haunted" and pointed to the concerning number of accidents and deaths that have occurred at the lake.
"I don’t believe in ghosts, but… Lake Lanier is actually cursed," one person said.
I don’t believe in ghosts, but…
— Patricia Eguino (@PatriciaEguino) July 5, 2025
Lake Lanier is actually cursed.pic.twitter.com/f7Ww36Rzta https://t.co/e229HYUD29
"LMAO you couldn’t pay me to step foot near Lake Lanier! That place is HAUNTED!" another wrote.
LMAO you couldn’t pay me to step foot near Lake Lanier! That place is HAUNTED! https://t.co/q5ckY2VlkP
— femgod (@mayamvictoria) July 5, 2025
One woman even called the accident "good" and considered it as yet another warning from Lake Lanier.
"Good. It’s haunted. Leave Lake Lanier alone," she said.
Good. It’s haunted. Leave Lake Lanier alone. https://t.co/GDj6IN6KNn
— Onlymaam on Onlyscamz (@LeedvsLydia) July 5, 2025
Lake Lanier, which is named after Confederate poet Sidney Lanier, is a manmade reservoir created in 1956 after the construction of the Buford Dam. The United States Army Corps of Engineers built the dam to provide water for Atlanta and simultaneously reduce the amount of flooding.
However, the initiative led to the flooding of a small Black town in the area called Oscarville. Many of the homes, roads and even gravesites were submerged as a result. Some believe the forgotten gravesites to be at the core of the urban legend.
Remnants of the community that once was remain intact underwater, leading some swimmers and divers to still explore the ruins to this day.
Over 700 deaths have been reported at the lake since its creation, with more than 200 happening since 1994.
Last month, a 27-year-old man jumped into the lake while on a boat at Lake Lanier. Only his life jacket floated to the surface as his friends frantically tried to find him. Local officials later used sonar technology to locate the body, which was found 60 feet below the surface the following evening.
In 2023, Tameka Foster, ex-wife of R&B singer Usher, called for the lake to be drained and properly restored 11 years after her son's tragic death. The 11-year-old boy was struck by a jet ski while floating in an inner tube on the lake. Foster's petition got thousands of signatures.
According to a report from USA Today, there were 65 recorded deaths at Lake Lanier from 2018 to 2024.
Related: July 4th Boat Explosion Reported on Well-Known Lake
Strange Reason Flights to This Popular Country Are Being Canceled
Japan's red-hot tourism boom just hit an unexpected turbulence thanks to an old comic book.
Reuters reported that airlines are suspending flights, tours are being slashed in half, and travelers across Asia are rethinking their vacations, all because of a viral rumor predicting a catastrophic earthquake on July 5, 2025.
The prediction didn’t come from scientists. It came from the pages of a manga titled The Future I Saw by Ryo Tatsuki, first published in 1999.
The comic gained a second life online after readers connected its reference to a 2011 disaster with recent claims that a new catastrophe would strike this summer. Panic quickly spread through social media, especially in Hong Kong, prompting widespread concern and real-world fallout.
Hong Kong-based Greater Bay Airlines announced this week it would suspend service to Tokushima, Japan, citing weak demand. The airline isn’t alone. Tour agencies like EGL Tours reported that bookings to Japan were cut in half, despite offering steep discounts and earthquake insurance to offset fears.
“The rumors have had a significant impact,” said Steve Huen, executive director at EGL Tours.
Japan had recorded an all-time monthly high of 3.9 million international visitors in April. But in May, arrivals from Hong Kong dropped 11% compared to the previous year.
Even individual travelers are second-guessing their plans. One visitor from Hong Kong told Reuters, “If possible, I might delay my trip and go after September.”
Japan sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where earthquakes are common, but experts say there’s no scientific basis for the manga’s claims.
“None of the predictions I've experienced in my scientific career have come close at all,” said University of Tokyo seismologist Robert Geller.
Even the manga’s author issued a statement saying she is not a prophet.
Still, the damage has been done. While many travelers like Seattle’s Serena Peng continue their trips, others are holding back. Airlines and tour operators are watching closely to see whether fear fades or lingers long enough to reshape Japan’s tourism rebound.
Evangeline Lilly Drops Clue About Hugh Jackman's Return as Wolverine in 'Avengers'
Hugh Jackman has done his best to sidestep the topic of whether his beloved superhero Wolverine will be in either Avengers: Doomsday or Avengers: Secret Wars.
Unfortunately for Jackman, the secretive approach to Wolverine's fate hasn't slowed down speculation about him appearing in at least one of the two upcoming Avengers films. Now, thanks to another face in the Marvel universe, that speculation intensified even more ahead of the holiday weekend.
Evangeline Lilly, who plays Hope van Dyne, aka the Wasp in Ant-Man, responded to a comment about her and Jackman's character getting "screen time together" in Avengers: Secret Wars with just one cryptic emoji, as Avengers Updates detailed.
— Avengers Updates (@AvengersUpdated) June 30, 2025
It's an extremely interesting response from Lilly. However, there are a few big questions to answer before reading too far into it.
While Lilly has played the role of the Wasp in three Ant-Man films, along with Avengers: Endgame, there's an obvious reason to buy into the hype on this, at least at first glance.
There is one big asterisk to put next to this, though. As Variety highlighted back in June 2024, Lilly announced she was "stepping away" from acting on Instagram. Assuming there are no plans for a comeback on the horizon, that'd throw a big wrench in this theory, at least regarding the hopes of fans who are pushing for Wolverine to star in one of the upcoming Avengers movies.
Unfortunately, for the time being, it will remain speculation and buzz until Marvel provides clarity.
For good measure, Jackman did address the topic of Wolverine in Avengers: Doomsday back in May during an interview on The View. But in perfect Marvel superhero fashion, the actor stated that he "can't say much."
"I can't say much," Jackman said. "...I really have nothing to add, and if I did, I would find a really cool way to not say it, but I actually have nothing to add."
Here's to hoping Lilly knows something fans don't, because Avengers: Secret Wars isn't slated to hit the big screen until Dec. 17, 2027, so it's bound to be a long waiting game.
Related: 'Superman' Star Nicholas Hoult Floats Lex Luthor Villain Team-up He’d Love to See
Beloved 'The Office' Star Craig Robinson Quits Comedy. But Fans Are Left Guessing Why
Whenever someone opts to make a significant career change, it’s usually wise to let them explain the reason, rather than asking outright. And for fans of popular shows like The Office and Brooklyn Nine-Nine, some tough news came during the holiday weekend.
Popular comedian Craig Robinson, who starred as Darryl Philbin in The Office and Doug Judy in Brooklyn Nine-Nine, announced that he's retiring from doing comedy.
Unfortunately, Robinson's fans were left without a clear answer as to why, and the disappointment was evident in their reactions.
Discussing Film revealed Robinson's comments, as the 53-year-old said he's "following something bigger."
Craig Robinson as Darryl Philbin on 'The Office.'Byron Cohen/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images
"It’s been an amazing run, and y’all been amazing and wonderful. But I’m following something bigger. So, you know, thank you so much. I love you, and stay tuned," Robinson said.
While some fans attempted to ask Grok, X's AI chatbot, the reason why Robinson was quitting comedy, that didn't help to provide a clear answer. Ultimately, fans were left to speculate about what's ahead for Robinson, and also show their love to the actor.
"Aw man he was great in everything, but sometimes you just outgrow things in life. Whatever he does next I hope he’s happy and I’m sure he’ll be great at it as well," wrote one fan.
"From The Office to Hot Tub Time Machine, bro gave us peak every time," replied another.
"Comedy’s losing a real one. Wishing him the best," read one reply.
"oh we lost so bad," said a disappointed fan.
One Brooklyn Nine-Nine fan cited the show while referencing his former nickname and predicting a comeback. They stated that "the Pontiac Bandit always returns."
Fans threw out various guesses about what's ahead for Robinson, with many sarcastic comments leading the way.
"I hope Craig starts his own boy band with him being the main dude," joked a fan.
"I’m sure he’s cooking something," said a fan confident in Robinson's future plans.
"so what is he gonna do now? he carried so many shows," said a disappointed follower.
While Robinson's plans remain a question mark, one thing that's certain is that those who followed his career and enjoyed his comedy are hoping he'll at least have a slight change of heart and continue to dabble in the comedy world in some fashion.
Related: 'The Boys' Star Jensen Ackles Breaks Silence on Potential Batman Role
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