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Today’s Rundown:
- MADURO TO FACE U.S. DRUG CHARGES AT MANHATTAN ARRAIGNMENT JAN. 5: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is scheduled to be arraigned in federal court in Manhattan on January 5 on U.S. drug trafficking and corruption charges. Prosecutors accuse Maduro of leading or aiding a narco-terrorism network that worked with armed groups to move cocaine into the United States. Maduro has repeatedly denied the allegations and calls them politically motivated. The case is largely symbolic unless Maduro is taken into U.S. custody, which remains unlikely. Still, the arraignment underscores escalating U.S. pressure on Venezuela’s leadership.
- NFL PLAYOFF SCHEDULE SET AFTER CHAOTIC FINAL WEEKEND: The NFL finalized its playoff schedule after a dramatic final weekend that featured multiple win-and-in scenarios across both conferences. Several games directly determined division titles, wild-card spots, and seeding. The league announced kickoff times and TV assignments shortly after the regular season ended. Matchups include several rematches from earlier in the season, adding intrigue. Wild-card weekend begins next week with games spread across multiple networks and time slots.
- SPARKLERS SUSPECTED IN DEADLY SWISS RESORT BAR FIRE: Investigators say handheld sparklers may have ignited flammable materials during a New Year’s Eve celebration at a Swiss resort bar, leading to a deadly fire. The blaze killed dozens and injured more than 100 people as smoke and flames spread rapidly through the crowded venue. Authorities are examining safety violations, crowd size, and the building’s emergency exits. Survivors described confusion and limited visibility as people tried to escape. Officials say the investigation could take months.
- ANTHONY JOSHUA’S DRIVER CHARGED AFTER FATAL NIGERIA CRASH: Authorities in Nigeria have charged the driver of boxer Anthony Joshua following a car crash that killed multiple people. Joshua was injured in the incident but survived, while investigators focused on the actions of the driver and convoy. Police say the charges relate to reckless driving and traffic violations. Joshua has expressed condolences to the victims’ families. The case remains under investigation.
- JAKE PAUL FALLS OUT OF WBA RANKINGS AFTER JOSHUA LOSS: Influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul has dropped out of the World Boxing Association rankings following his loss to Anthony Joshua. The defeat ended Paul’s bid to remain ranked among professional heavyweights. Boxing analysts say the ranking drop reflects both the loss and questions about Paul’s long-term competitiveness at elite levels. Paul has not announced his next fight but said he plans to continue boxing.
- TONY DOKOUPIL OPENS CBS EVENING NEWS RUN WITH HEGSETH INTERVIEW: Journalist Tony Dokoupil began his tenure hosting CBS Evening News with an extended interview of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The conversation focused on military readiness, global conflicts, and Hegseth’s leadership priorities. CBS said the format reflects a push for deeper, longer interviews. Reaction was mixed, with some praising the depth and others questioning the choice of first guest. Dokoupil said his goal is to emphasize accountability and clarity.
- AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH CROSSES $1B IN JUST 18 DAYS: Avatar: Fire and Ash has surpassed $1 billion at the global box office only 18 days after release. The film is the latest entry in James Cameron’s blockbuster franchise. Strong international ticket sales, especially in Asia, drove the rapid milestone. Industry analysts say the performance confirms the enduring global appeal of the Avatar series. More sequels are already in development.
- FORMER NBA DRAFT PICK JAMES NNAJI DEBUTS FOR BAYLOR AMID CONTROVERSY: Former NBA draft pick James Nnaji made his Baylor debut, sparking debate over NCAA eligibility rules. Nnaji had previously declared for the NBA draft before returning to college basketball. Critics say the situation exposes inconsistencies in how the NCAA applies eligibility standards. Baylor officials said the program followed all rules. The issue has renewed calls for clearer guidelines.
- SEARCH SUSPENDED FOR CRUISE PASSENGER LOST AT SEA: The search has been suspended for a 77-year-old passenger who went overboard from a cruise ship operated by Holland America Line. The U.S. Coast Guard and ship crews searched the area for days with no success. Officials say the decision was made after covering the maximum feasible search area. The family has been notified of the suspension. Cruise safety procedures are under review.
- MYLES GARRETT SETS NEW NFL SINGLE-SEASON SACKS RECORD: Myles Garrett broke the NFL’s single-season sacks record with a dominant performance late in the season. Garrett surpassed the previous mark with a game still remaining. Teammates and coaches praised his consistency, strength, and preparation. The milestone strengthens his case for Defensive Player of the Year honors. Fans and analysts called it one of the most impressive defensive seasons in league history.
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