Tyson Fury’s boxing return is approaching – but it is not the fight he wants. The former two-time heavyweight world champion will face Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11 in the UK, marking his return to boxing following a brief retirement.
It turns out the Gypsy King couldn’t stay away for long. After suffering two defeats to Oleksandr Usyk last year, Fury announced he was hanging up his gloves at the start of 2025.
But he’s had a change of heart, and now he’s got his sights set on something special – becoming a three-time world champion. The 36-year-old confirmed his comeback via Instagram.
Fury’s promoter Frank Warren has revealed exactly what’s driving this return – and it’s all about unfinished business with Usyk.
Tyson Fury is desperate to face Oleksandr Usyk again, having already been beaten twice
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“He wants to be the best. That’s how he’s always been. He’s told me he wants to fight Usyk again,” Warren told Sky Sports.
The Ukrainian still holds the unified WBC, IBF and WBA world heavyweight titles after relinquishing the WBO belt. Fury would love nothing more than a third crack at him.
“Tyson’s a fighting man. He loves it,” Warren explained. “He goes in the gym and when he gets down to serious training, he wants to see an end result and the end result for him is fighting.”
Warren reckons Fury has already secured his place in boxing history, but he understands why the big man can’t walk away.
“For me, he doesn’t need to fight. He’s cemented his legacy,” Warren said.
Frank Warren has revealed Tyson Fury’s intentions to fight Oleksandr Usyk again
| Getty“But he is fighting on and he’s going to be a great addition to the heavyweight scene.
“He’s a great personality. The crowds come out for him, this is a big, big moment for his career.”
The promoter also made clear he’d rather see Fury back in action now than waiting several more years.
“If he is going to come back, I’d much rather he do it now than in four or five years’ time when his powers will probably be diminished then,” Warren added.
Before Fury can even think about Usyk, he’s got a serious challenge ahead of him. Makhmudov weighs in at a hefty 260lb and boasts an impressive knockout record.
Warren acknowledges this is no easy return. By the time April rolls around, Fury will have been out of the ring for nearly two years.
Tyson Fury was swatted aside by Oleksandr Usyk on two occasions
| REUTERS“This is a tough comeback fight for him. But if he comes through this we’ll see where we go,” Warren said.
Should Fury get past Makhmudov, there are plenty of exciting options waiting. Fabio Wardley now holds the WBO heavyweight title, which could make for a brilliant domestic showdown.