Photo Credit:Associated Press
Tyson Fury has set his sights on a long-awaited showdown with Anthony Joshua as he prepares to make his return to the heavyweight division.
Fury, 37, is scheduled to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on Saturday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in his first fight in 16 months. The bout marks his comeback after stepping away from the sport for a fifth time. While his immediate focus remains on the challenge ahead, he has made it clear that Joshua is the opponent he wants next if all goes according to plan.
Speaking ahead of the fight, Fury acknowledged the long-standing anticipation surrounding a potential clash between the two British heavyweights. Despite years of speculation, the fight has never materialised, though there is renewed optimism it could finally happen in 2026. Fury said he is open to the bout but remains calm about whether it comes together, emphasizing that his priority is delivering a strong performance this weekend.
Joshua, 36, last fought in December, securing a stoppage victory over vJake Paul in a sanctioned professional contest. Plans for a fight between him and Fury were reportedly being discussed after that win. However, those talks were disrupted following a car crash in Nigeria that resulted in the deaths of two of Joshua’s close friends.
Joshua is expected to attend Fury’s upcoming fight, and promoter Eddie Hearn has suggested he may soon resume full training. Even so, Fury appeared unconcerned about his rival’s recent activity, stating he would be ready for the challenge immediately after his own return.
Both fighters have been central figures in British boxing for nearly a decade, each claiming world titles and building global profiles. While a
meeting between them would still draw significant interest, some observers believe it may come later than ideal.
Before any future plans can take shape, Fury must first overcome Makhmudov, a powerful and dangerous opponent known for his early knockout record. Fury welcomed the test, saying he needs a serious threat to stay sharp and motivated.
The Morecambe-born fighter has not competed in Britain since defeating Derek Chisora in 2022. He returns after back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk, aiming to reestablish himself at the top level.
Reflecting on recent fights involving Deontay Wilder and Chisora, Fury was critical, suggesting both fighters have declined significantly and insisting he would step away if he ever showed similar signs.
Fury, 37, is scheduled to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on Saturday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in his first fight in 16 months. The bout marks his comeback after stepping away from the sport for a fifth time. While his immediate focus remains on the challenge ahead, he has made it clear that Joshua is the opponent he wants next if all goes according to plan.
Speaking ahead of the fight, Fury acknowledged the long-standing anticipation surrounding a potential clash between the two British heavyweights. Despite years of speculation, the fight has never materialised, though there is renewed optimism it could finally happen in 2026. Fury said he is open to the bout but remains calm about whether it comes together, emphasizing that his priority is delivering a strong performance this weekend.
Joshua, 36, last fought in December, securing a stoppage victory over vJake Paul in a sanctioned professional contest. Plans for a fight between him and Fury were reportedly being discussed after that win. However, those talks were disrupted following a car crash in Nigeria that resulted in the deaths of two of Joshua’s close friends.
Joshua is expected to attend Fury’s upcoming fight, and promoter Eddie Hearn has suggested he may soon resume full training. Even so, Fury appeared unconcerned about his rival’s recent activity, stating he would be ready for the challenge immediately after his own return.
Both fighters have been central figures in British boxing for nearly a decade, each claiming world titles and building global profiles. While a
meeting between them would still draw significant interest, some observers believe it may come later than ideal.
Before any future plans can take shape, Fury must first overcome Makhmudov, a powerful and dangerous opponent known for his early knockout record. Fury welcomed the test, saying he needs a serious threat to stay sharp and motivated.
The Morecambe-born fighter has not competed in Britain since defeating Derek Chisora in 2022. He returns after back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk, aiming to reestablish himself at the top level.
Reflecting on recent fights involving Deontay Wilder and Chisora, Fury was critical, suggesting both fighters have declined significantly and insisting he would step away if he ever showed similar signs.