Tyson Fury is weighing up a return to the ring, with eyes on blockbuster bouts against either Anthony Joshua or Oleksandr Usyk—following a green light from his wife, Paris.
The 35-year-old former heavyweight champion, known as the Gypsy King, stepped away from boxing after his second straight loss to Usyk in December. But in true Fury fashion, retirement seems to be short-lived.
While speaking at an IBA event in Turkey, Fury opened up about a potential showdown with long-time rival Anthony Joshua.
“Even though AJ’s been a rival for a decade, he’s been a great figure for British boxing,” Fury said. “I wouldn’t say I hold all the cards, but if he’s just sitting around waiting for me, he could be waiting a long time—maybe until he’s 60. Or maybe I’ll call him next week. We’ll see.”
Fury acknowledged the importance of their long-anticipated clash: “That all-British fight with Joshua would be huge. If we both die without ever fighting each other, it would be a tragedy for British boxing.”
But Joshua may have to wait, as Fury appears more focused on revenge against current champion Oleksandr Usyk, who has beaten him twice.
“What I really want is revenge,” Fury admitted. “But only at Wembley, in front of 100,000 fans, with all the belts on the line. That’s my dream.”
Saudi adviser Turki Alalshikh has already hinted at Fury’s comeback, posting on X: “The ‘Gypsy King’ will be back. I talked with him, and I have his word—he’ll be part of Riyadh Season in 2026. We have a rabbit to hunt.”
Fury’s two defeats to Usyk both came in Saudi Arabia. The first—a historic bout to crown the four-belt undisputed heavyweight champion—ended in a narrow split decision loss. Their rematch saw Usyk outclass Fury to earn a unanimous win, pushing the Brit to announce retirement on social media.
Fury’s history with retirement is as unpredictable as his in-ring style. His 2016 exit came after his licence was suspended amid mental health struggles and substance abuse, following his iconic win over Wladimir Klitschko.
But he returned in 2018, launching a remarkable comeback that led to a legendary trilogy with American powerhouse Deontay Wilder—battles that showcased Fury’s heart and resilience.
His most recent retirement felt more impulsive than permanent, posted from his Morecambe driveway in his ageing Land Rover Defender. Unsurprisingly, the urge to fight never left him.
“Retirement isn’t easy,” Fury admitted. “Every day I wake up shadow boxing. I was born to do this. It’s so hard to walk away. I’ve had offers, and Paris said she’ll support me—and that made me smile.”
Meanwhile, Anthony Joshua has issued his own warning to the division, promising to “come back with a bang” and shake up the heavyweight scene. The 35-year-old former unified champion said he’s been biding his time and is ready to make a serious statement.
