Tyson Fury’s Return to Boxing
In a surprising turn of events, heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury is poised to return to the ring by 2026 after a brief stint in retirement. His promoter, Frank Warren of Queensberry Promotions, disclosed during an episode of The Ariel Helwani Show that Fury has shared his desire to resume boxing next year. Fury has not competed since he faced Oleksandr Usyk twice in 2024, suffering defeats in both encounters. Warren mentioned,
“He reached out to me and expressed interest in fighting, but for now, he’s preoccupied with a Netflix documentary and series he’s filming. However, he has made it clear that he intends to come back in 2026.”
Speculation Surrounding Fury’s Comeback
Following a dramatic announcement of retirement back in January, speculation has surrounded whether the former two-time heavyweight champion would indeed step back into the ring. In July, Saudi investor Turki Alalshikh claimed Fury had agreed to fight again in 2026, a statement Fury later refuted.
British boxing fans have long awaited a potential clash between Fury and Anthony Joshua, yet both fighters will remain inactive throughout 2025. The possibility of their long-anticipated match finally materializing seems to loom closer, though Warren noted that Fury’s immediate focus isn’t on Joshua. According to Warren, Fury expressed a strong desire for a rematch with Usyk.
“His primary goal is to square off against Usyk once more. Everyone is eager to see him and AJ face off, but he has many options depending on how the fight negotiations go—especially regarding venue, whether it occurs in the UK or abroad in Riyadh,”
Warren elaborated.
Concerns for Fury’s Well-Being
Warren, acknowledging Fury’s financial stability, shared concerns about his fighter’s well-being due to the inherent risks of boxing.
“I know his wife is apprehensive about him returning to the ring, and I understand that sentiment. However, it’s preferable for him to come back sooner rather than later while he’s still young and hasn’t been out of the sport for too long,”
he stated. The charismatic nature of Fury is greatly missed in the boxing community, and Warren added,
“When Tyson is around, there’s always a unique energy and excitement, not to mention, his press conferences are hilarious.”
Usyk’s Upcoming Fights and Boxing Events
Meanwhile, Usyk, who recently reclaimed his undisputed heavyweight championship after defeating Daniel Dubois in July, is set to fight again in early 2026. His forthcoming opponent will likely be determined at the WBO interim title bout between Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley, promoted by Warren this Saturday in London. Warren confirmed,
“The winner of Parker versus Wardley will be mandated to challenge Usyk for his title. If Usyk fails to honor that obligation, the WBO may strip him of his title.”
Parker, who last fought in February against Martin Bakole, is eager to remain active and is taking a risk against the newcomer Wardley for a chance at the heavyweight crown.
Future Events and Industry Changes
Queensberry Promotions aims to end their 2025 calendar year with a heavyweight-focused card at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, England, on December 13. Warren indicated that details about the event would be unveiled during the upcoming DAZN pay-per-view coverage of Parker versus Wardley. Notable names such as Derek Chisora are expected to feature, along with promising talent Moses Itauma, who is currently in discussions to fight Kubrat Pulev for the WBA (Regular) title.
Additionally, the boxing industry is closely monitoring the implications of TKO—UFC’s parent company—backing the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act. This legislation, which has sparked controversy, is designed to enhance boxers’ welfare by offering them greater protections and could lead to TKO creating its own championship belts and rankings. Warren voiced his concerns about any alterations that TKO may be contemplating for the sport, stating,
“Changes in ring size and other rules could impact boxer safety, which must always be considered. I’ve been in this business long enough to know that the adjustments made were to protect fighters’ health over the years. As long as changes maintain the safety and integrity of boxing, they could be welcome, but we must tread carefully.”
