- Tyson Fury confirms boxing return in 2026
- Instagram post sparks fresh Anthony Joshua fight talks
- Gypsy King hints he still has unfinished business
- Possible Joshua or Usyk showdown looms
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has once again come out of retirement, confirming plans to return to boxing in 2026, a move that has reignited long-running speculation about a blockbuster clash with Anthony Joshua.
The 37-year-old boxer made the announcement on Sunday via Instagram, ending months of silence after stepping away from the sport following his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024.
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“2026 is that year. Return of the Mac,” Fury wrote. “I’ve been away for a while, but I’m back. I’m 37 and still punching. Nothing better than punching men in the face and getting paid.”
Fury, famously nicknamed the Gypsy King, has announced retirement several times in the past, only to reverse course. He first called time on his career after knocking out Dillian Whyte at Wembley Stadium in April 2022, before returning later that same year.
His professional record stands at 34 wins from 37 fights, with Usyk the only opponent to defeat him. Fury has consistently disputed the judging in those losses, once remarking, “Dick Turpin wore a mask,” in reference to what he believed were unfair decisions.
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Speculation about a comeback intensified over the Christmas period when Fury shared training videos online. His latest statement has now placed him firmly back in the heavyweight conversation.
The announcement also revives the possibility of a long-awaited showdown with Anthony Joshua, who has openly challenged Fury to face him in the ring.
Joshua, 36, returned to action in December 2025 after a 15-month absence, stopping Jake Paul in the sixth round in Miami. Speaking afterwards, he issued a direct challenge.
“If Tyson Fury is serious, he should stop talking online and come fight me. Let’s settle it in the ring,” Joshua said.
Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed that talks are ongoing and suggested a Fury-Joshua bout could be arranged without delay if both fighters agree.
However, uncertainty surrounds Joshua’s immediate future following a fatal car accident in Ogun State, Nigeria, which claimed the lives of two of his close associates, although the boxer himself suffered only minor injuries.
If Joshua is unavailable, Fury could pursue a trilogy fight with Usyk, who currently holds the WBC, WBA and IBF titles, or challenge WBO champion Fabio Wardley. Winning either contest would make Fury a three-time world heavyweight champion, a feat achieved only by Muhammad Ali.
