Fury vs. Joshua: Who will be the “Gypsy King’s” opponent in his comeback?

Return to the Ring in 2026? Tyson Fury Considers His Next Challenge

The boxing world could be about to witness a new chapter in Tyson Fury’s career. The former heavyweight champion, known for his constant comings and goings from retirement, could return to the ring in 2026.

“He indicated that he wants to fight next year,” revealed promoter Frank Warren.

Frank Warren

Fury, with a record of 34-2-1 and 24 KOs, hasn’t fought since his decision loss to Oleksandr Usyk in December, a result that led him to announce his retirement. However, fans and experts are already speculating about who his next opponent could be.

Next, we analyze possible rivals for the “Gypsy King”.

The Fight Everyone Wants: Anthony Joshua

Although it may not have the same magnitude as in its best moments, the Fury vs. Joshua fight is still a highly anticipated event, especially in the United Kingdom. Both boxers have been close to finalizing this fight in the past, but negotiations have not been successful.

With both approaching their 40s and in the final stage of their careers, the urgency to secure this confrontation increases, aware of the economic opportunity it represents.

“It was one of the most amazing retirements I’ve seen. We never knew that was going to happen, did we?”, commented Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter.

Eddie Hearn

Hearn added that if conditions are favorable, Joshua would be willing to fight Fury. It is expected that Joshua, after elbow surgery, will have a warm-up fight before a possible match against Fury. According to Warren, the fight with Joshua is the most obvious option, primarily driven by economic interest. Hearn believes that the only one capable of making the Fury vs. Joshua fight possible is Turki Alalshikh, the most influential figure in boxing today. The main question is whether Fury will choose to face Joshua directly or if he will prefer a previous fight to prepare, which could delay the expected fight until the second half of 2026.

Possible Warm-Up Opponents: Martin Bakole or Fabio Wardley

After a long inactive period, Fury could look for a preparation fight. Bakole could be a suitable opponent, as he is a recognized name, but represents less risk. Bakole, 33 years old, is looking for a significant fight and has already been Fury’s sparring partner. If Bakole fights Joshua, Fury could face Fabio Wardley, who could be a less experienced opponent, which Fury could take advantage of. Wardley, however, is a dangerous boxer, as he demonstrated by knocking out Justis Huni in June.

The Rival to Avoid: Oleksandr Usyk

Fury feels the outcome of his rematch with Usyk was unfair. Usyk, with a 2-0 record over Fury, continued his dominance with a KO victory in the fifth round against Dubois in July. Although a third match could be appealing, it is unlikely to be Fury’s next fight, as the earnings against Joshua would be greater.

The Most Dangerous: Moses Itauma

Fury is aware of Itauma’s dangerousness, after the 20-year-old’s victory in his most recent fight.

“Moses Itauma will destroy all those old guys in the division,” Fury said on social media.

Tyson Fury

Itauma, with a record of 13-0 and 11 KOs, could have a fight on December 13, but not against Fury.

The Impossible Fight: Joseph Parker

Parker, former WBO champion, is in an excellent position to contend for a world title in 2026, if he avoids defeat against Wardley on October 25. Given Parker’s status, he could be the ideal opponent for Fury. However, Fury and Parker are good friends and share a trainer, which makes this matchup unlikely.