Tyson Fury: Possible opponents for his boxing return in 2026

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

The boxing world could be about to witness another comeback from former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, who, according to sources close to him, could return to the ring in 2026. This news has generated great anticipation among fans, who eagerly await details of his possible return.

“He has indicated that he wants to fight next year,” promoter Frank Warren commented on his Queensberry Promotions YouTube channel on October 9.

Frank Warren

Fury, with a record of 34 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, hasn’t fought since his decision loss to Oleksandr Usyk in December, at which point he announced his retirement. If “The Gypsy King” decides to return, the key question is: who will be his next opponent?

Possible Opponents for Fury’s Return

Next, we analyze some of the possible rivals who could face Tyson Fury in his expected return:

The Fight Everyone Wants: Anthony Joshua

Although it may not have the same magnitude as when both held all the heavyweight titles, the Fury vs. Joshua matchup continues to generate great interest, especially in the United Kingdom. Negotiations for this fight began five years ago, but it has not materialized. Given that both are nearing 40 and the end of their careers, there is an urgency to secure a large financial purse. Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, has stated that if the conditions are favorable, Fury will accept the fight.

Joshua, former heavyweight world champion, is coming off a knockout loss in the fifth round against Daniel Dubois in September 2024. He is expected to return to the ring at the end of this year or in early 2026, following elbow surgery.

“The obvious one is Joshua because everyone wanted to see that fight and [still] wants to see that fight. That’s a no-brainer,” Warren said. “To be honest, it’s all about the money.”

Frank Warren

Conversations between Warren and Hearn with Turki Alalshikh, an influential figure in boxing, suggest that this fight could be a reality. Hearn believes that Alalshikh is the key to making the fight happen, as both boxers will be looking for a large sum of money.

Feasible Alternatives: Martin Bakole or Fabio Wardley

After a long period of inactivity, Fury could opt for a preparation fight. Bakole, 33, could be an option, as he has shown interest in important fights and has been Fury’s sparring partner in the past. Wardley, with an undefeated record of 19 wins and 1 draw, could also be a viable option, although his inexperience could be exploited by Fury.

The Fight We Don’t Want: Oleksandr Usyk

Fury might feel a deep sense of injustice over the result of his rematch with Usyk, but a third fight seems unlikely. Usyk, with two wins over Fury, might be tempted by a large sum of money before retiring, but Fury could earn more against Joshua and have a better chance of beating him.

The Most Dangerous: Moses Itauma

Fury is aware of Itauma’s dangerousness, who, at 20 years old, has achieved eight knockout victories in the first round. Itauma could be a high-risk rival for Fury.

The Impossible Fight: Joseph Parker

Parker, former WBO champion and friend of Fury, is an unlikely option. Both share a trainer and train together, making a fight between them improbable. The possible return of Tyson Fury in 2026 promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats, awaiting to know his next rival and the exciting path that awaits the “Gypsy King”.