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 a new chapter in the career of the charismatic former heavyweight champion, Tyson Fury. Despite announcing his retirement on multiple occasions, it seems that “The Gypsy King” could put his gloves back on in 2026, according to statements from his promoter, Frank Warren.

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

Frank Warren

Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) hasn’t fought since his decision loss to Oleksandr Usyk in December, a result that took away his undisputed heavyweight title and, once again, led him to announce his retirement. If Fury, 37, decides to return, who will be his next opponent? Will he face a high-caliber rival or seek a more accessible fight for his comeback?

Here’s a look at potential contenders for the return of the “Gypsy King”.

The Ideal Fight: Anthony Joshua

Although it wouldn’t have the same impact as in the past, a clash between Fury and Joshua still generates great expectation, especially in the United Kingdom. The English rivals explored the possibility of fighting five years ago, but negotiations did not prosper. Now, both are approaching 40 years old and the end of their careers, which could motivate them to secure a large economic purse.

“I think Turki Alalshikh is probably the only one who can make the Tyson Fury fight because both will want a large amount of money and Turki has a reputation for making the biggest fights in the sport”, said Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter.

Eddie Hearn

Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs), former heavyweight world champion, suffered a technical knockout defeat in the fifth round against Daniel Dubois in September 2024. Elbow surgery has delayed his return, but he is expected to return to the ring at the end of this year or early 2026. Hearn has mentioned that Joshua could have an interim fight before a possible match with Fury. Warren has stated that the fight with Joshua is the most obvious option and that the economic factor is crucial in this decision. Recently, Warren and Hearn have held talks about the possibility of finalizing the fight between Joshua and Fury with Alalshikh, an influential figure in world boxing. The question mark lies in whether Fury will choose to face Joshua directly or if he will prefer a previous fight, which could delay the expected fight until the second half of 2026.

Possible Opponents: Martin Bakole or Fabio Wardley

After a long inactive period, Fury could seek a preparation fight. Bakole, 33, could be a viable option. Bakole (21-2-1, 16 KOs) was defeated by Joseph Parker in February. If Bakole fights Joshua, Fury could face Fabio Wardley. Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KOs) has proven to be a dangerous opponent, as evidenced by his knockout victory over Justis Huni in June.

An Undesired Rival: Oleksandr Usyk

Fury could feel a deep injustice over the result of his rematch with Usyk. Usyk, 38, has beaten Fury twice and continued his dominance with a technical knockout victory over Dubois in July. Although a third fight could be attractive, it is unlikely to be next for Fury, who could earn more money and have a better chance of beating Joshua.

The Most Dangerous: Moses Itauma

Fury is aware of Itauma’s danger, after the 20-year-old achieved his eighth knockout victory in the first round in his most recent fight. Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs) could 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, as long as he avoids defeat against Wardley on October 25. Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) holds the interim WBO title. However, Fury and Parker are good friends and share the same trainer, so it is unlikely they will face each other.