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 witness Tyson Fury’s return to the ring in 2026. After announcing his retirement on several occasions, the former heavyweight champion seems ready to return to action.

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

Frank Warren

The last time Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) competed was in December, suffering a decision defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, who defeated him for the second time. After that fight, Fury announced his retirement, but now rumors of a possible return have ignited the expectations of the fans. If Fury decides to return, who will be his next opponent? Will he face a high-caliber challenge or will he seek a more accessible fight to regain his rhythm? We analyze the possible options for the “Gypsy King”.

The Longed-for Fight: Anthony Joshua

Although it may not be on the same scale as when they both held all the heavyweight titles, the fight between Fury and Joshua is still highly anticipated, especially in the United Kingdom. Five years ago, the possibility of this confrontation was seriously discussed, but attempts to make it happen were unsuccessful. With both boxers nearing 40 and in the final stage of their careers, there is an awareness that time is running out to generate big profits in a fight that could define their legacies.

“It was one of the most amazing retirements I’ve seen. We never knew that was going to happen, did we?”, commented Eddie Hearn, Matchroom promoter, who has guided Joshua’s career since his professional debut in 2013.

Eddie Hearn

Hearn added that, if conditions are favorable, Fury would accept to fight Joshua. Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) suffered a technical knockout defeat 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 the beginning of 2026, after elbow surgery. Hearn indicated that Joshua could have an intermediate fight before facing Fury.

“The most obvious is Joshua, because everyone wanted to see that fight and [they] still want to see that fight. That’s an obvious option,” Warren said. “To be honest, it’s all about the money.”

Frank Warren

Warren and Hearn have held conversations about the possibility of finalizing the fight between Joshua and Fury with Turki Alalshikh, an influential figure in world boxing, who could be key to making this fight possible. The fight between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury is seen as one of the most important in the sport. Fury’s decision to face Joshua directly or have a previous fight could influence the date of the expected match, which could take place in the second half of 2026.

Possible Options: Martin Bakole or Fabio Wardley

After a long period of inactivity, Fury could opt for a preparation fight. A less risky opponent, but with enough renown, could be Bakole. Bakole, 33 years old, is looking for a big fight and has been Fury’s sparring partner. Bakole (21-2-1, 16 KOs) was defeated by Joseph Parker in February. Then, he drew with Efe Ajagba in May and has recently been linked to a possible clash with Joshua in Nigeria.

If Bakole were to face Joshua, Fury could be matched with Fabio Wardley. Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KOs) is a dangerous boxer, as he demonstrated by knocking out Justis Huni. Wardley is scheduled to face Parker on October 25.

The Least Desired Rival: Oleksandr Usyk

Fury feels a deep sense of injustice over the result of his rematch with Usyk, a feeling not shared by many in the media. Usyk, with two victories over Fury, continued his dominance with an impressive technical knockout victory in the fifth round over Dubois in July. Although Fury could seek a third fight against the undisputed champion, the most viable option would be a showdown with Joshua. Usyk has hinted that his retirement is near, which could tempt him to accept a lucrative fight before hanging up his gloves. However, Fury could earn more and have a better chance of beating Joshua, making a trilogy with Usyk less likely.

The Most Dangerous Fighter: 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 in August after Itauma’s victory over Dillian Whyte. Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs) could fight on December 13, but not against Fury.

The Unlikely Combat: 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 25th. Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) holds the WBO interim title and, if he defeats Wardley, could be next in line to face Usyk, in what could be Usyk’s last fight before retirement. However, Fury and Parker are good friends, and Parker even trains at Fury’s gym in Morecambe, England, and they share the same trainer, Andy Lee. Therefore, this is a fight that might not materialize.