Tyson Fury has confirmed his boxing return, announcing an April comeback fight in the UK against Arslanbek Makhmudov.
The former heavyweight world champion has confirmed he will return to the ring in April, ending his latest retirement with a comeback fight against Arslanbek Makhmudov in the UK.
Fury, 37, stepped away from boxing last year following back-to-back defeats against Oleksandr Usyk, but has now set a date for his return after months of training abroad.
Fury ready to return
Fury’s fight takes place on April 11, his first UK appearance since beating Derek Chisora in December 2022. It will also mark his first appearance since losing his rematch with Usyk in late 2024.
Fury has spent recent months training in Thailand as he prepares for what he has described as a busy year ahead. The plan, according to those close to him, is to fight three times in 2026.
“Excited to be back,” Fury said. “Heart’s always been and always will be in boxing. Someone go tell the king that the ace is back.”
The fight will be broadcast on Netflix, giving Fury another global platform as he begins his latest comeback.
Makhmudov, 36, represents a stern return opponent. The Russian-born heavyweight, who is based in Canada, has won 21 of his 23 professional fights, with 19 victories coming by knockout.
He last fought in October, beating Britain’s Dave Allen on points, though he has also suffered stoppage defeats earlier in his career.
Makhmudov labelled Fury a ‘big champion’ and said he relished the chance to share the ring with him.
Bigger fights on the horizon?
Fury’s return inevitably reopens discussion about what comes next. Many expected a long-talked-about showdown with Anthony Joshua this year, but a serious car crash in December that killed members of Joshua’s team has cast uncertainty over his future.
Joshua has since returned to light training, though promoter Eddie Hearn has said there will be no rush back to competition.
Another possible option for Fury later in the year is WBO champion Fabio Wardley, who upgraded his interim belt after Usyk vacated rather than make a mandatory defence.
