Tyson Fury has provided fresh insight into his latest boxing comeback, explicitly naming his preferred opponents as he intensifies training with the clear ambition of becoming a three-time heavyweight champion of the world. The British fighter, known for his multiple retirements and returns, is now firmly focused on the prize for 2026.
Fury's Dual Path to Championship Glory
The 'Gypsy King' has outlined that his route to a historic third world title involves one of two high-stakes clashes. He is targeting either a trilogy bout against the formidable Oleksandr Usyk, who currently holds the WBA, WBC, and IBF belts, or a domestic showdown with the undefeated Fabio Wardley, the reigning WBO champion.
Fury, now 37, appears undeterred by the challenge, stating his preparation is already in an advanced phase. "Preparation for battle and war, incoming," Fury declared, adding, "Three times!" He detailed a rigorous daily regimen that included a four-mile run, fifteen rounds of boxing, followed by recovery protocols like massage and ice baths.
Training Philosophy and Injury Prevention
Emphasising a holistic approach to his camp, Fury explained his philosophy on sustained performance. "I think that your recovery and your preparation in between and after training is as important as the actual training," he said.
"I know everyone's going to try and work hard in the gym but if you can't work hard tomorrow and the next day after that, then it's a problem," Fury noted, underscoring the importance of consistency. He advocates for proactive measures, stating, "Prevention is worth more than cure, and I'm trying to prevent injuries early on in my camp."
The Landscape of the Heavyweight Division
The heavyweight scene is poised for significant activity this year, with multiple narratives unfolding. Usyk has not competed since his brutal knockout victory over Briton Daniel Dubois at Wembley last summer, a win that cemented his status as a three-time undisputed world champion.
Meanwhile, Fabio Wardley, who remains unbeaten in 21 professional fights, has responded to Fury's ambitions. Speaking to BBC Sport, Wardley suggested, "He (Fury) wants a little warm-up fight and then to try and grab a world title around the summer time."
Wardley acknowledged the limited options, stating, "There's only two options for that - me and Usyk. As a plan he might try to snatch mine off me and then try and get hold of the Usyk fight again."
Other Contenders and Potential Shifts
Further adding to the division's intrigue, WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman has indicated that Deontay Wilder, another former champion vowing a comeback, is "welcome" to challenge Usyk for the WBC belt he once possessed. Reports from Brunch Boxing suggest Wilder is in discussions to face British veteran Derek Chisora this Spring, potentially reigniting his career.
Should Usyk vacate another title, Fury's path to a third crown could see alternative avenues open up. Concurrently, Wardley is expected to defend his WBO belt against another contender before any potential blockbuster meeting with 'The Gypsy King' materialises.
As Fury's comeback gathers undeniable pace, the boxing world watches closely to see which champion he will ultimately face in his quest for a historic third heavyweight world title.
