Tyson Fury has hinted at possible retirement after his second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, but the prospect of a long-awaited showdown with Anthony Joshua in 2025 is gaining momentum. Speaking after his loss, Fury said: 'You might see me again, you might not. Who knows? We'll talk about that next year.'
Fury, 36, cut a more serious figure for the rematch, spending 12 weeks in Malta away from his family to focus entirely on avenging his earlier defeat. Despite a confident start and a four-stone weight advantage, he fell short as Usyk landed cleaner shots, winning 116-112 on all three judges' scorecards.
With a trilogy against Usyk unlikely, Fury's next move is uncertain. However, his performance showed no significant decline, and the biggest fight available is against fellow Briton Anthony Joshua. Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, said: 'Has there ever been a better time? They're both coming off defeats, both on the back end of their careers.'
Previous attempts to make the fight failed when both held world titles, but now there are no political obstacles. Joshua could rematch Daniel Dubois, but Dubois faces Joseph Parker in February and wants Usyk next. Both fighters need each other, and a Wembley Stadium clash would be a huge payday for the loser's likely retirement.
For Usyk, options include retirement or further fights, but the focus remains on whether Fury and Joshua will finally meet in 2025.
