Tyson Fury has brushed off suggestions he is out of shape as he officially begins training for his latest return to professional boxing, scheduled for 2026.
Fury Dismisses Weight Critics Ahead of Comeback
The former two-time world heavyweight champion, who announced last week he was ending his retirement, responded directly to fans who said he looked "hench, chubby, fat" in recent footage. In a social media video, the British fighter was defiant about his physique.
"Well, welcome to my world. Never been any different," Fury stated. "Beat everybody with a fat belly, never been any different. Never made any odds before, why should it make any odds today?"
Fury revealed he currently weighs around 20 stone but plans to get down to under 19 stone for his competitive return. He acknowledged the challenge of coming back after a significant layoff, noting he has been out of the ring for a year and could be absent for up to 16 months if he fights in the first quarter of 2026.
"That’s a long time for a man 37 years old, 38 this year," Fury added. "Let’s see if I still got it!"
Seeking Redemption After Usyk Defeats
Fury's last fights were two high-profile losses to the undefeated unified champion, Oleksandr Usyk, in 2024. The Ukrainian outpointed Fury twice within eight months, handing the 'Gypsy King' the first two defeats of his professional career.
The first loss in December 2024 was a split decision, while the rematch saw Usyk win by unanimous decision. Fury, who weighed in at 20.1 stone while clothed for the second bout, contested both results. He has since expressed a desire for a trilogy fight with Usyk.
Potential Opponents and Joshua Plans on Hold
While a third Usyk bout remains a goal, Fury and his promoter, Frank Warren, have named other potential opponents for the comeback. These include WBO champion Fabio Wardley and heavyweight contender Arslanbek Makhmudov.
Plans for a blockbuster all-British clash with Anthony Joshua later in 2026 are currently uncertain. This follows a tragic car accident in Nigeria in December, shortly after Joshua knocked out Jake Paul and called out Fury.
In the crash, two of Joshua's friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif 'Latz' Ayodele, lost their lives. Joshua sustained minor injuries. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, has since asked for privacy, stating now is a time for "faith and prayer and healing" rather than discussing boxing futures.
Fury now focuses on his training camp, aiming to prove his critics wrong once more and reclaim his status at the top of the sport's glamour division.
