Tyson Fury has dramatically signalled his intent to return to the boxing ring, publicly targeting a trio of heavyweight rivals including long-time British foe Anthony Joshua.
The Gypsy King's Comeback and Three-Man Hitlist
Despite announcing his retirement from the sport in January 2025 following two consecutive defeats to Oleksandr Usyk, the 37-year-old from Morecambe appears to have performed another signature U-turn. Fury has been intensifying his training in recent months, with a current camp in Thailand fuelling speculation of a major return to action later this year.
The former two-time world heavyweight champion recently posted a telling image on his official Instagram account. The picture showed Fury staring down photographs of three potential opponents: Oleksandr Usyk, Anthony Joshua, and the new WBO champion, Fabio Wardley. This visual declaration confirms the 'Gypsy King's' ambitious plans for the next phase of his career.
Analysing the Potential Opponents
Fury's desire for a third fight with Ukrainian mastermind Usyk is well-documented, but the path is now clouded. Serhii Lapin, an advisor to Usyk, has suggested their rivalry is likely over. "Theoretically, it’s an interesting option, but for whom?" Lapin stated in October 2025. "In my opinion, that chapter is already closed."
The most fervently demanded fight in British boxing remains a showdown with Anthony Joshua. Hopes were raised last month when the pair reportedly agreed to a summer blockbuster. However, those plans are now under a dark cloud following a tragic car crash in Nigeria that killed two of Joshua's close friends. Fury's promoter, Frank Warren, admitted the bout may be delayed until late 2026, if it happens at all, citing the profound mental and physical impact on Joshua.
The third name on the list, Fabio Wardley, represents a fresh and dangerous challenge. Wardley secured the WBO title in spectacular fashion, scoring an eleventh-round knockout against Joseph Parker in October 2025. Fury himself has teased the match-up, writing on social media: "Big smoke for the GK after a long lay off could be an option for later in 2026. God willing."
What Comes Next for Fury?
As Fury continues his training regimen alongside WBC bridgerweight champion Kevin Lerena in Thailand, the boxing world waits to see which of these colossal fights materialises first. The landscape has shifted significantly since his retirement announcement, with new champions emerging and old rivalries taking on new complexities.
While a blockbuster domestic clash with Joshua captures the public's imagination, the practical and emotional fallout from Joshua's recent tragedy introduces significant uncertainty. Meanwhile, a fight with the hungry and powerful Wardley offers a direct route to a world title, and a Usyk trilogy remains the ultimate, if unlikely, chance for redemption. Fury's 2026 comeback promises to be one of the most compelling stories in sport, whichever direction he ultimately chooses.
