Tyson Fury, the charismatic former heavyweight champion, appears poised to reverse his decision to retire from boxing for an astonishing fifth time. The self-styled 'Gypsy King' is reportedly targeting a major return to the ring in 2026, just a year after announcing his latest departure from the sport.
From Netflix to the Ring: Fury's Latest Comeback Plans
Fury initially hung up his gloves in January 2025, following two consecutive defeats to his Ukrainian rival, Oleksandr Usyk. Since then, the 37-year-old from Morecambe has focused on expanding his property portfolio and filming the second series of his popular Netflix documentary, 'At Home With The Furys'.
However, the lure of competition has proven too strong. Rather than celebrating the new year in luxury, Fury was spotted honing his skills in Thailand, training alongside South African professional boxer Kevin Lerena. This intense camp signals serious intent for what is being billed as a mammoth comeback.
The fighter himself has not been shy about his ambitions, revealing a three-man hit list for potential 2026 bouts. This list includes a long-awaited domestic showdown with Anthony Joshua, a clash with British champion Fabio Wardley, and a trilogy fight to settle the score with Oleksandr Usyk. While no official date has been set, the boxing world is abuzz with speculation that Fury's fifth retirement is about to end.
A History of Goodbyes: Fury's Four Previous Retirements
First Retirement - 20 November 2013
Fury's first retirement announcement came over a decade ago, fuelled by frustration after his scheduled fight with David Haye was cancelled twice due to Haye's injuries. In a fiery social media post, Fury declared he was "officially retired," citing too many "b**** people" in the sport.
This retirement lasted only a matter of weeks. By February 2014, he was back, stopping Joey Abell in the fourth round at London's Copper Box Arena, seamlessly resuming a career that would later see him reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Second & Third Retirements - 2016 & 2017
After achieving his dream by dethroning long-reigning champion Wladimir Klitschko in November 2015, Fury's world unravelled. He struggled with deep depression and substance abuse issues, seeing his weight balloon and his boxing licence suspended.
During this tumultuous period, he announced his retirement twice. The first, in October 2016, was quickly dismissed as a prank. The second, in August 2017, seemed more final, with Fury posting a message of thanks to fans, signing off with "THE END."
His licence was reinstated in January 2018, and by June he was back, beginning a comeback trail that would lead to an epic draw with Deontay Wilder in Los Angeles later that year—a fight many believed he won.
Fourth Retirement - 23 April 2022
Following two spectacular knockout victories over Deontay Wilder to claim the WBC title and a dominant homecoming win against Dillian Whyte at a packed Wembley Stadium, Fury seemed genuinely content to walk away. After defeating Whyte, he stated, "I have fulfilled everything I've ever wanted to fulfil."
On his 34th birthday, he posted "Bon voyage" to boxing and relinquished his Ring magazine title. Yet, by the end of 2022, he was back in the ring, defeating Derek Chisora in a trilogy fight that few felt was necessary, proving his retirements are rarely permanent.
What Next for the Gypsy King?
The pattern is now well-established: Tyson Fury announces his retirement, enjoys a short period away from the sport, and then feels the irresistible pull of the ring. His planned 2026 return promises to be one of his most significant chapters yet.
A fight with Anthony Joshua remains the biggest commercial bout in British boxing history, while a third fight with Usyk offers a chance at redemption. A clash with the rising Fabio Wardley would be a fascinating passing-of-the-torch moment. One thing is certain: while Fury may retire, boxing never seems to retire from Tyson Fury. The Gypsy King's saga, filled with dramatic U-turns and comebacks, looks set to continue captivating the sports world.
