Tyson Fury completed the first stage of his latest comeback with a comprehensive unanimous decision victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov in Tottenham on Saturday night. The 37-year-old former world heavyweight champion was too fast, fluid and accurate for the lumbering Russian, with the judges scoring it 120-108, 120-108 and 119-109.
Fury, who has retired five times previously, dominated throughout and was barely troubled by Makhmudov, who showed durability but little else. By the final round, Fury was showboating to the crowd and praised his opponent's effort at the final bell. The victory sets up a potential showdown with Anthony Joshua, who was at ringside.
In the post-fight interview, Fury roared his challenge in typical WWE style, saying: “Let's give the fans what they want!” Joshua, however, appeared nettled and demurred, calling his British rival “a clout chaser”. He later told Netflix: “Contracts are being sent over and you'll probably see us in the ring next, more than likely.” Asked about a possible warm-up fight, he added: “That [Fury] could be a warm-up fight, based on what I saw tonight.”
Earlier on the undercard, Conor Benn beat Regis Prograis by unanimous decision, calling for a fight with Ryan Garcia next. Benn, who fought through head clashes, said: “I want my WBC belt by fighting [Ryan] Garcia next. Ryan, keep it warm for me.”
