Boxing has been crying out for a Tyson Fury comeback – but here’s why he should be wary of his Russian opponent: JEFF POWELL
They always come back. As we always say.
Tyson Fury always, always, always, always, always comes back.
The Gypsy King is emerging from his fifth abdication, hibernation and isolation from the prize ring.
For his first fight in nigh-on a year. For his first fight in England for four years. For his first fight as a resident of the Isle of Man tax haven. To reactions as mixed as the ingredients of his native Lancashire hot pot.
In this case curiosity, irritation, delight, horror, cheers, groans, hoorahs and hah-hahs. Probably to the anxiety of his wonderful wife.
But to no surprise whatsoever. Since it is for all manner of reasons.
The fight will be Fury’s first since he lost his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024
Yes, for even more noughts on the end of his bank accounts.
But also for reappearing in the spotlight which this natural-born showman has been missing. For the roar of the crowd and the smell of the resin. For the thrill of the battle to which he admits being addicted when he says: ‘The bottom line is I am a fighting man.’
Born in his bones and bred within the Fury clan, he might have added.
And for his legacy if he can join the most elite of the ring elites by becoming a three-time world heavyweight champion.
So this will not be his only fight this time around.
Be sure Anthony Joshua will be ready and waiting for their fight which should have happened at least a couple of Fury retirements ago. Which will fill the coffers of Wembley Stadium with the winner being recycled towards a title fight.
Always assuming Fury wins on April 18.
The opponent is not the very soft touch some are painting. Russia’s Canada-based Arslanbek Makhmudov’s most notable victory came when he was stretched to a points decision by UK fan favourite Dave Allen. He has been beaten twice and is half a foot shorter than the Tyson mountain.
But he is rough, tough and carries a punch which has knocked out 19 of his 21 victims.
And love him or hate him, the general public as well as well as the boxing fraternity will be watching.
Call it a fatal attraction but this sport needs another injection of this huge personality.
