TYSON FURY CLAIMS ANTHONY JOSHUA WAS 'PULLED OUT' OF THEIR INFAMOUS SPARRING SESSION AFTER 'TURNING AWAY'

Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are on a collision course.

Providing Fury beats Polish veteran Mariusz Wach on Friday in Thailand and Joshua overcomes little-known Albanian Kristian Prenga a day later in Saudi Arabia, plans have been hatched for the pair to meet in late 2026.

Joshua and Fury are one fight away from finally meeting under the bright lightsCredit: Getty

While fans have been waiting a decade to see the Brits finally lock horns, it won't mark the first time they have traded leather.

Back in 2010, long before either man had carved out their glittering résumés, Fury and Joshua sparred at Finchley Boxing Club.

Fury admitted at the time that Joshua put a "beating" on him for three rounds before he rallied with an onslaught to the body.

When asked to recollect the spar by BoxingScene out in Pattaya, Thailand on Wednesday, his memory was a little more hazy.

However, he insists that Joshua was pulled out in round four after "turning away".

Tyson Fury recalls Anthony Joshua sparring session

"He was an amateur boxer, and I was a pro, maybe 10-0 or something, so there wasn't much to think about," said Fury.

"There was [sic] a lot of people there, so there was [sic] a lot of witnesses there.

"I remember him putting his legs up in the ropes after about three rounds, turning away in the corner...

"I've sparred maybe 400 or 500 heavyweights; I don't remember much of any of them really.

"The vivid memory I do have of it, though, is in about round three, he started putting legs up, and in round four he started putting his knees up in the corner, and I was like 'What the f*** is this?'

Joshua was an amateur when he sparred Fury and was still two years off winning Olympic goldCredit: GETTY

"Then they pulled him out and put somebody else in."

Fury didn't mention Joshua being pulled out when he spoke to BBC Radio London a few weeks after the spar.

Tyson Fury's recollection at the time

“He's red hot, him, he’s very good. To be honest with you, I thought to myself, ‘I’m only going to take it easy as he’s an amateur and we probably won’t spar again if I go mad'," said Fury in 2010.

“He’s rushed out at me, he threw a one-two and a left hook, and I slipped. I thought, 'He’s not that good, I’m going to take my time.'

“Then, bash, he gives me a big uppercut right on the point of the chin.

"If I'd have had a bit of a weak chin like David Price, I'd have been knocked out for a month.

Fury was 10 fights deep into his professional careerCredit: Getty

“He’s very, very good and he's only young, 20, watch out for that name Anthony Joshua, he is one prospect for the future.

“He came out at me for three rounds, and he gave me a beating - I’m not going to deny it, he gave me hell for leather for three rounds.

"I thought ‘Oh my god, an amateur is killing me.’ Being a professional, and I’ve been an amateur myself and fought all over the world, I slowed him down a bit with a few good body shots.

“The kid's only 20, and I’m a handful myself, so for him to put up a good performance like that against a top prospect in me, I think he’s one for the future.”

What did Anthony Joshua say about sparring Tyson Fury?

In 2016, AJ gave his own version of events.

"I used to read the Boxing News religiously, like I still do. In the magazine I remember reading, 'Tyson Fury's going around different gyms sparring, and if anyone can knock him out, they get to keep his Rolex,'" Joshua told Sky Sports.

"I'm hungry. I'm still hungry now; if you know me, I'm hungry.

- George Glinski

ANTHONY JOSAHUA AND TYSON FURVY TOLD THEIR FIGHT WILL BE CANCELED

Anthony Joshua has signed to fight Tyson Fury this autumn but must first beat Kristian Prenga in July in his first fight since he was involved in a car crash

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury will fight this year(Image: Getty)

Kristian Prenga has vowed to beat Anthony Joshua and ensure his fight with Tyson Fury never happens.

Joshua has signed to fight Fury this autumn but must first take on unknown heavyweight Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia in July. Fury is also considering taking a warm-up fight despite returning to the ring just last month when he outpointed Arslanbek Makhmudov in his first fight for 16 months.

And Prenga has promised to upset the odds against Joshua and prevent him from finally facing Fury. Everybody is talking about Joshua vs. Fury as if this fight is just a formality, which is a very dangerous mindset in heavyweight boxing. One punch changes everything in this division," he told Casinolyze.

"I am not showing up for a payday or a photo-op, I am coming to win the fight. By winning, I will smash the biggest fight in British boxing history overnight. The world needs to understand that I am not a manufactured fighter. I am a real fighter who has earned everything through hard work. I fight for my family, my supporters, for Albania, and now I fight for every person who has ever been overlooked or underestimated.

"A victory changes everything: financially, professionally, and historically. But more than anything, it proves that belief, toughness, and perseverance still matter in this sport. For sure I am being overlooked, but that’s fine. The people overlooking me today will be the same people pretending they always knew how dangerous I was afterward. Being doubted fuels me."

Joshua will be fighting for the first time since he cheated death in a car crash in Nigeria last December. And Prenga admits he is unsure as to which version of the former world champion he will face. "That’s one of the big questions heading into the fight," he added.

"Earlier in his career, Joshua fought with more freedom and aggression. In recent years he’s become more cautious at times, probably because of some of the setbacks he’s had. We’ll see which version shows up. I am prepared for the very best version possible.

"I’m not going to disrespect Anthony Joshua because he’s accomplished a lot in this sport. But like every heavyweight, he has vulnerabilities. We believe pressure, pace, and forcing exchanges can expose things that don’t show up when he’s controlling the fight comfortably behind the jab."

- Martin Domin

WEALTHIEST BRITISH SPORTS STARS

 

FRANK WARREN DROPS CONTRACT BOMBSHELL THAT STOPS DANA WHITE FROM PROMOTING ANTHONY JOSAHUA VS TYSON FURY

 

Frank Warren has poured cold water on Dana White's claims that he will promote Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury.

Warren told assembled media on Saturday night, after Daniel Dubois' gutsy stoppage win over Fabio Wardley, that it is contractually impossible for the Zuffa Boxing chief to be involved in such a capacity.

Joshua and Fury have signed to fight each other after their respective tune-up fightsCredit: Getty

"Well, he's not [promoting Joshua vs Fury] because the contract with Tyson says that Zuffa will not be able to promote that fight," said Warren.

"I don't know [where he has got that from]. Ask him. I mean, it is just b******."

When Warren's comments were put to White at the Zuffa Boxing 06 post-fight press conference on Sunday, he quipped: "Then he must be right."

"I'm going to leave that alone," he added. "Apparently, I'm not the promoter, according to some people."

Queensberry vs Zuffa Boxing

Earlier this year, Warren threatened legal action against Saudi Arabian state-owned entertainment and hospitality company Sela and TKO Group Holdings, the American media conglomerate that owns the UFC and WWE.

TKO inked a five-year partnership with Sela and Saudi powerbroker Turki Alalshikh to form Zuffa Boxing last year.

Warren alleged in a 'letter before action' sent to relevant parties that the joint venture breached contracts that his promotional outfit, Queensberry, had signed with the Saudis and TKO.

Queensberry claims to have signed an exclusive deal with Sela in September 2023 to provide boxing services.

Warren's company says it also reached a separate agreement with TKO, granting the sports giant access to Queenberry's online data, including details of its contract with Sela.

Queensberry alleges that TKO and Sela used privileged information to go behind its back to create their new entity.

Warren has threatened legal action against TKO and SelaCredit: Mark Robinson/Matchroom

There has been no development on the case since February, when it was revealed Warren was preparing legal action.

Alalshikh and Warren sat next to each other at ringside for Fury's comeback fight with Arslanbek Makhmudov, and will work together for Joshua vs Fury, which is being targeted for the back end of the year after both men participate in tune-up fights.

Discussing the current state of his relationship with the Saudis during a recent appearance on the Ariel Helwani Show, Warren said: "Riyadh Season for me was a blast, everyone cooperated to put on some great shows, and I enjoyed it.

"But things are what they are, and you have to keep evolving and moving on.

"They are talking about Agit [Kabayel] fighting [Oleksandr] Usyk, and Agit is with us, so if that is going to happen, then we are going to have to work together on it.

"The same with Hamzah Sheeraz, it's the same thng."

- George Glinski

JAKE PAUL CALLED OUT BY FORMER JOSHUA AND FURY OPPONENT: "I NEED TO HANDLE HIM"

Jake Paul has been targeted for a showdown with a former rival of Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury as he prepares to make his return to action.

‘The Problem Child’ has been inactive since he suffered a brutal sixth round stoppage defeat to two-time unified heavyweight champion Joshua at the Kaseya Center in Miami back in December.

Paul recently underwent successful surgery after ‘AJ’ broke the American’s jaw in two places after landing a thunderous right hand to close the show on their controversial heavyweight bout on December 19.

The 29-year-old from Cleveland is expected to make his return to the ring before the end of the year however and has been targeted for a potential showdown with former UFC world heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, who has suffered defeats to both Fury and Joshua during his own boxing career.

Speaking to Sky Sports Boxing, Ngannou admitted that he would be open to facing Paul in the future as he vows to ‘handle’ the former Youtube sensation should their paths cross in the future.

“Well, at first I wasn’t so excited. I wasn’t looking into that, but I think at some point I need to handle him, you know? I think I need to handle him. I think I can kick his ass if I might say so, if I’m allowed to say so.”

Ngannou is yet to step foot back in a boxing ring since he suffered a second round stoppage defeat to Joshua at the Kingdom Arena in Saudi Arabia back in March of 2024.

The 39-year-old Cameroonian is in line to make his MMA return this month when he faces Brazil’s Philipe Lins in a five-round bout on the undercard of Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano on Saturday May 16.

- Kailem Lowe

FIVE BOXERS TYSON FURY COULD FACE BEFORE ANTHONY JOSAHUA FIGHT AS FRANK WARREN CONFIRMS PLANS

Fans could see Tyson Fury back in the ring before a blockbuster fight against Anthony Joshua later this year... but against who?

Tyson Fury is set to fight Anthony Joshua(Image: (Mark Robinson/Getty Images))

1. The heavyweights in the frame: Staying active: Tyson Fury has reportedly instructed Frank Warren to secure an interim date to avoid the ring rust that plagued his early rounds against Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. It has been said that the Gypsy King feels that a second training camp this year could be essential for his mental discipline and physical conditioning before facing a revitalised Joshua.

2. Makhmudov rematch: A second bout with Makhmudov may remain a viable fallback option given the Russian's durability and the commercial success of their first encounter on Netflix. While Fury won convincingly on the scorecards, Makkmudov's early aggression provided the exact type of hair-raising moments that keep the public engaged.

3. Big Bang threat: Zhilei Zhang stands out as a highly feasible candidate because his southpaw stance and massive power would offer Fury the ultimate tactical dress rehearsal. Despite being in the twilight of his career, 'Big Bang' remains a top-tier gatekeeper whose involvement would draw massive international viewership and test Fury's defensive reflexes.

4. The Bakole challenge: Choosing Martin Bakole would silence critics who claim Fury is looking for an easy touch, as the Congolese giant possesses the engine and physical size to make every round a gruelling chore. The 32-year-old hasn't fought since his draw against Efe Ajagba in May 2025.

5. Joshua's risky tune-up: Anthony Joshua is set to face the Albanian Kristian Prenga in Riyadh on July 25, a fight that Frank Warren warned could "kill" the Fury bout if an upset occurs. Because Prenga boasts a formidable knockout ratio, the entire 2026 boxing calendar rests on Joshua successfully navigating this dangerous hurdle without sustaining an injury.

6. WBC interim situation: Agit Kabayel currently holds a position of power as the WBC interim champion, making a fight with Fury logically consistent for the governing body's rankings. A victory over Kabayel would allow Fury to walk into the Joshua fight as the undisputed focus of the WBC, removing any political obstacles regarding mandatory challengers.

7. British domestic clash: Fabio Wardley remains a dark horse for the interim slot due to his recent surge in popularity and his status as a fellow Queensberry-promoted fighter. A domestic showdown with Wardley - who faces Daniel Dubois next week - would serve as a perfect "Battle of Britain" appetiser, though some believe the risk of a domestic upset is too high for such a late stage in negotiations.

8. Timing and logistics: The proposed interim fight would likely need to take place in late summer or early autumn to allow for a three-month recovery and preparation window before the Joshua clash. This tight turnaround requires an opponent who is already in active training and ready to sign a contract without prolonged promotional disputes.

9. Saudi Arabian backing: Most of these potential matchups are contingent on the support of Riyadh Season, which has become the primary financial engine for the heavyweight division's biggest events. Regardless of whether the fight lands in London or Saudi Arabia, the organisers are keen to ensure both Fury and Joshua enter their final 2026 clash at their absolute best.

10. READ THE FULL STORY ON ANTHONY JOSHUA'S DIG AT TYSON FURY: Tyson Fury immediately takes dig from Anthony Joshua as two fights announced

- Fasika Zelealem

FRANK WARREN: TYSON FURY ASKING FOR WARM-UP FIGHT BEFORE FACING ANTHONY JOSAHUA

Fury ended a 14-month hiatus from boxing earlier this month when he beat Arslanbek Makhmudov on points.

Fury ended a 14-month hiatus from boxing earlier this month when he beat Arslanbek Makhmudov on points.

Tyson Fury has instructed his team to arrange another warm-up fight before a ‘Battle of Britain’ with long-standing rival Anthony Joshua.

Fury ended a 14-month hiatus this month when he got the better of Arslanbek Makhmudov on points at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and subsequently traded verbal insults with a ringside Joshua.

It ramped up excitement ahead of an eagerly anticipated domestic bout which has been years in the making and this week Joshua signed a contract to finally fight Fury, but another potential spanner in the works has emerged.

Joshua was already set for a tune-up bout on July 25 with Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga which Queensberry promoter Frank Warren suggested could “kill” any contest with Fury later in 2026 if an upset occurred.

However, Warren has confirmed Fury also intends to step back in the ring before he faces Joshua in a move which casts further doubt on the bout and increases the risk of an injury for either British heavyweight.

“I think he will probably want to be doing something in between, let’s see,” Warren said.

“AJ has got his fight. Tyson, I’m quite sure, will have a fight in between. That’s what he’s asking for and we’ll see where we go from there.”

- George Sessions

TYSON FURVY VS. ARSLANBEK MAKHAMUDOV | FULL FIGHT HIGHLIGHTS

 

TYSON FURVY VS ARSLANBEK MAKHAMUDOV | TALE OF THE TAPE

 

TALKS ARE UNDERWAY FOR TYSON FURY V ANTHONY JOSHUA FIGHT AT CROCK PARK IN WHAT COULD BE KATIE TAYLOR'S FAREWELL SHOW

 

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury could be set to meet at Croke Park (Zac Goodwin/Bradley Collyer/PA)

Rumours that Anthony Joshua’s long-awaited heavyweight fight against Tyson Fury could be staged in Dublin later this year have been rippling through the boxing grapevine over the last few weeks and now it has been confirmed that talks are underway to stage the contest at Croke Park in September.

Fury will make his return to boxing when he takes on Russian Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday night and he has been speaking about the prospect of finally facing Joshua later this year in the build-up to the fight.

The two British fighters have come close to a showdown on numerous occasions in the past, but deals for the fight to take place have fallen through.

Now influential Saudi Arabian promoter Turki Alalshikh is pushing to get the fight into the diary at last, with Dublin appearing to be the favoured venue for the fight.

A Joshua vs Fury bout in Dublin would also give Katie Taylor a chance to realise her last big dream of a fight at Croke Park, with the stadium’s chief executive Peter McKenna telling the BBC that a deal is being negotiated.

"The real hope is that we will get Tyson Fury here later on in the year. That would be such a world-billing event that we would be able to facilitate a Katie Taylor fight here," said McKenna.

"A lot of stars need to align. Katie's manager needs to agree, Katie's promoter needs to agree, Tyson Fury's promoter needs to agree.

"I am very confident that all three are coming to the sense that this is one of Ireland's greatest sporting athletes and it would be such a 'wow' to have her here and for her to finish her career here."

Security costs have been cited as one of the reasons why Taylor has been denied the chance to fight at Croke Park throughout her professional career, with her promoter Eddie Hearn failing to reach an agreement to allow the Bray-born boxer to fight in front of what is certain to be a sell-out crowd.

Joshua’s last fight came against YouTuber Jake Paul last December and he has yet to confirm when he will make a return to the ring after he was involved in a fatal car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends.

- Kevin Palmer

SOME OF 15 RICHEST BOXERS OF ALL TIME

 

TYSON FURY DISCUSSING A POTENTIAL RETURN TO THE RING WITH YOUTUBE CHANNEL FUROCITV

 

RICKY HUTTON FUNERAL: SON CAMPBELL PAYS AN EMOTIONAL TRIBUTE TO IN MEMORIAL SERVICE

A funeral procession started at the Cheshire Cheese pub and was led by the famous Reliant Robin van from Only Fools and Horses.

The coffin of Ricky Hatton is carried into Manchester Cathedral, by his brother Matthew Hatton, front right, and son Campbell Hatton, front left (Danny Lawson/PA) (PA Wire)

Ricky Hatton’s son Campbell paid an emotional tribute to the former two-weight world champion at his funeral in Manchester, saying: “I can’t explain how much I’m going to miss you, dad.”

Hatton, a popular, larger-than-life character who unified the light-welterweight division and also won a world welterweight title, was found dead aged 46 at his home in Hyde on September 14.

Campbell Hatton, who followed his father into boxing and won 14 of his 16 professional fights before retiring this year, said at the memorial service: “I can’t explain how much I’m going to miss you, dad, and that we won’t be making any new memories – but the ones we did I will cherish for ever.”

A funeral procession started at 9.45am at the Cheshire Cheese pub – Hatton’s local – and was led by the famous Reliant Robin van from Only Fools and Horses. Hatton was a huge fan of the show and once bought one of the original three-wheelers for £4,000.

The cortege included stops at Hatton’s boxing gym and the AO Arena, where he enjoyed some of his finest moments, the highlight indisputably being a win over the celebrated Kostya Tszyu on a raucous night 20 years ago to capture his first world title.

Thousands of mourners lined the streets in Manchester to pay tribute to Hatton, with a private memorial service at the city’s cathedral starting at midday.

In attendance was Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher, a long-time friend of Hatton who accompanied him on his ring walk alongside brother Noel against Paulie Malignaggi in Las Vegas in 2008.

The great and good of British boxing also turned out, with Tyson Fury, Tony Bellew and Frank Bruno, as well as former England cricket captain Andrew Flintoff and former Manchester United and England star Wayne Rooney, arriving at the cathedral.

Also among the mourners was Hatton’s former trainer Billy Graham, from whom he was virtually inseparable on his journey from the amateur ranks to the top of the boxing world.

Hatton’s mother Carol said in a statement read on her behalf at the service: “‘The Hitman’ was adored by his army of fans – the People’s Champion, and he would say that’s how he would want to be remembered.

“Long before this accolade he was our little champion from the day he was born.”

Following the service, the commemorative march will head to the Etihad Stadium, the home of Hatton’s beloved Manchester City.

Hatton’s all-action style brought him 45 wins and three defeats from 48 contests, but it was his down-to-earth demeanour that especially endeared him to fellow professionals and fans around the world.

That was evidenced by tens of thousands following him to Las Vegas, where he fought the two pound-for-pound greatest fighters of his era in Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, with stories of UK fans singing ‘there’s only one Ricky Hatton’ and drinking Sin City dry going down in boxing folklore.

Hatton suffered his first professional defeat when he was stopped by Mayweather in 2007, while a vicious second-round knockout by Pacquiao two years later precipitated his fall from top-level boxing.

A misguided comeback attempt against Vyacheslav Senchenko in 2012 marked the first public admission Hatton was struggling to cope in retirement.

He was a tireless ambassador for mental health charities as well as Manchester-based Barnabus, which supports homeless and vulnerable people, and turned his hand to being a successful trainer in an attempt to fill the void.

Having participated in a no-scoring exhibition against Mexico’s Marco Antonio Barrera in 2022, Hatton announced in July he would return to the ring in a professional bout in Dubai in December.

He had resumed training and his family said he had been “in a good place” and “excited for the future” before his death, for which Greater Manchester Police said there were no suspicious circumstances.

- David Charlesworth

OLEKSANSANDR USYK LAST FIVE FIGHS

ANTHONY JOSHUA HAS SEVEN-MAN SHORTLIST FOR NEXT FIGHT AFTER TUSON FURY RETIREMENT

Anthony Joshua has no fight planned (Image: Getty Images)

Anthony Joshua has been left in limbo following Tyson Fury's shock retirement - but has a number of possible options for his next fight, according to Eddie Hearn

Eddie Hearn has insisted Anthony Joshua is not short of options for his next bout, even if Tyson Fury remains retired.

In a stunning turn of events on Monday, Fury announced he was stepping away from boxing. The 'Gypsy King' chose to retire following his defeat in the rematch against Oleksandr Usyk last month in Riyadh. "Hi everybody, I'm going to make this short and sweet," Fury declared. "I'd like to announce my retirement from boxing, it has been a blast, I've loved every single minute of it and I'm going to end with this; Dick Turpin wore a mask."

This move by Fury scuppers any hopes for a much-anticipated all-British clash with Joshua. Nonetheless, speaking to The Sun, Joshua's promoter assured fans that 'AJ' has a wealth of potential contenders for his forthcoming fight. Among the names mentioned are Martin Bakole, Dillian Whyte, Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, Agit Kabayel, Daniel Dubois, and Joseph Parker. Joshua suffered a knockout at the hands of Dubois in their September showdown.Since then, 'Triple D' has expressed interest in a rematch with 'AJ', which seemed set for February. However, Hearn has indicated that Joshua isn't ready for the rematch just yet due to minor injuries sustained in their initial encounter.

Dubois is now set to clash with Parker in Riyadh on February 22 in a much-anticipated duel. This heavyweight encounter has the potential to pave the way for one of them to face Joshua next. Post their 2018 match-up, Parker would relish the chance to even the score with 'AJ' should he prevail against 'Triple D'. Meanwhile, Bakole issued a blistering challenge to Joshua and is now seen as a possible opponent for the Watford-born pugilist.

The two have sparred previously, and at 31, Bakole cements his top-contender status after defeating Jared Anderson. He taunted Joshua, saying: "Anthony Joshua, I called you out. I wanted to knock you out," and "Now you're talking s**** to say Ajagba is going to beat me. "Shame on you. How many times did I call you out? How many times did I ask you to fight in Africa? You should be ashamed of yourself. I want to fight you. I want to knock you out. Look at Daniel Dubois, I broke his nose twice. He knocked you out cold. If you fight me, I'll knock you out in the first round.

"You're talking about Ajagba. Ajagba is a baby. Wait till you see how I knock him out. I invite you to be there. You're talking s***. I want to fight you. Stop talking nonsense. Now you're saying you're Nigerian. You're not British anymore? I'll knock you out. I'm an African giant. I'm an African warrior. After knocking out Ajagba, I will knock you out as well."

A rematch with Whyte could be on the cards, as boxing enthusiasts believe it would be the ideal warm-up fight before taking on the division's top stars. A match with Wilder would be fascinating given their long-standing feud. 'The Bronze Bomber' is aiming for a comeback and one significant victory could enhance his chances of another high-profile bout. Both Zhang and Kabayel are set to face off next month for the WBC interim title - with the belt ensuring them a shot at Usyk's title or the opportunity to be promoted should the Ukrainian relinquish the gold strap.

- JAMES EVANS

WHY TYSON FURY REFERENCED DICK TURPIN DURING RETIREMENT SPEECH at

Tyson Fury has announced his shock retirement from boxing with a reference to a historical figure, Dick Turpin, that left many wondering about the meaning of his words as he enters a new chapter of his life.

The idea of the Gypsy King stepping away from the ring was a massive topic of conversation after his second consecutive defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, failing to reclaim the titles he once held, particularly as Fury seemed quite vague about his future. For a brief period of time, there was a belief that he'd be back, but alas, reality struck with a post from the Mancunian on his social media, announcing he was retiring.

His post on his Instagram was as follows: "Hi everybody, I'm going to make this short and sweet, I'd like to announce my retirement from boxing. It has been a blast, I've loved every single minute of it, and I'm going to end with this: Dick Turpin wore a mask."

Who is Dick Turpin & Why Tyson Fury Referenced Him

Not many overseas boxing fans will be aware of Dick Turpin

While the main message was clear, there was some confusion around the mention of Dick Turpin, a figure that not many boxing fans may be aware of, especially if they aren't from the UK like Fury is. After all, Turpin is no boxing legend, but a bandit from the 1700s who had to operate under a false name to avoid getting caught, yet became a sort of legend after his execution, who has multiple fictional works made about his life.

The reference to a thief who hides his true identity is a surprise addition to a retirement announcement, but there is a common belief as to what Fury might be insinuating. The last we had heard from Fury publicly was the post-fight press conference after the second bout with Usyk, where he not only gave little indication about his future, but also made his feelings abundantly clear about the judges of the fight.

Having lost via unanimous decision, with all three judges' scores in favour of his Ukrainian rival, Fury was adamant about being robbed, claiming that the judges gave Usyk an early Christmas present. The frustration of the Manchester-native was clear in multiple behind-the-scenes clips, as both fights against his foe ended in the wrong way despite his belief that he had done enough to deserve the victory on both occasions.

Reaction to Tyson Fury's Retirement

Is this really the end of the Gypsy King, or is there another twist to be had?

The reaction to the retirement of the Gypsy King is full of heartwarming statements from both fans and professionals alike, such was the respect and reputation of one of the finest fighters to ever grace the heavyweight class of boxing. But many are also not buying into the idea that this is truly the end of the road for Fury. After all, we've been here before, haven't we? Numerous times as well!

It is clear that the reality of the Usyk fights will sting with the legendary Brit for some more time as Fury heads into a new chapter of his life, away from the boxing ring. But what cannot be taken away is his impact on the sport and the shows that he put on in his bouts that wowed fans, not just in the UK, but also worldwide.

And if the past has been any indication, this may not be the end of the story. The dream fight with Anthony Joshua is still a possibility despite the retirement, and one that could coax Fury to return for one last time. Joshua has already said that he wants to fight his compatriot this year, so there may be one last fight left in the legend after all. Keep those fingers crossed.

- Alp Salfur

5 OF TYSON FURY'S MIST MEMORABLE FIGHTS AS HE ANNOUNCES LATEST RETIREMENT

Tyson Fury is a former WBC heavyweight champion (Bradley Collyer/PA)

Two-time world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has announced his latest retirement from boxing.

Here, the PA news agency looks at five of Fury’s most memorable fights, following a decorated career in which he won 34 of his 37 contests, losing only to Ukrainian rival Oleksandr Usyk twice.

Wladimir Klitschko, November 2015, Dusseldorf – UD win

Tyson Fury (right) defeated long-reigning world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko (Simon Cooper/PA)

Few gave the young British upstart much of a chance against another Ukrainian in Klitschko, who came into the bout unbeaten in 11 years and with 19 successful defences as world champion. However, he was deposed as WBA, IBF and WBO titlist by Fury, who proved too slick and elusive across 12 scrappy rounds.

Deontay Wilder I, December 2018, Los Angeles – draw

Deontay Wilder (right) and Fury fought to a draw in Los Angeles (Lionel Hahn/PA)

Fury was again the underdog in his first serious test after 30 months out of action. He survived being dropped in the ninth then rose to his feet – resembling WWE wrestler The Undertaker – after seemingly being knocked out in the 12th to hear the final bell. Fury seemed the superior boxer in many, if not all, of the other rounds but was denied a victory for the ages and Wilder’s WBC title by the judges.

Deontay Wilder II, February 2020, Las Vegas – TKO-7 win

Fury (right) overpowered Wilder in their second meeting (Bradley Collyer/PA)

Wilder’s reputation as one of the hardest all-time heavyweight hitters held no fear for Fury. Deciding his best course of action was to bully the bully, Fury used his 40-plus pound weight advantage to back up Wilder, sending him crashing to the canvas in rounds three and five. The American was put out of his misery when his corner threw in the towel as Fury claimed victory by a means no one saw coming.

Deontay Wilder III, October 2021, Las Vegas – KO-11 win

Wilder (right) was once again no match for Fury (Bradley Collyer/PA)

A trilogy no one wanted – and only mandated by an arbitration judge – produced a jaw-dropping epic, featuring five knockdowns but with Fury still on top of the world. Fury looked set for an early night when he put down Wilder in the third but was then dropped twice in the next round by Wilder’s trademark big right hand. Fury wore his opponent down and ended their rivalry with a chopping right of his own.

Oleksandr Usyk, May 2024, Riyadh – SD loss

Oleksandr Usyk (left) ended Fury’s unbeaten record as a professional (Nick Potts/PA)

The undisputed heavyweight title was on the line for the first time of the century – and first in the four-belt era. Fury, who boasted significant height, reach and weight advantages, looked to be in control at the halfway point after sustained body attacks buckled his foe. But Usyk stormed back, with Fury given a standing count at the end of the ninth and saved by the bell after being sent reeling around the ring. A barnstorming finish ensued but Usyk was given the nod on the judges’ scorecards.

- PA Sport Staff

BREAKING: TYSON FURY RETIRES FROM BOXING IN BITTER BLOW TO ANTHONY JOSHUA'S HOPES OF FIGHT

Tyson Fury recently lost to heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk for the second time and after the fight the British boxer revealed that he'd need to consider his future in the sport.

Tyson Fury has announced his retirement from boxing for the third time in a fresh bombshell statement.

Fury, 36, has been heavily tipped to fight fellow British heavyweight Anthony Joshua in 2025 but it appears that bout is no longer on the cards. The 'Gypsy King' lost his last fight in December to heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, the second time he'd been defeated by the Ukrainian. 

Fury made the announcement in a short video which he posted on social media on Monday afternoon.

"Hi everybody, I'm going to make this short and sweet," he said to the camera. "I'd like to announce my retirement from boxing. It's been a blast, I've loved every single minute of it. I'm going to end with this. Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side. Get up!"

Boxing fans have noted that Fury has retired from the sport twice in the past. The first came after his historic victory over Wladimir Klitschko and again after he beat Dillian Whyte at Wembley Stadium.

Fury said when asked about the prospect of retiring after losing to Usyk in Saudi Arabia last month: "You might see me fight again, you might not."

Yet a clash with Joshua has been hotly debated ever since. Eddie Hearn, head of Matchroom Boxing Joshua's promoter, said following Fury's loss: "The reality is there's only one fight for Tyson Fury and that's Anthony Joshua. It's the biggest fight probably in the history of British boxing, everyone will always want to see it."

Tyson Fury recent lost to Oleksandr Usyk ( Image: PA)

Hearn also revealed on Sunday that he'd reserved Wembley for Fury and Joshua's fight to take place in 'May or June'. "Yes. We're looking to get back in the ring in May or June. If it ended up being July, it doesn't really matter,' Hearn told Sky Sports at the Ring Awards.

"I still think it rests on Tyson Fury. Until the water settles on the defeat and where he's at mentally and what he wants to do, that's where we're really going to find out. Because when he looks at the options, what else is he going to do and who else is he going to fight?"

Joshua, 35, also confirmed earlier this month that Fury was his next 'target'. He explained during a trip to meet Nigerian President Bola Tinubu: "2025, I am targeting Tyson Fury."

Fury and Joshua had been scheduled to fight in late 2022, with the Gypsy King the reigning WBC heavyweight champion at the time. Negotiations then collapsed, with Fury instead successfully defending his title against Derek Chisora at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Joshua's last fight, meanwhile, came in September. The Olympic gold medalist was stopped in the fifth round by Britain's Daniel Dubois for the IBF title.

- Nathan Ridley

OLEKSANDR USYK UNANIMOUSLY DEFEATS TYSON FURY IN REMATCH

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia -- Oleksandr Usyk retained the heavyweight championship with another decision victory over Tyson Fury on Saturday, this time unanimously, in a rematch that was every bit as competitive as their first meeting in May.

Usyk, ESPN's No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer, prevailed by the same score on all three cards: 116-112.

The rounds were difficult to score as Fury found plenty of success, particularly from the southpaw stance as he switched from orthodox, but Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs) enjoyed the bout's most indelible moments.

The Ukrainian, fighting for his war-torn nation, consistently beat the far bigger Fury to the punch and connected on a bevy of overhand lefts.

"I very respect this guy because I think he's very tough," Usyk, 37, told ESPN. " ... Tyson Fury makes me strong. Tyson is a great opponent. Big man. He's a good man. Tyson, a lot of talk but it's just show."

Usyk thanked Fury for an "unbelievable 24 rounds in my career." He called Fury the best opponent he has faced, though he thought the rematch was easier than the first fight.

Fury, 36, believed he did enough to win as he celebrated at the final bell. When the scorecards were announced, he was dejected and left the ring without an interview.

The bout was entertaining from bell to bell, a fast-paced heavyweight matchup that featured few clinches. But it wasn't nearly as thrilling as the first bout (also in Saudi Arabia's capital), which will likely earn Fight of the Year honors.

In that contest for the undisputed heavyweight championship, Usyk floored Fury in Round 9 when the ropes held up the Englishman after 14 unanswered punches. The 10-8 round was the difference on the scorecards.

Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) vowed in the lead-up to the rematch that if he simply didn't clown around and thus avoided a 10-8 round, he would even the score and force a trilogy bout. "The Gypsy King" made good on his promise to take the fight more seriously as he didn't taunt Usyk once.

The only time Fury played to the crowd was during his electric entrance as he belted out Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" followed by The Notorious B.I.G.'s "Hypnotize."

"More serious," said Fury, ESPN's No. 2 heavyweight, at the postfight news conference " ... I thought I won the fight again. ... I was on the front foot the entire time."

Fury said he was confident he was ahead entering the final round. His right eye was busted up, but otherwise he never appeared hurt in the fight, unlike the first time around.

"When you don't get the knockout, this is what can happen," he said.

The judges agreed on seven of the 12 rounds. Just two of those were for Fury: Rounds 4 and 5, when he was able to score with his powerful right hand, particularly to the body and with a right uppercut to the chin.

And, as in the first fight, Usyk took over during the second half as he imposed his will. Usyk won Rounds 6, 7, 8, 10 and 11 unanimously as he was able to consistently back up Fury with relentless, savvy pressure and feints.

The overhand left was Usyk's best weapon, and it was often smartly set up with a jab to the body. Usyk conceded 55 pounds to the 281-pound Fury (a career high, though at the weigh-in he stepped on the scale in a leather jacket and Usyk joked that he might have had cheeseburgers in his pocket, too).

And Usyk's superior hand and foot speed were evident as the southpaw was able to evade many of Fury's power shots set up by a beautiful jab. Usyk is the former undisputed cruiserweight champion and now reigns over boxing's glamour division, too, as the best heavyweight of his generation.

The 2012 Olympic gold medalist owns a pair of wins each over two of the sport's top stars, U.K. fighters who have sold out Wembley Stadium several times: Anthony Joshua and Fury.

"I did the best I could," Fury said. "If I could have done more, I would have done it and that's it."

- Mike Coppinger, ESPN Boxing Insider

USYK CEMENTS LEGACY AS BEST HEAVYWEIGHT OF HIS GENERATION

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia -- With 24 rounds between them and no need for a third bout following another Oleksandr Usyk victory -- this time more clearly than the first bout -- Tyson Fury leaned over and kissed his rival on the head as the heavyweight champion celebrated.

The show of respect isn't surprising after just how grueling these two fights were. With so much at stake -- Fury's quest to regain his titles as a three-time champion and Usyk's push to turn him back again -- it was Usyk who pulled away down the stretch on Saturday night.

Their May meeting, the front-runner for ESPN's Fight of the Year, established Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs) as the world's best heavyweight and No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer in the ESPN rankings. The rematch meant even more. In addition to reinforcing that dual status, a second, more definitive victory cemented Usyk as the best heavyweight of his generation, the greatest fighter in boxing's glamour division since Lennox Lewis retired in 2004, and an all-time great.

When Usyk won gold at the amateur European Championships in 2008, he was a light heavyweight while his Ukrainian countryman, Wladimir Klitschko, reigned as heavyweight champion in the pros. Four years later, Usyk captured gold at the Olympic Games in London as a heavyweight while Anthony Joshua won a gold medal at super heavyweight. Years after that, as a pro, Usyk cleaned out the cruiserweight division as undisputed champion and defeated Joshua twice at heavyweight to become unified champion.

The May split-decision victory over Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) earned Usyk, 37, the undisputed championship at heavyweight, too. And in that fight, he came close to stopping Fury in Round 9 when he landed 14 unanswered punches and delivered Fury's eighth trip to the canvas of his career.

Seven months later, there was no seminal moment with either fighter in serious trouble. And while the bout was entertaining, it wasn't nearly as thrilling as the first meeting. Despite no knockdowns scored, Usyk's victory was never in doubt this time, winning via unanimous decision (116-112, 116-112, 116-112).

"I very respect this guy because I think he's very tough," Usyk told ESPN. "... Tyson Fury makes me strong. Tyson is a great opponent. Big man. He's a good man. Tyson, a lot of talk but it's just show."

Fury was adamant that he deserved the nod. When asked if he felt Usyk's spirit in the bout, Fury responded, "Yeah, Christmas spirit, he received a Christmas gift."

Usyk conceded this fight was easier than the first time.

Oleksandr Usyk, above, retained his WBC, WBO and WBA heavyweight titles with another decision victory over Tyson Fury on Saturday. Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing

Fury, 36, boxed well, particularly when he switched stances and fired a southpaw jab followed by punishing left hands. But like the first fight, he faded down the stretch. He lost Rounds 6, 7, 8, 10 and 11 on all three scorecards.

"When you don't get the knockout, this is what can happen," Fury said. "... I did the best I could. If I could have done more, I would have done it, and that's it."

Usyk left no doubt he was the better fighter, even if many rounds were very close. A third bout isn't necessary. Two future Hall of Famers met over 24 rounds and Usyk proved that he was the better man despite a 50-plus-pound disadvantage and giving up nearly six inches in height.

Usyk will fight on, of course. There are tens of millions to be made as his star continues to grow and he brings more attention (and pride) to war-torn Ukraine. Daniel Dubois, whom Usyk KO'd in nine rounds in August 2023 in Poland, interrupted Usyk's postfight interview to call for a rematch.

"I want my revenge," said Dubois, who picked up the IBF title Usyk was stripped of in June with a fifth-round KO of Joshua in September.

Usyk quickly responded that he was ready for a rematch, but that fight won't approach the marquee stage he enjoyed this year with two wins over Fury, one of the sport's top stars. The first Dubois bout wasn't remotely competitive, and Usyk scored the KO with a jab.

England's Dubois has enjoyed an impressive run since with three consecutive wins inside the distance (TKO victories over Jarrell Miller and Filip Hrgovic before the upset of Joshua).

Dubois, however, must push past a tough test against former titleholder Joseph Parker on Feb. 22 in Riyadh. With Joshua and Fury out of the way for good, there's no megafight on the horizon for Usyk.

Fury, meanwhile, could face Joshua in the loser's bracket in a fight that will still be highly anticipated for their combined star power, especially in the U.K. And no matter where Fury goes from here, he'll go down as an all-time great.

But he'll always rank behind Usyk.

- Mike Coppinger, ESPN Boxing Insider