Tyson Fury is back, and looking like his old self.
On Saturday, Fury returned to the ring for the first time in 16 months, ending yet another retirement from boxing to deliver a vintage performance against Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Makhmudov started strong with his trademark bullying style, but after knocking off the ring rust in the first frame, Fury took the fight over with his own classic style, sticking a long jab at range, using his movement to create angles, and smothering
Makhmudov inside. By the time the judges’ scorecards were read, it was clear that Fury had won nearly every round, returning to the sweet science with a classic performance, but more importantly, setting up a superfight that has eluded fans for years.
Sitting ringside for the event was fellow former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, and following fury’s win, “The Gypsy King” took the mic to call out his fellow Brit.
“Next, I want to give you the fight you’ve all been waiting for,” Fury screamed to Joshua. “I want you, AJ, Anthony Joshua. Let’s give the fight fans what they want: The Battle of Britain. And here’s my challenge: I challenge you, Anthony Joshua, to fight me, The Gypsy King, next!!! Do you accept my challenge?!”
Joshua sat passively during Fury’s callout, before responding from ringside.
“Tyson, you’re a clout chaser,” Fury said. “ Tyson, I’ve never had no problem getting in the ring with you. I punched you out when we were kids, and after watching you in here tonight, I’ll punch you up again.
“With all due respect, tonight is your night. And you know I’ll sit across that ring from you in due time. You ain’t going to tell me what to do. I’ve been chasing you for the last 10 years. When you’re ready, you come and see me, and tell me your terms and conditions, and I’ll have you in the ring when I’m ready. I’m the boss. You work for me. I’m the landlord, remember that.”
Fury, of course, disputed that, telling Joshua he’s the boss and the ball is in Joshua’s court, before restating his callout.
“Listen, let’s give the fight fans what they want,” Fury said. “Do not run from me this time. 10 years in the making. Let’s f*cking dance!”
