Fury Vows to Set an Example with Makhmudov

During their final press conference on Thursday, Arslanbek Makhmudov lifted Tyson Fury off the ground in a bear hug, but Fury took it lightheartedly, joking with Makhmudov beforehand and even playfully tickling him before being hoisted into the air. Fury is focused on starting his journey to becoming a three-time world champion with his upcoming fight against Makhmudov. Having recently come out of a brief retirement, his first bout since losing to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024, Fury sees this as the initial step in reclaiming a world title. He stated, "For the first time in a long while, I'm the one doing the chasing, not being chased." Fury declared himself the top contender in the division, asserting, "I will prove my superiority time and time again." With Usyk and Fabio Wardley currently holding the major world titles, Fury eventually plans to target these belts, saying, "Sooner or later, they'll all have to face me... who else can they fight to make any significant money?" At 37 and after a period away from the sport, Fury will have to overcome doubts about his ability to make a successful comeback, including concerns from his own father. He addressed these doubts, saying, "They all claim my legs are gone, my reactions are gone... tune in on Saturday night and you'll see for yourself." Fury expressed confidence in his speed and reactions, stating, "I've still got it... I must have completed over 500 rounds of sparring and I still have it." While cautioning against underestimating Makhmudov, Fury asserted, "All those other fighters can wait their turn to get beaten... give this man the respect he deserves." He noted Makhmudov's reputation as a quick starter with 17 knockouts in the early rounds, saying, "I've never underestimated anyone, and I certainly haven't underestimated this opponent." Fury's confidence in himself remains unwavering, saying, "I feel sorry for Arslanbek Makhmudov... I'm going to make an example out of him. I'll knock his head right off his shoulders... I'm ready to go."