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 the gesture in stride, joking with Makhmudov beforehand and even playfully tickling him before being hoisted into the air. Fury is now focused on starting his journey to become a three-time world champion when he faces Makhmudov this weekend. After a brief retirement, Fury is back in the ring for the first time since his loss to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024. This fight marks the beginning of his mission to reclaim a world title. Fury stated, "For the first time in a long time, I'm the one doing the chasing, not being chased." He added, "I'm the best in this division, and I'm going to prove it repeatedly." Fury's ultimate goal is to target the belts held by Usyk and Fabio Wardley, saying, "Eventually, they'll all have to face me. Who else can they fight to make any money?" At 37 years old and after a period of inactivity, Fury must overcome doubts about his ability to make a successful comeback, including those from his own father. Fury responded to these doubts, saying, "They all say my legs are gone, they all say my reactions are gone... Tune in on Saturday night and you'll find out." He expressed confidence in his abilities, saying, "Speedy, skillful, handsome, and destructive... I've never lost my speed or reactions. Still got it." Fury warned that he cannot underestimate Makhmudov, saying, "All those other fighters can wait their turn to get beat. Give this man his respect. He's a quick starter with 17 knockouts in the first couple of rounds." Fury's confidence in himself remains unwavering, saying, "I feel sorry for Arslanbek Makhmudov. I'm going to make an example of him. I'll knock his head right off his shoulders. I'm ready to rock and roll."