Can Arslanbek Makhmudov Force Tyson Fury into Retirement? 'He's the Greatest of All Time'

The highly anticipated showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua continues to dominate the headlines, but before that can happen, Fury must first overcome the formidable Arslanbek Makhmudov. The Gypsy King is set to face Makhmudov at Tottenham this weekend, marking his first fight since suffering back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024. Despite rumors of a potential fight against Joshua later this year, Fury remains focused on the challenge at hand, downplaying suggestions that a deal has been reached. Makhmudov, boasting a 21-2 record with 19 knockout wins, is a force to be reckoned with, and Fury is aware of the dangers he poses. Fury told Sky Sports, 'I've heard it all before, I've heard it for the last 10 years apparently. It's on, one more fight, someone gets beat, knocked out, it's not happening for whatever reason. I don't really take it all to heart, it's just a game and until we're in there together, there's no fight on.' Makhmudov is known for his intimidating presence, with 16 of his 19 knockout wins coming within two rounds. Fury is not taking him lightly, saying, 'Smash him to pieces. He's a very dangerous man, he's a massive monster.' The 36-year-old Makhmudov believes he will be facing the greatest heavyweight fighter of all time in Fury, stating, 'Tyson Fury's the best heavyweight in history. Big guy with big punch, of course he's dangerous, everyone at this level is dangerous. But I'm also not nobody. I have power, I have punch.' Fury, coming back from his latest retirement, is aware that a loss could spell the end of his career. Promoter Camille Estephan warned, 'One thing is for Arslanbek is coming to deliver a war. If Fury is ready for war it will be a treat for the fans if he's not ready it will be a short night and Fury's retirement for good.' Fury reflected on his famous victory over Wladimir Klitschko in 2015 as the peak of his career but maintains that little has changed since his latest retirement stint. Should he slip up this weekend, he accepts that it will be on him, saying, 'Fifth time, I'm told. It's still the same old stuff, the same old game, the game never changes, just the players change. Boxing's always been the same.'