Fury Vows to Make a Statement Against Makhmudov

Tyson Fury was swept off his feet by Arslanbek Makhmudov in a bear hug at their final press conference on Thursday, but he took it in stride, having earlier teased and tickled his opponent. Fury is determined to start his journey to becoming 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 hunter, not the hunted. I'm the top man in this division, and I'm going to prove it repeatedly." He aims to target the belts held by Usyk and Fabio Wardley, saying, "Sooner or later, they'll all have to fight me. Who else are they going to fight to make any money?" At 37 years old, Fury will have to overcome doubts about his ability to make a successful comeback, including those from his own father. He responded to critics, 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." Fury warned that he cannot underestimate Makhmudov, saying, "He's a quick starter with 17 knockouts in the first couple of rounds. I've never overlooked anybody in my life, and I've definitely not overlooked this opponent." Fury expressed confidence in himself, 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."