Fury Vows to Set an Example with Makhmudov

At their final press conference, Arslanbek Makhmudov lifted Tyson Fury off the ground in a bear hug, but Fury took it lightly and even playfully tickled his opponent before being hoisted into the air. Fury is on a mission to become a three-time world champion, starting with his fight against Makhmudov this weekend. This marks his return to boxing after a brief retirement, following his loss to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024. Fury sees this as the first step in reclaiming a world title. He stated, "For the first time in a long time, I'm the one doing the chasing, not being chased." Fury believes he is the top contender in his division and is determined to prove it repeatedly. Usyk and Fabio Wardley currently hold the four major world titles, but Fury plans to target those belts eventually, saying, "Sooner or later, they'll all have to face me. Who else can they fight to earn any real money?" At 37 and after a period out of the sport, Fury faces doubts about his ability to make a successful comeback, including 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 speed, skill, and destructive power, saying, "I've never lost my speed or reactions... Still got it. I must have done 500 rounds of sparring and I've still got it." Fury cautioned against underestimating Makhmudov, saying, "All those other fighters can wait their turn to get beaten. Give this man his respect. He's a quick starter with 17 knockouts in the first couple of rounds. I've never overlooked anyone in my life, and I've definitely not overlooked this opponent." 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 go."