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 headlines, but before that can happen, Fury must first overcome a formidable challenge from Arslanbek Makhmudov. The Gypsy King is set to face Makhmudov at Tottenham, marking his first fight since suffering back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024. Despite ongoing speculation about a potential fight against Joshua, Fury remains focused on the task at hand, downplaying rumors of a signed agreement and emphasizing the importance of his upcoming bout. Fury expressed skepticism about the proposed fight with Joshua, stating, 'I've heard it all before... Not that I'm aware of. I've heard it for the last 10 years apparently.' He emphasized that his primary concern is the challenge posed by Makhmudov, describing him as a 'big, intimidating-looking man' and a 'scary-looking dude.' Makhmudov boasts an impressive record of 21-2, with 19 of his wins coming by way of knockout. His two defeats were via stoppage against world title contender Agit Kabayel and Italy's Guido Vianello. Fury is not underestimating Makhmudov, acknowledging that he is a 'very dangerous man' and a 'massive monster.' Fury suffered the first defeat of his professional career in May 2024, losing to Usyk by split decision, and was outperformed again in their rematch later that year. However, Makhmudov believes he will be facing the greatest heavyweight fighter in history when he steps into the ring with Fury. 'Tyson Fury's the best heavyweight in history,' Makhmudov said. '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. Saturday night we will see which is more successful.' Fury is coming back from his latest 'retirement,' having stepped away from boxing after his second defeat to Usyk. While speculation about a potential fight against Joshua continues, Makhmudov is determined to retire Fury once and for all. Promoter Camille Estephan warned that if Fury is not ready for a war, it could be a short night and the end of his career. 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. 'Fifth time, I'm told,' Fury said of unretiring. '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. The players change. It's no different really, it's just another day at the office.'