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 may be looming, but first, Fury must overcome the formidable Arslanbek Makhmudov. The Gypsy King is set to face Makhmudov at Tottenham, his first bout since suffering back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024. Fury has downplayed rumors of a signed agreement with Joshua, focusing instead on the challenge posed by Makhmudov. 'I've heard it all before,' Fury stated, 'until we're in the ring together, there's no fight.' Makhmudov boasts an impressive record of 21-2, with 19 knockouts, 16 of which came within two rounds. Fury isn't underestimating his opponent, acknowledging that Makhmudov is a 'big, intimidating man' and a 'scary looking dude.' The 36-year-old Makhmudov has expressed his confidence, stating that Fury is the 'best heavyweight in history' and that he's been preparing his entire life to beat him. Makhmudov's promoter, Camille Estephan, has warned that his fighter is ready to 'deliver a war' and potentially force Fury into permanent retirement. Fury, meanwhile, remains unfazed, accepting that if he slips up, it will be on him. Having come out of retirement multiple times, Fury maintains that little has changed, and he's ready for another challenge.