Tyson Fury, the former heavyweight world champion, has revealed his three preferred opponents for when he steps back into the ring in 2026.
Tyson Fury has officially confirmed his return to professional boxing in 2026, ending his second retirement following defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024. After spending the entirety of 2025 on the sidelines, the 37-year-old is now mapping out his path back to the top of the heavyweight division.
Speculation over a long-awaited clash with Anthony Joshua had gathered momentum late last year, but that bout now appears highly unlikely after Joshua was involved in a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of two of his friends, leaving his future in the sport uncertain.
Fury reveals the three names on his 2026 hit list
Days after announcing his return, Fury disclosed the three fighters he intends to pursue as part of his comeback plan. Joshua remains his first choice, although that fight now seems off the table, with Joshua’s family reportedly saying he has decided to retire from boxing.
Next on Fury’s list is his longtime rival Oleksandr Usyk, who currently holds three of the four heavyweight belts. Having already lost twice to the Ukrainian, Fury would almost certainly need to string together a series of convincing wins before being granted a third showdown.
The third and most realistic option appears to be Fabio Wardley, the current WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk vacated the title. Fury himself acknowledged Wardley as a possible opponent, suggesting the fight could serve as a major test following his long absence from the ring.
Can Fury reclaim heavyweight gold?
A potential return bout against Wardley would represent a dangerous challenge for a Fury who is no longer in his prime. Nevertheless, the opportunity to capture another world title would mark a remarkable chapter in the career of ‘The Gypsy King’, adding yet another achievement to his already storied legacy.
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