‘Give me a call’: Fabio Wardley challenges Tyson Fury

Former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury recently delivered news that came as no surprise: “The Gypsy King” is making his return. He has retired and unretired at various times over the years, so this time would not have shocked many. 

Fury has been working out with Kevin Lerena ahead of an expected 2026 comeback. Will we finally get the Anthony Joshua fight? Does Fury need a warm-up fight? There are plenty of questions to be answered. Fellow British heavyweight Fabio Wardley has spoken to Boxing Social, addressing Fury’s comeback and issuing his own challenge to “The Gypsy King.”

Tyson Fury announces his return to professional boxing

Recently, Fury announced his return to the boxing world: “2026 is that year Return of the mac. Been away for a while but I’m back now, 37 years old and still punching,” Fury wrote. “Nothing better to do than punch men in the face & get paid for it.”

Fury (34-2-1, 24 KOs) was last seen in action against Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024, losing by unanimous decision — 116-112 on all three scorecards. It was an immediate rematch of their first fight, which Usyk won. The Brit soon retired after the rematch loss to the Ukrainian.

Fury had been called out by Anthony Joshua, but following the recent fatal car crash, which AJ survived, that fight is undoubtedly on the back burner.

The former heavyweight champion recently revealed his reasons for returning to the ring, but it remains to be seen who his opponent will be.

Could a world title fight be first up for “The Gypsy King?”

Fabio Wardley challenges Fury

Fabio Wardley (20-0-1, 19 KOs) was recently elevated to the status of full WBO heavyweight champion, following Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to vacate the title. Wardley was last seen in action, stopping Joseph Parker in the 11th round of a barnstorming clash.

Speaking to Boxing Social about a potential Fury showdown:

“I hope he’s doing well. I hope he’s training hard, shedding the pounds. I think he’s in Thailand or something like that, enjoying the sun. 

“I hope they’re having a good time out there. If he is going to have a little warm-up, then look, I hope he’s fit, healthy. I hope he comes through it. I hope it’s not a banana skin and throws everything in the works. 

“Look, if that’s what you really wanna do, I don’t think you need to, because it’s just little old me, don’t worry about it. I’m no trouble. But if you do need a little warm-up, then fine. Do what you gotta do, but after you’re done, give me a call,” said Wardley.

With Tyson Fury announcing his return, who would you like to see him face?

The Mac is returning in 2026!