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Tyson Fury Dominates Makhmudov, Sets Stage for Long-Awaited Showdown with Anthony Joshua
Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

LONDON — Tyson Fury is back and the fight the boxing world has waited over a decade for is finally within reach. “The Gypsy King” returned from a 16-month retirement in commanding fashion, cruising to a lopsided unanimous decision victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The win sets up what could be the biggest all-British heavyweight clash in history against Anthony Joshua.

Fury (now 18 years into his professional career) showed flashes of his elite form, even if it wasn’t quite vintage dominance from start to finish. After weathering early pressure from the aggressive Makhmudov, Fury adjusted quickly:

  • Neutralized the Russian’s forward attacks
  • Established control with his jab
  • Took over the center of the ring by the middle rounds

All three judges saw it clearly:

  • 120-108 (twice)
  • 119-109

A near shutout performance.

Makhmudov came out aggressive, throwing heavy shots within seconds of the opening bell. His pressure and power gave Fury something to think about early, particularly in Round 1.nBut once Fury settled in, the tide shifted dramatically.

Switching to southpaw and using his trademark movement, Fury began:

  • Catching Makhmudov on entry
  • Breaking him down with the jab
  • Controlling exchanges both at range and inside

By the fourth round, the Russian contender was visibly fatigued, dealing with what appeared to be a nose injury, and quickly ran out of answers.

A Tribute Night for Ricky Hatton

The night carried emotional weight beyond the fight itself.

Fury paid tribute to late boxing icon Ricky Hatton, a close friend, during his ring walk:

  • Walkout song: “Blue Moon”
  • Robe read: “Hitman”
  • Shorts featured: “RIP Ricky”

After the victory, Fury even led the crowd in singing “There’s Only One Ricky Hatton,” turning the moment into a celebration of legacy and friendship.

Anthony Joshua Showdown Now in Sight

With Anthony Joshua watching ringside and even filming the fight the message was clear. Fury didn’t waste time calling him out. “I want you, AJ. Let’s give the fans what they want the Battle of Britain. It’s been 10 years in the making. Let’s dance.”

The fight that has eluded boxing for years now appears closer than ever, with talks already pointing toward a late-summer 2026 mega-fight.

What This Means for the Heavyweight Division

Fury’s return reshapes the heavyweight landscape:

  • He proves he still has enough to compete at the elite level
  • A Joshua fight becomes the biggest commercial bout in boxing
  • The division regains a marquee storyline fans have long demanded

After losses to Oleksandr Usyk led to his latest retirement, many questioned whether Fury would ever return. Now, he’s not just back he’s headlining again.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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