Tyson Fury secured a unanimous decision win over Arslanbek Makhmudov, with judges scoring the bout 120-108, 120-108, and 119-109. This marked Fury's comeback after a 16-month absence from the sport, though the exact date of the fight has not been confirmed. The 37-year-old Fury has a history of multiple retirements, having stepped away from boxing on five previous occasions, adding context to his latest return.
His opponent, Makhmudov, is a Russian heavyweight from Dagestan who entered the fight with a record of 21 victories, including 17 stoppages within the first three rounds. During the match, a swelling formed under Makhmudov's left eye, and he managed to land a solid left punch on Fury, though these moments did not alter the outcome. Before the fight, Fury paid tribute to Ricky Hatton, a Manchester fighter who died in September, during his ring walk.
Post-match, Fury immediately demanded a fight with Anthony Joshua, but Joshua's response was lost due to a sound issue, leaving his reaction uncertain. The potential terms or timeline for a Fury vs. Joshua bout have not been disclosed, and official post-fight statements from both fighters have not been released.
Attendance or viewership figures for the event also remain unknown. Fury's victory over Makhmudov was decisive, with the judges' scores reflecting his dominance throughout the 12 rounds. Makhmudov's aggressive style, which had previously led to 17 early stoppages in his 21 wins, was effectively countered by Fury's defensive skills and experience.
The swelling under Makhmudov's left eye became noticeable in the later rounds, potentially affecting his vision and performance. Despite landing a solid left punch on Fury, Makhmudov was unable to capitalize on this moment, as Fury maintained control of the fight. Fury's tribute to Ricky Hatton before the match highlighted his connection to the Manchester boxing community, adding emotional weight to his return.
After the fight, Fury's call-out of Anthony Joshua was direct and public, though the sound issue prevented a clear response from Joshua. This uncertainty leaves fans and analysts speculating about Joshua's willingness to accept the challenge and the possible details of such a high-profile bout.