Tyson Fury Busy Training Ahead of Usyk vs Joshua Fight
In a little over a week’s time, the best two heavyweight boxers in the world will clash for an epic rematch
Set for August 20th, Oleksandr Usyk vs Anthony Joshua is a repeat of the fixture occurring last September. In that fight, Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk stunned Anthony Joshua, beating the Brit in a unanimous decision and taking his world title belts with him.
However, many boxing punters are already looking beyond the Usyk vs Joshua match on August 20th, and speculating that Tyson Fury may be lured out of retirement to fight the winner. Fury has been spotted training on a daily basis, behavior not very indicative of a retired man.
We examine whether there’s any truth to these rumours, and how this prospect impacts the betting lines ahead of the Usyk vs Joshua clash.
Speculation About Comeback Fuelled by Promoter
Tyson Fury’s UK promoter has spoken out about the prospect of a comeback by the Gypsy King.
Speaking candidly to Sky Sports, Frank Warren emphasized that any thought of a comeback needs to come from Tyson Fury himself, rather than from outside pressure.
“I speak to him all the time. If he wants to fight, he’ll fight. I’m not going to tempt him. Because if he needs that then he shouldn’t be fighting. It’s got to come from him and his heart.”
However, Warren did go as far as saying that he thinks fans will see Fury back in the ring at some stage in the future. In fact, the Brit made the bold claim that not only does he think Tyson Fury will make a comeback, but it will be against Usyk, and he’ll beat him.
“I really do fancy Tyson to beat him. I think Tyson is a similar guy in some ways and a much, much bigger guy.”
Only time will tell whether this assertion is grounded in fact, or boxing promoter hyperbole.
Other Heavyweight Boxers Eager for Fury to Return
Two of the leading contenders to fight the winner of Usyk vs Joshua have also spoken up about a Tyson Fury comeback.
Joe Joyce, who fights Joseph Parker in late September, has gone on the record saying, “I’m not telling him what to do but he should fight the winner of AJ-Usyk.” Whether or not this is so Joyce gets a shot at an aging Tyson Fury following this, is a question that remains.
Joseph Parker has also weighed in, stating that he trains alongside Tyson Fury most days.
“We’re working out every day. I think he’s training for his mental health and he’s training because it’s a part of his life. In terms of coming back, I have no idea. He might come back tomorrow… Who knows?”
The prospect of a Tyson Fury capable of making a comeback tomorrow is certainly tantalizing for boxing fans, and presents a mouth-watering scenario for British boxing, should Joshua come away with a victory on August 20th.
Does Fury’s Potential Comeback Impact the Odds for Usyk vs Joshua?
Despite speculation running rampant about a Fury comeback over the last month, the odds for Usyk vs Joshua have remained reasonably steady.
It seems bookmakers are taking it one fight at a time, with any rumor of Fury making a comeback having little impact on the betting lines, which continue to favor Usyk for the win.
Currently, the Ukrainian is sitting at -172, while Joshua is +191 and a draw +2400.
If the bookies are right, a comeback by Tyson Fury would be to fight Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk, an intriguing prospect.