The boxing world is buzzing with excitement as Tyson Fury, a true heavyweight legend, is making a comeback in 2026. Eddie Hearn, a prominent boxing promoter, believes that Fury is still in the prime of his career and that his return is a massive boost for the sport.
At 37 years old, Fury has not fought since his second defeat to heavyweight rival Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024. But here's where it gets controversial... despite these losses, Hearn argues that Fury is still at the peak of his powers.
Fury is expected to ease back into the ring with a warm-up fight, before taking on one of the big names in the heavyweight division later in the year. This strategy raises questions about the level of challenge Fury is seeking after a lengthy hiatus.
"It's a delicate balance," Hearn explains. "You want to prepare for an elite opponent, but you also don't want to jump into a grueling fight right away after being away for so long."
Hearn hints at some potential opponents, leaving the specifics to Turki Al-Sheikh and Fury himself. "We've got fighters who are up for the challenge," he adds.
Fury's return has been a whirlwind of activity, with the boxer becoming more active on social media and sharing his training routines. "Boxing has the power to save and transform lives," Hearn observes. "It's clear that boxing has been a source of happiness and fulfillment for Fury, and now he seems happier and more energized than ever."
Even outside the ring, Hearn believes that physical training offers immense mental health benefits. "Fury's dedication to his training regime is inspiring. He's over in Thailand, running every morning. It's a great reminder of the positive impact of physical activity on our mental well-being."
Hearn praises Fury's skills and his contribution to the sport. "He's an incredible fighter and a brilliant ambassador for the game. His presence can create huge fights and generate massive interest."
And this is the part most people miss... despite his recent losses, Hearn insists that Fury is still in his prime. "He lost two very close fights to Usyk. It's not like he's finished. He's still got it!"
So, who will Fury face in his comeback fight? Hearn teases, "It'd be interesting to see. They're potentially looking at April."
However, a highly anticipated fight with former world champion Anthony Joshua seems less likely for now. Joshua is taking time away from boxing after the tragic death of his close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif 'Latz' Adoyele, in a car crash in Nigeria.
Joshua, who was also in the car, sustained minor injuries and has since returned to the UK. Hearn emphasizes that Joshua is the only one who can decide his future in boxing.
"At this point, it's not a discussion we can have publicly or even with AJ. What was discussed in the past about fighting Fury is now irrelevant. The key is Anthony's decision to return, and then we can start planning a roadmap. But those conversations are a long way off right now."
So, what do you think? Is Fury still in his prime? And will we see him face Joshua in the future? The boxing world is eager to hear your thoughts!
