Tyson Fury's return to boxing is edging closer, with his manager Spencer Brown confirming that contract talks are nearly wrapped up for an April comeback fight.
"We're really down the road with the contract and an announcement is imminent," Brown told Sky Sports. "You will see Tyson back in the ring; we're looking to get out there in April."
The 37-year-old former two-time heavyweight world champion has been sharpening his skills at a training camp in Thailand since the new year began.
Brown revealed his star client is targeting three fights in 2026 – something Fury hasn't managed in eight years.
Tyson Fury has not been seen in the ring since December 2024
| PABrown has been in discussions with several potential opponents, narrowing the field down to four or five serious contenders.
"I'd say he [Makhmudov] is in top three or four, most definitely," Brown explained. "We're looking at five or six different opponents.
"That's not for me to announce; that's for the promoter to announce. Everybody is working hard to get this fight underway."
The Russian heavyweight Arslanbek Makhmudov appears to be the leading candidate for Fury's tune-up bout.
He last stepped into the ring back in October, securing a points victory against David Allen.
Tyson Fury's manager Spencer Brown has revealed he expects the Gypsy King to fight in April
|PA
American Brandon Moore has also been mentioned as a possibility, though it's unclear whether he's genuinely being considered.
While excitement builds around Fury's comeback, his brother Shane has offered a more measured perspective on the former champion's prospects.
Speaking to Boxing King Media, Shane acknowledged that Tyson's appearance can be deceiving.
"He's got two love handles, skinny legs, bit of a belly and not the biggest top half. But he's fit," Shane said.
"You don't meet many people thats stronger than him in the body. He's talented and he's got a heart the size of this place we're in."
However, Shane admitted uncertainty about whether his brother can recapture his former glory. "Is Tyson's best days behind him? I don't know," he said, though he noted there were no obvious signs of decline in the Usyk rematch.
Tyson Fury retired after his loss to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024 | GettyBeyond the immediate comeback, Fury has his sights set on some blockbuster matchups.
The Morecambe fighter has been vocal about wanting a trilogy bout with Oleksandr Usyk, and there's been a glimmer of hope on that front.
The Ukrainian recently indicated he'd be willing to face Fury again – but only if undisputed status is on the line.
"Why not, but only if it's a fight for the undisputed status again," Usyk said.
Fury's team also has ambitions for him to face Anthony Joshua and Fabio Wardley, though the plan is to ease him back gently before tackling the division's elite.