Tyson Fury comeback fight announced as British boxing icon's retirement U-turn made official

Now 'The Gypsy King' is set to end his retirement and pursue world titles once more.

Fury will face Arslanbek Makhmudov on 11 April at a UK venue, with the contest being streamed live on Netflix.

The Russian opponent represents Fury's first step on what he hopes will be a path back to championship glory.

During Fury's time on the sidelines, Usyk has maintained his position as the dominant force in heavyweight boxing.

The Ukrainian once again claimed undisputed status before opting to relinquish his WBO title in November.

That belt now belongs to Fabio Wardley, who has emerged as a potential future opponent for Fury should his comeback prove successful.

Fury's professional record remains remarkable despite his recent setbacks, with Usyk being the sole fighter to have defeated him throughout his entire career.

The 11 April clash with Makhmudov offers the British star an opportunity to demonstrate he still possesses the qualities that made him a two-time world champion.

Makhmudov enters this contest having secured a unanimous decision victory against Dave Allen in Sheffield back in October.

However, the challenge posed by Fury represents a significant step up in competition for the Russian heavyweight.

Should Fury emerge victorious, a world title opportunity could follow.

Earlier this week, the British fighter indicated his willingness to take on WBO champion Wardley later in 2026.

Such a bout would give Fury the chance to claim heavyweight gold for a third time in his career.

Before any title aspirations can be realised, though, Fury must first navigate the test presented by Makhmudov on 11 April.

Fury spoke this week about his championship ambitions, stating: "Like I said, let's see how I am looking in my return fight, then later in 2026 this would be a good option for me to try [and] become [three-time] heavyweight champion."

Regarding Wardley, he added: "[Fabio] has a hard fight himself coming up soon.

"I know the fight you guys all want but, at this time, I won't say his name out of respect, as he is in mourning."

Fury continued: "But if he is not going to continue in boxing, I'd like Big Fab as a big test. This would be a massive spectacle!"