Heavyweight boxing fire reignited: Fury outclasses Makhmudov, calls out Joshua for blockbuster clash

Tyson Fury made a powerful statement in his latest comeback, showing little sign of rust as he delivered a commanding unanimous decision victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov before immediately turning his attention to a potential mega fight with Anthony Joshua .

Fighting at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium , Fury controlled the contest over twelve rounds, using his trademark movement and sharp left jab to dictate the pace. After a cautious opening, the British heavyweight gradually took full command, landing clean lead uppercuts in the later rounds that kept Makhmudov under constant pressure.

The judges scored the bout convincingly at 120 108, 120 108, and 119 109 , underlining Fury’s dominance throughout the fight. The victory adds momentum to his return following a brief retirement after his second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in December 2024.

Soon after the win, Fury wasted no time calling out Anthony Joshua, who was seated ringside. In a fiery post fight moment, Fury launched a direct challenge, asking whether Joshua was ready to step into the ring and give fans the fight they have long demanded.

Joshua, who appeared to be filming parts of the bout on his phone, responded with confidence and provocation, saying “I’ll punch you up” and “I’m the landlord. You work for me.”

Later, Joshua told Netflix that discussions could move forward, hinting that contracts may soon be exchanged , although he noted he is still dealing with personal grief following the tragic loss of two close friends in a car accident in Nigeria.

Fury, now 37, also suggested alternatives if the Joshua fight fails to materialise, mentioning a potential trilogy clash with Oleksandr Usyk . The night also carried an emotional note, as Fury paid tribute to former world champion Ricky Hatton, with “RIP Ricky” stitched on his shorts.

In the undercard action, Conor Benn strengthened his claim for a major title opportunity with a unanimous decision win over Regis Prograis , controlling the middle rounds with sharp body shots in a determined performance.

The stage is now set for what could become one of the biggest heavyweight clashes in British boxing history , if Fury and Joshua finally meet in the ring.