Tyson Fury Confirms Netflix Boxing Comeback Against Russian Bear-Wrestler
Tyson Fury has officially announced his return to professional boxing, with a high-profile bout scheduled for April that will be streamed live on Netflix. The British heavyweight star, known as 'The Gypsy King', will face the formidable Russian fighter Arslanbek Makhmudov, a man whose unconventional training methods include wrestling bears and enduring sledgehammer blows to the abdomen.
Fury's Return After Retirement Announcement
Fury has not stepped into the ring since his rematch defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in December of last year. Following that second consecutive loss to the Ukrainian champion, Fury declared his retirement from boxing—marking the fifth time he has made such a vow during his illustrious career. However, as many anticipated, he revealed his intentions to make a comeback earlier this year and has now confirmed an April fight date.
This upcoming bout will be Fury's first fight on British soil in four years, adding a significant homecoming element to the event. The exact venue is yet to be announced, with details expected in the coming weeks. Originally, a long-awaited showdown with Anthony Joshua was on the cards for Fury in 2026, but a devastating car crash in Nigeria that left Joshua with minor injuries and claimed the lives of two of his close friends has cast uncertainty over Joshua's boxing future.
Meet the Challenger: Arslanbek Makhmudov
Arslanbek Makhmudov, often referred to as 'The Lion', is one of the most intimidating figures in the heavyweight division. Standing at 6ft 5in with a notably muscular build, he has bludgeoned his way to 21 victories from 23 professional fights, including a win against British fighter Dave Allen in October. His fearsome appearance is matched by his extreme training regimen, which has been documented on social media.
Footage from his Instagram account shows Makhmudov grappling with a bear and having team members hit him in the stomach with sledgehammers as part of his conditioning. While this makes him an imposing presence, Makhmudov has shown vulnerabilities in the ring, losing two of his last five fights. He was stopped twice within six months by Agit Kabyael and Guido Vianello, opponents he was expected to defeat.
What's at Stake for Fury
For Tyson Fury, this comeback fight is crucial in steering his career back towards a world title shot. Currently, Oleksandr Usyk holds three of the four major world titles, while another British fighter, Fabio Wardley, possesses the WBO title. Fury expressed his excitement about returning to the sport, stating, 'Excited to be back. Heart's always been and always will be in boxing. Someone go tell the king that the ace is back.'
Makhmudov responded with equal enthusiasm, saying, 'I am thrilled about the opportunity. I'm coming to deliver a War. Tyson Fury has been a big champion. I will be more ready than ever to leave with a massive W.'
Expert Opinions and Risks
Last year, former cruiserweight champion Johnny Nelson advised Anthony Joshua to avoid a fight with Makhmudov, warning that a shock defeat could end Joshua's career. Nelson commented, 'It is a risk. I don't expect Joshua to be turned over by Makhmudov but if he were to get turned over by him then it's over. There's no excuse, it would be done.'
He added, 'Makhmudov has shown his levels, which is just above Dave Allen's level. But below world title level. The problem with AJ and Fury is who they fight next. Because they are not the fighters they were. They are beatable. There is still value to their name and value in fighting each other but they can't afford to lose to anyone else. So they have to be smart.'
This Netflix-streamed event marks a significant moment in boxing, blending traditional sport with modern streaming platforms. Fans will be watching closely to see if Fury can reclaim his former glory or if Makhmudov's brute force will prevail in what promises to be a thrilling heavyweight clash.
