Tyson Fury made a successful return to the ring after 15 months away, securing a decisive points victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The 37-year-old British heavyweight displayed technical mastery throughout the 12-round bout, earning unanimous scorecards of 120-108, 120-108, and 119-109.
While not at his explosive best, Fury controlled the fight with superior ring intelligence, neutralizing Makhmudov's occasional power shots. The Russian challenger struggled to find answers against Fury's defensive skills and strategic approach.
Immediately following the victory, Fury turned his attention to long-time rival Anthony Joshua, who was seated ringside. In a dramatic moment, Fury issued a direct challenge, shouting: "I challenge you, Anthony Joshua, to fight me next. Do you accept?"
Joshua, who appeared to be recording the fight on his phone, initially resisted engaging before delivering a fiery response:
"I punched you up when we were kids and I'll punch you up again. You aren't going to tell me what to do, I've been chasing you for 10 years. I'm the boss, you work for me. I'm the landlord. You work for me."
Fury fired back with equal intensity: "You are next. You are getting knocked out. Believe it."
This heated exchange represents the most significant development yet in the decade-long saga between Britain's two premier heavyweights. Both fighters have been world champions and have carried the sport's banner globally, yet negotiations have repeatedly collapsed over the years.
Joshua later clarified his position to media, stating: "I have been at this table with him many times. In my heart, I'd fight Fury tomorrow, especially after watching that. There is not a problem fighting him. I am not here to get clout. I am here to fight. The contract will be sent over, we will go through the nitty gritty, and you will probably see us in the ring next, more than likely."
The victory marks Fury's first fight since consecutive losses to unified champion Oleksandr Usyk in 2024, improving his professional record to 35 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw. For Makhmudov, 36, this represents his third defeat in 24 professional bouts.