Fury Prioritises Joshua Showdown After Makhmudov Clash, Usyk Eyes Trilogy

Tyson Fury has confirmed that a highly anticipated clash with Anthony Joshua remains his top priority after his upcoming comeback fight against Arslanbek Makhmudov. The ‘Gypsy King’ described the all-British heavyweight encounter as the biggest in boxing, stating he would rather knock out his long-time rival than win another world title.

Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of his April 11 return at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Fury was unequivocal about his intentions. “Of course, if it’s a fight to be made, let’s get it done. Let me get Makhmudov out the way, and we’re on. They’re all options because nothing’s promised. The biggest fight for me in world boxing and the biggest fight in the world of boxing is me versus AJ.”

While Joshua tops his wishlist, Fury also revealed that a trilogy fight with Oleksandr Usyk or a world title clash with either Fabio Wardley or Daniel Dubois are also on his radar. “After that, for me, it would be me versus Usyk, or the winner of them two… But being a five-time world champion or the chance to knock AJ out, I’d take the chance to knock AJ out.”

This development comes as Anthony Joshua steps up his own preparations for a summer return to the ring. The British-Nigerian boxer, who stopped Jake Paul in Miami in December, recently resumed full training after a serious car crash in Nigeria. He was recently seen training alongside Oleksandr Usyk and trainer Iegor Golub.

Promoter Eddie Hearn this week dismissed reports that a Joshua-Fury fight was already signed, insisting there was “absolutely nothing agreed,” though he acknowledged that significant discussions about the bout had taken place before Joshua’s accident. Hearn is targeting a July ring return for Joshua, with Dillian Whyte among the names being considered as a potential opponent.

Meanwhile, Oleksandr Usyk is preparing for his WBC heavyweight title defence against Dutch kickboxer Rico Verhoeven in Egypt. Usyk has stated his intention to fight just twice more, including a trilogy bout with Fury.