Tyson Fury could turn his attention to Fabio Wardley if a long-awaited all-British clash with Anthony Joshua fails to happen, according to Mirror.co.uk.
The “Gypsy King,” who announced his retirement last January after back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk, has in recent months hinted strongly at a return. Now 37, the Morecambe fighter appears set for another comeback in 2026.
Currently training in Thailand, Fury has been sharing workout clips with his online followers. In one post, he appeared to confirm his plans, writing: “2026 is that year. Return of the Mac. Been away for a while, but I’m back now—37 years old and still punching. Nothing better to do than punch men in the face and get paid for it.”
Fury, a former two-time heavyweight champion, has also been sparring with Kevin Lerena, the reigning WBC bridgerweight titleholder. In a recent video, he said he felt sharper and faster as he entered the second week of training, adding: “Bring it on, let’s go.”
Who Fury will face on his return remains unclear. Reports last month suggested he and Joshua had agreed to a summer showdown, but doubts have since emerged over Joshua’s future after he was involved in a tragic car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close friends.
With several options available, Fury has hinted he would be open to a bout with fellow Brit Wardley. “Big smoke for the GK after a long layoff could be an option later in 2026, God willing,” Fury wrote.
Wardley earned the WBO interim title in October after stopping Joseph Parker in the 11th round, and was later elevated to full champion when Usyk vacated the belt.
While fans continue to hope for a Fury-Joshua showdown, promoter Frank Warren has suggested any potential meeting may be pushed to late 2026—if it happens at all. Speaking to The Mirror, Warren said Joshua’s focus would understandably be elsewhere following the crash.
“Boxing will be the last thing on his mind right now,” Warren said, noting the emotional toll of losing close friends and the uncertainty surrounding Joshua’s physical and mental state. “Tragedy affects people in different ways, and it’s impossible to know when—or if—he’ll be ready to return.”