Fury targets Usyk trilogy as Joshua plans 2026 comeback

Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua are charting separate comeback courses, with Fury's camp prioritizing a third meeting with undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk and Joshua's team planning a measured return that could begin in early 2026. The developments mean the long-awaited Fury versus Joshua all-British blockbuster is unlikely to materialize immediately, reshaping expectations for the heavyweight landscape.

Fury, who announced a retirement earlier this year after back-to-back decision defeats to Usyk in 2024, has told his promoter he intends to fight again and is focused on avenging those losses. Promoter Frank Warren said Fury has been clear about his plans. "He has told me categorically he wants to fight next year," Warren said, adding that a third bout with Usyk is the fight Fury "really wants." Fury has spent recent months away from competition while working on media projects, and Warren said the former world champion would not wait around if opponents and timing do not align.

Joshua, meanwhile, is undertaking a longer rebuild following a series of difficult results. His camp is reportedly targeting an early-2026 return and is weighing options that could include a tuneup fight...