Tyson Fury’s comeback to boxing has been confirmed, with the former heavyweight world champion coming out of retirement to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11.
The blockbuster fight will take place in the United Kingdom and will be streamed live worldwide on Netflix, marking the platform’s first-ever live sports broadcast from the UK.
Fury, who has not fought since stepping away from the sport for a fifth time, will make his return in front of home fans for the first time in nearly four years.
The event will be promoted by The Ring, with the venue and full undercard to be revealed in the coming weeks.
The announcement was confirmed by Turki Alalshikh, chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and president of the Saudi Boxing Federation, who welcomed Fury’s decision to return.
‘We are happy that Tyson decided to come out of retirement for what should be an exciting heavyweight clash against Makhmudov,’ Alalshikh said.
Tyson Fury’s comeback to boxing has been confirmed, with the former heavyweight world champion coming out of retirement to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11
Netflix vice president of sports Gabe Spitzer described Fury as one of the most compelling figures in modern boxing and said the company was thrilled to showcase his return to the ring.
The Gypsy King, 36, holds a professional record of 34 wins, two losses and one draw, with 24 knockouts. The two defeats on his record were against Oleksandr Usyk.
His opponent Makhmudov has stopped 19 of his 21 opponents and is widely regarded as one of the division’s most dangerous knockout artists.
‘Excited to be back,’ Fury said following the announcement. ‘Heart’s always been and always will be in boxing. Someone go tell the king that the ace is back.’
Makhmudov said he welcomed the challenge, promising an all-action contest against the former heavyweight world champion.
‘I am thrilled about the opportunity. I’m coming to deliver a war,’ he said. ‘Tyson Fury has been a big champion. I will be more ready than ever to leave with a massive W.’
Netflix is also continuing its partnership with Fury off the canvas, with the second season of At Home With the Furys due to be released this spring, alongside a feature-length documentary exploring his life and career.
Both fighters are expected to embark on a multi-city press tour ahead of the April showdown, with further details to be announced.
More to follow…
