Tyson Fury will return to heavyweight boxing after 15 months away from the ring, facing Arslanbek Makhmudov in London. The fight will take place on Saturday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Fury, aged 37, is aiming to recover from successive defeats by Oleksandr Usyk, which led to a brief retirement. Makhmudov, 36, has 21 wins with 19 stoppages but has also been beaten twice.
With a potential fight against Anthony Joshua in the works, or another shot at a world title, Fury is looking to make a winning return and force his way back into heavyweight contention.
Predictions for Fury vs Makhmudov
Many figures from the boxing world have given their predictions for Saturday’s fight.
One said, “It’s going to be a Tyson Fury fight where he goes out there and does what he wants. He’s elusive, moves well, he can throw great combinations plus he’s quick. I think he does it in round seven or eight.”
Another said Fury is unpredictable, adding, “He can be either on fire against the likes of Deontay Wilder or a bit lacklustre and does what he needs to do against the likes of Otto Wallin. But I still expect him to win, regardless of which Fury turns up.”
One prediction stated, “Tyson Fury, easy. A cheeky little points victory.”
Makhmudov’s Strengths and Weaknesses
One figure in the boxing world believes Makhmudov is tailor-made for Fury. “He’s tall but he’s straight up and down. He’s a decent puncher but not ferocious. You can switch him off with a bit of head movement.”
They added, “Fury isn’t the best body puncher but works the body well and Makhmudov has been stopped to the body before. I don’t think it will be early, but I think Fury will break him apart and Makhmudov is vulnerable enough that Fury should be able to take him out late on.”
Another said, “All heavyweight opponents are dangerous. Stylistically, though, I think Makhmudov is made for Fury.”
“He comes in straight lines and Fury’s boxing brain and ability should be too much. If he stays switched on, I expect Fury to win it on points or a round nine or 10 stoppage.”
Fury’s Perspective
One person stated, “There isn’t any advice you can give him. He knows what he is doing. The big man knows what he is doing. He has been boxing before I was born. So, he has taken on a challenge, and a tough test. It isn’t going to be a pushover, but ultimately, I back Fury to win.”
Another boxing figure noted, “Tyson does take shots. He will want to get through the rounds, winning them but not taking any damage. Not get hit by Makhmudov, because as you get older your punch resistance doesn’t get better.”
Fury said, “I was sick of the boxing game and I needed time away” on returning to the ring.
Fury faces Makhmudov, who boasts 19 stoppages in 21 wins.
If Fury stays switched on, he is expected to win it on points or a round nine or 10 stoppage.