Attention boxing fans! We're talking about one of the most iconic figures in the sport, Tyson Fury, and his potential path to becoming a three-time heavyweight world champion. It's a journey that's both inspiring and controversial, and we're about to dive right in!
Being a three-time heavyweight champion is an elite status, reserved for only the greatest fighters in boxing history. And with Tyson Fury's return to the ring, the question on everyone's lips is: can he join this legendary club?
The likes of Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, Evander Holyfield, and Vitali Klitschko have already etched their names into the record books. Now, Fury has the chance to write his own chapter, having already reigned as a world heavyweight titlist twice, defeating Wladimir Klitschko in 2015 and Deontay Wilder five years later.
But here's where it gets interesting... After losing twice to Oleksandr Usyk in 2024 and missing out on undisputed glory, Fury retired at the start of last year. However, he's now made a U-turn and is set to face Aslanbek Makhmudov on April 11 in the UK.
Fury's goal is clear: beat Makhmudov and set up a bigger fight later in 2026. His main British rival, Anthony Joshua, is also in the mix, but it's uncertain what AJ's next move will be as he deals with personal tragedy.
The four major world titles are currently held by Usyk and Fabio Wardley, with the Ukrainian reigning as the unified WBC, WBA, and IBF world heavyweight champion, and Wardley holding the WBO title.
So, will Fury make his way back to the top of the division and claim another heavyweight title? Top trainer and boxing expert Joe Gallagher believes this is Fury's motivation, stating, "I think that might be what's driving him, and we'll have to wait and see who that might be."
But here's the controversial part... Becoming a three-time champion at heavyweight is an incredibly daunting task, which is why so few have achieved it. However, Gallagher sees it as a real possibility for Fury.
"It all comes down to the matchups," Gallagher said. "There's talk about Fabio Wardley, which would be a great fight. And of course, the big fight would be AJ. But could it be third time lucky against Usyk? Fury has a lot of options. I wouldn't count him out. I believe he has the ability to become a three-time world champion."
Winning a trilogy fight against Usyk would be an enormous challenge. "It depends on how much time has caught up with Usyk. He's had some time off himself," Gallagher added. "Could Fury do it? You can't rule it out at heavyweight. Would he? Will he? I'm not sure. Sometimes you just meet someone who has your number."
Even Fury's comeback fight against Makhmudov in April might not be as straightforward as it seems.
"Fury has to be on his A-game because this young fighter is coming to seize the opportunity with both hands. Full credit to Tyson Fury for taking on such an opponent. He's returning with a tough challenge. [Makhmudov] comes forward in straight lines, but I think Fury's angles, side-to-side movement, and boxing IQ will give him the edge. But he can't sit back on the ropes because the kid can throw a good right hand."
Despite the challenges, Gallagher welcomes Fury's return, believing boxing has been quieter without him.
"I just think we should enjoy him while he's here for the remainder of his career, whether it's 12 months or 12 weeks. As you know, he can wake up one morning and decide he's retired. Boxing needs characters like Fury - he's a character, a good fighter, and he most likely wants a chance to become a three-time world champion."
So, what do you think? Can Tyson Fury become a three-time heavyweight champion? The debate is open! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
