Tyson Fury announces comeback - with sights set on Anthony Joshua

Tyson Fury’s return to the boxing ring will take place on 9 June in Manchester, it was announced today.

The former world heavyweight champion has signed a promotional deal with Frank Warren and although his opponent is yet to be confirmed the bout will be held at the Manchester Arena.

Fury has not fought in two and a half years since beating Wladimir Klitschko in November 2015 to win the IBF, IBO, WBA and WBO titles. But he vacated his belts, the Manchester Evening News reports, because of mental health issues and then receiving a charge from UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) for an alleged drug tests failure.

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However, after accepting a backdated ban, Fury’s suspension was lifted by the British Boxing Board of Control, Sky Sports reports, and he successfully reapplied for his licence.

The 29-year-old will now set his sights on winning back the heavyweight titles from current champion and British rival Anthony Joshua. Boxing News says that Fury’s return will “set the wheels in motion” for a potential superfight with Joshua next year.

Fury’s comeback was announced today by promoter Frank Warren with the Gypsy King being called “the real heavyweight champion of the world”.

Warren tweeted: “Delighted to announce @tyson_fury has signed a promotional deal with us. June 9th at the @ManchesterArena is the first step back to reclaiming what is rightfully his. Get ready because #HesBack.”

Fury has an unbeaten record of 25 wins, no defeats and 18 knockouts. Although Joshua is the target, Warren told Boxing News last week that Fury would need “three or four fights” before a battle of the Brits can happen.

Warren also said: “Until anyone beats Fury they cannot rightfully call themselves the world heavyweight champion because he didn’t lose his titles in the ring.”

Talking to the Daily Mail about his comeback and a potential fight with Joshua, Fury said: “It’s been a long complex drawn out situation but I’m back to reclaim what is rightfully mine.

“When the time comes I don’t think the sluggers and wild punchers who have been holding the titles will be much of a test for me. The people who think they are the best in the world are not.

“I lost a lot of weight, I’m sparring 12 rounds already. It will be an easy task to become world champion again. Joshua is a big old dosser, a belt carrier for me. Easy fight for me. You all saw his fight with Joseph Parker. Anybody who moves can give him a problem.

“If Joshua wants to land anything on me he can go get a handful of rice and throw it at me. I will outbox for a few rounds and knock him out. He’s not even a big puncher.”