Who is Arslanbek Makhmudov? Key details about Tyson Fury’s challenger
Tyson Fury’s comeback to the boxing ring has been officially announced, with ‘The Gypsy King’ scheduled to face Arslanbek Makhmudov on April 11.
This matchup will take place 15 months after Fury declared his most recent retirement in January 2025.
That announcement followed consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2024, and while it was not Fury’s first retirement, he remained engaged both in training and on social media throughout the year.
Now, one of the most prominent figures and personalities in boxing is set to return, but who is Makhmudov, and what challenges might he present to Fury?
Who is Arslanbek Makhmudov?
Arslanbek Makhmudov is a Russian heavyweight boxer residing in Canada. He has a professional record of 23 fights, with 21 victories and two losses. Out of his wins, 19 have come by way of knockout.
The 36-year-old, standing at 6 ft 5 in, will pose a physical challenge for Fury, typically weighing around 260 pounds.
Makhmudov gained recognition among British boxing fans last year when he secured a points victory over Dave Allen in Sheffield.
Who has Makhmudov fought?
Despite Makhmudov’s impressive record (21-2, 19 KOs), he has yet to compete at the world title level. He faced a setback against current WBC interim champion Agit Kabayel in December 2023, suffering a knockout in Round 4.
In addition to his victory over Allen, Makhmudov has also defeated Carlos Takam, a former opponent of Anthony Joshua.
What chance does Makhmudov have?
With Fury undoubtedly aiming to contend for world titles before he ultimately retires from boxing, Makhmudov has been selected as a challenging yet manageable opponent.
Fury cannot afford a loss, and Makhmudov serves as an ideal opponent to shake off any ring rust accumulated during his year-long hiatus before progressing to more significant opportunities.
However, as is always the case in the heavyweight division, every fighter has a chance. Makhmudov is large, powerful, and capable of delivering a strong punch, as evidenced by his 19 knockouts.
Fury is the more skilled fighter, but if he does not box intelligently, Makhmudov could create some difficulties for him.
Where could the fight be held?
An official venue for the fight has yet to be revealed, but it will take place in the United Kingdom and will be streamed on Netflix.
Given Fury’s superstar status, it is anticipated that he would compete in a major stadium rather than a smaller arena.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where he last fought in England against Derek Chisora in 2022, is expected to be available on April 11, as Tottenham will be playing away in the Premier League against Sunderland.
Tottenham is not scheduled to return to the stadium until a week after the fight.
Wembley Stadium, where Fury defeated Dillian Whyte in April 2022, has no events planned for April 11, but will host an England women’s football international against Spain on April 14, which could lead to logistical challenges.
Old Trafford, the home of Fury’s cherished Manchester United, has previously hosted boxing events, but United is set to face Leeds United on April 11.
