Tyson Fury is back, following Makhmudov triumph - challenges AJ

---

The fight between Tyson Fury and Arslanbek Makhmudov was a glorious weekend boxing spectacle, with Fury finally returning to a win after he suffered two defeats at the hands of Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk.

Fury vs AJ fight is all but certain to happen

The defeat against the Ukrainian could have potentially ended Fury’s career, but it seemed to have had the opposite effect - galvanizing him into action. Fury has long been known for his rather unserious behavior, but the back-to-back defeats to Usyk have put him in a different, more competitive mindset. Immediately after the bout with Makhmudov, Fury went on his customary self-congratulatory speech and turned his gaze to Anthony Joshua, who was ensconced in a chair by the ring. Fury went on to challenge AJ, a boxer he has long avoided, considering him perhaps unworthy in a sense, and often dismissing him, especially after the rather surprising defeat to Andy Ruiz. Next, I want to give you the fight you have all been waiting for. I want you, Anthony Joshua, to let's give the fight fans what they want, a Battle of Britain. I, the Gypsy King, challenge you, Anthony Joshua, to fight me next. Do you accept the challenge? Do not run from me this time, let's dance, Fury said. No matter their personal feelings, Fury is right about one thing - a fight between Anthony Joshua and himself is something that fans have long been calling for. AJ is also more determined to square up against, although he didn’t say much during the time the formal challenge was levelled against him. However, Netflix has already teased on social media that a potential bout is taking place in the autumn, with both fighters appearing to be itching for the chance to measure up against one another.

AJ is training under his former rival - but is that going to be enough?

Both were defeated by Usyk, yes, but AJ has gone to embrace his defeat and is now training side-by-side with his former rival. He is currently in Ukraine, according to reports, and preparing for the potential bout. Mentorship under Usyk could prove valuable as the Ukrainian pried away both fights against Fury, although some fans are split on whether he succeeded. The consensus is that Fury would be a favorite in a fight against Anthony Joshua, with the question remaining - can Usyk prepare AJ for what could be the fight of his career?