Tyson Fury says love of boxing drove comeback
Tyson Fury has once again stepped back through boxing’s revolving door.
The Gypsy King confirmed his return after announcing his fifth retirement just over one year ago.
This time, he made his reasons clear in his own words, with a video shared on social media by The Ring Magazineexplaining why he could not stay away.
“I’ve won literally everything, from regional belts in England to world titles. Fighter of the Year twice with The Ring Magazine twice, WBC, every one of them, every world title belt I’ve ever won.
“For me, there’s nothing else other than the fight game. I love this fight game,” Fury said.
‘It’s not for financial gain’
Now 37 and turning 38 later this year, Fury has dismissed suggestions that money lies behind his comeback, despite earning a fortune during his career.
“It’s not for financial gain. I could have retired 10 years ago. I’ve made an absolute fortune. It’s not about the money, although I always want a good deal, for sure. It’s mainly about the love of the fight game and the sport.”
The Ring Magazine shared the video in full across its social media platforms, with many seeing it as Fury’s clearest explanation yet for why retirement never lasts.
“I’m 37, I’m 38 this year, I’m older than a mother******, but I love to fight. I have zero other interests, only fighting. I was born and raised to fight.
“My destiny lies within the fight game.”
Why Fury retired most recently
Fury announced his most recent retirement in January 2025 after back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in 2024. The two points losses marked the first defeats of his professional career.
The results left Fury frustrated.
He suggested he had nothing left to prove after winning every major heavyweight belt. He also criticised judging decisions and spoke openly about “bent people in the sport”.
Those close to him pointed to the strain of repeated training camps and long periods away from his family. His promoter Frank Warren later confirmed those pressures influenced the decision.
Even so, few inside boxing believed the retirement would last long.
A familiar pattern of retirements
Tyson Fury has announced his retirement a total of five times across his professional career: first in November 2013 (returning three months later in February 2014); followed by two brief, back-to-back declarations in October 2016 and August 2017 while dealing with mental health and doping issues (returning in June 2018).
Again, he retired in April 2022 after defeating Dillian Whyte (returning seven months later in December 2022).
The most recent retirement was in January 2025 after his second loss to Oleksandr Usyk.
The announcement
Fury confirmed his latest comeback on Sunday, January 4, 2026. He posted a training montage on his official Instagram account after weeks of sharing workout clips over the festive period.
His message left little doubt.
“2026 is that year Return of the mac. Been away for a while but I’m back now, 37 years old and still punching. nothing better to do than punch men in the face & get paid for it.”
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