Tyson Fury Announces Immediate Retirement from Boxing

LONDON, UK — Tyson Fury, the former world heavyweight champion, announced his immediate retirement from boxing on Monday, just weeks after losing a rematch to Oleksandr Usyk for the WBA, WBC, and WBO heavyweight titles. The 36-year-old Briton made the announcement via a brief statement, marking the end of a storied career that saw him become one of the most recognizable figures in the sport.

“I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing,” Fury said. “It’s been a blast. I have loved every single minute of it, and I’m going to end with this — Dick Turpin wore a mask!”

Fury’s decision comes as a surprise, particularly after promoter Eddie Hearn revealed that Wembley Stadium had been reserved for a potential summer bout between Fury and Anthony Joshua. This is not the first time Fury has declared his retirement; he previously did so in April 2022 after defeating Dillian Whyte, only to return six months later to fight Derek Chisora in a trilogy bout.

Fury’s career has been marked by remarkable highs and significant challenges. In 2015, he shocked the boxing world by defeating long-reigning champion Wladimir Klitschko to claim the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, IBO, and The Ring heavyweight titles. After a two-and-a-half-year hiatus during which he battled mental health issues, Fury returned to the ring in 2018. He cemented his legacy by defeating Deontay Wilder in 2020 to claim the WBC belt, becoming a two-time world champion.

Fury’s promoter, Frank Warren, expressed his support for the decision. “I’ve said all along that there is no way I will be trying to influence him,” Warren told BBC Radio 5 Live. “If that’s what he wants to do, that’s great. He’s done everything he can do. Probably been the best British heavyweight of his generation by far. Two-time world champion, two closely fought fights against Usyk. He’s got plenty of money, got his wits about him, got a lovely family. God bless him, enjoy.”

Fury’s career record stands at 34 wins, two defeats, and one draw. His two losses came against Usyk, who defeated him by split decision in their first meeting and by unanimous decision in their December rematch. Despite these setbacks, Fury’s resilience and charisma have made him a fan favorite and a global star.

As Fury steps away from the ring, the boxing world reflects on the legacy of a fighter who brought excitement, drama, and heart to the sport. His retirement marks the end of an era in heavyweight boxing.