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Boxing legend Tyson Fury announces retirement after Usyk loss

Tyson Fury

Tyson Fury, the self-proclaimed “Gypsy King” and one of boxing’s most captivating figures, has announced his retirement following consecutive losses to Ukrainian heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk.

In a short video shared on social media, Fury said: “Hi everybody, I’m going to make this short and sweet. I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing. It’s been a blast, I’ve loved every single minute of it.”

This announcement, made on January 13, 2025, follows Fury’s unanimous decision defeat to Usyk on December 21, 2024, in Riyadh, where he lost as the +125 underdog with the top online bookmakers.

The fight, which saw Usyk land 42% of his punches compared to Fury’s 28%, marked Fury’s second consecutive loss to the Ukrainian after their closely contested split decision bout in May 2024.

Fury’s career record now stands at 34 wins (24 by knockout), two losses, and one draw.

Fury cryptically referenced the infamous 18th-century English highwayman Dick Turpin in his retirement message, stating, “Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side.”

The remark hinted at Fury’s frustration with the decision in the December fight, as the phrase is commonly used to suggest being unfairly treated or “robbed.”

Throughout his nearly two-decade-long career, Fury achieved numerous accolades.

He shocked the world in 2015 when he defeated Wladimir Klitschko to claim the WBA, IBF, and WBO titles, ending Klitschko’s 10-year dominance.

His career also included a remarkable comeback after a two-and-a-half-year hiatus due to personal struggles, including mental health battles, substance abuse, and significant weight gain.

Fury became a two-time world champion in 2020 after defeating Deontay Wilder in the second of their trilogy bouts.

Known for his larger-than-life personality, Fury made headlines as much for his antics outside the ring as his achievements inside it.

From dressing as Batman at press conferences to controversial comments, he remained a polarising yet compelling figure in boxing.

Promoter Frank Warren, who worked closely with Fury, told the BBC: “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.”

While many view this as the end of Fury’s storied career, scepticism lingers. Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, expressed doubt, stating, “I doubt it [is the last time we will see him box].”

The possibility of a long-anticipated all-British showdown between Fury and Joshua now seems increasingly unlikely, leaving fans disappointed.

Whether this retirement is final or a prelude to another comeback, Fury’s legacy as one of the sport’s most charismatic and unpredictable champions remains secure.


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