Tyson Fury Retires: A Look Back at the 'Gypsy King's' Illustrious Career

Tyson Fury has announced his retirement from boxing, but will he really stay retired? Look back at the highs and lows of his illustrious career.

Tyson Fury, the 36-year-old British heavyweight, has announced his retirement from boxing, but many are skeptical about whether this is truly the end of his illustrious career. Fury made the announcement on social media, saying, “Hi everybody, I'm going to make this short and sweet. I'd like to announce my retirement from boxing, it has been a blast, I've loved every single minute of it.” This is not the first time Fury has announced his retirement, having done so on several occasions in the past, only to return to the ring.

Fury's retirement comes just weeks after his second consecutive defeat by Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia. Despite this, Fury retires with an impressive record of 34 wins, two defeats, and one draw, having enjoyed two stints as the heavyweight world champion. Fury's promoter, Frank Warren, praised the boxer's career, telling the BBC, “If you look at some of the fights he's had, he's not been in one fight that hasn't been exciting.” Warren also described Fury as a “world star.”

Fury's retirement appears to mean that a long-anticipated all-British showdown with former world champion Anthony Joshua will not take place. Joshua had stated at the weekend that a fight with Fury “has to happen this year.” However, with Fury's announcement, it seems that this highly anticipated bout may not come to fruition. Despite this, many fans and pundits remain skeptical about whether Fury will truly stay retired, given his history of returning to the ring after previous announcements.

Doubts have been cast over Tyson Fury's retirement announcement, with Anthony Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, expressing skepticism about the boxer's decision to hang up his gloves. On Monday, Hearn stated that he doubted Fury was really gone for good, leaving the door open for a potential return to the ring. Fury, who was born three months premature in Manchester in 1988, has had a remarkable career, overcoming adversity from a young age. Weighing just one pound at birth, Fury went on to become a two-time heavyweight world champion, standing at an impressive six feet nine inches tall.

Fury's nickname, the “Gypsy King,” is a testament to his Irish Traveller roots, while his first name was inspired by American boxing great Mike Tyson. Turning professional in 2008, Fury quickly made a name for himself in the boxing world, becoming the British and Commonwealth champion with a victory over Derek Chisora in 2011. He went on to beat Chisora again in 2014, claiming the European and WBO international heavyweight titles. Fury's impressive career has been marked by his unique personality, skill, and determination, leaving many to wonder if he will truly stay retired.

Tyson Fury's rise to global fame began in November 2015 when he defeated Wladimir Klitschko to become the heavyweight champion of the world, claiming the WBA, IBF, and WBO belts via unanimous decision. However, Fury's triumph was short-lived, as he struggled with depression, alcohol, and drug problems, which led to a two-and-a-half-year hiatus from boxing. During this time, Fury's weight ballooned to over 28 stones (178 kilograms). In 2018, Fury spoke candidly about his struggles, telling the BBC, “I woke up every day wishing I would not wake up any more. But I am living proof anyone can come back from the brink.”

Fury's colorful personality and antics have often made headlines, including his infamous appearance as Batman at a pre-fight press conference ahead of his bout with Klitschko. However, he has also faced criticism for his controversial comments on various issues, including homosexuality and the role of women. Despite these controversies, Fury's boxing career has been marked by significant achievements, including becoming a two-time champion by defeating Deontay Wilder in 2020. Fury's promoter, Frank Warren, praised his accomplishments, saying, “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.”

Warren's comments came as Fury announced his retirement from boxing, but many are skeptical about whether he will truly stay retired. Fury has previously announced his retirement, only to return to the ring. As Warren said, “God bless him, enjoy,” but many are holding their breath, wondering if Fury will indeed stay retired or make another comeback. Fury's legacy as one of the greatest British heavyweights of his generation is secure, but only time will tell if he has truly hung up his gloves for good.