Tyson Fury defeats Arslanbek Makhmudov by unanimous decision in boxing

Tyson Fury returned to the ring on April 11, 2026, securing a commanding unanimous decision victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov, with two judges scoring the bout 120-108 and a third returning a 119-109 card.

Fury controlled the contest from the opening bell, using his speed and conditioning to neutralize Makhmudov's forward pressure throughout all twelve rounds. While Makhmudov committed to an aggressive, come-forward approach and landed occasional shots, he was unable to close the gap in technical ability that separated him from the former world heavyweight champion. The performance underscored the difference between a premier heavyweight and a capable but outmatched contender.

Standing six-foot-six with an 82-inch reach, Anthony Joshua looms as Fury's next opponent following the win. The 36-year-old Briton, who trains out of Boxing Works and Team GB, is an orthodox heavyweight whose physical dimensions closely match Fury's own imposing frame, setting the stage for a matchup between two of the division's most recognizable names.

Why it matters

• Fury's lopsided scorecards signal he remains in sharp form heading into the Joshua fight
• The Joshua bout carries enormous stakes for the heavyweight division's landscape
• A southpaw versus orthodox matchup between two physically elite heavyweights presents a compelling stylistic contrast
• Joshua's six-foot-six frame and 82-inch reach mean Fury will not enjoy the size and length advantages he held over Makhmudov