Fights Tonight: Fury Eyes Wardley Amid Joshua Uncertainty

Alex Morgan

Jan 24, 2026 • 3 min read

Tyson Fury and Fabio Wardley in boxing ring, gloves raised, ready for a fight

Fights Tonight: Fury Eyes Wardley Amid Joshua Uncertainty

In the ever-evolving world of professional boxing, anticipation for fights tonight and future matchups continues to build. Tyson Fury, one of the sport's most prominent figures, recently signaled his interest in facing WBO heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley as a potential option for his 2026 return to the ring. This development comes amidst uncertainty surrounding the boxing future of another heavyweight superstar, Anthony Joshua, following a tragic car crash in December 2024.

Fury's Return to the Ring

Having announced his return from a brief 'retirement' that followed his December 2024 defeat to Oleksandr Usyk, Fury is expected to make his comeback in April 2026. His initial bout is likely to be against a lower-level opponent, setting the stage for a more significant fight later in the year. Fury's manager, Spencer Brown, has been vocal about the potential for a clash with Wardley, describing it as a 'good option' should the much-anticipated Anthony Joshua showdown not materialize.

Wardley's Rise to Prominence

Fabio Wardley has quickly made a name for himself in the heavyweight division. He claimed the WBO interim championship with a stunning upset victory over Joseph Parker in October 2025. Wardley's status was further elevated when Usyk vacated his undisputed title, officially making Wardley the WBO heavyweight champion. The 31-year-old is also expected to fight in April, making him a logical candidate for Fury's next major bout.

Fury's Social Media Buzz

Fury took to Instagram to express his interest in Wardley, posting screenshots of quotes from Wardley's earlier interview where he expressed his desire to face Fury. Fury wrote, 'Let's see how I am looking in my return fight, then later in 2026 this [Wardley] would be a good option for me to try become 3 x heavyweight champion.' He also noted, '@fabiowardley has a hard fight himself coming up soon,' acknowledging the challenges Wardley faces in his upcoming bouts.

Joshua's Boxing Future in Doubt

The potential Fury-Wardley matchup gains significance due to the uncertain boxing future of Anthony Joshua. Joshua was involved in a car crash in Nigeria in December 2024, a tragic event that claimed the lives of two of his close friends. The circumstances surrounding the accident have left Joshua's boxing career in limbo, and Fury has shown respect for his rival's situation, stating he won't mention Joshua's name out of respect during this mourning period.

Fury's Statement on Joshua

Fury expressed his sentiments, saying, 'I know the fight you guys all want but at this time I won't say his name out of respect as he is in mourning. But if he is not going to continue in boxing, I'd like Big Fab as a big test. This would be also a massive spectacle!' This statement underscores the unpredictability of professional boxing and the ways in which personal circumstances can shape the sport's future.

Upcoming Boxing Schedule

As the boxing world awaits Fury's return and the resolution of Joshua's situation, fans can look forward to several other exciting bouts in 2026. Wardley's first title defense is highly anticipated, and his potential clash with Fury would undoubtedly be a highlight of the year. The heavyweight division remains one of the most thrilling in boxing, with multiple fighters vying for supremacy.

Boxing Enthusiasts Await

For boxing enthusiasts, the possibility of a Fury-Wardley matchup is a tantalizing prospect. It would not only be a battle of two formidable heavyweights but also an all-British clash that could generate significant interest and excitement. As Fury continues to train and prepare for his return, the boxing community remains hopeful for a thrilling spectacle in the near future.

Conclusion

The world of boxing is always dynamic, with unexpected turns and thrilling matchups. Tyson Fury's potential showdown with Fabio Wardley stands out as a compelling storyline for 2026, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Anthony Joshua's boxing future. As fans await further developments, one thing is clear: the heavyweight division is poised for some exciting action in the coming months.

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