TYSON FURY is now the No 1 fighter in the heavyweight division. The Wilmslow giant travelled to Dusseldorf, Germany and outfoxed Wladimir Klitschko to snatch his WBO, WBA and IBF world titles.
Now, he is the most sought after fighter in his weight class and with three of the four world baubles in his possession, Fury has some serious bargaining chips. With the sport’s banner division becoming stronger by the month, there are some colossal match ups for the unbeaten Brit.
We’ve compiled a list of five men we would like to see Fury square off with, though a special mention can also go to Wladimir’s older brother, Vitali, who may be tempted out of retirement to earn back some family pride. You never know. Click below to read on.
5. Alexander Povetkin
The talented Russian is currently linked with WBC champion Deontay Wilder, having worked his way into mandatory challenger status, however he is regarded as one of the top heavies in the world and would be a dangerous test for Fury.
Although he was outclassed by Klitschko in 2013, Povetkin has wrecked some top opposition since. However, he is not well-known outside of boxing circles and so may not have the worldwide appeal that Fury craves.
4. David Haye
Haye and Fury were scheduled to fight before only for the former to notoriously pull out both times due to injury. He has since announced his return to the ring and judging by the attention he received, it is clear the former two-weight champion is still a marketable force.
We already know a promotion between these two would create fireworks, having already seen it, and their clash of styles could prove fascinating. However since beating Klitschko Fury has vowed to never face Haye – but money talks.
3. Anthony Joshua
The 2012 Olympic champion is by far the least experienced fighter on this list, but that is the sole mark against his consideration as a challenger.
Already a superstar in the UK, Joshua is fast gaining worldwide recognition. Handsome, well spoken and enviously sculpted he is a promoter’s dream – not to mention his obvious talent inside the ring. Yet to be taken beyond three rounds, Anthony has pulled thousands of casual fans to the sport and a fight with Fury would already sell out Wembley Stadium.
2. Wladimir Klitschko
Their first fight was hardly a classic but it was enthralling all the same. Some feel Fury fought the perfect fight, some argue Klitschko grew old overnight. Whether it’s one, the other or a mixture of both, Klitschko deserves a chance at the crown he held for a decade.
He has the opportunity to invoke a rematch clause written into the contracts for their first fight, meaning Fury may not have much say in the matter anyway. Regardless, it’s a tantalising prospect and would generate huge interest.
1. Deontay Wilder
Wilder has already expressed an interest in facing Fury, even tweeting him straight after his win over Klitschko. The American of course holds the only title Fury doesn’t, the WBC strap, and a fight between the two would create an undisputed, unified heavyweight champion of the world – arguably the most coveted status in sport.
Both men are outspoken, confident and incredibly charismatic but as they are both unbeaten it is unclear where their levels definitely are inside the ring. They can both whack – Wilder more so than Fury – but both also have considerable skills and smarts.
Let us know who you would like to see Fury face in the Comments section.
