Tyson Fury's recent retirement announcement has thrown a wrench in the plans for a big fight with Anthony Joshua. The heavyweight boxing world is now left wondering if 'The Gypsy King' will stick to his decision or make a comeback.
Joseph Parker, Fury's close friend and training partner, shared his thoughts on what might bring the champion back to the ring. In an interview with Boxing Now, Parker said:
"I think Tyson has done everything in boxing, he's won all the belts, he's made good money, he's achieved everything so I think if he does have the passion still for the boxing and the training, it's a lot of hard work being away from the family, then he should consider coming back fighting Anthony Joshua in the fight everyone wants to see. But if he doesn't have the passion for it he should leave it alone."
Parker points out that Fury's passion for the sport and training will be the deciding factor. The 36-year-old Fury has certainly done it all in boxing, collecting every major belt and earning hefty paydays along the way.
Fury's last fight ended in a points loss to Oleksandr Usyk, where he tried to snatch three world titles in their rematch. This setback might have played a role in his retirement decision.
On the other side of the potential matchup, Anthony Joshua is coming off a tough knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September. That fight was AJ's attempt to become a three-time belt holder.
Both Fury and Joshua have had stellar careers filled with epic fights and millions in earnings. It's unlikely either will want to start from scratch and climb back to the top of the division.
Parker, who's gearing up for his own IBF world title shot against Daniel Dubois on February 22, understands the challenges of the sport. He knows the hard work and family sacrifices that come with a boxing career.
Fury has a history of retiring and then changing his mind. The boxing world and fans are now waiting to see if his passion for the sport will reignite, potentially setting up the all-British clash with Joshua that everyone's been waiting for.