Tyson Fury has announced his retirement is over, with a return to the ring expected in April 2026. The 37-year-old former heavyweight champion is planning a comeback fight before targeting bigger contests later in the year. Sky Sports has assessed potential first opponents for 'The Gypsy King' to ease him back into action.

Fury's ideal matchup would be a trilogy fight with Oleksandr Usyk, the only man to beat him professionally. A world title clash with new WBO heavyweight Fabio Wardley also appeals, but those elite bouts are likely reserved for later in 2026. For now, he needs a credible but manageable contest to rebuild momentum after a year away.

Sky Sports' Andy Scott has evaluated several candidates. Arslanbek Makhmudov, a Russian contender based in Canada, offers a tough but winnable fight. Andy Ruiz is a former unified champion who once shocked Anthony Joshua. Controversial American Jarrell Miller and Croatian southpaw Agron Smakici, a former sparring partner with some ill-feeling, round out the shortlist.