Tyson Fury has declared that he is actively searching for a new opponent and has publicly challenged Oleksandr Usyk to a third fight. In a strongly worded social media video posted on Sunday, the former heavyweight champion claimed his long-discussed bout with Anthony Joshua is no longer happening and turned his attention to the Ukrainian who defeated him twice in 2024.
Fury and Joshua had both signed individual contracts with Saudi organisers Sela for a November showdown. However, disagreements over the venue have delayed any official announcement. Joshua’s camp has preferred a UK location such as Wembley Stadium, while organisers have pushed for a larger American audience, with Madison Square Garden in New York frequently mentioned.
Fury’s Direct Challenge to Usyk
In the video, Fury accused Joshua of backing out of the contest. He then addressed Usyk directly, noting the Ukrainian’s recent involvement in Joshua’s training setup. “This will only lead me to a fight with Oleksandr Usyk,” Fury said. He acknowledged the two previous losses, both by decision, and called for an immediate trilogy.
“You got the decisions last time, fair play to you. Good luck to you, let’s do it again. Let’s run it back in November. The ball is now in your court… do you want to fight me this year, 2026, or are you calling quits? Let me know because I am now looking for a new opponent.”
Usyk remains the only fighter to have beaten Fury in professional boxing. Their first meeting in 2024 ended in a split decision, while the rematch later that year was scored more clearly in Usyk’s favour. After the second defeat Fury briefly retired before returning to the ring earlier in 2026 with victories over Arslanbek Makhmudov and Mariusz Wach.
Background to the Joshua Negotiations
The proposed Fury-Joshua fight has been one of the most anticipated heavyweight contests in British boxing for more than a decade. Both men signed separate deals with the same Saudi-backed promoters, yet the final details, particularly the location, have proved difficult to finalise. Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn has previously stressed that his fighter’s contract specifies a UK date. Fury’s side has indicated greater flexibility on venue.
Fury’s latest comments follow earlier frustration in which he labelled Joshua a “coward.” His brother Shane had stated that Tyson intended to box on 20 November regardless of the opponent. Alternative names such as Agit Kabayel, Filip Hrgovic and Daniel Dubois have been mentioned as possible replacements should the Joshua contest collapse.
Implications for the Heavyweight Division
A third Fury-Usyk fight would immediately become one of the biggest attractions in the sport. Usyk has vacated his world titles and appears to be considering the final stages of his career. Earlier this year his promoter suggested that a trilogy with Fury no longer held the same interest, stating the chapter was closed after two decisive victories.
Fury’s public call-out places the decision firmly with Usyk and his team. Whether the Ukrainian accepts a November date remains unclear. In the meantime Fury has made clear he will not wait indefinitely and is prepared to face another contender if necessary.
The heavyweight landscape continues to shift. Joshua is still expected to remain active, while other ranked fighters are positioning themselves for high-profile opportunities. Fury’s willingness to move on quickly underlines his desire to stay busy and settle outstanding rivalries before the end of 2026.
What Happens Next
Boxing negotiations often involve public posturing as well as private discussions. Fury’s video has raised the temperature and forced a response from the other parties involved. Joshua’s camp has yet to issue a detailed reply to the latest claims. Usyk’s team will now decide whether a third meeting carries sufficient sporting and commercial value.
For fans, the prospect of either a Fury-Joshua showdown or a Fury-Usyk trilogy remains compelling. Both options would deliver major pay-per-view interest and settle long-running debates inside the heavyweight division. Fury has placed the next move in Usyk’s hands while simultaneously signalling that he is open to other opponents.
As matters stand, the Gypsy King insists he is looking for a new opponent and has formally invited Oleksandr Usyk to settle their rivalry once and for all in November. The coming days will reveal whether that challenge is accepted or whether an alternative name emerges for Fury’s next outing.
