Daniel Dubois’s “phenomenal” power makes him a live threat to Tyson Fury; if they clash, expect an elevated KO probability. Punters might find value backing Dubois as an underdog or placing a Dubois KO wager, while being cautious about backing Fury at short odds in an early comeback tune-up.
Fury warned over dangerous Dubois matchup as comeback plans take shape
Tyson Fury is plotting a 2026 return to the ring, but voices around the sport insist a clash with Daniel Dubois would be risky business for the former world champion. Fury, 37, hasn’t fought since consecutive defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in 2024 and has been spotted training in Thailand alongside heavyweight Kevin Lerena as he prepares for a tune-up in April and a potential summer blockbuster.
Dubois’s power framed as a genuine threat
Daniel Dubois, 28, also arrives from a stoppage defeat to Usyk last July, when he lost his IBF title in the fifth round. His new trainer, Tony Sims, is bullish about Dubois’s ceiling: “I think Daniel can beat anybody. His power is phenomenal... Daniel is capable of beating Tyson Fury or anyone he goes against.” The warning is simple — heavy hands and youth give Dubois the capacity to derail a comeback.
Makhmudov mooted as a safer tune-up for Fury
Rather than risk a stylistic firefight with Dubois, Fury’s camp has been linked to Russian heavyweight Arslanbek Makhmudov, 36, who now fights out of Canada. Promoter Frank Warren backed the matchup as sensible, noting Fury is pragmatic about opponent selection as he rebuilds. Makhmudov last fought in October, outpointing Dave Allen to notch a second straight win following his earlier career loss.
Opposition views: Makhmudov suits Fury’s return
Trainer Gary Logan believes Makhmudov offers the right blend of danger and stylistic compatibility for Fury’s comeback: “Makhmudov is good. He had a really good performance in the last fight against Dave Allen. He’s hittable but he doesn’t hide... If you needed a style for Fury to look good against, Makhmudov is the guy.” The consensus from several corners is that Makhmudov provides an entertaining but controlled step back into competition for Fury.
What this means for the heavyweight landscape
A Fury–Dubois fight would instantly become one of the most talked-about matchups in the division, pitting Fury’s experience and ring IQ against Dubois’s raw punching power. Conversely, a Fury–Makhmudov return preserves Fury’s status while offering a lower-risk route back to a summer marquee bout with one of the division’s elite.
Betting implications
Punters should weigh ring rust and matchup risk. Dubois presents value as an underdog with a high KO ceiling, making KO markets and round-betting attractive for smaller, higher-risk stakes. Fury’s comeback status could compress his odds; backing him at short prices early in his return carries risk, especially if the opponent is a heavy hitter. Market movement should be monitored once opponents are officially confirmed and fight camps reveal more about training form.
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Former two-time heavyweight champion Fury is set to return to the ring in 2026 but has been told fellow Brit Dubois would be a dangerous foe
The Independent
