What Lies Beyond Deontay Wilder for Tyson Fury?

The upcoming rematch between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury, set for Feb. 22, 2020,  is one of the most anticipated boxing matches in recent history. 

The pair first clashed in December 2018 in a classic encounter, with a split-decision draw proving to be a controversial result.

The final round of that fight had people on the edge of their seats. Wilder looked to have snatched victory after a right and left hand combo sent Fury to the canvas. The Gypsy King looked down and out but somehow managed to rise to his feet and went on to be the one in control when the bell rang to end the fight.

It was a memorable night for Fury, who felt he should have won on points, but if anything that injustice will give him more motivation to win the rematch. The latest 2 place the Gypsy King as favourite, but what does the future hold for Fury after such a mammoth occasion?

Title unification

If Fury defeats Wilder to claim the WBC heavyweight title, then a title unification could be on the cards. This will hinge on the outcome of the rematch between Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz Jr. Dec. 7. Ruiz beat Joshua back in June to win the WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles. If he defeats Joshua again, then a clash with Fury may be the next logical step. 

Promoter Eddie Hearn has 2 that at this moment Joshua “couldn't care less about Tyson Fury” but if he defeats Ruiz that may change. Joshua has so far avoided Wilder and Fury but if he is to restore his position among the best heavyweights in the world he will have to face them sooner or later.

A clash between Joshua and Fury would be a huge occasion. It would generate massive interest and publicity across the world and would be a chance for Fury to prove, once and for all, his unrivalled quality as a heavyweight boxer. 

Crossover fights

Fury has already taken a side-step as he prepares to face Wilder by taking part in a WWE fight against Braun Strowman. He has spoken of the impulsive decision to take part, saying that “it was all a big secret, and then bang, it happened.” He hinted after the fight that a return to WWE could be possible after he defeats “massive dosser” Wilder.

The decision to enter the wrestling ring proved that Fury is not afraid to try a new challenge, and while his focus for the moment is on Wilder, we could see Fury taking part in other combat sport crossover fights in the future. UFC President Dana White is keen to get Fury involved, and given the out-of-the-blue nature of his venture into wrestling, you wouldn’t rule out Fury entering the octagon at some stage in the future. 

Retirement

Fury has also mentioned the possibility of retirement. “Boxing’s a young man’s game,” said the 31-year-old, “I don’t want to be in longer than I need to.” While he is unlikely to retire immediately after the Wilder rematch, a victory could be the start of Fury’s farewell to heavyweight boxing. There is a possibility that a third fight against Wilder could take place after the rematch. If that was to happen, Fury would look for one last fight to bow out with. 

Of course, the Gypsy King has proven himself to be impulsive when it comes to his career. He may find the thought of leaving the sport he loves too painful. Many boxers have continued to fight well into their thirties and forties, so it will be interesting to see the path Fury takes in boxing in the years to come.