FURY-MAKHMUDOV TIPS: GYPSY KING TO WIN… BUT NOT STOPPAGE HE CRAVES
Tyson Fury returns to the ring on home soil for the first time since December 2022, stepping back into competitive action after a 16-month absence.
The two-time heavyweight world champion (34-2-1, 24 KOs) takes on Russia’s Arslanbek Makhmudov in a highly anticipated comeback clash following his brief retirement announcement in the wake of a second defeat to Oleksandr Usyk.
Fury will take centre stage at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday 11th April. He is the overwhelming favourite and says he wants a stoppage – but Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KOs) won’t be an easy customer.
The Russian recently overcame British boxer Dave Allen via unanimous decision but he is better known for his knockout capabilities, with 19 of his 21 victories coming by stoppage.
We’ve looked through the odds to find the best bets for the occasion…
Fury vs Makhmudov: All You Need to Know
- Fight date: Sat 11th April
- Expected ring walk: 22:30 BST approx
- Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
- Weight: Heavyweight
- How to watch: Netflix
- Records (W-L-D, KOs): Fury 34-2-1, 24 KOs / Makhmudov 21-2, 19 KOs
- Fight market: Click here
Tip 1 – Tyson Fury to win by decision @ 17/5
The effervescent Fury has boasted loudly that he expects an early stoppage in this one but the odds are not favourable on that outcome.
We think 4/9 is far too skinny, given the opponent and the potential for rustiness in the Fury camp.
It’s likely he will still win this fight, though, which is why 17/5 on Fury to come out on top on the scorecards carries considerable appeal.
He’s feeling his way back into the limelight and Makhmudov has proven to be a durable fighter despite his two defeats coming via stoppage.
Indeed, the Russian has trained by fighting an actual bear before. A 6ft 9in Fury will pale in comparison.
Tip 2 – Over 1.5 knockdowns in the fight @ 8/5
While it might be decided on points, these two could hit the deck more than once.
Both have effective power punches and both have the durability to get off the canvas.
Fury’s style has remains tricky and a return to a more energetic, front-foot approach is surely in the offing after some stationery moments in the Usyk double-header.
Still, he has the occasional lapse in concentration – something that’s seen him hit the canvas before.
Across the ring, Makhmudov brings serious power. He’s not just there to make up the numbers; his heavy hands mean he only needs one clean connection to put Fury under real pressure.
On the flip side, Fury’s volume and ring IQ can wear Makhmudov down, especially if the Russian slows late. Agit Kabayel had him down twice before finally ending proceedings in their December 2023 meeting.
That opens the door for a return knockdown or two. In a fight where both men carry genuine threat, two knockdowns feel well within reach.
Tip 3 – Both fighters to be knocked down @ 10/1
By the above reasoning, don’t ignore both fighters to hit the deck at an enhanced price of 10/1.
Fury’s occasional lapses leave the door ajar and, against a puncher like Makhmudov, that’s all it takes.
The Russian’s early power and 91% win-to-knockout ratio makes him a genuine threat to drop Fury before the Briton settles.
But Fury is no stranger to sending an opponent to the canvas himself and this is the value play in what should be an intriguing affair.
Odds correct at time of publication but subject to fluctuation