Tyson Fury vs Arslanbek Makhmudov: Preview & Betting Tips

Image Credit: The Ring Magazine

The heavyweight clash between Tyson Fury and Arslanbek Makhmudov sees Tyson Fury return to the ring on Saturday night for the first time since he was defeated for the second time by Oleksandr Usyk in May 2024.

Fury (34-2-1, 24 KO’s), the former unified heavyweight champion, is widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted big men in boxing history.

Makhmudov (21-2, 19 KO’s), by contrast, is built around power and forward pressure. A physically imposing heavyweight, Makhmudov has made his name by overwhelming opponents with aggression and heavy hands.

Tale of the Tape

Tyson Fury – Odds 1.13 (Sky Bet)

Record: 34-2-1, 24 KO’s

Age: 37

Height: 6ft9

Reach: 85”

Weight: Heavyweight

Stance: Switch

Arslanbek Makhmudov – Odds 5.50 (Sky Bet)

Record: 21-2, 19 KO’s

Age: 36

Height: 6ft6

Reach: 76”

Weight: Heavyweight

Stance: Orthodox

Tyson Fury vs Arslanbek Makhmudov: Analysis

Standing at 6’9” with exceptional movement, Fury combines size with agility in a way few heavyweights ever have. His ability to switch styles from slick, evasive boxing to aggressive, physical pressure, makes him uniquely difficult to prepare for.

Fury’s greatest strength lies in his adaptability. He can outbox opponents from range using his jab and footwork, or he can close distance and lean on them, draining energy with his physicality. His ring IQ is elite, allowing him to read opponents and adjust tactics mid-fight. Defensively, he uses head movement, feints, and positioning to avoid clean shots, even against dangerous punchers.

Makhmudov’s style is straightforward but effective. He pushes forward behind a high guard, looking to close distance and unleash powerful combinations. His presence alone can force opponents into defensive mode, and his willingness to engage makes him a constant threat.

However, Makhmudov’s aggression can also be a double-edged sword. His defensive structure is not as refined as Fury’s, and he can be hit when pressing forward. Against a highly skilled and mobile opponent, those openings could become a significant liability.

Fury vs Makhmudov: Prediction & Betting Tips

Fury will aim to control every aspect of the bout; distance, pace, and positioning. Using his jab and footwork, he can keep Makhmudov at range, frustrating his attempts to close distance. If Fury chooses to fight on the inside, he can also use his size and clinch work to neutralise Makhmudov’s power.

Makhmudov’s path to victory is far more direct; apply relentless pressure and land something big. Against a fighter like Fury, opportunities may be limited, so he must capitalize when they arise. Early rounds could be particularly important, as Fury often takes time to settle into a rhythm.

If Makhmudov can force exchanges early and disrupt Fury’s flow, he may be able to create moments of danger. However, sustaining that pressure against a fighter with Fury’s movement and ring awareness is a significant challenge.

Fury has faced elite opposition throughout his career and has proven himself in multiple high-pressure situations. His ability to remain composed under fire, even when hurt, is well documented. Makhmudov, while dangerous, has not yet consistently faced opponents of Fury’s calibre.

Even despite close to a two-year absence from the ring, the Gypsy King should have enough skill to defeat the Russian. Take Tyson Fury to win in rounds 7-12 at odds of 2.88 (Sky Bet).