WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders is training in Marbella, Spain with former Heavyweight ruler Tyson Fury.

The undefeated Hatfield star posted a video onto his Instagram page this morning confirming that Fury is back in training.

This week Fury revealed that he is targeting a comeback this summer in a quest to regain his status as World Heavyweight Champion.

“Got the big man with me,” said Saunders. “Tyson Fury is running with us, getting in good shape – he’s lost weight already.

“Getting ready for July. We’re all looking good – bring on Danny DeVito and bring on the winner of Joshua vs. Klitschko for the big man!”

In November 2015, Fury upset the odds to dethrone long-time division king Wladimir Klitschko. The 28-year-old remains the Lineal Champion ahead of his proposed return to the ring.

Saunders is set to face Avtandil Khurtsidze in July after the Georgian stopped Tommy Langford in Leicester to lift the WBO Interim belt.

Khurtsidze, a heavy-handed Georgian, is an avoided man in the division and will be confident of defeating Saunders. Billy Joe has been forced to look at other options after a proposed unification bout with Gennady Golovkin seems unlikely to materialise this summer.

Former Heavyweight Champion of the World Tyson Fury is targeting a sensational July ring return.

The former linear, WBA Super, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine World Heavyweight Champion hasn’t fought since he dethroned long-reigning Heavyweight icon Wladimir Klitschko back in 2015.

But now the controversial Mancunian wants to begin his mission to reclaim all of his belts this summer. In a social media post, the ‘Gypsy King’ indicated he wanted to make his comeback on the undercard of Billy Joe Saunders’ mandatory defence against Avtandil Khurtsize.

Promoter Frank Warren is currently finalising details for Saunders’ mandatory defence against newly-crowned WBO Interim Champion Khurtsidze; with a July date in London looking likely.

“Gypsy King reporting into the World. I can confirm that I will be accompanying the one and only Billy Joe Saunders when he fights ‘Danny De Vito’,” Fury said in an Instagram post.

“I’m coming back. Going over to Marbella [to train]. We are going to Marbella and I’m coming back to take on all bums. Bum of the month campaign, what you say Frank? So many bums out there that need cleaning up and wiping out.”

WBO World Middleweight Champion Saunders clashed with Khurtsidze in Leicester on Saturday night. Saunders had just seen the hard-hitting Georgian stop British Champion Tommy Langford in five rounds to win the WBO Interim belt.

At a post-fight press conference, the undefeated Hatfield star asked trainer Andre Rozier if Khurtsidze is ready for him.

Rozier, who also coaches Daniel Jacobs, responded: “Of course! He’s ready right now. Do you want to fight him tonight?”

“Would you want to go today?” replied Saunders. “You Americans come over here talking s**t. You’re irrelevant! Your man will get stopped in six rounds!”

“He’s the wrong one to do that with,” said Rozier. “Don’t shout at him, that’s suicide! We’ll settle this in the ring.”

Saunders lifted the WBO strap after outpointing Andy Lee in December 2015, the 24-0 southpaw had been hoping to secure a unification with Gennady Golovkin this summer but if the fight fails to materialise, he may be forced to look at other options.

WATCH SAUNDERS’ HEATED CLASH WITH KHURTSIDZE HERE

Former Heavyweight Champion of the World Tyson Fury came out to support his fellow Mancunian Terry Flanagan at Frank Warren’s open workouts at The Printworks earlier this evening. Flanagan makes the fifth defence of his WBO Lightweight World Title against dangerous Russian Petr Petrov at the Manchester Arena this Saturday, live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

Fury, the former linear, WBA Super, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine World Heavyweight Champion, watched on as local hero Flanagan was put through his paces by trainer Steve Maylett in front of hundreds of Manchester fight fans.

Undefeated Flanagan, 32-0 13 KO’s, looked in fantastic shape ahead of the toughest fight of his career and treated fans to a scintillating display of speed and power. The proud owner of the longest undefeated record in British boxing was delighted to see Fury showing his support and backed the man who dethroned long-reigning Heavyweight icon Wladimir Klitschko way back in 2015 to win his belts back.

“It was brilliant seeing big Tyson here showing me some support,” said Turbo. “We are both Manchester lads and want to make our city proud. He shocked the sporting World by beating Klitschko in Germany and I plan on shocking the World by beating Vasyl Lomachenko after I deal with Petrov on Saturday.

“Like everyone in boxing, I can’t wait to see Tyson back in the ring where he belongs. He is a man of the people and always puts a smile on your face. I’m backing him to win all of his belts back and reclaim his place as the best Heavyweight on the planet.

“I’m over the moon with the turnout today. It’s great seeing so many young fans taking an interest in the sport and backing one of their own! There’s a massive buzz around the city and seeing all these fans here today has given me a massive boost.”

Terry Flanagan vs. Petr Petrov tops an unmissable evening of action at the Manchester Arena; Super-Welterweight rivals Liam Smith and Liam Williams clash for the WBO Interim World Title; double Olympic Gold Medallist and women’s boxing icon Nicola Adams OBE fights for the first time as a professional and former Team GB Heavyweight monster Daniel Dubois makes his highly-anticipated professional debut along with a talent packed undercard.

Tickets for April 8 priced £50, £70, £100, £150, £200, £300 and VIP £500 are available from eventim at www.eventim.co.uk and 0844 249 1000 and the Manchester Arena at www.manchester-arena.com and 0844 847 8000.

Tyson Fury has this evening announced that he has voluntarily vacated his WBO, WBA and IBO World Heavyweight titles with immediate effect to fully focus on his medical treatment and recovery.

Tyson defeated the then linear world champion Wladimir Klitschko in Germany last November in one of the biggest ever upsets in sporting history to claim the unified world titles. However, due to a serious medical condition, Tyson was forced to withdraw from defending his titles against Klitschko in the rematch scheduled for October 29th in Manchester.

Tyson values the rich and treasured history of the heavyweight division which has had countless legendary champions and believes that the titles should be kept active. Therefore out of respect for the governing bodies, the sport of boxing and the heavyweight division, Tyson has made the difficult decision to vacate the belts. This will also allow him the time and space to fully recover from his present condition without any undue pressure and with the expert medical attention he requires and his close family support.

“I feel that it is only fair and right and for the good of boxing to keep the titles active and allow the other contenders to fight for the vacant belts that I proudly won and held as the undefeated heavyweight champion of the world when I defeated the long-standing champion Wladimir Klitschko,” said Tyson.

He added, “I won the titles in the ring and I believe that they should be lost in the ring, but I’m unable to defend at this time and I have taken the hard and emotional decision to now officially vacate my treasured World titles and wish the next in-line contenders all the very best as I now enter another big challenge in my life which I know, like against Klitschko, I will conquer.”

Mick Hennessy, Tyson’s promoter from the start of his professional career, said, “Tyson will still be the linear World Heavyweight Champion in everyones’ eyes. He beat the most dominant champion in the modern era of boxing on an amazing night in Germany to earn that accolade and that will never change. Whilst it’s heartbreaking to see Tyson vacate the world titles that he worked so long and hard for all his life, what’s paramount now is that he receives the medical treatment along with the love of his family and friends and the support of the boxing world to make a full recovery.”

Peter Fury, Tyson’s uncle and trainer, said, “Tyson will be back stronger from this and I will make sure, no matter what we have to deal with, Tyson not only comes back but will reclaim what’s rightfully his. I’m very proud of my nephew’s achievements.”

Unified Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury failed a 2nd cocaine test, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.
VADA president Dr. Margaret Goodman sent Fury and others associated with the rematch a letter confirming the test results, a copy of which was obtained by ESPN.com.

“This letter is to advise you that the ‘A’ sample urine specimen number 4006217 collected from Tyson Fury on September 21, 2016, through his participation in the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) program has been analyzed for anabolic agents, diuretics, beta-2 agonists, stimulants and drugs of abuse,” the letter said. “The results of the analyses are as follows: Adverse. Urine specimen contains benzoylecgonine.

“Please also note that — due to varying shipping times — laboratory results for earlier specimen collections may not be available until after the results of subsequent collections in some instances,” the letter said. “Mr. Fury has the right to promptly request analysis of the ‘B’ sample at his expense. Please be aware that VADA does not adjudicate results nor determine whether sanctions are appropriate. As with all results, adverse findings are reported to the relevant commission(s) who may make such determinations. Please do not hesitate to let us know if you have any questions regarding this matter.”

Unified Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has admitted cocaine use, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

“Listen, I’ve done a lot of things in my life. I’ve done lots of cocaine. Lots of it,” Fury said in the interview. “Why shouldn’t I take cocaine? It’s my life, isn’t it? I can do what I want. Yeah, I have done cocaine. Plenty of people have done cocaine as well. What the f— has that got to do with anything?

“That ain’t a performance-enhancing drug. Am I not allowed to have a life now as well? Do they want to take my personal life off me, too? I’ve not been in a gym for months. I’ve not been training. I’ve been going through depression. I just don’t want to live anymore, if you know what I’m saying. I’ve had total enough of it. They’ve forced me to the breaking edge. Never mind cocaine. I just didn’t care. I don’t want to live anymore. So cocaine is a little minor thing compared to not wanting to live anymore.”

Asked whether he scrapped the July date because of his problems, as opposed to an ankle injury, Fury said he had.

“To be honest, yes,” he said. “I’ve not been in the gym for months. I’ve been AWOL. I’ve been out drinking, anything to get me mind off what’s been going on to me.”

“I’m going through a lot of personal demons, trying to shake them off,” Fury told Rolling Stone. “This has got nothing to do with my fighting. What I’m going through right now is my personal life. … They say I’ve got a version of bipolar. I’m a manic depressive. I just hope someone kills me before I kill myself.”

Fury said he was training in Holland this past May but was overwhelmed by depression and stopped.

“From that day forward, I’ve never done any training,” Fury said. “I’ve been out drinking, Monday to Friday to Sunday, and taking cocaine. I can’t deal with it, and the only thing that helps me is when I get drunk out of me mind.”

When Fury attended the Deontay Wilder-Artur Szpilka heavyweight title bout in January at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, he was seen by many, including media members, at an after party in the arena. Fury was drinking heavily.

“I’m in a very bad place at the moment,” Fury said. “I don’t know whether I’m coming or going. I don’t know what’s going to happen to me. I don’t know if I’m going to see the year out to be honest. I am seeing help, but they can’t do nothing for me. What I’ve got is incurable. I don’t want to live. All the money in the world, fame and glory, means nothing if you’re not happy. And I ain’t happy. I’m very far from it.”

“Because of my background, because of who I am and what I do — there’s hatred for Travelers and gypsies around the world,” said Fury, an Irish Traveler, which is a group of about 40,000 nomadic, religious people who live throughout Ireland and the United Kingdom and fight among themselves for sport. They have been persecuted for centuries.
“They’ve tried to get me chucked out of boxing because they cannot tame me, they cannot hire me, I’m not for sale, no one can turn a key in my back, no one can do nothing to stop me,” Fury said. “So now they’re saying I took some cocaine and whatever. Listen, if I had some smack, I’d take it. If I had heroin, I’d take that, never mind cocaine, for what they’ve done to me. It’s a travesty what they’ve done.

“I want to expose them for what they are. The British Boxing Board of Controls is in on it too. They’re all in it together. The drug-testing companies are in on it as well.”

Unified Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury tested positive for Cocaine, which puts his titles in doubt, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

In a letter from VADA president Dr. Margaret Goodman sent to representatives for Fury, Klitschko, the British Boxing Board of Control and the United States’ Association of Boxing Commissions on Thursday night, a copy of which was obtained by ESPN.com, she wrote, “This letter is to advise you that the ‘A’ sample urine specimen number 4006253 collected from Tyson Fury on September 22, 2016 in Lancaster, England through his participation in the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) program has been analyzed for anabolic agents, diuretics, beta-2 agonists, stimulants and drugs of abuse. The results of the analysis are as follows: Adverse. Urine specimen contains benzoylecgonine.

“Mr. Fury has the right to promptly request analysis of the ‘B’ sample at his expense.”

“Tyson will now immediately undergo the treatment he needs to make a full recovery,” Hennessy said. “We and Tyson wish to express our sincerest apologies to all those concerned with the event and all the boxing fans who had been looking forward to the rematch. Tyson is understandably devastated by the development.”

“Hopefully, the organizations will move quickly because Wladimir wants to fight for a title before the end of the year,” Bernd Boente, Klitschko’s manager, told ESPN.com. “He has already been in the longest layoff of his career because of Fury, and he is keen on fighting again for a title by the end of the year.”

“If this is true about his positive drug test, it’s too bad we did not do VADA testing before the first fight,” Boente said. “We are not surprised because this is how Fury acted the whole time and now we probably have another indication why he didn’t show up at the press conference in London, where he claimed a car problem. It also shows the ongoing situation with (the United Kingdom Anti-Doping Association) situation under a different light.”

“I feel very sorry that UKADA never was open about that situation with us because then we would have insisted on VADA testing before the first fight,” Boente said. “I think Fury is probably the most unworthy heavyweight champion in history, not only because of this situation but because of the whole package of his sexist comments, his anti-Semitic comments and his homophobic comments that have been [well documented].”

By Norm Frauenheim-

Boxing enters the year’s fourth quarter looking to make the kind of defining comeback that happens when it is at its dramatic best.

Just when the sport is down and written off in obits that have been written before, it gets up and recovers just in time for another Rocky sequel.

I’m not sure that another resurrection will be so easy or predictable this time around. But it’s always a mistake to underestimate the battered game’s resilience. It’s been inexhaustible. Other than broken jaws and slurred words, it also has been the only reliable commodity in a feast-and-famine cycle.

The famine is here, marked by a barren October full of only cancellations, including Tyson Fury’s sudden withdrawal from an Oct. 29 rematch with Wladimir Klitschko, reportedly for mental-health reasons. Fury’s rise to the top of the heavyweight heap was marked by erratic behavior.

It was also behavior often encouraged by media and fans. We were entertained. If stories about Fury’s mental health are accurate, we also might have been complicit.

We might have pushed him there, looking for a few more laughs. That’s a different story, perhaps.

But it’s also part of the context that has always drawn fighters and fans to a precipice as crazy as it is dangerous.

Fury is named Tyson because his father admired Mike Tyson. Fury shares a name and perhaps a fate with a heavyweight, who in 1998 had to undergo a mental evaluation before he could get a license from the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

Every painful detail about that evaluation made it into the media. We knew when he was on Zoloft. We knew when he was on lithium.

It was unseemly. Yet, it was irresistible, mostly because editors demanded the dirty details that readers and fans wanted. Somehow, Mike survived, much to the media’s surprise and even his own. He’s a happy, doting dad today. I also suspect he recognizes where Fury is right now.

Fury’s uncle and trainer, Peter, told UK media that he would be back, sometime next year.

But Mike Tyson’s example is powerful enough to say he should just walk away. Walk, Tyson Fury, walk away for everybody’s sake, mostly your own. With today’s social media, he’ll be under intense scrutiny no matter what he does. A return to the ring would only further inflame the Twitter universe.

Imagine if Twitter had been around during Mike Tyson’s career. Multiply crazy by 140 and more, a lot more.

The business is already preparing to move on, no matter what happens to Fury. There’s already talk about the UK’s young sensation, Anthony Joshua, against Klitschko, who has been training and doesn’t want to let all of his work go to waste.

The guess is that Joshua-Klitschko would happen sometime later this year, which – with apologies to Tyson – will end in a fury.

After an empty October, November is loaded, first on Nov. 5 with Manny Pacquiao featured against Jessie Vargas in a Top Rank pay-per-view production in Las Vegas that is mostly interesting for the undercard. Oscar Valdez Jr.’s coming-out party continues against Hiroshige Osawa in his first title defense in a bout that should propel the emerging featherweight into a main-event attraction in 2017.

Then, there’s the biggie, Sergey Kovalev-Andre Ward in a light-heavyweight showdown on Nov. 19 in a PPV bout, also in Las Vegas. Main Events, Kovalev’s promoter, has tempered PPV expectations. In a declining market, 300,000 would be a success. However, a great, competitive fight could set up a money-making rivalry and a PPV blockbuster in a rematch.

Then on Nov. 26, Vasyl Lomachenko faces Nicholas Walters for a 130-pound title. On paper, it looks like a great fight. The guess here, however, is that Lomachenko’s clever execution of his versatile skillset will be too much for Walters. It’ll be anoter reason to think that Lomachenko will be boxing’s next great, multi-weight champ with eventual titles at 135, 140 and 147.

Then, there’s December. There’s talk of Gennady Golovkin in a middleweight bout against likable Danny Jacobs, who has whipped cancer and everybody else since a loss in 2010. It’s not GGG-Canelo Alvarez. But it’s a projected fight with elements that might help a frustrated fan base forget about those futile GGG-Canelo discussions.

It’s a busy, intriguing run of fights, each with enough potential to restore a declining game in 2017. But will they? Will 2016’s fourth quarter plant the seeds for another comeback? Who knows? But I’m here, back at the precipice anyway, wondering whether those stories about Tyson Fury’s condition are accurate and wondering why I’m here all over again.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, unified heavyweight titlist Tyson Fury could be stripped of his title after several cancellations of his rematch with former champion Wladimir Klitschko.

Fury will have to uodate the WBO of his health stauts.

Mick Hennessy, Fury’s promoter, did not specify a reason for Fury’s withdrawal other than to say he had been “declared medically unfit to fight. Medical specialists have advised that the condition is too severe to allow him to participate in the rematch and that he will require treatment before going back into the ring. Tyson will now immediately undergo the treatment he needs to make a full recovery.”

“We are very sorry to hear the reports that you have allegedly pulled out of the October 29th bout due to a serious depression you are being treated for,” the WBO wrote to Fury on Monday. “Please know that all at the WBO are concerned for you and wish you the best for a full and complete recovery.

“As you know, since the date your title was won on November 28, 2015, you have not defended your title and you have been inactive. On June 24, 2016, an ankle injury forced you to withdraw from your heavyweight rematch against Wladimir Klitschko scheduled for July 9th in Manchester,” the WBO wrote.

“The committee may condition its approval of a disability extension upon the champion providing interim medical certifications that he is reasonably expected to recover within the term of the disability extension.”

Peter Fury, Tyson’s uncle and trainer, does not believe his nephew should be stripped of his belts.

“With Tyson’s condition, he cannot be held culpable,” he said, adding that a detailed statement on his health would be released soon. “He will not and should not be stripped of belts.”

“We would appreciate that the physician specifically clarifies the nature and extent of your condition and your prognosis for return to training and your return to competition,” the letter said.

If the WBO does not receive the information it asked for, it said it “will proceed with the necessary appropriate action without the benefit of an appeal. The WBO wishes you the best good fortune on a prompt and speedy recovery. We looked forward to your prompt response to assist (the) committee in reaching the fairest decision for you, the top contenders in the heavyweight division, and your future return to complete your world championship career.”

Undefeated Heavyweight Andy Ruiz Jr. pulled out of a proposed bout with fellow undefeated Hughie Fury on October 29 on the Tyson Fury – Wladimir Klitschko undercard in Manchester, England.

“He didn’t want to sign the contract, and unfortunately they [Ruiz and his father, Andy Ruiz Sr.] decided not to go through with the fight,” Top Rank vice president Carl Moretti told ESPN.com. “If I agreed with them, we’d both be wrong.”

“There are no physical restrictions preventing him from going through with the fight,” Moretti said.

LONDON (12 September) – Tyson Fury’s Heavyweight World Title rematch with the legendary Wladimir Klitschko will be made available via BoxNation Box Office to Sky customers for the first time.

The groundbreaking development will see this year’s biggest fight, taking place on Saturday October 29th in Manchester, being accessible to Sky’s 12 million customers who will be able to order the BoxNation event via their remote control for a one-off pay-per-view fee.

Fury v Klitschko 2, as well as a host of world class exclusively live fights, will still be available to current BoxNation monthly subscribers as part of their normal package on all platforms, including Sky.

The addition of BoxNation Box Office, Sky Channel 490, will allow sports fans the option to buy the bout as a one-off event up to two weeks out by pressing the Box Office button on their remote and selecting the Sports and Events tab.

BoxNation is currently available on a number of platforms including Sky, Freeview, Virgin, TalkTalk, online and apps, for just £12 a month showing the very best live fights both internationally and domestically, as well as non-stop 24-hour quality boxing programming.

Fury’s eagerly anticipated rematch with the formidable Klitschko will see the Manchester ace fight at home as he looks to prove that his stunning victory over the Ukrainian, who had dominated the division for over 10 years prior to his loss, was no fluke.

The match-up will see the two best heavyweights in the world collide, with the launch of BoxNation Box Office offering fight fans the chance to not miss a moment of the action from the Manchester Arena next month.

Frank Warren, Chairman of BoxNation, said: “Since BoxNation launched in 2011 we have constantly strived to grow the channel by showcasing the very best live fights and content but have also looked closely at improving accessibility for customers. As such, BoxNation is now available on a number of platforms such as Sky, Freeview, Virgin, TalkTalk, online and through apps. We are now delighted to be able to offer Sky customers the chance to order Fury v Klitschko 2 as a one-off box office event via their remote control. Fury v Klitschko 2 is the biggest fight this year and will determine the genuine number one heavyweight on the planet and we are very pleased to have the fight exclusively live on BoxNation and now BoxNation Box Office.”

George Warren, CEO of BoxNation, said: “Fury v Klitschko 2 is the perfect fight to launch BoxNation Box Office, which will be available via our pay-per-view channel 490 on Sky. Box Office has been an area which we were keen to explore and are very happy that we can now offer this option to fans who wish to book the fight as a standalone event through their Sky box. BoxNation monthly subscribers will have the same access to Fury v Klitschko 2 as those ordering the fight via BoxNation Box Office. In addition, they will continue to enjoy further world class live fights and quality boxing content at just £12-a-month. We are looking forward to offering BoxNation Box Office for the biggest fights and will strive to continue delivering the very best service for our customers.”

Pricing for Fury v Klitschko 2 on BoxNation Box Office will be announced soon, with further information also set to be available on boxnation.com.

BoxNation’s current subscribers, and any new customers that wish to subscribe instead of buying through box office, will get the fight as part of their monthly subscription.

Fury v Klitschko 2 is exclusively live on BoxNation (Sky/Freeview/Virgin/TalkTalk/Online & App) and BoxNation Box Office (Sky Channel 490) on Saturday October 29th. Buy now at boxnation.com.

– ENDS –

About BoxNation Box Office
Fury v Klitschko 2 on 29th October will be shown live and exclusively on BoxNation and BoxNation Box Office (Sky Ch.490) in the UK and Ireland.

For the first time, Sky’s circa 12 million customers will be able to order a BoxNation event via their remote control.

To order BoxNation Box Office for Fury v Klitschko 2, press the Box Office Button on your Sky remote control, and select Sports/Events.

Fury v Klitschko 2 will also be available to all BoxNation active monthly subscribers on all platforms, including Sky, as part of your normal BoxNation subscription.

About BoxNation

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated boxing channel. From £12* with no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Mayweather vs Maidana, Saunders vs Eubank Jr and Khan vs Canelo.

The channel is available on Sky (Ch.437), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (ios, Android, Amazon). BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 490), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.

Available on selected internet-connected Freeview products only, subject to coverage. Visit freeview.co.uk/availability.

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

*Plus £8 registration fee for Sky TV customers

Undefeated heavyweight sensation Hughie Fury will make the first defence of his WBO Intercontinental Championship against Mexico’s Andy Ruiz Jr on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s eagerly-anticipated rematch with Wladimir Klitschko at the Manchester Arena on Saturday 29th October, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

Fury, 20-0 10 KO’s, has ripped through the heavyweight division, claiming his first professional title in the WBO Intercontinental against Fred Kassi at London’s Copper Box Arena back in April. Should he defeat the unbeaten Ruiz Jr, Fury will move into the number one mandatory position for the WBO World Heavyweight title – held by his cousin Tyson.

California resident Ruiz Jr holds an explosive record of 28 wins from 28 fights, with 19 coming via devastating knockout. The former WBO Intercontinental belt holder enjoys a No.3 ranking with the WBO and is sure to provide Fury with his toughest test to date.

“I am happy to be in such a big fight against a top heavyweight,” said Fury. “I will be giving my all to retain my WBO Intercontinental belt and I hope it is a fight that the fans enjoy. Out of all of the top up-and-coming heavyweights I believe I have fought the better men in my career so far. Being tested against tougher opponents will help me in this fight.”

Peter Fury, father and trainer of Hughie, said: “Hughie is a true fighting man who loves his sport. He trains hard & will need to be as prepared as possible as Ruiz Jr is easily one of the best heavyweights in the world right now.

“Hughie is ready to take this challenge and this once again proves we only want the best fights for him. He wants to earn his position, he doesn’t want to fight cherry-picked opposition like other heavyweights.

“I know Hughie can become a great fighter. To do that he must do what other heavyweights won’t; fight top drawer opponents.”

With the heavyweight division in a new era after the Klitschko brother’s long dominance, Fury is in a perfect position to capitalise. Promoter Frank Warren is confident his heavyweight prodigy has what it takes to make it to the very top of the division.

“Hughie is a fighting man; he’s done things the hard way. 20 fights in three years is a phenomenal record for a heavyweight fighter. We know he’s got gas and he’s been tested against some awkward opponents. The division is certainly opening up and I can see Hughie being a dominant figure for years to come.

“He has won all 20 of his professional fights with a debilitating skin condition so how good is he going to be now he is fully fit?”

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions, will televise this fight on Sky (SD Ch.437 and HD Ch.490), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon).

Go to www.boxnation.com to see how you can watch this fight and more live!

Hennessy Sports, K2 Promotions, Team Fury, Klitschko Management Group (KMG) and Frank Warren on behalf of BoxNation are delighted to announce Heavyweight Champion of the World Tyson Fury’s long-awaited rematch with Ukrainian boxing legend Wladimir Klitschko will take place at the Manchester Arena on Saturday 29th October, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

The giants of boxing collide again in the biggest and fiercest heavyweight rematch in recent memory. A bitter grudge match sees Fury, the linear, WBA Super, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine World Heavyweight Champion make the first defence of the titles against the man he took them from in an explosive blockbuster showdown.

Undefeated Fury (25-0 18KOs) shocked the sporting world last November when he sensationally dethroned long-reigning heavyweight icon Klitschko in one of boxing’s biggest ever upsets in recent years at the Esprit Arena in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Klitschko is gunning for revenge after suffering his first defeat in over 11 years at the hands of the Mancunian. ‘Dr Steelhammer’ (64-4 54 KOs) is determined to recapture his belts from Fury and take his place back at the top of the world heavyweight scene.

Peter Fury, uncle and trainer of Tyson Fury, said: “I’m delighted that we can finally get the fight back on and in Manchester on October 29th. After hard discussions we can now focus on giving the fans what they deserve; another barnburner of a fight. Team Fury will ensure Tyson is in the shape of his life to successfully retain his World Titles.”

Promoter Mick Hennessy, CEO of Hennessy Sports, said: “Everyone involved has worked tirelessly to get the world heavyweight title rematch between Tyson and Wladimir back-on and I’m thrilled that it’s now officially confirmed. This is the rematch that the boxing world has been waiting to see and the anticipation is now at boiling point so expect a highly charged and explosive fight when the best two heavyweights in the world collide. As Tyson’s promoter I have 100 percent confidence that he will retain his titles in front of his fans and make it another memorable night for British boxing to remember.”

Bernd Bonte of KMG said: “Team Klitschko is very happy, that after Fury`s postponements, we finally have a new date. It is great that our event can stay in the Manchester Arena. This is one of the best venues world-wide and has already seen many great fights. We know that Wladimir will be in the best shape on October 29th and we are very confident that he will regain the Heavyweight Championships.”

Frank Warren, Chairman of BoxNation, said: “I’m delighted that we can finally announce the rescheduled date for the REAL Heavyweight Championship of the World. Fury vs. Klitschko II is by far the biggest fight in Europe so far this year. The addition of the fight to the channel is another fantastic acquisition following on from the recent capture of the blockbuster showdowns between Khan vs. Canelo and Frampton vs. Leo Santa Cruz. This yet again shows our commitment to bringing the biggest and best fights to our BoxNation customers. The night promises to be one of the biggest events in the UK for years and I’m thrilled our channel will be there as Fury looks to cement his place as king of the heavyweight division.”

A press conference formally announcing the new fight date, involving Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko, will take place on Monday 12th September in London – venue and time to be confirmed.

*Tickets purchased for the original Saturday 9th July event will be valid for entry at the Manchester Arena for the new date of Saturday 29th October. Remaining tickets will be available at www.eventim.co.uk. A further announcement regarding ticket sales will follow shortly*

About BoxNation

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions, is the UK’s first and only dedicated boxing channel. From just £12* a month with no minimum term, customers can enjoy the best live and exclusive fights from the UK and around the World.

Previous highlights have included David Haye vs. Dereck Chisora, Canelo Alvarez vs. Amir Khan and Billy Joe Saunders vs. Chris Eubank Jr.

The channel is available on Sky (SD Ch.437 and HD Ch.490), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon).

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

BoxNation is proud to be sponsored by Rainham Steel.

*Plus £8 registration fee for Sky TV customers.

LONDON (26 JUNE) Team Fury/Hennessy Sports: We are baffled by today’s story in the Sunday Mirror. Tyson Fury absolutely denies any allegation of doping. He looks forward to recovering from his injury and defending his titles against Wladimir Klitschko in October.

4
LONDON (24 JUNE) Hennessy Sports, Klitschko Management Group (KMG) and Team Fury regret to inform that World Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury has suffered an ankle injury in training and is therefore unable to defend his belts against Wladimir Klitschko on July 9 at the Manchester Arena.

The injury – a badly sprained ankle – occured recently and has unfortunately shown no signs of improving. This has left Team Fury with no option but to postpone the first defence of his WBA Super, WBO and IBO world heavyweight titles.

Hennessy Sports and KMG will announce a rescheduled date for Fury vs. Klitschko II in due course, and tickets purchased for the original July 9 date will be valid for the rescheduled date.

Promoter Mick Hennessy said, “It’s very unfortunate at this crucial stage of Tyson’s preparations that this injury has occurred with just a couple of weeks to go.

“There was no way Tyson could go into the fight against Wladimir Klitschko less than 100 percent fit.

“It’s essential now that Tyson gets the correct medical professional treatment for the injury and then we can then look to announce the new date.

“I feel for the fans who have purchased tickets and for the BoxNation viewers who were looking forward to this summer blockbuster, but we will put all our efforts into making sure Tyson fully recovers and then get the rematch back on.”

NATHAN GORMAN will have to conquer a giant when he appears on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s eagerly anticipated rematch with Wladimir Klitshchko in Manchester next month.

The Ricky Hatton-trained teenager will square off with Sheffield’s 6ft 8in tall Dave Howe and he knows he has a huge task on his hands.

As well as towering over Gorman, Howe also has the greater experience in the ring, having scored 11 professional victories against just two defeats.

But Gorman is relishing the challenge and feels he has the tools to impress once more in front of what will be a huge crowd.

“This is a big step up for me but it’s something I’m more than ready for. I know I’ve only had four pro fights, but I’ve won them pretty comfortably so it’s time for a bigger test,” Gorman, 19, said.

“I can’t say I’ve seen Dave Howe box. What I do know is he’s very tall at 6ft 8ins and has decent power. His record suggests he’s a good fighter so I know I have to be ready for everything he throws at me.

“It looks like he might not have the strongest whiskers, though, as both his defeats have come by knockout, but I can’t read too much into that. I have to prepare for the best opponent possible.

“Of course, I would love to knock him out and I believe I have the power to do it. I believe I can knock out any heavyweight if I land cleanly and that’s what I’ll be looking to do against Howe.”

With the exception of his recent outing at the Copper Box Arena, Gorman’s pro journey so far has largely taken place at smaller venues in the Midlands so it would be natural for him to feel some trepidation ahead of such a high profile card. However, he says he’ll be in the zone once the bell rings.

“Boxing at the Manchester Arena is a dream come true, especially when the main event is for the world heavyweight title,” he said.

“There’s going to be a huge crowd and it’s a chance for me to make a real statement. I’ll be excited walking to the ring but I can’t be overawed, I have to blank the crowd out and just do the job Ricky has prepared me for.”

LONDON (10 JUNE) Commonwealth and English featherweight champion Isaac Lowe will next appear on July 9 at the Manchester Arena, as part of the undercard to Tyson Fury’s world heavyweight title defence against Wladimir Klitschko, and admits he wouldn’t be boxing at all if it wasn’t for the influence and guidance of the best heavyweight on the planet.

Lowe, unbeaten in 13 pro fights, has looked up to Fury throughout the course of his own four-year professional career, even turning to him during difficult times, and says he owes him a lot.

“Many times I’ve been down and thought about giving up this sport – throwing it in – but Tyson has been the one who has come and picked me back up and given me the encouragement to keep going,” Lowe explains. “He has got me back in the gym and sometimes taken me away training to freshen things up.

“A lot of people just judge him based on what they see on television. But, trust me, get him off camera and he’s a completely guy altogether. He’s always been someone I have respected and looked up to. He’s down-to-earth, kind, funny, likes a laugh. He’s like a big baby, to tell you the truth. Sometimes you’ve got to tell him what to do. He gets carried away. He’s also inspirational and is a teacher. That’s the role he has played in my life. I wouldn’t be where I am now in boxing if it wasn’t for Tyson.

“Now we’re both on the same show together and we’re going to make history. It’s going to be a night to remember for both of us. It will probably be a bit emotional, too.”

Last time out, in February, the ‘Westgate Warrior’ used a lot of what Tyson has taught him over the years to impressively dominate and then stop Marco McCullough in a vacant Commonwealth title clash.

“Everyone wrote me off before that fight,” Lowe says. “They said Marco would be too big and strong and that I’d get knocked out. Nobody gave me a chance. But I went in there and showed people what I’m capable of. I showed them I’m not just a boxer. I’ve also got power and can hurt people. It was the best I’ve ever boxed. I hope I convinced a few people with the performance; don’t rule me out, there’s a lot more to come.”

Lowe seemingly isn’t content to win just Commonwealth and English title honours. He wants more. He wants other belts. And he won’t stop until his dream comes true.

“I’m not one for calling out fighters,” he says. “All I want is that world title and I’ll go down whatever route I have to go down in order to get it. If it means going down the British title route, I’ll do it. If it means going in another direction, I’ll do that instead. I’ll go where the money is. It’s a business, at the end of the day, and I’ve got to provide for a family. That’s part of the reason why I want that world title so badly.

“The first time I went into the gym at seven years of age I never thought I’d be a Commonwealth and English champion at 22 after 13 fights. You don’t think like that. But I always went to bed and dreamed of one day becoming a world champion.”

*** For tickets to REPEAT OR REVENGE: Fury vs. Klitschko 2, please visit eventim.co.uk or call 0844 847 8000 ***

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LONDON (6 JUNE) Welterweight Peter McDonagh, boxing’s latest Cinderella Man, will appear on July 9 at the Manchester Arena – as the part of the blockbuster Tyson Fury vs. Wladimir Klitschko show – and is hopeful of securing a shot at the European title in the coming months.

McDonagh, now 38, has been a professional since 2002 and has fought a who’s who of the lightweight, super-lightweight and welterweight divisions. He has had his ups and his downs and is a three-time Irish champion. He currently rides a nine-fight win-streak and admits he’s feeling better than ever.

“When I turned pro at 24, people said, ‘How long do you think you can do it?’” he begins. “I said, ‘Look, I could be finished after one fight, or I could have 80. You never know.’ You just listen to your body and see how you feel.

“Three years ago, in 2013, I lost my sister to breast cancer and came really close to retiring from boxing. But I went over to the MGM gym in Marbella and told my manager, Daniel Kinahan, I was going to retire. He said, “Don’t retire, give it one more shot and see how you go.” I was on a losing streak and everything. But, as soon as I hooked up with the MGM and my manager, it all changed. I went from strength to strength. I’m unbeaten in nine now. I’ve won three titles since I’ve been with them and I’ve still got the desire to go on and win bigger titles.”

McDonagh continues: “I’m in the top fifteen of the European rankings, so there’s a good chance I’ll get a shot at the European title. That’s the plan. That’s what we’re hoping for. Now I’m on the right side of the card it makes a massive difference. I’m no longer taking fights at short-notice against kids much bigger than me. Don’t get me wrong, I’m beating good kids with that sort of notice, or, if I lose, I’m losing very close fights, but it’s a different story if you give me a full camp.

“I’m a promoted and managed fighter now. How far can I go? Let’s see. I’ve beaten champions. I beat the kid who beat Luke Campbell (Yvan Mendy) but didn’t get the decision. I beat Michele Di Rocco and never got the decision. I beat Lee Purdy. I beat Michael Gomez. I beat Dean Byrne. I know what level I’m at – I just need the opportunity. Physically, I feel the best I’ve ever felt; age is just a number.”

Fitness and ambition aside, few fighters in Britain are able to boast McDonagh’s wealth of experience. Indeed, his appearance on July 9 won’t even mark the first time he has featured on a world heavyweight title bill.

“I was on the David Haye versus John Ruiz bill at the Manchester Arena,” he says. “I was on just before the main event. But obviously it’s a lot different this time around. This is the heavyweight championship of the world, not just one of the belts. This is much, much bigger. And it’s Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko. That also makes it special. Klitschko is a legend of the sport and one of the real icons. I don’t think a promoter has brought someone of that stature to England for many years. It’s exciting.”

As for the result of the night’s main event, McDonagh can see only one winner.

“I see it being a totally different fight to the first one,” he says. “I think Wladimir will come and bring it to Tyson and then he’ll walk on to a big shot in about seven or eight rounds. All Tyson has to do is keep his composure, take his time and he’ll knock him out.”

*** For tickets to REPEAT OR REVENGE: Fury vs. Klitschko 2, please visit eventim.co.uk or call 0844 847 8000 ***

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LONDON (3 JUNE) Undefeated heavyweight Nathan Gorman, great-nephew of Bartley Gorman, the ‘King of the Gypsies’, is seasoned beyond his nineteen years and, on July 9 at the Manchester Arena, will use all his fighting DNA to impress his biggest audience yet.

Born and raised to fight, Gorman now stands at six-foot-four, weighs eighteen stone, is unbeaten in four professional bouts, and intends to make it five from five on the undercard of the world heavyweight championship blockbuster between Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for me, a great platform,” he says. “I’ll be boxing in front of loads of people and everybody at home will be watching this event. It’s mad to think I’m now part of it. It’s a great chance to make a statement and get noticed by a lot of people; I plan on taking it with both hands.

“I’ve imagined what it will feel like every day. I have no idea what it will actually feel like, though. I just have to believe that a ring’s a ring and a crowd’s a crowd and, once I’m in there, I’ll be able to blank out my surroundings and get down to business. I’ve got a job to do. Even if I was fighting in my back garden, I’d still to look to put on a show.”

Everywhere Gorman looks, he tends to find inspiration. Tyson Fury, a distant relative, is his favourite fighter, and a man he considers the blueprint, while Ricky Hatton, his coach, was once one of Britain’s finest world champions and a man well-accustomed to dazzling sold-out crowds at the Manchester Arena.

“Ricky, in terms of big fight night experience, is second to none,” says Gorman. “He’s the best. You couldn’t ask for a better guy to have in your corner when fighting at the Manchester Arena. It was basically his second home.

“Not only that, every day I’m in the gym with Ricky I’m learning something new. He gives me so much confidence. I’m just happy he believes in me. We both believe I can go all the way.”

Gorman first went to the boxing gym at the age of eight, though admits the sole intention was to “mess about”, before trying again at fifteen, this time with a greater degree of seriousness. It wasn’t long – just eleven bouts, in fact – before he was winning the Junior ABAs and making his mark at the World Youth Championships.

“I achieved a lot in those eleven amateur fights but always knew I was going to gain more experience as a pro,” he says. “I’ve had four fights since December. I’ve been busy. It’s also more suited to me, style-wise, to be a pro and learn as a pro. That’s why I made the switch from the amateurs to the pros at a young age.”

On July 9 at a packed-out Manchester Arena he’ll embark on the next phase in his development. He’ll be asked to hold it together in front of thousands of fans eager to see him live up to the Gorman surname.

“Travellers are excelling in the pro game right now and I’m looking to continue that success,” says Gorman. “We’ve got two world champions (Tyson Fury and Billy Joe Saunders) in two of boxing’s best weight divisions (heavyweight and middleweight), and Hughie Fury is also on the verge of a world title shot in the next twelve months. We’ve got other traveller lads coming through as well. It’s all looking good.

“Fighting is part of us all. We’re brought up with it. My uncle was Bartley Gorman. I come from fighting stock.”

As for the July 9 main event, Gorman, of course, sees only one winner.

“I reckon Tyson will stop Klitschko late on, probably in round ten or eleven,” he predicts. “I think there will be more action this time because Tyson now knows Wladimir’s style and he’ll take confidence from beating him in November. I think he’ll set out to hurt him in the rematch.

“I like watching Tyson at present. He’s a character, you don’t know which version of him will be in the ring – southpaw or orthodox. Tyson has brought the division back to life and it’s an exciting time to heavyweight.”

*** For tickets to REPEAT OR REVENGE: Fury vs. Klitschko 2, please visit eventim.co.uk or call 0844 847 8000 ***

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LONDON (2 JUNE) Bexleyheath featherweight star Yusuf ‘Yut’ Safa is raring to go ahead of pro bout number seven but admits that being part of the blockbuster Fury vs. Klitschko II event on July 9 comes with its own pressures.

The gifted 22-year-old, originally from Afghanistan, will appear at the Manchester Arena shortly before Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko rematch for the heavyweight championship of the world and knows the eyes of the world will be on him.

“This one tops everything,” says Safa. “It’s on another level. It’s one of the biggest shows in boxing history; a rematch between the two best heavyweights in the world for the heavyweight championship of the world. You can’t get much bigger than this. It’s not even a fight, it’s an event.

“This will be a different experience for me. I know it will be a bit nerve-wracking but every fight is nerve-wracking. This one will just produce a few more nerves because of the size of it. It’s only natural. I have to make sure I’m focused and stick to the job.”

Last time out, in March, Safa demolished Slaveya Stefanov in three rounds and again showed why his promoter, Mick Hennessy, has labelled him a “special talent”. The result marked the fourth stoppage win of Safa’s two-year pro career.

“I felt good,” says Yusuf. “The kid was a bit wild in the first couple of rounds and the action was a bit messy and all over the place. Once I settled down, though, and stayed calm and relaxed, I got it done.”

Now 6-0 (4 KOs), Safa looks to make bigger strides in 2016, starting with an appearance on July 9 in front of 20,000 fans at Manchester Arena. From there he has only titles in mind.

“I could have done a bit more in the two years I’ve been a pro but have been held back a bit by some of the injuries I’ve had,” says the 22-year-old. “They have kept me out of the ring and inactive longer than I would have liked.

“I believe things happen for a reason, though, and you just have to deal with it. I’m still in a good place, I’m still young and I’m just as ambitious as I was when I turned pro.

“Within the next twelve months I want to be in the mix for titles – Southern Area, Commonwealth, Youth. I’ll fight for any of them. I know I’m good enough to be winning those kind of belts now.”

*** For tickets to REPEAT OR REVENGE: Fury vs. Klitschko 2, please visit eventim.co.uk or call 0844 847 8000 ***

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Manchester’s Lightweight King Terry Flanagan will make the third defence of his WBO World Title against South Africa’s two-time world champion Mzonke Fana as chief-support of World Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury’s rematch with Wladimir Klitschko at the Manchester Arena on July 9, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

Undefeated Flanagan, 30-0 12 KO’s, makes a hero’s return to Manchester after defending his world title in enemy territory against Liverpool’s Derry Mathews in March. All-action ‘Turbo’ smashed mandatory challenger Diego Magdaleno inside two rounds in his last outing at the Manchester Arena last October and is predicting another devastating performance on his big return.

“It doesn’t get any bigger than fighting as chief support and right before the lineal heavyweight championship of the world. The world will be watching as a fellow Manchester man Tyson Fury aims to show he’s the best heavyweight on the planet once again,” said Flanagan.

He added: “Fana is a two time world champion at super-featherweight, he’s highly experienced, tough and has a very good jab. He will be coming over here looking to take my title but it’s not going to happen,”

“There’s going to be 20,000 Mancunians cheering on two of their own in world title fights. I’m going to pick up where I left off and continue to show everyone that I am the number one lightweight in the world.”

Flanagan, 26, has come a long way since his impressive BoxNation debut against Yordan Vasilev back in May 2014. Since then the Mancunian has gone on to become a world champion and says he owes a lot of his success to his loyal support.

He said: “It’s great to get back home in front of my own fans; especially on such a big bill. The Manchester Arena is right on my door step so it’s will be good for my fans; it’s only a 5 minute walk from the estate. The atmosphere is going to be something else.”

The Channel of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, Freeview 255 and Talk Talk 415. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

NANTWICH heavyweight Nathan Gorman has been given the opportunity to appear on the undercard of Tyson Fury’s mammoth heavyweight title rematch with Wladimir Klitschko.

Fights are coming thick and fast for the Ricky Hatton-trained 19-year-old as he has racked up four victories with three knockouts since turning professional in December.

This past weekend Gorman floored Poland’s Kamil Sokolowski three times en route to a fifth round stoppage in Walsall and just two weeks earlier he wiped out Hrvoje Kisicek in just one session at London’s Copper Box Arena.

The opportunity to feature on the Fury v Klitchsko 2 card is huge for a boxer at this early stage in his career and Ricky Hatton believes fight fans will be pleased with what they see in Manchester on July 9.

“For a young prospect, things don’t get any bigger than this,” Hatton said. “The chance for a teenage heavyweight to box on the same bill as a world heavyweight title fight is massive.

“Nathan only started boxing around three years ago and he had to pinch himself when we told him where his next fight would be.

“I expect Nathan to shine on the night regardless of who he’s in with. In his last couple of fights he’s shown the power and shot picking we’ve been working on and I believe fans at the Manchester Arena will be very impressed with what they see from him.”

Like Tyson Fury, Gorman comes from proud travelling stock. His uncle, Bartley Gorman, was a legend of bareknuckle boxing and was often referred to as ‘The King of the Gypsies’ thanks to an unbeaten run that lasted more than 20 years.

In fact, respect between the Gormans and the Furys played a part in getting young Nathan this chance.

“We have to thank Tyson and Peter Fury for getting Nathan on this card,” Hatton explained.

“The Fury family are close to Nathan’s and they’ve seen him in action since he first put on a pair of gloves.

“Tyson said he wanted Nathan on his undercard and Peter put the wheels in motion to make it happen. After training Tyson and Hughie, Peter knows a good heavyweight when he sees one and he was instrumental in pushing for Nathan to be included on the bill because he thinks he’ll had some excitement to the bill.

“We really can’t stress how grateful we are to Tyson and Peter for their belief in us and their support.”

Tyson Fury, the Heavyweight Champion of the World, was interviewed last week by a video media outlet known as SportsView London. During the interview, Mr Fury made comments that have been viewed by some as offensive.

Mr Fury would like to apologise to anyone who may have taken offence to these comments.

As a man of Traveller heritage, Mr Fury has suffered bigotry and racial abuse throughout his life and as such would never wish anyone to suffer the same. He has many friends of a wide range of backgrounds and races and wishes no ill to anyone of any race, religion or sexual orientation.

Mr Fury is a devout Christian and a family man, however he accepts that in the past he has said things publically which are misrepresentative of his beliefs and usual good character. He appreciates he has a duty as the Heavyweight Champion of the World. He knows it comes with certain responsibilities and anything he says publicly will be heavily scrutinised.

Mr Fury now wishes to move past this and instead concentrate on what he does best, which is boxing, starting with his defence of the Heavyweight Championship of The World in the rematch against Wladimir Klitschko on July 9th at the Manchester Arena.

Mr Fury said: “I apologise to anyone who may have taken offence at any of my comments. I said some things, which may have hurt some people, which as a Christian man is not something I would ever want to do.

Though it is not an excuse, sometimes the heightened media scrutiny has caused me to act out in public. I mean no harm or disrespect to anyone and I know more is expected of me as an ambassador of British boxing and I promise in future to hold myself up to the highest possible standard.

Anyone who knows me personally knows that I am in no way a racist or bigot and I hope the public accept this apology.”

LONDON (April 22) – BoxNation subscribers who join the channel ahead of pound-for-pound star Gennady Golovkin’s world title clash this weekend against Dominic Wade will be able to enjoy an incredible first month of live action.

Available at just £12 a month, fight fans who sign up to ‘The Channel of Champions’ before Saturday night will not only be able to see knockout king Golovkin take on undefeated challenger Wade but a spectacular line up of world class fights in their first four weeks.

BoxNation is to screen a host of exclusively live fights in the coming weeks including British ace Amir Khan’s biggest fight to date when he takes on lineal middleweight world champion Canelo Alvarez from the new state-of-the-art T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on May 7th.

Kazakh assassin Golovkin will be looking to make a big statement to prove to both Khan and Canelo that he is the top dog in the 160-pound division when he goes up against the unbeaten and talented American Wade from The Forum in Inglewood,

California. Plus, that’s not all, BoxNation subscribers will be able to see the very best heavyweight action from a division that has revived itself to become one of the sports most talked about.

And one of its brashest talkers, and most skilled fighters, WBC world champion Deontay Wilder goes up against the ruthless Russian Alexander Povetkin exclusively live from the Megasport Arena in Moscow on May 21st.

The charismatic and playful American will be looking to entertain as he takes on Povetkin in a dangerous matchup that could prove to be Wilder’s trickiest test yet.

The division is stacked with emerging talent with another Fury out to cause havoc as cousin Hughie looks to follow in the footsteps of his illustrious cousin, unified world champion Tyson.

21-year-old Hughie will look to showcase his talent and stake his claim for a shot at the big time when he meets Fred Kassi on a stacked card at the Copper Box Arena in London next Saturday night.

The card also features talented lightweight Liam Walsh who will be out to extend his unbeaten run to 20 fights when he takes on Troy James.

BoxNation will be the only place to see how all these fights play out over the coming weeks, with subscribers guaranteed to enjoy a whole summer of thrilling and unrivalled boxing action.

On top of this coming month, BoxNation will be the only place to see the megafight between Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko as they lock horns in a rematch at the Manchester Arena on July 9th.

BoxNation regularly screens the best fights around, at incredible value, offering fans the chance to watch on various platforms including Sky, Virgin, TalkTalk, Freeview, online and app.

Jim McMunn, Managing Director at BoxNation, said: “Our upcoming calendar of live fights is our best to date – and that is saying something. We have shown some of the biggest and best fights around in recent years but the impending schedule is certainly something to be very excited about. For just £12 a month BoxNation will deliver to boxing and sports fans the best fights this summer at a truly remarkable value-for-money price. The world class boxing action and value we are delivering to our subscribers is unmatched anywhere else. The next few months is going to witness some historic fights and is certainly not to be missed.”

Watch Golovkin v Wade live on BoxNation this Saturday night from 2am. BoxNation is available on Sky (Ch.437/490HD), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online and via apps (ios, Android, Amazon). Visit boxnation.com to subscribe.

Heavyweight destroyer Hughie Fury says there’s nobody that can stop him on his rise to the very top of the glamour division.

Hughie, the younger cousin of Unified World Heavyweight Champion Tyson, joint headlines an action-packed card at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday 30 April where he takes on Fred Kassi for the Vacant WBO Intercontinental title, exclusively live on BoxNation.

The exciting and undefeated Manchester star has ripped through the heavyweight division, stopping ten out of nineteen opponents early with eight coming inside three rounds. The 21-year-old is looking to bag his first title against the big-hitting Kassi before joining cousin Tyson as a world champion.

“I don’t see many people out there in the heavyweight division that are capable of stopping me; it’s wide open. I’m going to get the right fights under my belt and make my mark on the division. The aim is to follow in the footsteps of Tyson and become a world champion,” said Fury.

He added: “It’s going to be a massive year for me. Now I’ve teamed up with Frank I’m going to be fighting more regularly against strong opponents; I’ve got some good nights ahead of me.”

Hard-hitting ‘Big Freddy’ has a fearsome reputation with ten knockout wins in 19 career victories; nine of them coming inside two rounds. Fury knows he’ll have his work cut out if he is to bag himself a first professional title.

He said: “He’s another level up from my previous opponents. He’s a very awkward fighter; not many people fancy facing him. He can mix it up a bit by switching between southpaw and orthodox so it should be a tricky fight.

“I’m fighting people that nobody else wants to fight. These guys are capable of making you look bad. Unlike some people I’m willing to do things the hard way. Peter picks my fights so I can learn and improve properly; I need to be able to deal with different styles.”

With the heavyweight division in a new era after the Klitschko brother’s long dominance, Fury is in a perfect position to capitalise. Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren is confident his new Heavyweight prodigy has what it takes to make it to the very top of the division.

He said: “Hughie is a fighting man; he’s done things the hard way. 19 fights in three years is a phenomenal record for a heavyweight fighter. We know he’s got gas and can get through ten rounds with no problems. Within the next 12 months I wouldn’t be surprised if Hughie was fighting for a version of the world title.”

Heavyweight sensation Hughie Fury headlines the card when he challenges American Fred Kassi for the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Title; Red-hot Liam Walsh defends his British and Commonwealth Super-Featherweight titles against Troy James; Ovill McKenzie and Dmytro Kucher clash for the Vacant European Cruiserweight Championship; Ryan Walsh defends his British Featherweight Championship against James Tennyson; Anthony Nelson defends his Commonwealth Super-Flyweight Championship against Jamie Conlon. The undercard features big-hitting light-heavyweight star Anthony Yarde, Southampton super-welterweight Joe Pigford, Erith super-bantamweight Lewis Pettitt; Chingford super-featherweight Boy Jones Jnr; Indian middleweight sensation Vijender Singh; Chelmsford super-middleweight Billy Long, West Ham super-welterweight Sammy McNess; Sidcup super-featherweight D.P Carr; West Ham super-lightweight Ben Smith; Hornchurch super-lightweight Sanjeev Sahota; Nantwich heavyweight Nathan Gorman; Enfield super-middleweight Barney Joe Jones, and Stains-Upon-Thames welterweight Tony Bange.

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