Former WBA super middleweight champion George Groves believes Tyson Fury’s decision to retire in January is unlikely to be permanent, and that Anthony Joshua’s recent struggles could prompt Fury’s return to the ring.
In an interview with Express via Lottoland boxing betting, Groves expressed confidence that Fury will return once Joshua recovers from injury or surgery, predicting the bout could take place later this year, possibly in Saudi Arabia. “They’ve both been boxing their entire lives.
They’ve earned enough and achieved plenty, but they won’t leave the table while there’s still something left for them. They’ll fight each other, and I’d like to see it,” Groves said.
Groves also addressed Fury’s multiple retirements, stressing that the 36-year-old’s announcement should not be taken at face value. “He’s retired five times now, so we know retirement means nothing,” Groves said.
“There are benefits to retiring. You don’t have to live like an athlete anymore or adhere to British Boxing Board of Control requirements. He’s got no belt to be stripped, and if he comes out of retirement, as he’s done before, it might add value and excitement to the fight.”
Evaluating the potential clash between the two heavyweights, Groves described the fight as a genuine “pick ’em” contest. “Fury’s heavier, more agile, better boxing IQ, faster hands,” he said, but believes Joshua remains a formidable athlete, renowned for his powerful punches and extensive big-fight experience.
“I disagree with Froch, I don’t think it’s a walkover. Joshua is still a great athlete, punches ridiculously hard, and has loads of big-fight experience. It comes down to who performs on the night, who wants it more, who’s got the most left.”
Groves also reflected on Joshua’s dramatic knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, describing it as a significant blow to the former heavyweight champion’s career. “Joshua’s last loss to Daniel Dubois was pretty devastating.
Dubois got it right that night; he jumped on Joshua, who probably wanted to ease into the fight.”
