Trainer Gary Logan believes Arslanbek Makhmudov would make for an entertaining comeback opponent for Tyson Fury, but the matchup carries more risk than a typical return fight.
Logan shared his view in a short gym side interview clip circulating this week, pointing to Makhmudov’s size, power, and forward pressure as elements that would force Fury to stay alert from the opening bell. The Russian born heavyweight has been floated as a possible opponent as Fury considers his next move following back to back losses to Oleksandr Usyk.
Makhmudov is not a standard tune up option. Now 36, he stands just over 6’5″ and regularly enters the ring above 260 pounds. That reduces the physical margin Fury often enjoys and limits the effectiveness of tactics that have worked for him in the past. The leaning approach Fury used against Deontay Wilder relied on wearing opponents down. Makhmudov’s base and leg strength make that a far less reliable plan.
There is also the issue of style. Arslanbek Makhmudov fights in close and throws heavy, clubbing shots rather than looking to box at range. He does not wait. He steps forward and swings. For a fighter coming off time away from the ring, that kind of pressure can be unforgiving.
Fury’s recent mileage cannot be ignored either. Three fights with Wilder followed by two demanding bouts with Usyk have taken their toll. Asking a 37 year old Tyson Fury to absorb that kind of weight and power early in a comeback introduces real risk, regardless of name value.
Logan did highlight Fury’s advantages, particularly at long range, calling him the best distance boxer in the division outside of Usyk. He suggested Makhmudov would have little choice but to come forward, creating exchanges rather than a slow build.
“He won’t have to go looking for him,” Logan said in the interview with Sky Sports. “I think it would be a really entertaining fight.”
Entertaining, perhaps. Comfortable, far less certain.
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Last Updated on 01/13/2026
