Former WBA super middleweight champion George Groves believes Tyson Fury’s decision to retire in January is unlikely to be permanent and that the recent struggles of Anthony Joshua could prompt Fury’s return to the ring, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Speaking to 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.
Groves also addressed Fury’s multiple retirements, stressing that the 36-year-old’s announcement should not be taken at face value. He explained that retirement offers fighters certain freedoms, such as escaping the rigours of athletic discipline and regulatory obligations, but it does not necessarily signal the end of their career.
Evaluating the potential clash between the two heavyweights, Groves described the fight as a genuine “pick ‘em” contest.
He assessed Fury as the heavier, more agile fighter with superior boxing intelligence and quicker hands but believes Joshua remains a formidable athlete, renowned for his powerful punches and extensive big-fight experience.
The 37-year-old disagreed with Carl Froch’s recent claim that any bout between Fury and Joshua would be a “total mismatch” favouring Fury, stating firmly that it would not be a walkover.
Reflecting on Joshua’s dramatic knockout loss to Daniel Dubois, Groves described it as a significant blow to the former heavyweight champion’s career.
He explained that Joshua appeared to underestimate Dubois, perhaps intending to start cautiously but was overwhelmed and knocked out decisively on one of the sport’s biggest stages, highlighting the serious toll on Joshua’s physical and mental reserves.
