Tyson Fury is sparring with Mariusz Wach at his training camp in Thailand—but fans won’t be able to watch the bout live.
Tyson Fury returns to the ring on Friday, July 24, to face Mariusz Wach. However, anyone hoping to watch the former heavyweight world champion’s bout live will be disappointed: The fight at the Max Muay Thai Stadium in Pattaya will not be broadcast on television or via livestream. For Fury, the bout is primarily a chance to gain more ring experience ahead of his planned mega-fight against Anthony Joshua in the UK. Following his decision victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov in April, the “Gypsy King” doesn’t want to take another break lasting several months. Promoter Frank Warren explained: “He wants to stay active. Otherwise, he’d be out of the ring for nearly eight months again by the time the Joshua fight rolls around.”
At the same time, Fury must avoid taking any major risks if possible. A loss to Wach could jeopardize the long-awaited showdown with Joshua in November—or at least significantly diminish its financial value. Although the 46-year-old Pole brings a wealth of experience and resilience to the ring, he has lost three of his last four fights. As a result, he is seen as an opponent who is expected to give Fury a few rounds without posing too great a threat.
The unusual venue is also related to Fury’s preparation. The British fighter is already holding his training camp in Thailand, which allows him to avoid long trips and extensive promotional commitments. The entire fight is essentially being organized from the sheltered environment of his camp. Still, the event is unlikely to remain completely under the radar. Clips from the bout are expected to be featured in the third season of the Netflix documentary “At Home with the Furys.” Proceeds from ticket sales for the event will also benefit local charities. For Fury, one thing matters most in the end: racking up valuable rounds, finding his rhythm, and not jeopardizing the potential “Fight of the Century” against Joshua.
Text by Robin Josten