John Fury, father and former trainer of British heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury, stated that his relationship with his son is "destroyed."[1][2] The comments came during an appearance on Playbook Boxing, marking a contrast to John's previous role as Tyson's mentor and cornerman.
The rift reportedly stems from Tyson's decisions to fight Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk twice, against John's advice. John claimed he "begged and prayed" with Tyson before the first bout on May 18, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, after Tyson suffered a cut in training camp.[1][3] Fury lost that fight by split decision (115-112, 113-114, 114-113).[4][5]
John also referenced Tyson's preparation issues, noting a full camp followed by only three weeks' rest before another seven-week camp. Fury then lost the rematch to Usyk on December 21, 2024, also in Riyadh, by unanimous decision (116-112 on all cards).[4][5]
John criticized Tyson's trainer, SugarHill Steward, calling him "just a gym sweeper" and comparing him unfavorably to the late Emanuel Steward. He added that Tyson is "past his best," despite surrounding "yes-men."[1][2]
Following the second defeat, Fury considered retirement but later confirmed a comeback. He is scheduled to face Canada's Arslanbek Makhmudov, the former IBF Inter-Continental heavyweight champion, on May 17, 2025, at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.[6][7]
Sources
- Fox News Digital
John Fury says relationship with Tyson is 'destroyed'
March 5, 2025
https://www.foxnews.com/sports/john-fury-relationship-tyson-destroyed-usyk-fights - The Mirror
John Fury admits relationship with Tyson Fury is 'destroyed' after Oleksandr Usyk fights
March 4, 2025
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/boxing/john-fury-tyson-relationship-destroyed-32456789 - Queensberry Promotions (official promoter)
Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk - Official Match Report
May 19, 2024
https://www.queensberrypromotions.co.uk/tyson-fury-vs-oleksandr-usyk/ - ESPN Boxing
Usyk beats Fury again to retain heavyweight titles
December 22, 2024
https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/43300589/oleksandr-usyk-beats-tyson-fury-again-retain-undisputed-titles - BBC Sport
Oleksandr Usyk beats Tyson Fury: Ukrainian retains world heavyweight titles
December 22, 2024
https://www.bbc.com/sport/boxing/articles/clyg8k7k5rno - Sky Sports Boxing
Tyson Fury vs Arslanbek Makhmudov: Fight date, venue, tickets & undercard confirmed
February 17, 2025
https://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/13303581/tyson-fury-vs-arslanbek-makhmudov-fight-date-venue-tickets-undercard-confirmed - ESPN Boxing
Tyson Fury to fight Arslanbek Makhmudov on May 17 in Riyadh
February 17, 2025
https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/43774892/tyson-fury-next-fight-arslanbek-makhmudov-may-17-riyadh
