Parker describes sharp camp and injury-free preparation as Fury treats return like a title fight.
Tyson Fury is approaching his April 11 fight against Arslanbek Makhmudov with the intensity of a title bout while showing improved form in camp, according to training partner Joseph Parker.
Fury, 37, enters the fight following recent losses and mixed performances in his last three outings, placing added attention on his preparation for the Makhmudov bout as he returns to the ring.
“Tyson works hard, he really does,” Parker told the Daily Mail. “He’s taking this fight very seriously, to the point where it’s like he’s preparing as if he’s fighting a world champion.”
Parker spent several weeks training with Fury in Thailand after initially planning a shorter stay. He extended his time in camp after Fury asked him to remain, allowing for a longer stretch of sparring and preparation.
Training sessions were held at the ISS Boxing & Muay Thai facility, where Fury based himself during camp. During that time, Parker said Fury’s overall condition stood out.
“I know everyone always says this, that it’s the best Tyson Fury we’ve seen in a long time, but I can truly say this is the best I’ve seen him in a long time,” Parker said.
Fury is preparing to face Makhmudov, a heavyweight known for his physical strength and pressure style. Parker said the tone of this camp has been steady, with no reported injuries affecting preparation.
“I know he trained hard for the Usyk fights, but being in this camp, having no injuries going into a fight, there’s something about that which really helps mentally,” Parker said.
Parker’s comments centered on Fury’s work in camp, while his appearance at the weigh-in drew mixed reactions from observers.
“So I feel like everyone wants to see the best, but you’ll just have to wait and see,” Parker said.
Fury faces Makhmudov on April 11.