BOXING WWE merely a passing phase for the undefeated British heavyweight
Tyson Fury was in vibrant mood on Friday evening in swanky Soho, as the new WWE pantomime villain role he has been asked to play in Saudi Arabia got the full glare of professional wrestling’s global tour promotion.
Fury, ensconced in the Soho Hotel frequented by those in the film, music and entertainment industry, even had a visit from actor Jason Momoa – the Hawaiian notable for his roles in Aquaman and Game of Thrones. That fight with Deontay Wilder nigh on a year ago, and Fury’srise from what looked like a certain knockout in the 12th round, captured the imagination of Los Angeles and beyond.
But it was “car wash” Friday for the boxer, relating the story of his inception as a protagonist in the pro wrestling world, a lucrative three-part gig which is reportedly netting the undefeated heavyweight $12million.
But as the 6ft 9in tall, 18st fighter was at pains to point out, boxing – and the rematch with World Boxing Council champion Wilder – is at the summit of his wish list.
“February 22, 2020, in my mind is still 100 per cent, providing Wilder wins [against Luis Ortiz on Nov 23] and I don’t get injured, then we’re on for the rematch in Las Vegas,”
Fury told The Sunday Telegraph, the cut and the gash above his right eyebrow and on his right eyelid looking in good shape after 47 internal and external stitches from an injury sustained against Sweden’s Otto Wallin in his last fight on Sept 14. “The plastic surgeon did a great job, and it will take 100 days to be perfect. It’s been 40 days already, so I’m very optimistic about getting into camp after this,” he added.
The WWE opportunity, explained Fury, “came about by chance” and he took it immediately. Asked about the physical training and choreography, Fury said: “I’m an entertainer and fast learner, so I’ve been getting the best out of it.”
Fury, who meets the 6ft 10in, 27st challenge of Braun Strowman in the WWE on Thursday, revealed there had been little contact with trainer Ben Davison: “Just messages.”
After the event in Saudi Arabia, he insisted: “It is back to boxing. Never say never, but I’ve got nothing planned for the future with wrestling.”