On May 9, 2025, Tommy Fury made a triumphant return to the ring after an 18-month hiatus, securing a unanimous decision victory over Kenan Hanjalic in Budapest. While the win marked a successful comeback for the 26-year-old cruiserweight, it also raised questions about his previous fight plans, particularly why he didn’t rematch Jake Paul or face Darren Till.

The Darren Till Situation

Initially, Fury was slated to face former UFC fighter Darren Till in January 2025. However, the bout was canceled after Till threatened to use “MMA tactics,” such as head kicks, during the fight. Fury, a professional boxer, expressed concerns over Till’s intentions to disregard boxing rules, leading him to withdraw from the match. Fury stated, “I am a professional boxer… I wanted this to be a great BOXING fight for the fans”

The Jake Paul Rematch

Following the cancellation of the Till fight, Fury turned his attention to a potential rematch with Jake Paul. The two first faced off in February 2023, with Fury securing a split-decision victory, marking Paul’s first professional loss. Fury expressed confidence in a rematch, stating, “I beat you once already… I can give you a second one, no problem” . However, Paul dismissed the idea, criticizing Fury for pulling out of fights and questioning his credibility .

The Kenan Hanjalic Fight

With the Paul rematch not materializing, Fury faced Kenan Hanjalic, a Bosnian fighter with a record of 5-1. The bout served as a comeback for Fury after hand surgery and time away from the sport. Fury dominated the six-round cruiserweight fight, showcasing his skills and reaffirming his position in the boxing world.

Conclusion

Tommy Fury’s return to the ring was a significant achievement, but the path leading to his fight with Kenan Hanjalic was fraught with challenges. The canceled bout with Darren Till and the failed rematch with Jake Paul highlighted the complexities and uncertainties in the world of professional boxing. As Fury moves forward, fans eagerly anticipate his next steps in the ring.