Tyson Fury vs Mariusz Wach Preview: Fury Faces Untelevised Heavyweight Return Before Anthony Joshua Clash

With the blockbuster showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua just around the corner, there is just one more hurdle in the way for both men. The Gypsy King will look to build on his victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov in April when he faces experienced 46-year-old Mariusz Wach in Thailand on Friday.

After returning to the ring against Makhmudov following a 15-month hiatus from the sport, many believed Fury's next bout would be against British rival and former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. That contest is still happening, but the 37-year-old has opted for one more interim fight, which will take place behind closed doors in Thailand. The event is still being promoted by Frank Warren and Queensbury Promotions despite continued rumours linking Fury with a move to Dana White and Zuffa.

The event will not be broadcast live and is instead expected to feature later in season three of Tyson Fury's Netflix series At Home with the Furys. It remains unclear why Netflix are not showing the fight live or why DAZN are not involved despite holding a broadcast deal with Queensbury Promotions.

Fury will look to use this contest to gain valuable rounds before aiming for bigger challenges later this year. Fans will expect the former heavyweight champion to look devastating and make comfortable work of the ageing Wach.

Nicknamed 'The Viking', Wach began his professional career more than 20 years ago and has shared the ring with multiple generations of heavyweight contenders. From challenging Wladimir Klitschko for the unified heavyweight titles in 2012 to facing rising star Moses Itauma, the Polish veteran's longevity has been remarkable.

While Wach is no longer at the peak of his career, he remains one of heavyweight boxing's most durable and respected operators.

The Gypsy King's prime may also be in the rear-view mirror. His performance against Makhmudov was solid, but it did not convince many fans that he still belongs among the very elite heavyweights.

Although Wach never captured a world title, the Polish veteran has built a reputation for consistently testing himself against boxing's best. When he challenged Klitschko, he entered the contest with an unbeaten record of 27-0.

The card also features another heavyweight contest between Daniel Baer and Simon Ibekwe. Both men remain relatively unknown to the wider boxing audience, but a standout performance from either fighter could significantly raise their profile.

Victory for Fury is expected. The bigger question is whether the 37-year-old is still as sharp and healthy as he once was, and whether a convincing performance against Wach can further build anticipation for his long-awaited domestic showdown with Anthony Joshua.