Tommy Fury reveals why he feared he would never box again after ‘hardest year of his life’ – as former Love Island star claims he has ‘turned into a machine’ ahead of return

Tommy Fury has described 2024 as the most challenging year of his life, marked by a career-threatening hand injury that required major surgery.

Ahead of his return to the ring against Darren Till on January 18, Fury told Mail Sport he feared he would never box again.

‘It’s been the hardest year of my life,’ Fury admitted. ‘I’ve never had a year like it. There have been ups and downs, but at the end of the day, I’m here.

‘Starting the year out, I was in a hospital bed, and the doctor said if I didn’t fix this now, I probably wouldn’t box again. To be honest, it was that bad.’

Fury revealed that his right hand had been a persistent issue since his third professional fight, at times forcing him to train solely with his left hand. Despite the pain, he pressed on until this year, when surgery became unavoidable.

‘The surgery was the best way to do it, and it’s healed well,’ Fury shared. ‘I’m just grateful to be standing here with a healthy hand.’

Fury will return to the ring in January when he faces former UFC fighter Darren Till, right

Now back in full training, Fury is ready to prove himself. ‘I’ve been in camp since August – training three times a day. I’ve turned myself into a machine because I have something to prove,’ he said.

Acknowledging criticism over his previous performances against non-traditional opponents, Fury promised a different level of focus and preparation for the fight against Till.

‘My last two performances haven’t been the best of what they should have been. But that’s why I’m here, putting in all the hard work to shine on January 18.’

Reflecting on how his hand had impacted his training, Fury said: ‘There was a time where I could hit pads for just 10 minutes before my hand would start throbbing. It’s always been an issue since my third fight.’

However, with the injury now behind him, Fury is feeling stronger than ever. ‘Everything’s fine now. Honestly, it feels better than ever.’