The much-anticipated boxing clash between professional boxer Tommy Fury and former UFC star Darren Till has been canceled.
The matchup in Manchester, scheduled for January 18, 2025, fell apart after Fury took issue with Till’s controversial comments about using MMA tactics during the fight.
What Led to the Cancellation?
Tommy Fury cited Darren Till’s remarks at a press event where the former UFC fighter jokingly suggested he might resort to “kicking Fury in the head” if he was losing. Fury, however, took the comments seriously, claiming they showed Till had no intention of following boxing’s strict rules.
In an Instagram post, Fury explained his decision, saying:
“I can’t believe I’m writing this but I am now not fighting Darren Till on January 18th 2025. For the one simple reason being that Darren has stated over and over that he does not want to abide by professional boxing rules and that if he is losing the fight he will resort to kicking and other stupid MMA tactics.”
Fury expressed his frustration with pulling out of the fight, sharing his disappointment over weeks of wasted training.
Darren Till Fires Back
Darren Till, on the other hand, was quick to respond, insisting his comments were meant as part of “mental warfare” to hype the event. The Liverpool native took to Twitter, accusing Fury of pulling out to avoid a challenge.
In a fiery post, Till wrote:
“Tommy Fury u are the biggest sh**house I have ever met in my life. Do not ever call yourself a fighter again. I was selling the fight to make me and you more money, you absolute empty head. Fighting family my ass. You and your dad sh**houses! I don’t need to throw kicks, you were getting battered.”
Till also revealed that Fury’s team had informed him of the decision to cancel the fight as early as Sunday.
Despite efforts to salvage the bout, Fury and his team stood firm on the withdrawal.
What’s Next?
While Tommy Fury has stepped away from the clash, Darren Till is determined to stay on the January 18 card. According to reports, promoters are actively seeking a replacement opponent for Till, who will now headline the event against a new foe.
This development has sparked heated debate in the combat sports world, with some questioning Fury’s decision while others supporting his stance about ensuring a clean boxing fight.
The conflict adds yet another chapter of drama to what could have been a blockbuster crossover event. Till’s announcement about his next opponent is expected soon, as fans await updates on the revamped Manchester show.
