Tyson Fury has 'suicidal' thoughts every Sunday ahead of Deontay Wilder rematch

Planet Sport writerStaff Writer11 February 2020
Photo credit: Liam McBurney/PA Archive/PA Images

Photo credit: Liam McBurney/PA Archive/PA Images

During an interview with Michelle Joy Phelps for Behind the Gloves, Tyson Fury has insisted he feels "absolutely suicidal every single Sunday."

It has been well documented by Fury that one of the things pivotal to his recovery from severe depression has been visiting the gym and training regularly.

The unbeaten heavyweight has barely been out of the gym since returning to the ring, which has seen the Briton shred over 100-pounds in the process. 

In an open and honest interview, Fury said: "Routine is keeping me alive, and keeping me going. If I gave up the gym I will be dead within a year that is for sure."

The alarming comments may come as a concern to many as Fury enters the final weeks of a gruelling camp at the Kronk Gym in Detroit. Fury locks horns with heavyweight rival Deontay Wilder once again on February 22 looking to capture the only world title to have eluded him - the WBC title.

The self-proclaimed 'Gypsy King' is following a strict regime in camp, which consists of gym sessions, running, sparring, and boxing skill work. To ensure he doesn’t burn his body out, Sunday is a day the lineal champion allows his body to heal and relax, after pushing his body to the max during the week. However, it's a day where Fury leaves himself open to dark thoughts - the same dark thoughts which almost caused him to take his own life in 2017.

Opening up to Michelle Joy Phelps, Fury said: "It is like the world has ended, and I don't want to live anymore."

New trainer new approach

For his preparation for his fight in Las Vegas on February 22, Fury shocked many with the decision to split from trainer and friend Ben Davison, who helped resurrect his career and wellbeing. The 31-year-old replaced Davison with a familiar face in SugarHill Steward; nephew of the great Emmanuel Steward.
The pair had previously worked alongside each other for a short period in 2010 for a Wladimir Klitschko camp.

Rather than having to lose weight in his rematch with the 'Bronze Bomber' like he did in the first fight, the Englishman is aiming to bulk up as he aims to take the result out of the judges hand by producing a KO. In an enthralling first encounter, Fury dragged himself off the canvas twice to earn a draw with Wilder, with many believing Fury had done enough to warrant the victory.

The rematch will take place at the MGM grand with the Ring Magazine belt on offer alongside the WBC strap.