Tyson Fury has cemented his status as one of the most ferocious heavyweights of his era, boasting astonishing victories over Wladimir Klitschko and Deontay Wilder.
More than that, ‘The Gypsy King’ has cultivated a fiercely engaging mystique, captivating fans with his larger than life personality.
Yet still, the 36-year-old is eager to restore his crown on December 21, when he will look to exact revenge on heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk.
Regardless of how their rematch unfolds, though, the Brit will always be remembered for his dynamic boxing style and outlandish comments outside the ring.
But before he became one of the world’s most widely recognised pugilists, Tyson Fury was forced to overcome a rather embarrassing moment in only his fourth professional bout.
- Read More [Tyson Fury’s trainer explains why preparation for Oleksandr Usyk rematch will be different]
Tyson Fury catches himself with a clean uppercut during his fight against Lee Swaby
When he made his professional debut back in 2008, Fury was trained by his uncle, Hughie, who tragically passed away just six years later.
It was then his other uncle, Peter, who commanded the preparation for his heavyweight world title showdown with long-reigning champion Klitschko in 2015.
By the time he dethroned the Ukrainian with a stunning 12-round performance, Fury was a much improved version of the unproven slugger who began cutting his teeth on the small hall boxing circuit.
Still, with his towering frame and slippery style, the young technician was showing ample signs of potential at the early stage of his career.
But then, when he came up against obscure journeyman Lee Swaby in 2009, Fury revealed a glimpse of vulnerability that raised several questions surrounding his progression.
Before securing a comfortable fourth-round stoppage, Fury managed to, somehow, catch himself on the nose while trying to land a spiteful uppercut on his opponent.
And yet, when reflecting on the bizarre moment a decade later, he told TNT Sports that he only decided to punch himself in the face after realizing that Swaby did not possess the power to trouble him.
- Read More [Tyson Fury reveals devastating tragedy that occurred before his defeat to Oleksandr Usyk]
Tyson Fury’s improvements ahead of his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk
Fury, of course, has come on leaps and bounds following his early scare against Swaby.
For starters, he has seemingly added an extra string to his bow after linking up with SugarHill Steward, the nephew of legendary boxing coach Emanuel Steward.
Since calling upon the services of Steward, Fury has typically showcased a more destructive approach to his fights, something that became evident in his punishing seventh-round stoppage over Wilder.
But still, following his split decision loss to Usyk, there are doubts about whether the former WBC champion can produce a performance worthy of reclaiming his top-dog status.