Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury is proud to be a source of inspiration for millions around the world by being himself. "The Gypsy King" battled back from mental health issues and weight gain to climb back to the top boxing's food chain. He is currently preparing to face unbeaten Tom Schwarz in Las Vegas on Saturday night – live on ESPN+ and BT Sport Box Office. Fury’s comeback process was scattered with honest interviews detailing his problems and how he’s been able to deal with them – prompting an outpouring of support from boxing fans and the wider public alike. Fury said: “This time, it’s the man behind the mask and I don’t have to keep up a pantomime villain show. I was good at that role but to be adored is a lot better than people wanting you to get knocked out.

 

He continued, “I’m enjoying the other side of it and I hope to keep going and keep inspiring people. I don’t really look at the comments on videos or anything but it makes me proud that my story can inspire others to get better. I’m inundated with messages on a daily basis and I’m very proud my story is helping people be healthy. I’m so happy I went public with my mental health struggles. Nobody is untouchable and mental health problems can bring you to your knees. It shows you can get back to the former you and be happy again. I’m in and out of depression all the time but the key word is to ‘maintain.’”

 

After wins over Sefer Seferi and Francesco Pianeta, Fury fought Deontay Wilder back in December to complete a stunning turnaround and was only denied the WBC world title by a controversial draw.