Tyson Fury Gives Permission To Have Horse Named After Him

Every season, whether it be on the flat or over jumps, we see some interestingly named newcomers.

We are only a few days from March, yet we may have already seen the award for the best named horse of the year.

Former Heavyweight Champion Boxer Tyson Fury - not until now known for his interest in racing, has given permission to Rebel Racing to have one of their new two-year-olds named after him.

Fury, undefeated in twenty-eight competitive fights, failed to win for the first time when settling for a controversial draw with Deontay Wilder, when challenging for the WBC Heavyweight Championship on December 1st.

It was only the 30-year-old's third appearance in the ring since coming back into sport, following several mental health problems off the back of his memorable triumph over Wladimir Klitschko in 2015.

Things appear to be looking up for the Gypsy King however, with a possible rematch on the cards against Wilder looming, added to the potential clash with Anthony Joshua in the years to come, where he could be reunited with his old belts.

His achievements with the gloves on have been recognised by Phil Cunningham from Rebel Racing, who after being granted permission by Fury, was excited to spread the news.

(Credit: Racing Post) Cunningham said: "After a meeting with Tyson, he said he was a big horse racing fan and was looking forward to seeing and being involved with the horse.

"We had a super chat with him. Tyson is an absolute star and he's a big man – it's not until you stand next to him you realise how huge he is.

"He was in great form, singing songs and all that. He's a great character. I hope it's the start of him getting more involved in racing, maybe we'll see him in a top hat in June!" he finished.

Rebel Racing have already sparked success with boxing-themed horses such as Rumble Inthejungle, who landed the spoils in a top Grade Three sprinting contest at Glorious Goodwood last year.

Tyson Fury - the horse, is an unraced two-year-old and will also be trained in Newmarket by Richard Spencer.

He is by Iffraaj - out of Za Za Zoom, whose progeny includes Listed winner Eirene and Newmarket maiden winner Colour Me Happy.

(Credit: Racing Post) Cunningham added: "He's a lovely horse and we think a lot of him, he's very strong and powerful, so quite like Tyson himself.

"He's entered for the Derby in 2020, and we hope he can live up to our Classic hopes for him.

"Richard will be doing the talking with Tyson. If he has a losing bet and he's unhappy, I'll let Richard deal with him!" he said.