Ringside, Anthony Joshua is interviewed during the break between rounds, and says that he’s ‘hungry’ for his next opponent, openly admitting that he’s on a scouting mission. Victory for Fury here would surely make a meeting between the two Britons – long awaited – inevitable.

Makhmudov clips Fury now, and the two fighters exchange bone-shattering punches after breaking apart from a prolonged wrestle.

But then Fury sends an enormous hand the Russian’s way, connecting with his opponent before turning him into a headlock. A few more punches to the mid-section, and Fury heads defiantly to his corner.

Makhmudov’s trainer warns:

Don’t let this guy jab!

Daily Mail Sport’s JEFF POWELL gives his verdict:

Makhmurdov the bear wrestler was fittingly rough and wild but took at least as many hefty hits as he delivered in the fourth. FURY 10-9 MAKHMUDOV