Boxing fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Tyson Fury.

The self-proclaimed Gypsy King has been absent from the sport since November 2015, when he defeated Wladimir Klitschko in Dusseldorf.

Personal issues appeared to have got the better of him, with Fury's weight spiralling out of control, but the determination he has shown to get back in shape and make his comeback deserves respect from all lovers of the sport.

His first fight back in the game will take place on June 9 in Manchester, with his opponent still unknown.

Before his sabbatical from the sport, Fury was widely recognised as one of the finest heavyweights around, but some have their doubts as to whether he can return in a similar fashion.

If he can, the likes of Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder will be fearing for their unbeaten records.

Well, one man who may know a thing or two about the state he is returning in is his sparring partner, Dave Allen.

And his comments about Fury are quite fascinating. Remember, this is a man who claimed he outboxed Joshua during a sparring session, per Sky Sports.

He said: "I’m at British title level but Fury can beat me with one arm tied behind his back. He’s that good.

"I’ve said for years that Fury is the heaviest puncher I’ve ever been in the ring with. When he sits down on his punches, I’ve never been hit so hard.

"To be honest, I think he simply enjoys inflicting pain and annoying people with his talent. He could sit down on his punches and knock people out but he enjoys boxing and annoying people.

"He’s come back a lot better than I thought he would - I thought it’d take a lot longer but he’s lost none of his boxing ability or athletic ability.

"Once he regains match sharpness after a few fights, he’ll dominate the division again. He’ll stand Joshua on his head.

"I know I sound like a massive fan. I AM a massive fan. He’s a brilliant talent."

Woah. When most discuss Fury's skill set in the sport, the emphasis is usually on his speed and technique.

However, Allen's revelation about his devastating power will surely have the heavyweight division worried.

Fury's return cannot come soon enough.