In a foul mouthed tweet he said he was giving up boxing, declaring boxing the "saddest thing I ever took part in".
After media outlets around the world reported on the news, he released a second message stating it was all a joke.
Hahahaha u think you will get rid of the GYPSYKING that easy!!! I'm here to stay. #TheGreatest just shows u what the Medea are like. Tut tut
— TYSONMONTANA (@Tyson_Fury) October 3, 2016
It comes after allegations the heavyweight champion of the world was found with cocaine in his system.
He responded to the allegations with a tongue in cheek message - again on Twitter.
#Tysonmontana pic.twitter.com/ccaTHpVuRY
— TYSONMONTANA (@Tyson_Fury) 1 October 2016
Reports last month also suggested Fury was suffering with mental health issues.
His promoter said he was "medically unfit to fight".
Fury, who is frequently vocal about his Christian faith, has never been far away from headlines since becoming world champion last year.
His victory over Wladimir Klitschko was marred by comments he made in which he appeared to compare homosexuality to paedophilia.
He was also criticised over derogatory comments about women.
Tyson Fury on faith and boxing
"God has given me a talent to box, so I'm going to fulfil it with all my potential and just keep going as far as God will allow me"
In a sport which makes its money through hype and controversy - it's unclear how serious the retirement announcement is.
