Anthony Joshua is set to make his long‑awaited return to the ring on July 25, when he steps into the Riyadh arena in Saudi Arabia for a comeback fight. The former unified heavyweight champion will face Albanian‑born contender Kristian Prenga in what is being billed as a pivotal test after Joshua’s tragic car accident in Nigeria last December, which claimed the lives of two close friends. This bout marks Joshua’s first competitive appearance since resuming training following the devastating crash that left him physically and emotionally scarred.
The announcement of the July 25 showdown was accompanied by fresh confirmation from promoters Turki Al‑Alshikh and Eddie Hearn that a much‑anticipated clash with rival Tyson Fury is now on the books for later in the year. In a statement, Joshua explained his mindset: “It’s no secret I’ve taken some time to consolidate and rebuild so I’m ready to step back into the ring. Today is the next step on that journey.
I’m delighted to have agreed a multi‑fight deal starting with July 25 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I’m looking forward to competing and picking up where I left off.
As I said: the landlord will collect his rent. That is certain.” Al‑Alshikh had already stoked speculation on Monday by posting on social media that the Fury‑Joshua deal was signed, writing, “To my friends in Great Britain. It’s happening, it’s signed.” Hearn echoed the sentiment on Instagram, declaring the paperwork “signed, sealed, delivered” and confirming that AJ vs. Fury is officially set.
Ring Magazine later reinforced the news on X, labeling the bout a “done deal” slated for the fourth quarter of 2026. Fury himself hinted at the agreement after his recent victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov, saying, “I’ve signed.
I signed months ago. I don’t know if he signed,” and subsequently challenging Joshua directly, calling the potential meeting a “Battle of Britain.” Hearn has previously told Sky Sports that the two possible dates for the Fury‑Joshua clash are in July and November, with both camps preparing their fighters for a high‑stakes encounter.
After Fury’s dominant performance against Makhmudov at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, he publicly invited Joshua, stating, “I want you, AJ, Anthony Joshua. Let’s give the fans what they want – the Battle of Britain. I challenge you to fight me, the Gypsy King, next.
Do you accept my challenge?” Joshua responded in kind, asserting his confidence and control over the negotiations: “I’ve been chasing you for the last 10 years. When you’re ready, come see me and tell me your terms. I’m the boss, you work for me.
I’m the landlord.” Regardless of the outcome against Prenga, Joshua’s focus remains on securing a historic showdown with Fury that could define an era in British boxing. Prenga, who resides in the United States, boasts a solid record of 20 wins and a single loss, with every victory coming before the final bell. His lone defeat dates back to 2017 against Giovanni Auriemma. In a pre‑fight interview, Prenga expressed confidence, saying, “Anthony Joshua is a great fighter, but he miscalculated by picking me.
This fight could change everything for both of us. I know they have big plans after this bout, and I intend to derail them and shock the world in July in Saudi Arabia.” Sky Sports boxing analyst Andy Scott noted that Prenga has become one of the most searched athletes in recent hours, despite not being a household name in the heavyweight division. He added, “No one pretends this isn’t a test‑the‑water fight for Joshua after his tragic car crash that took his friends Sina Ghami and Latz Adoyele.
He’s endured physical trauma, returned to camp, and is taking the process slowly. This fight will gauge his readiness, his sparring intensity, and his ability to handle the pressure of a major fight week. In Saudi Arabia, it will be a relatively low‑profile return, but the expectation is that Joshua should win.” The July 25 event will be streamed via the NOW platform, offering a contract‑free viewing experience, and will be accompanied by related content such as the weekly Toe2Toe podcast and curated boxing highlights.
Fans are advised to use the Chrome browser for optimal video playback. As the heavyweight landscape reshapes, Joshua’s comeback against Prenga serves as a crucial stepping stone toward what many anticipate to be a blockbuster clash with Tyson Fury later this year, a bout that could cement both fighters’ legacies and deliver one of the most memorable moments in British boxing history.