Former trainer Ben Davison, who has spent considerable time in the corners of both Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, says that Joshua’s plan to take a tune‑up fight ahead of a potential showdown with Fury is a sensible move. Joshua is slated to step back into the ring on July 25 in Riyadh, where he will face Kristian Prenga, before eventually meeting Fury later in the year. Some observers worry that an additional bout could add an unwanted obstacle to the already high‑stakes British heavyweight showdown, but Davison argues that the extra fight is actually a prudent precaution.
"Everyone knows about the car crash and the injuries that came with it," Davison told Sky Sports. "You have to make sure his body is fully recovered and in peak condition before you commit to a fight of that magnitude. It makes perfect sense to give him a chance to test himself again, especially since Tyson just had his own warm‑up bout." Davison also highlighted Joshua’s habit of keeping any physical setbacks private. "He’s always been very discreet about injuries.
Whether he’s won or lost a fight, he never goes on record about any lingering issues," the trainer explained. "He just takes the hits, deals with them quietly and works in the background – and that’s something to admire." The former trainer’s perspective is unique because he has guided both men through critical phases of their careers, preparing each for major contests.
While he refrains from making any outright predictions about who would emerge victorious in a Joshua‑Fury encounter, he emphasizes that both fighters possess the skill set to win, and the outcome will largely depend on their strategic approach on the night. "When you reach that elite level, both athletes have the capability to claim victory.
The deciding factor will be how they choose to execute their game plan, and I can’t say exactly how either will approach it," Davison said. Davison also pointed out several personality and stylistic contrasts between the two heavyweights. "At their core, both are genuinely good‑natured men, but their attitudes toward the spectacle of boxing are diametrically opposed. They have each, in their own way, revolutionised the sport in the UK and have fundamentally altered the landscape of heavyweight boxing," he noted.
"That alone says a lot about their impact." He went on to discuss the mental and emotional toll that comes with their fame. "The pressures they face – the expectations, the constant scrutiny, the weight of an entire nation’s hopes – are unimaginable for most people. Both men have to navigate these challenges, but they do so in very different manners," Davison observed.
"Most people can’t even fathom the level of pressure they endure day in and day out. There’s a massive burden of responsibility, and they both carry it with remarkable resilience." Davison expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to work with the two champions, describing the experience as a privilege.
"I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to have been part of both of their journeys. Their dedication to the sport and the way they’ve pushed boxing forward is something I’ll always cherish," he said.
In summary, Davison believes that Joshua’s decision to take a preparatory fight before tackling Fury is not only logical but essential for ensuring his physical readiness after the car accident. By stepping back into competition against Prenga, Joshua can gauge his recovery, fine‑tune his tactics, and enter the eventual mega‑fight with confidence. Meanwhile, the contrast between Joshua’s low‑key approach to injury disclosure and Fury’s more open style adds another layer of intrigue to their eventual clash. Both men have reshaped British boxing, and the pressure they face is unprecedented.
Davison’s insider view underscores the importance of preparation, mental fortitude, and the respect owed to two of the sport’s most influential figures.