Former heavyweight trainer Ben Davison, who has spent time in the corners of both Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, says that Joshua is making a sensible choice by arranging a tune‑up fight ahead of his much‑anticipated showdown with Fury. The British heavyweight is slated to step back into the ring on July 25, taking on Kristian Prenga in Riyadh, a bout that will serve as a preparatory test before the clash with Fury later in the year. While some observers worry that an additional fight could add another obstacle on the road to the all‑British heavyweight blockbuster, Davison believes the extra match is exactly what Joshua needs.
"Everyone knows about the car crash and the injuries that resulted from it," Davison told Sky Sports. "He’s had to recover from that incident, so it makes perfect sense to confirm that his body is fully ready before committing to a fight of that magnitude. Tyson has already had his own warm‑up bout, so the logic is clear." Davison also highlighted Joshua’s habit of keeping any physical setbacks private. "He’s always been very discreet about injuries," the trainer explained.
"Whether he’s won or lost a fight, he rarely talks about any niggles in the public arena. He just takes the hits, works through them quietly, and that resilience is something to admire." Having worked intensively with both of the sport’s biggest British stars, Davison occupies a rare position. He does not offer a prediction on who will emerge victorious, but he does stress that at this elite level both fighters possess the capability to win. "It ultimately comes down to the strategy each man employs on the night, and I can’t say how they’ll approach it," he said.
When asked about the similarities between the two champions, Davison noted that, at their core, both are genuinely good‑natured individuals. However, their approaches to the spectacle of boxing differ dramatically. "Their showmanship is almost polar opposite," he observed.
"Yet both have revolutionised British boxing and changed the landscape of the sport. That alone says a lot about their influence." The trainer also pointed out the immense pressure that comes with their status.
"The demands they face, the expectations of fans, the financial and media scrutiny – it’s a heavy burden. Most people can’t even fathom the level of stress they endure day in, day out," Davison said. "There’s a constant high‑pressure environment, with countless eyes watching every move they make." Despite these challenges, Davison expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to work with both athletes. "I feel incredibly lucky and blessed to have been part of their journeys," he said.
"Their dedication and the way they handle the pressures of the sport are truly commendable." In summary, Davison’s perspective is clear: a carefully selected warm‑up fight for Joshua is a prudent step toward ensuring his body is in peak condition for the ultimate test against Fury. By keeping his health issues under wraps, Joshua demonstrates a professionalism that aligns with the silent work ethic Davison admires.
While the outcome of the Joshua‑Fury encounter remains uncertain, the shared respect between the two fighters and their transformative impact on UK boxing are undeniable. The upcoming bout with Prenga will not only give Joshua a chance to gauge his readiness but also provide fans with a glimpse of the form he will bring to the ring when the two British heavyweights finally meet.