Former trainer Ben Davison, who has spent time in the corners of both Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, says that the British heavyweight’s plan to take a tune‑up fight ahead of a potential clash 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 setting his sights on a much‑anticipated showdown with Fury later in the year.
There have been doubts among some observers that adding another bout to Joshua’s schedule could create an extra obstacle on the road to the all‑British heavyweight spectacle. Davison, however, believes the opposite is true. He told Sky Sports that the recent car accident involving Joshua left the champion with undisclosed injuries, and that a carefully managed warm‑up fight will give the fighter a chance to confirm his body is fully ready for the ultimate test. "Everyone knows about the crash and the injuries that came with it," Davison explained.
"The priority now is to make sure his physical condition is optimal before he steps into the ring with Tyson. It’s a logical step, especially since Tyson has already had his own tune‑up fight." Davison also pointed out that Joshua is not a boxer who typically makes his health issues public.
"He’s always been very private about any setbacks," the trainer said. "Whether he’s won or lost, he never brings his injuries into the spotlight. He just takes them on the chin, works through them quietly, and that’s something to admire." Having worked intensively with both fighters, Davison occupies a rare position that allows him to compare their approaches and personalities. He stopped short of predicting a winner, noting that at the elite level both men have the tools to claim victory.
"It will come down to how each of them prepares and executes on the night," he said. "I can’t say exactly how they’ll approach the fight." When pressed about the similarities between the two champions, Davison highlighted their shared dedication and impact on British boxing. "At their core, they’re both good‑natured guys who have transformed the sport in the UK," he observed.
"Their showmanship, however, couldn’t be more different. Yet both have raised the profile of heavyweight boxing dramatically." He also acknowledged the immense pressure that accompanies their fame.
"The expectations are enormous, the scrutiny is relentless, and the weight of an entire nation’s hopes rests on their shoulders," Davison said. "Most people can’t even imagine the mental and emotional strain they endure day in, day out." Davison expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with both athletes, describing the experience as a privilege.
"I feel extremely lucky and blessed to have been part of their journeys," he said. "Their dedication and resilience have been inspiring, and I have the utmost respect for what they have achieved in the sport." In summary, Davison’s perspective is clear: a carefully chosen warm‑up bout for Joshua is a prudent step toward ensuring he enters the Fury clash at full strength.
The former trainer’s insights underscore the importance of health, preparation, and mental fortitude in elite boxing, while also paying tribute to the remarkable contributions both Joshua and Fury have made to the heavyweight division and to British boxing as a whole.