Former 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 in Riyadh, where he will face Kristian Prenga, a bout that will serve as a final test before the potential mega‑event against Fury later in the year.
There have been murmurs in the boxing community that adding another fight to Joshua’s schedule could create an extra obstacle on the road to the all‑British heavyweight clash. Some pundits worry that a misstep in a warm‑up bout could dent his confidence or expose vulnerabilities before the big night. Davison, however, dismisses those concerns, emphasizing that the primary goal is to ensure Joshua’s body is fully recovered and ready for the ultimate challenge.
"Everyone knows about the car accident and the crash," Davison told Sky Sports. "Naturally, he would have emerged from that incident with some injuries.
The priority now is to confirm that his physique is in good shape before he steps into the ring with Fury. It makes perfect sense – Tyson just had his own tune‑up fight, after all." Davison also pointed out that Joshua is not a fighter who publicly airs his physical setbacks. "He’s always been very private about that sort of thing. Whether he’s won or lost, he never really shares the details of any injuries or niggles he’s dealing with," the trainer explained.
"He just takes it on the chin, works through it quietly, and that’s something I respect a lot." Having worked intensively with both heavyweight stars, Davison occupies a rare position that gives him insight into their preparation habits, mental makeup, and the pressures they face. While he refrains from making any predictions about the outcome of the Joshua‑Fury encounter, he does believe that both athletes possess the skill set to claim victory, and the result will hinge on the strategies they employ on the night. "When you reach that level, both men are capable of winning. It really comes down to how they approach the fight, and I can’t say exactly how each will choose to do that," he said.
Davison also highlighted a few key similarities between the two champions. "At their core, they’re both good‑natured guys, but their approach to the showmanship side of boxing is completely opposite. Still, they’ve each revolutionised the sport in the UK and changed the game for the better." The trainer acknowledged that the constant spotlight and expectations take a toll on both fighters. "The pressures they endure, the scrutiny, the weight of an entire nation’s hopes – most people can’t even fathom that level of stress," Davison noted.
He added that while the two athletes share common challenges, their methods for coping differ markedly. "There are definitely parallels in the pressures they face, but the way they handle it is distinct. Most fans don’t realize how much mental fortitude is required just to step into the ring day after day," he observed. "The high expectations, the reliance of countless supporters, the financial stakes – it’s a heavy burden." Davison concluded by expressing his gratitude for having been part of both men’s journeys.
"I’m extremely grateful, lucky, and blessed to have worked with both of those guys. Their contributions to boxing have been monumental, and I’m proud to have played a role in their careers," he said.
In summary, the former trainer believes that Joshua’s decision to take a warm‑up fight is a prudent step toward ensuring he enters the Fury bout at peak physical condition. By addressing any lingering issues from his recent accident and gaining a final bout of competitive rhythm, Joshua can approach the heavyweight showdown with confidence and readiness. Davison’s unique perspective, shaped by his experience with both fighters, underscores the significance of preparation, resilience, and the mental game in achieving success at the highest level of boxing.