Anthony Joshua is set to make his long‑awaited return to the ring on July 25, when he steps into the Octagon in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for a comeback fight against Albanian‑born heavyweight Kristian Prenga. This match marks Joshua’s first competitive appearance since he resumed training after a tragic car accident in Nigeria last December, an incident that claimed the lives of two close friends and left the former unified world champion physically and emotionally shaken.
The announcement of the July 25 bout came alongside confirmation from Joshua’s promoters, Turki Al‑Alashikh and Eddie Hearn, that a much‑anticipated showdown with rival Tyson Fury is now on the table for later in the year. In a press statement, Joshua explained his mindset: “I’ve taken some time to rebuild and consolidate my game plan, and today represents the next step on that journey. I’m thrilled to have secured a multi‑fight agreement that kicks off in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on July 25.
I’m eager to get back in the ring and pick up where I left off. As I’ve said before, the landlord will collect his rent – that’s a certainty.” Al‑Alashikh, the chief of Saudi boxing, had already stoked speculation on Monday by posting on social media, “To my friends in Great Britain – it’s happening, it’s signed.” Hearn echoed this enthusiasm on Instagram, declaring the paperwork “signed, sealed, delivered” and confirming that the Joshua‑vs‑Fury clash is officially in motion. Ring Magazine also weighed in, labeling the fight a “done deal” slated for the fourth quarter of 2026.
Joshua’s contract with Fury dates back several months, and Fury himself confirmed he had already signed his side after his recent victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov. “I’ve signed. I signed months ago. I don’t know if he signed,” Fury remarked after his win at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Hearn’s latest update appears to cement the agreement, indicating that all parties have now aligned on the bout’s logistics. In a prior interview with Sky Sports, Hearn revealed that the two potential dates under consideration were July and November, with the expectation that negotiations would move forward swiftly. He added, “Fury’s tune‑up fight gave him twelve crucial rounds to sharpen his skills, and we anticipate doing the same with Anthony.” Following Fury’s decisive points victory over Makhmudov, the Gypsy King publicly challenged Joshua, saying, “I want you, AJ.
Let’s give the fans what they want – the Battle of Britain. I challenge you to fight me next.” Joshua responded in kind, noting, “I’ve been chasing you for ten years. When you’re ready, come to me with your terms. I’m the boss; you work for me.
I’m the landlord.” Regardless of the outcome against Prenga, Joshua now appears poised for a career‑defining clash with Fury that could become one of the most significant events in British boxing history. The Prenga fight, while low‑key compared to a potential Fury showdown, serves as a crucial test of Joshua’s readiness after his traumatic accident. Kristian Prenga, who resides in the United States, boasts an impressive record on paper: 20 wins and a single loss, with every victory coming before the final bell. His lone defeat occurred early in his career in 2017 against Giovanni Auriemma.
Prenga expressed confidence in the upcoming bout, stating, “Anthony Joshua is a great fighter, but he miscalculated by choosing me as his opponent. This fight could change everything for both of us. I know there are big plans after this night, and I intend to derail them and shock the world in Saudi Arabia.” Sky Sports boxing analyst Andy Scott noted, “Kristian Prenga may be the most googled athlete in the last hour, but he isn’t a household name in heavyweight boxing. This is essentially a test‑the‑waters fight for Joshua, who is still recovering from the car crash that claimed his friends Sina Ghami and Latz Adoyele.” Scott continued, “Joshua has endured physical trauma and is now back in camp, taking a measured approach to his comeback.
This fight will gauge his performance in training, hard sparring, and the pressure of a major fight week. In Saudi Arabia, the event will be relatively low‑profile, but it’s designed for Joshua to secure a win and rebuild his confidence.” The July 25 showdown will be streamed via various platforms, with promoters urging fans to use the Chrome browser for optimal video playback. In addition to the main event, the organizers have teased a broader boxing schedule for 2026, promising a slate of high‑profile matchups throughout the year.
Fans can also stay engaged with weekly Toe2Toe podcast episodes, which provide in‑depth analysis and behind‑the‑scenes insights into the sport. As the date approaches, anticipation builds not only for Joshua’s return but also for the looming Joshua‑vs‑Fury saga.
If Joshua can demonstrate his physical resilience and sharpened technique against Prenga, the stage will be set for a blockbuster encounter with Fury that could redefine the heavyweight landscape and cement both fighters’ legacies in the annals of British boxing.