Former heavyweight trainer Ben Davison, who has spent time in the camps 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. Joshua 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 preparatory test before the British heavyweight clash later in the year. Some observers worry that adding another fight to Joshua’s schedule could create an extra obstacle on the road to the Fury showdown, potentially increasing the risk of injury or fatigue. Davison, however, argues that the decision is prudent given the circumstances surrounding Joshua’s recent car accident.
"Everyone knows about the crash and the injuries he sustained," Davison told Sky Sports. "The priority now is to make sure his body is fully recovered and ready for the big fight.
It makes sense to give him a controlled, lower‑stakes bout to gauge his fitness, especially when Tyson Fury has already had his own tune‑up fight." Davison also highlighted Joshua’s tendency to keep any physical setbacks private. "He’s always been very discreet about injuries," the trainer explained. "Whether he’s won or lost, he rarely talks about what’s going on behind the scenes.
He just takes it on the chin, works silently, and that’s something to admire." The former coach is in a unique position, having guided both men through pivotal moments in their careers, but he stopped short of picking a winner for the upcoming clash. "When you reach the elite level, both athletes have the capacity to win. It ultimately comes down to their game plan and execution on the night, and I can’t predict how each will approach it," Davison said.
He did note that, despite their differences in personality and promotional style, Joshua and Fury share several core traits. "At heart, they’re both good‑natured people who have transformed British boxing," Davison observed. "Their approaches to the showmanship aspect of the sport are polar opposites, yet both have elevated the profile of heavyweight boxing in the UK and beyond.
That’s a huge contribution to the sport." The trainer also reflected on the mental and emotional pressures that come with being at the top of the heavyweight division. "The demands they face, the expectations from fans, the financial stakes, and the constant media scrutiny are overwhelming for most people," he said.
"Most can’t even imagine the level of pressure they endure daily. Yet both have managed to thrive under those conditions, which is commendable." Davison expressed gratitude for having worked with two of the sport’s most influential figures. "I feel extremely lucky and blessed to have been part of their journeys.
Their dedication, resilience, and impact on boxing are something I’ll always cherish," he concluded. In summary, Ben Davison believes that Joshua’s decision to take a warm‑up fight is a logical step toward ensuring he enters the Fury bout in optimal condition. While the added fight could be seen as a potential risk, the former trainer emphasizes that proper preparation, recovery from past injuries, and a clear assessment of physical readiness are essential for a high‑stakes encounter. Both Joshua and Fury have reshaped the heavyweight landscape, and their upcoming clash promises to be a defining moment for British boxing, with the added narrative of Joshua’s strategic preparation adding another layer of intrigue to the event.