Anthony Joshua is set to make his return to the ring on July 25 in Saudi Arabia, as the former unified heavyweight champion lines up a comeback bout against Kristian Prenga in Riyadh.
The fight will mark Joshua’s first appearance since he resumed training following a tragic car accident in Nigeria in December, an incident that claimed the lives of two of his close friends.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has also confirmed that discussions remain ongoing over Joshua’s long-anticipated showdown with rival Tyson Fury, with plans suggesting the July fight could serve as a tune-up before a potential blockbuster clash later in the year.
Joshua said, “It’s no secret I’ve taken some time to consolidate and rebuild to be ready for stepping back into the ring and today is the next step on that journey. I’m delighted to have agreed a multi-fight deal starting with July 25 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“I’m looking forward to competing and picking up where I left off. As I said: The landlord will collect his rent. That is certain.”
Interest in a Fury-Joshua fight intensified after Saudi boxing figure Turki Alalshikh posted on social media: “To my friends in Great Britain. It’s happening, it’s signed.”
If the July comeback goes as planned, Joshua could be on course for a long-awaited clash with Fury, potentially as soon as November, according to Hearn.
Hearn told Sky Sports: “July and November are the two dates that have been presented to us now and we expect to move forward.
“Fury has just had his tune-up fight with 12 really vital rounds to get him sharp for the next one and I expect us to do the same.”
Fury has repeatedly called out Joshua, most recently after his win over Arslanbek Makhmudov, saying, “I want you, AJ, Anthony Joshua. Let’s give the fight fans what they want – the Battle of Britain. I challenge you Anthony Joshua to fight me the Gypsy King next,
“Do you accept my challenge?”
Joshua responded, “I’ve been chasing you the last 10 years, when you’re ready you come and see me and tell me your terms and conditions.
“I’m the boss, you work for me. I’m the landlord. You work for me.”
Joshua’s immediate focus, however, remains Prenga, who enters the fight with 20 wins from 21 professional bouts, all by knockout.
The Albanian heavyweight, based in the United States, insists he is being underestimated ahead of what he believes could be a career-defining upset.
Prenga said, “Anthony Joshua is a great fighter, but he made a terrible miscalculation in picking me as his opponent. This is the kind of fight that changes everything in my life and his.
“I know they have big plans ahead after this fight. I know they are overlooking me. I’m happy about that. I will derail their plans and shock the world this July in Saudi Arabia.”
