Anthony Joshua Faces Kristian Prenga In Comeback Fight Ahead Of Fury Showdown

Anthony Joshua will make his long-awaited return to the ring on July 25, stepping back into action in Riyadh as he begins a new chapter in his career.

The former unified heavyweight world champion is set to face Albania’s Kristian Prenga in what is being billed as a crucial comeback bout following a difficult period outside the sport.

Joshua hasn’t fought since a serious car accident in Nigeria in December 2025, a tragic incident that claimed the lives of two of his close friends. After months of rebuilding both physically and mentally, the 34-year-old is ready to reassert himself in the heavyweight division.

Confirming the announcement, Joshua revealed he has signed a multi-fight deal, with this July clash marking the first step in what he hopes will be a defining run.

“It’s no secret I’ve taken some time to consolidate and rebuild,” Joshua said. “Now it’s about stepping back into the ring. I’m looking forward to competing again and picking up where I left off.”

The bout also carries added intrigue given the growing noise around a long-anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury. Talks of a blockbuster all-British clash have resurfaced in recent weeks, fuelled by comments from Saudi boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh, who hinted that an agreement may already be in place.

AJ’s promoter Eddie Hearn has previously suggested Joshua would take a summer tune-up fight before targeting Fury later in the year, with November seen as a potential window.

Before any mega-fight materialises, however, Joshua must first navigate a dangerous assignment against Prenga. While not a household name, the Albanian brings a classy record of 20 wins and just one defeat, with every victory coming by stoppage. His only loss came early in his career, but since then he has built a reputation as a heavy-handed and relentless operator.

Prenga has made it clear he is not travelling to Saudi Arabia to make up the numbers. “Anthony Joshua is a great fighter, but he made a terrible miscalculation in picking me,” he said. “They have big plans after this fight. I will derail them and shock the world.”

Unfortunately for Prenga the entire world will be hoping Joshua can make a successful comeback and finally set-up the huge fight with Tyson Fury.