Anthony Joshua’s Return to the Ring
British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua has confirmed his return to the ring on July 25, marking his first fight since a tragic accident in December that claimed the lives of two of his friends in Nigeria. The event will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the Esports World Cup, and will serve as a preparation for a highly anticipated match against Tyson Fury later this year.
Joshua is set to face Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga in what is expected to be a significant step in his career. This bout follows his recent victory over Otto Wallin and comes after a period of personal and professional uncertainty following the incident in December 2025. During the accident, Joshua sustained only minor injuries, while his friends Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele lost their lives.
There had been speculation about whether Joshua might retire from boxing, but he has dismissed these claims by returning to training and signing a two-fight deal under the Riyadh Season banner. This includes the proposed bout with Fury, which has generated considerable excitement among fans.
Following confirmation of the Prenga fight by Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh on Monday, Joshua expressed his readiness to resume his career.
“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,” Joshua said.
“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.”
Kristian Prenga: A Challenging Opponent
Prenga, however, has issued a strong warning ahead of the bout.
“Anthony Joshua is a great fighter, but he made a terrible miscalculation in picking me as his opponent,” Prenga said.
“This is the kind of fight that changes everything in my life and his.
I know they have big plans ahead after this fight, and I believe they are overlooking me. I’m happy about that.
I will derail their plans and shock the world this July in Saudi Arabia.”
Who Is Kristian Prenga?
Despite not being widely known, Prenga enters the fight with an impressive professional record of 20 wins and one loss, with all 20 victories coming by knockout. His only defeat came in 2017 via unanimous decision to Italy’s Giovanni Auriemma. One of the more notable names on his résumé is Joey Dawejko, who was previously linked to sparring sessions with Joshua ahead of his 2019 bout against Andy Ruiz Jr.
The 35-year-old last fought in February, securing a first-round stoppage victory over Joe Jones. Although Prenga is currently unranked by the four major sanctioning bodies, he briefly held the North American Boxing Association title after defeating Samuel Crossed via third-round stoppage.
Born in Orosh, Albania, Prenga now resides in Edgewater, New Jersey. He is currently ranked among the top active Albanian heavyweights by BoxRec, behind Nelson Hysa.
Standing at 6ft 5in, Prenga is known for his long reach and awkward, mobile style—attributes that could serve as preparation for Joshua ahead of a potential showdown with Fury. He makes effective use of his jab, mixes in uppercuts and bolo punches, and is a capable body puncher.
His straight right hand and left hook to the body have accounted for most of his knockout victories.
