Anthony Joshua (29-4, 26 KO) will return to the ring on July 25 in Saudi Arabia against 35-year-old Albanian boxer Kristian Prenga (20-1, 20 KO). Additionally, a fight between Joshua and Tyson Fury has been officially agreed upon and is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026, specifically between October and December. The announcement confirms one of the most anticipated heavyweight matchups in recent years. Joshua will use the Prenga fight as preparation for his showdown with Fury. The Saudi Arabia venue continues the country's investment in major boxing events.
Anthony Joshua will step back into the ring on July 25 in Saudi Arabia, facing Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga in a bout officially announced ahead of what promises to be an even bigger matchup later in the year. Separately, a fight between Joshua and Tyson Fury has been formally agreed upon, with the two heavyweights set to collide in the fourth quarter of 2026, sometime between October and December.
Joshua, 36, brings considerable physical tools to the heavyweight division. The British fighter stands six-foot-six and carries an 82-inch reach, attributes that have long made him a difficult puzzle for opponents at the elite level. He represents the United Kingdom and trains with Boxing Works and Team GB.
Prenga, 35, enters the contest with a remarkable 20-1 record, having stopped 20 of his 21 opponents. The Albanian heavyweight's near-perfect finishing rate signals genuine punching power, and he arrives with little margin for error on his ledger.
The July date is widely framed as a tune-up assignment, with Joshua's camp viewing the Prenga fight as meaningful preparation before the high-profile collision with Fury. Saudi Arabia continues to serve as the backdrop for marquee heavyweight events, with the country's investment in the sport producing a steady stream of major nights.
Why it matters
- A Joshua-Fury agreement ends years of negotiations and delivers one of boxing's most anticipated heavyweight bouts.
- Joshua faces a heavy-handed opponent in Prenga, whose knockout ratio leaves little room for a careless performance.
- Saudi Arabia's continued hosting role cements its place as a central hub for global heavyweight boxing.
