Eddie Hearn hails Anthony Joshua's return as the "ultimate comeback" as the former champion prepares to face Kristian Prenga in July. The bout represents a critical checkpoint before a potential $200 million showdown with Tyson Fury, with Hearn confirming the Fury fight would be cancelled if Joshua suffers defeat.

Joshua's path back has been turbulent - he lost to Daniel Dubois before bouncing back with a victory over Jake Paul, followed by a win against Otto Wallin in December 2023. Prenga presents a dangerous obstacle with 20 knockouts in 21 professional victories, making this far from a simple tune-up contest.

Hearn acknowledges the substantial risk but frames it as a necessary hurdle. "If you can't beat that guy then you don't really deserve to be in a ring with Tyson Fury," he argued. Ukraine's Oleksandr Usyk is assisting Joshua with gameplan preparation, having previously defeated both fighters.

The promoter dismissed questions about pop star Dua Lipa declining to perform, stating the fight remains on regardless of entertainment choices. For Joshua, this return isn't about money - it's about proving he can reclaim his position atop the heavyweight division.