Anthony Joshua confirmed a comeback bout for July 25 in Riyadh, facing Albanian prospect Kristian Prenga. The former unified champion steps back into the ring after months of rehab following a December car crash in Nigeria that claimed two friends. Joshua framed the fight as the first step in a multi‑fight Saudi deal, signaling his return to elite competition and a hefty purse for the night.

Promoter Eddie Hearn has already secured a contract for a showdown with Tyson Fury, but insists a tune‑up is essential. He has floated July and November as possible dates, mirroring Fury’s recent 12‑round bout against Arslanbek Makhmudov. Fury’s post‑fight challenge to Joshua has intensified fan speculation, while Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh claims the British clash is “signed,” adding intrigue in the heavyweight division.

Prenga arrives with a 20‑win, one‑loss record, all victories coming before the final bell. He boasts a single early defeat to Giovanni Auriemma in 2017 and promises to upset Joshua’s plans. A win would cement Joshua’s path toward the Fury bout later this year, turning the Riyadh event into a decisive stepping stone rather than a mere warm‑up for the heavyweight crown.