Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will return to the ring on 25th July 2026 n Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as he begins his comeback ahead of a potential blockbuster fight later this year.
Joshua is scheduled to face Albanian fighter Kristian Prenga in what promoters describe as a tune-up bout designed to prepare him for a long-anticipated clash with Tyson Fury.
Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed the plan, saying the July fight is part of a wider roadmap that could lead to a major heavyweight showdown later in 2026.
“This is the comeback fight,” Hearn said, explaining that the bout will help Joshua return to full competition after a recent break from boxing.
The 36-year-old last fought in December 2025, when he defeated Jake Paul by knockout, before stepping away following a tragic car accident that took the lives of two key members of his team.
Joshua’s opponent, Prenga, holds a strong record and is known for his knockout power, though he has not faced opponents at Joshua’s level.
The fight, expected to be staged as part of a major event in Riyadh, is seen as a key step toward rebuilding Joshua’s momentum in the heavyweight division.
Attention is already turning to a possible “Battle of Britain” clash with Fury, which has been widely discussed and could take place before the end of the year.
For Joshua, a convincing win in July would be crucial as he looks to re-establish himself among boxing’s elite and set up one of the sport’s most anticipated matchups.
