Anthony Joshua will return to the ring against Kristian Prenga on July 25 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, ahead of a potential overdue showdown with his long-term rival Tyson Fury.
The heavyweight most recently fought and won in December when he stopped Jake Paul, but he was then involved in a car crash that killed two of his closest friends, contributing to growing uncertainty regarding his future as a professional prizefighter aged 36.
His presence at ringside for Fury’s unanimous decision victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England earlier in April led to renewed hope that after a decade of posturing the two English heavyweights will finally fight.
It continues to be suggested that Fury will also fight again before preparing for Joshua – who has signed a “multi-fight deal” – but before he commits to any future dates it is the US-based Albanian Prenga who will stand in Joshua’s way.
“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 25th 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.”
The little-known Prenga, 35, has won 20 of his 21 fights, and on each occasion via knockout.
“Anthony Joshua is a great fighter, but he made a terrible miscalculation in picking me as his opponent,” he 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. I know they are overlooking me. I’m happy about that. I will derail their plans and shock the world this July in Saudi Arabia.”
Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, on Monday posted on social media: “To my friends in Great Britain – it’s happening. It’s signed.”
The development comes at a time of growing speculation regarding the Saudi Arabian state’s commitment to funding high-profile sport; it is being reported that LIV Golf and snooker’s Saudi Arabian Masters are under threat.
