Anthony Joshua Set For First Fight Since Deadly Car Accident

Anthony Joshua is set to return to the ring for his first fight since a tragic car accident in Nigeria on December 29, 2025, with the former heavyweight champion scheduled to compete on July 25 in Saudi Arabia as he builds toward a potential blockbuster clash with Tyson Fury.

Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh announced on Monday that the former unified heavyweight champion will face relatively unknown Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of an “Esports World Cup” event, which will be broadcast live on DAZN.

The bout marks Joshua’s first fight since his knockout victory over Jake Paul in December, a win that briefly reaffirmed his return to winning form after a turbulent run in the heavyweight division.

Shortly after that victory, Joshua was involved in a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends and left him with minor injuries.

He has since returned to training and, according to reports, signed a two-fight deal under Riyadh Season, which is expected to culminate in a blockbuster clash with Fury later in the year.

“To my friends in Great Britain – it’s happening. It’s signed,” Alalshikh posted on X.

Joshua will first have to get past Prenga to keep the path open for the anticipated Fury showdown.

Speaking ahead of his return, Joshua said, “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.

“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.”