British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua is set to make his return to the ring on July 25 in what is being described as a preparatory bout ahead of a much-anticipated clash with Tyson Fury.
The fight, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will see Joshua face Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga as part of activities tied to the Esports World Cup, with the event expected to be broadcast live on DAZN.
The bout will mark Joshua’s first appearance since his knockout victory over Jake Paul in December. Shortly after that win, the former unified heavyweight champion was involved in a car accident in Nigeria that reportedly claimed the lives of two of his close associates, while he sustained minor injuries.
Following a period of recovery, Joshua has since resumed training and agreed to a two-fight deal under Riyadh Season, which is expected to culminate in a high-profile showdown with Fury later in the year.
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Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh confirmed the development, stating that preparations for the fights have been finalised.
Speaking ahead of his return, Joshua said he had taken time to rebuild and refocus, adding that the upcoming fight represents the next step in his journey back to the top of the division.
