Story by
Anthony Joshua’s Risky 2026 Plan Could End in Disaster Before Tyson Fury Fight
- Story by
- Anthony Joshua’s Risky 2026 Plan Could End in Disaster Before Tyson Fury Fight
Getty Images for Netflix
Anthony Joshua made it clear during Monday's kickoff press conference that 2026 will test him like never before, but the former two-time unified heavyweight champion is embracing every challenge that comes with it.
Speaking ahead of his July 25 return against Albanian knockout artist Kristian Prenga in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the 36-year-old Joshua (29-4, 26 KOs) outlined a clear vision for the year ahead, one that includes a comeback fight against Prenga before a blockbuster showdown with Tyson Fury later in 2026.
Advertisement
"Give me the opportunity to fight Prenga. Give me the opportunity to fight Fury. Give me the opportunity to fight for the championship," Joshua said. "It's not about looking past anyone. It's about knowing your purpose, knowing the steps forward, and continuing to climb the ladder."
Anthony Joshua Focused on Kristian Prenga Challenge
Joshua stressed that his focus remains firmly on the task in front of him despite the enormous attention surrounding the Fury fight.
"I've got a clear goal," he said. "I know what this year is about, and I know how tough it's going to be. I'm definitely the man for the job, and I'm looking forward to the challenges."
Advertisement
The two-fight plan begins with Prenga on DAZN and could lead to the long-awaited all-British clash with Fury, a matchup fans have wanted for more than a decade.
Joshua, who has not fought since late 2025 following defeats to Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois , described the schedule as a deliberate climb back toward heavyweight relevance. Backed by Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh and promoted by Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Boxing, the event has been branded "The Comeback."
Prenga (20-1, 20 KOs) enters as a dangerous opponent despite being relatively untested at the elite level. The Albanian puncher possesses knockout power and represents a risky first assignment for a fighter returning from an extended absence.
At the London press conference, Joshua stared down his opponent and brushed aside verbal jabs from Prenga's camp, describing them as cheap talk. Instead, he welcomed the hostility and promised to answer inside the ring.
Advertisement
Joshua also offered a glimpse into his mindset as he prepares for another demanding training camp.
"Tomorrow, I'll return to training camp and lock back in. We step away briefly to do some media and spend time with our families before heading back into camp. Then we take ourselves to another place, physically and spiritually."
Tyson Fury Fight Remains the Bigger Prize
The bigger prize remains scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026. Contracts are reportedly signed for Joshua versus Fury, a fight expected to stream globally on Netflix. Fury is anticipated to have another bout before meeting Joshua later in the year.
Advertisement
While some fans remain skeptical about Joshua's ability to rebuild momentum after recent setbacks, others see the ambitious schedule as evidence that the former champion still believes he can return to the top of the heavyweight division.
At 36, Joshua understands the stakes. Time is no longer on his side, but his confidence remains intact.
"I've been training hard. That's my life," Joshua said.
The July 25 card at Jeddah Superdome will feature several undercard bouts as part of the Esports World Cup celebrations, with Matchroom Boxing set to reveal more details in the coming weeks.
For Joshua, the mission is simple. The road back starts with Prenga, but his eyes remain fixed on the ultimate prize.
"On July 25 in Jeddah, the best man will win."
