Anthony Joshua announces comeback fight, sets July return after tragic break

Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has officially announced his return to boxing, with a comeback fight scheduled for July 25, 2026, in Riyadh.

The British-Nigerian boxer will face Albanian contender Kristian Prenga in what is being billed as “The Comeback”, a crucial bout aimed at restarting his career and rebuilding momentum in the heavyweight division.

Joshua has been out of action since December 2025, when he defeated Jake Paul via sixth-round knockout. However, his return was delayed following a tragic car accident later that month that claimed the lives of two of his close friends and team members. The incident forced the 36-year-old to step away from boxing as he dealt with personal loss and recovery.

His absence also comes after a difficult period in his career marked by injuries, including elbow surgery, and shifting fight plans that pushed his return multiple times.

Now, with a new multi-fight deal in place and training resumed, Joshua is looking to re-establish himself as a top contender. The fight against Prenga is widely seen as a tune-up bout, but still carries risk given the Albanian’s knockout-heavy record.

Similar read: Boxing star Anthony Joshua to relocate to Dubai from the UK

Promoters have hinted that a much bigger fight could follow if Joshua wins, with long-running talks for a blockbuster clash against Tyson Fury expected to materialise later in 2026.

For Joshua, this comeback is more than just another fight, it marks a return from both personal tragedy and a turbulent stretch in his professional career, as he attempts to position himself once again at the top of heavyweight boxing.