Anthony Joshua Focused On Boxing Return Ahead Of Clash With Prenga

Anthony Joshua says he is drawing strength from adversity as he prepares to step back into the ring for the first time since a car crash that claimed the lives of two close friends in Nigeria.

The former heavyweight world champion was a passenger in the vehicle when Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele were killed in December. Anthony Joshua, who suffered only minor injuries, will return to action against Albanian fighter Kristian Prenga in Riyadh on 25 July.

Speaking on the 5 Live Boxing podcast, the 36-year-old reflected on the tragedy and the impact it continues to have on those closest to the victims.

“You never overcome it but you gain perspective in life,” Joshua said.

“Life is humbling at times. You never know one’s fate. As a soldier, I stand strong for their parents first and foremost.

“This isn’t about me. I feel it’s important to put their parents first at the minute.

“I’ll have my time to grieve. But right now, my heart and mind tell me their parents are my main priority.”

Joshua spoke ahead of a London press conference where he came face-to-face with Prenga for the first time. A win in Saudi Arabia would keep him on course for a long-awaited clash with Tyson Fury later this year.

Despite dominating British heavyweight boxing for more than a decade, Joshua and Fury have never fought each other. A deal is understood to be in place, with October or November viewed as the most likely dates for the blockbuster bout. Before that can happen, Joshua must avoid an upset against Prenga.

Hearn Speaks ahead of Anthony Joshua Vs Prenga Clash

Promoter Eddie Hearn revealed that Joshua had been enthusiastic about his plans for 2026 following his victory over Jake Paul in December. A fight against Rico Verhoeven had been pencilled in for March, with Fury expected to follow in August.

“But 10 days later the crash happened,” Hearn said.

“And then obviously the world came crashing down.”

At Monday’s media event, Joshua appeared relaxed and confident as he discussed his ambitions and renewed focus.

“I’ve still got that fire and I belong here,” Joshua said.

“I don’t do this as a joke. I do this because it’s what I’m good at. I’m going to prove it this year and keep proving it moving forward.”

The Olympic gold medallist also spoke about his work alongside former rival and current gym-mate Oleksandr Usyk, crediting their time together for improvements in several areas of his game.

Joshua said he has sharpened his “boxing fitness, IQ and defence” through the partnership.

“Now I can really read punches again. My eyes are fully locked in,” he added.

Prenga, meanwhile, arrives with a record of 20 wins, all by stoppage, and one defeat. The 35-year-old, who is based in New Jersey, is regarded as a significant outsider but insists he is ready for the biggest opportunity of his career.

“I am training hard. I’ve trained more than ever. I feel great. I feel ready. I think I’m going to shock the world,” Prenga said.

His previous three bouts all ended in first-round stoppages, although he has yet to face an opponent with Joshua’s pedigree.

Prenga welcomed suggestions that he is being underestimated and promised to show no respect once the fight begins.

“I’m glad he’s underestimating me,” he said.

Joshua responded: “I want you to come into the ring and give me no respect and try to do what you think you do best.

“Because across the ring is someone who will do exactly the same.”

The pair then engaged in a lengthy face-off, with Joshua removing his sunglasses midway through before the encounter ended with a friendly handshake.