After years of stalled talks and missed opportunities, a deal has finally been reached for a heavyweight showdown between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, with promoter Eddie Hearn confirming the long-anticipated agreement.
The announcement brings new momentum to what has widely been dubbed the “Battle of Britain,” a clash that has eluded boxing fans for over a decade.
However, before the blockbuster encounter takes place, Joshua is set to make his return to the ring in a comeback fight against Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga on July 25, 2026, in Riyadh.
The bout marks Joshua’s first appearance since a prolonged absence following a fatal car accident in late 2025 that claimed the lives of two members of his team. The former champion has since stepped away from the sport to recover and regroup.
Speaking ahead of his return, Joshua indicated that the upcoming fight represents a key step in rebuilding his career and preparing for the much-anticipated clash with Fury.
While details of the Joshua-Fury fight, including venue and official date, are yet to be finalised, reports suggest a possible November 2026 timeline, with major broadcast platforms being considered.
The agreement follows renewed tensions between the two fighters earlier this month, when Joshua watched Fury’s victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where the latter issued a public challenge.
Despite the deal now in place, Joshua must first overcome Prenga, an unbeaten fighter known for his knockout power, making the July contest a crucial test ahead of the historic showdown.
If successful, the stage will be set for one of the most highly anticipated fights in modern boxing history.
