Anthony Joshua vs Kristian Prenga: Date, Venue, Time and How to Watch in 2026

Former two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua is preparing to step back into the boxing ring for the first time since a tragic car accident last December. He will face Albanian contender Kristian Prenga on July 25 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In a statement released through his promoter Matchroom, Joshua explained that he has used the past months to recover mentally and physically so he could return properly.

He described the upcoming bout as an important milestone on his path forward.The 36-year-old will meet Prenga, who holds a record of 20 wins and just one defeat, in the main event of a show called “The Comeback.” This contest forms part of the Esports World Cup Festival.

Joshua most recently competed on December 19, when he stopped YouTuber Jake Paul by knockout. Only ten days after that victory, he was hurt in a serious car crash in Nigeria that resulted in the deaths of two of his friends.

According to the Matchroom announcement, the clash with Prenga launches a new multi-fight agreement that may lead to a highly awaited showdown with his British rival, Tyson Fury.Joshua attended ringside as Fury, another former two-time heavyweight champion, came out of a 15-month break from boxing. Fury defeated Russian-born Arslanbek Makhmudov by unanimous decision at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 11.

When Is the Anthony Joshua vs Kristian Prenga Fight?

Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026

(The exact ring-walk time has not yet been announced, but the main event is expected in the evening, likely no earlier than 10pm BST / 5pm ET.)

Where Is the Anthony Joshua vs Kristian Prenga Fight?

Venue: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

It will headline the event called “The Comeback”, which is part of the Esports World Cup Festival.

Who Is Anthony Joshua Fighting?

Opponent: Kristian Prenga Albanian heavyweight boxer

Professional record: 20 wins, 1 loss (with a high knockout rate)

35 years old, known as a powerful puncher

Prenga has said he knows Joshua’s team has bigger plans and aims to cause a major upset.

This serves as Joshua’s first fight since his knockout win over Jake Paul in December 2025 and the tragic car crash in Nigeria shortly afterward. It is the start of a multi-fight deal that could lead to a clash with Tyson Fury later in 2026.

How To Watch Anthony Joshua vs Kristian Prenga?

The fight will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. Available on DAZN PPV or the Ultimate Tier in many regions.

Subscription starts from around £15.99 / equivalent per month in the UK (prices vary by country).

No free broadcast — it is exclusive to DAZN.

_______