Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua says he is channeling strength from difficult circumstances as he prepares for his first fight since a tragic car accident in Nigeria claimed the lives of two close friends.
Joshua, who escaped with minor injuries, was involved in the December crash that killed Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele. The British-Nigerian boxer is set to make his return to the ring against Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga in Riyadh on July 25.
Speaking on the 5 Live Boxing podcast, the 36-year-old reflected on the loss and the emotional burden carried by the victims’ families.
“You never truly get over something like that, but it changes your perspective on life,” Joshua said.
He explained that his focus remains on supporting the families of those who died, particularly their parents.
“Life can humble anyone. You never know what tomorrow holds. Right now, my concern is for their parents. My own time to grieve will come, but they remain my priority,” he added.
Joshua made the remarks ahead of a press conference in London, where he met Prenga face-to-face for the first time. Victory in Saudi Arabia would move him a step closer to a long-anticipated showdown with fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury later this year.
Although both men have dominated the heavyweight scene for years, Joshua and Fury have never shared a ring. Reports suggest an agreement is in place for a potential fight in October or November, but Joshua must first navigate the challenge posed by Prenga.
Hearn Reflects On Joshua’s Difficult Journey
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, revealed that the boxer had mapped out an ambitious 2026 schedule following his victory over Jake Paul in December.
Plans reportedly included a March bout with Rico Verhoeven before a potential clash with Fury later in the year.
“Ten days after those plans were made, the crash happened,” Hearn said. “Everything changed overnight.”
Despite the setback, Joshua appeared composed and motivated during Monday’s media event, reaffirming his commitment to the sport.
“I still have the hunger and I know I belong at this level,” he said. “Boxing is what I do best, and I’m determined to prove that again this year and beyond.”
The Olympic gold medallist also highlighted the positive impact of training alongside former rival and current gym partner Oleksandr Usyk.
According to Joshua, working with Usyk has improved his conditioning, ring intelligence, and defensive abilities.
“My boxing fitness, IQ, and defence have all improved. I’m seeing punches clearly again and feel completely focused,” he said.
Prenga Promises Major Upset
Prenga enters the contest with an impressive record of 20 victories—all by knockout—and a single defeat. The 35-year-old New Jersey-based fighter acknowledges he is viewed as the underdog but believes he can pull off a shock result.
“I’ve never trained harder. I feel strong, prepared, and ready. I believe I can surprise everyone,” Prenga said.
His last three fights ended in first-round stoppages, though he has yet to face an opponent with Joshua’s credentials.
Rather than being discouraged by his underdog status, Prenga welcomed it.
“I’m happy people are overlooking me,” he said.
Joshua responded by encouraging his opponent to bring his best.
“I want him to come into the ring with complete confidence and no respect for me,” Joshua said. “Because he’ll be facing someone who intends to do exactly the same.”
The press event concluded with an intense face-off between the two fighters before ending on a respectful note with a handshake, setting the stage for their highly anticipated showdown in Riyadh.