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Former two-time world heavyweight champion, Antonio Joshua has sent a warning to the heavyweight division, stating that he is mentally and physically stronger than ever.
This came to light as he prepares for his long-awaited return to the ring against Albanian knockout artist Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia later this month.
With a highly successful confrontation against lifelong rival, Tyson Fury Coming closer to reality, Joshua revealed that personal tragedy has transformed his outlook, giving him a renewed sense of purpose as he enters what could be the defining chapter of his illustrious career.
The 35-year-old will face Prenga in Jeddah in July 25knowing that victory is essential if he is to keep plans alive for one of the most anticipated fights in British boxing history.
Anthony Joshua reveals how tragedy changed him
Joshua has not stepped into the ring since December 2025 and admitted boxing helped him get through one of the most difficult periods of his life following the death of two close friends in a car accident in Nigeria late last year.
Speaking candidly about his current state of mind, the former unified heavyweight champion said he discovered a level of resilience he never knew existed.
“I feel solid. This is where I want to be. I’m very grateful for this opportunity. It’s nice to do what I love.”
Joshua then delivered a chilling message that will undoubtedly catch the attention of his rivals.
“I’m preparing to be stronger than ever, not only physically, because that’s natural, but also mentally.”
“I have realized that I am much stronger than I ever thought.”
The comments suggest a fighter who believes he is entering another peak period of his career despite years of setbacks, criticism and intense scrutiny.
Anthony Joshua says fighting furiously means nothing
While excitement continues to build over reports that the long-awaited fight between Joshua and Fury is finally nearing completion, Joshua made it clear that signing contracts means little to him.
For the London-born star, only one thing matters.
Victorious.
Despite reports that deals are progressing behind the scenes, Joshua refused to celebrate prematurely.
“I’m not happy because the pleasure really comes after the victory. Signing a contract means nothing.”
“Winning is the only true success.”
The statement reflects Joshua’s determination to remain focused on the immediate task at hand rather than being distracted by future opportunities.
‘I know how difficult this year will be’ – AJ
Joshua also revealed that he is fully aware of the challenges that await him in what could become one of the most important years of his professional career.
The former champion believes that discipline and preparation will determine everything.
“I have a clear goal, I know what this year is about, I know how difficult this year will be.”
“I have been training hard. That’s my life.”
Those words underline the seriousness with which Joshua is approaching both Prenga and the possibility of facing Fury later this year.
Fury’s mega fight could head to the United States
Meanwhile, the long-awaited heavyweight clash between Joshua and Fury could take place outside Britain.
According to veteran promoter Eddie Hearn, both the United Kingdom and the USA They are currently being considered as host nations for the fight.
The revelation has surprised many boxing observers, who expected Saudi Arabia or Wembley Stadium to host the historic match.
Hearn confirmed that discussions are ongoing and suggested that Saudi powerhouse boxer Turki Alalshikh will ultimately decide the venue.
“The UK and US are in talks at the moment.”
“It will be in Turki Alalshikh where that fight will take place, but we are told it will be in mid-November.”
“Joshua has to do the job against Prenga first.”
The prospect of staging the fight in the United States represents a dramatic turn for a rivalry that has captivated British boxing fans for almost a decade.
Wembley remains the dream venue
Despite American interest, Wembley Stadium remains the sentimental favorite.
Joshua has headed four big pay-per-view events at Wembleywhile Fury’s most memorable appearance there came in 2022, when she defeated fellow Briton Dillian Whyte in six rounds to retain her WBC heavyweight title.
A showdown at Wembley would likely generate one of the biggest crowds in British boxing history.
However, Saudi Arabia’s continued influence in boxing means alternative venues remain firmly in contention.
First comes Prenga
Before any discussion about Fury can become a reality, Joshua must overcome a dangerous obstacle in the form of Prenga.
The Albanian heavyweight arrives with an intimidating record.
The 35-year-old fighter based in New Jersey boasts:
- 21 professional fights
- 20 victories
- 20 knockout victories
- Fair one failure
Far from accepting the role of springboard, Prenga has vowed to ruin the biggest fight in heavyweight boxing.
And his warning was emphatic.
“I’m going to ruin that fight.”
Referring directly to the expected clash between Joshua and Fury, Prenga added:
“Maybe Fury will fight me after I knock out Joshua? I’m going to shock the world.”
Those comments have added another layer of intrigue to a contest that many initially saw as simply a warm-up fight.
Fury also prepares for return
As Joshua prepares for Prenga, Fury will also return to action ahead of any potential mega fight.
The 37-year-old confirmed via Instagram that he will fight in Dublin on August 1, although an opponent has yet to be announced.
Fury’s most recent appearance came on April 11 when he scored a points victory over Russian heavyweight Arslanbek Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The former world champion has been looking for a way back to the top of the division after suffering back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2024.
