Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua has revealed that personal tragedy has helped forge a stronger version of himself as he prepares for his highly anticipated return to the ring later this month, Trybal News reports.
The British-Nigerian boxing star is set to face Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on July 25, in what is expected to be a crucial stepping stone towards a blockbuster showdown with long-time rival Tyson Fury later this year.
Joshua, who has not fought since December 2025, says he enters the contest in the best mental state of his career after overcoming one of the most difficult periods of his life.
The two-time world heavyweight champion disclosed that boxing provided him with renewed purpose following the tragic loss of two close friends in a car accident in Nigeria late last year.
Speaking ahead of his comeback, Joshua admitted the experience tested him deeply but ultimately strengthened his resolve.
I feel solid. This is where I want to be. I’m very grateful for this opportunity. It’s nice doing what I love,” Joshua said.
I’m building myself up to be stronger than I’ve ever been, not only physically, because that’s natural, but mentally. I’ve realised I’m a lot stronger than I ever thought I was.”
The 35-year-old remains one of the biggest names in world boxing and is expected to challenge Tyson Fury in a long-awaited all-British heavyweight showdown in November. However, Joshua insists his attention is firmly fixed on the immediate task of defeating Prenga.
Despite reports that agreements have already been reached for the Fury bout, Joshua dismissed suggestions that the fight is a foregone conclusion.
I’m not pleased because the pleasure really comes after victory. Signing a contract doesn’t mean anything. Winning is the only true success,” he said.
Joshua added that he has approached 2026 with a clear sense of purpose, fully aware that the months ahead could define the next chapter of his illustrious career.
I’ve got a clear goal. I know what this year is about, I know how tough this year is going to be. I’ve been training hard, that’s my life.”
While much of the attention is already focused on the prospect of facing Fury, Joshua will first need to navigate a potentially dangerous encounter against Prenga, who carries an impressive knockout record and will be eager to derail plans for one of boxing’s biggest fights.
Fury is also expected to return to action before the proposed November clash, with reports indicating that the former world champion is targeting a warm-up bout in Dublin on August 1.
For Joshua, however, the path remains straightforward: secure victory in Jeddah, continue his resurgence, and move one step closer to the heavyweight showdown boxing fans have waited years to see.
If successful, the stage could finally be set for one of the most anticipated fights in modern heavyweight boxing history.
