Anthony Joshua set for boxing return after car accident

Anthony Joshua is set to return to the ring on July 25 in his first fight since a car accident earlier this year.

The former heavyweight champion will face Kristian Prenga in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of an ‘Esports World Cup’ event, with the bout serving as preparation for a planned clash with Tyson Fury later in the year.

The July contest will be Joshua’s first outing since his knockout win over Jake Paul in December.

Weeks after that victory, Joshua was involved in a car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends. He sustained minor injuries and stepped away from the ring.

Since then, the 34-year-old has resumed training and begun preparations for his return.

Saudi Boxing Chief, Turki Alalshikh, confirmed the fight, announcing that Joshua will headline an event in Riyadh under a new agreement.

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“To my friends in Great Britain – it’s happening. It’s signed,” Alalshikh tweeted.

Joshua has agreed to a two-fight deal with Riyadh Season, with the second bout expected to be against Fury.

Joshua will first have to navigate Prenga, an opponent with a limited profile at the top level.

The fight is expected to serve as a build-up to the proposed meeting with Fury, a contest that has been discussed for years.

Joshua said: “It’s no secret I’ve taken some time to consolidate and rebuild to be ready for stepping back in to the ring, and today is the next step on that journey.

“I’m delighted to have agreed a multi-flight deal starting with July 25th in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“I’m looking forward to competing and picking up where I left off.

“As I said, the landlord will collect his rent. That is certain.”