Anthony Joshua and Kristian Prenga announce July 25 fight at opening press conference

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 01: Anthony Joshua faces off against Kristian Prenga after a press conference ahead of the Anthony Joshua v Kristian Prenga fight at Exhibition White City on June 01, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images) | Getty Images As Anthony Joshua prepares to ma

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What is the story about?

As Anthony Joshua prepares to make his ring return on July 25 in what is set up to be a tune-up bout before he takes on Tyson Fury later this year, Joshua appears for his kickoff press conference for the opponent at hand in Krisitian Prenga. While most aren’t expect much of any resistance from Prenga in this matchup, he has everything to gain and nothing to lose, while Joshua has before slipped up on banana skins. Here’s some of what both had to say at today’s press event with the full video in the link

at the top.

Joshua on Prenga’s team claiming confidence in their victory

“I think these guys just dig their grave. Their grave’s already been dug but they just keep digging deeper and deeper and deeper, and I’m just going to do what I need to do. I’ve got full belief. I just know exactly what I need to do. I’m not worrying — I respect him, I respect every opponent, but when I look at myself, I know what I got to do and I’m going to deliver.”

Prenga on why he believes he beats Joshua

“Being underestimated is actually a positive thing,” Prenga said through translation. “On July 25th I’m going to show the world that this is God’s plan, this is [my] time. You’re talking about the fight with Fury and having plans ahead of time, you’re trying to plan ahead of God, and this is the time you should be focused on, not that. So, yes, I’m glad that you’re underestimating this.”

Joshua on what improvements he’s made since training with Usyk

“Fitness. Not just fitness for running but boxing fitness. IQ — when I say that I mean defense. I understand it, I can really read punches again. My eyes are fully locked in and I’m focused…My mind’s not really focused on too much other stuff. I want to respect everything I do when it comes to boxing and I give respect to my opponent and his team, but I’m going to respect the sport of boxing and that’s what I’ve improved is just my focus.”