Anthony Joshua flirted with disaster but came through a chaotic, albeit short, fight with Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia to finally set up a long-awaited clash with Tyson Fury.
Heavyweight star Joshua – making his comeback after surviving a fatal car crash in Nigeria, which claimed the lives of two of his teammates – was expected to brush aside Albanian unknown Prenga with ease at Jeddah Superdome but instead found himself on the canvas within 30 seconds as his unfancied, but heavy-hitting foe, floored the Brit with a devastating uppercut. Another scuffle shortly before the end of the first round then saw “AJ” hit the deck for a second time.
However, he somehow recovered in the time between the first two rounds, came out stronger in the second and promptly dropped Prenga through the ropes with a monstrous punch that saw the Albanian unable to get up, to secure a 27th KO of his career.
After the fight Joshua called out Fury, who one day earlier won his bizarre, non-televised warm-up against Mariusz Wach in Thailand via seventh-round TKO, but “the Gypsy King” wasn’t ringside in Saudi Arabia, meaning the build-up for their long-overdue fight later this year – which came so close to being derailed here – will have to wait.
Relive all the carnage from Joshua vs Prenga, below
Joshua vs Prenga LIVE
- Anthony Joshua dramatically knocks out Kristian Prenga in second round of chaotic fight
- Joshua knocked down twice in first round by huge underdog but hits back to win in the second
- Victory sets up long-awaited Fury vs Joshua showdown later this year
- REPORT: How emotional Anthony Joshua survived the chaos to set up Tyson Fury showdown
- Hamzah Sheeraz scrapes a majority decision win to unimpressively keep his WBO super middleweight world title
- Josh Kelly edges decision to retain his IBF super welterweight world title on undercard
How emotional Anthony Joshua survived the chaos to set up Tyson Fury showdown
01:10 , Luke Baker
Anthony Joshua survived a huge scare on a night of carnage on his boxing comeback, rising from the canvas twice before knocking out unknown Albanian Kristian Prenga to pave the way for a Tyson Fury showdown.
Joshua was shockingly sent crashing to the canvas by a thunderous right uppercut within the first 20 seconds in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as Prenga threatened to ruin the prospect of a long-awaited heavyweight showdown with Fury later this year.
The former two-time world heavyweight champion also took a knee later in the first round in his first fight since being involved in a car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, in December, just days after his win over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul.
However, Joshua showed all his heart to dig deep and hit back in the second round with a barrage of heavy blows that sent Prenga tumbling through the ropes and the Albanian’s inability to beat the count ensured a 27th knockout victory of the Brit’s career.
Read the full piece:
How emotional Anthony Joshua survived the chaos to set up Tyson Fury showdown
WATCH: Hearn's emotional speech about AJ
03:01 , Jack Tanner
Proud ♥️ @EddieHearn #JoshuaPrenga pic.twitter.com/W1oJe20cz9
— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) July 25, 2026
Bunce: Fury vs Joshua talk too early after warning signs
02:00 , Jack Tanner
Independent columnist and boxing expert Steve Bunce believes there were warning signs from Joshua’s performance.
On BBC Radio 5’s coverage, Bunce stated: "As much as I want to say it's on, as much as I want to say we can move on to Tyson Fury, I think we need to look at that first round and look at how easily AJ was hurt. We can't just skip past that.
"Let's just be a little bit realistic here. If there was any fighter inside the top 100 in the ring with Joshua tonight, we would be reading and running over the end of his career."
Fury vs Joshua - location a stumbling block?
01:44 , Jack Tanner
We’ve been waiting for years for Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury to share a ring, and it looks like we’re finally there. A deal has been agreed, both fighters have won their warm-up bouts - but there is still no concrete noise on the venue.
Surely an all-British heavyweight clash for the ages has to taken place at Wembley Stadium, or at least in the UK?
Eddie Hearn suggested prior to Joshua’s win over Prenga that the venue could still be a stumbling block, citing pressure for an American-friendly ring-walk time in other interviews.
WATCH: Joshua claims he is unstoppable
01:00 , Jack Tanner
"I can't be stopped, I'm not gonna be stopped, I'm not gonna be denied" 😤#JoshuaPrenga ▪️ pic.twitter.com/ZBbnBkbn11
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) July 25, 2026
WATCH: Oleksandr Usyk's reaction to Joshua's dramatic knockout
Sunday 26 July 2026 00:49 , Jack Tanner
We were USYK too 🥵#JoshuaPrenga pic.twitter.com/yuPH67uRqp
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) July 25, 2026
Emotional AJ subdued when thinking about the past seven months
Sunday 26 July 2026 00:31 , Jack Tanner
Seven months ago Anthony Joshua was involved in a car crash that took the lives of his two close friends Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele.
Asked how difficult the last seven months has been and if felt the fighting spirit of his friends on DAZN, Joshua musters in response: “It’s been tough. They’re my brothers, but I don't want to talk about it.”
'He's got a bright future' - Joshua's praise for Prenga
Sunday 26 July 2026 00:23 , Jack Tanner
He’s come through unscathed, but Anthony Joshua looked lost in that first round. He credits opponent Kristian Prenga. AJ tells DAZN: “I also want to give a massive thank you to Kristian Prenga and his team for putting on a good fight. It means a lot to them, and it means a lot to me.
“I think Eddie Hearn wants to sign him now. He’s going to do well, he’s got a bright future. I’m a serious fighter, I know what I’m doing. I know my way around the ring.
“Maybe with a little bit more experience he will be up there with the rest of us. But he’s a serious fighter, strong, durable, and he come and gave me a good test.”
Hearn: Fury vs Joshua is signed and 'done'
Sunday 26 July 2026 00:11 , Jack Tanner
Anthony Joshua has navigated what should be the final warm-up fight before he faces Tyson Fury. Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn believes the fight is all wrapped up - but believes no one should look past Joshua tonight.
He tells DAZN: “We've signed a contract, everything's done. But to be honest with you, tonight is all about the strength that he showed to even be here tonight.
And the strength that he had to show in that fight, you know? I mean, no one can imagine what he's been through this last seven months.”
WATCH: Joshua calls out Fury
Sunday 26 July 2026 00:08 , Jack Tanner
Anthony Joshua CALLS OUT Tyson Fury next! 👀#JoshuaPrenga ▪️ pic.twitter.com/HZ1OMKQqmr
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) July 25, 2026
Eddie Hearn feared Anthony Joshua had come back 'too soon'
Sunday 26 July 2026 00:06 , Jack Tanner
AJ’s promoter Eddie Hearn admitted that he feared the worst during the first round, with his fighter on the canvas twice. He tells DAZN: “During that first round, I was thinking, we come back too soon.
“No, but seriously, the way that he'd come back, but I said in the build up to this fight, I feel like boxing once saved him, and he needed boxing to help him get through this.
“And that camp allowed him to focus his mind while he was facing so much grief and pain. “You don't know what was he was going through in that camp, because he's a strong man, and he likes to deal with his problems on his own.
“I'm not saying that's the right way to do it, but that's his way to do it. And to even be in the ring tonight was astonishing. When you go down a couple of times in the first round, and you're looking like your career might be over, you had to go to the depths one more time to get up and fight on, like he's always done and like he's done in his last seven months.”
Joshua's quotes about Fury in full
Sunday 26 July 2026 00:03 , Jack Tanner
Anthony Joshua had plenty to say about his next dance partner.
He told DAZN: “Wait a minute - have we got Tyson Fury in the room? Wait, wait, wait, to more important matters - is he here or not? Fair do’s. Imma rip his heart out. I'm the meanest and vicious champion's ever been.
“Listen, all jokes aside, you see, there’s two sides of this thing. One is fire. You have to have that vim, that grrr. But also respect. I respect everything he has done. And everything that he has achieved. As someone who who has been calling for the fight for a long time, we're here now.
“Shout out to his Excellency. Shout to Eddie Hearn for making these opportunities possible, and I hope the fans will be in for a lovely treat.”
'Imma rip his heart out' - AJ references Mike Tyson's rant about Lennox Lewis
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:55 , Jack Tanner
Anthony Joshua has a glimmer in his eye as he recites Mike Tyson’s warning to Lennox Lewis, directing the lines at Tyson Fury.
It seems more than ever we will finally see Joshua and Fury share a ring.
Anthony Joshua searches for Tyson Fury
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:50 , Jack Tanner
AJ starts listing off his thank yous, before remembering Tyson Fury. He looks around, starts calling out his apparent next opponent. When told he’s not in attendance, he smirks and shares: “Fair do’s”.
Joshua vs Prenga: Joshua confirmed as KO winner
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:46 , Jack Tanner
Anthony Joshua is announced as the winner of this contest by KO. Luckily Kristian Prenga is up and talking in the ring - a good thing to see after the Albanian was sprawled on the canvas.
PICTURES: Crazy two rounds in Jeddah
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:41 , Jack Tanner
Joshua vs Prenga: Second round KO for AJ
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:38 , Jack Tanner
Round two
What a crazy two rounds. AJ looked gone in the first - knocked down twice. But for some reason Prenga backed off in the second, and with 30 second left, Joshua fires away and drops the Albanian through the ropes.
There’s no way he’s getting back to his feet, and the referee waves the contest off. A ridiculous six minutes or so.
Joshua vs Prenga: Joshua hurt but Prenga backing off
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:36 , Jack Tanner
Round two
Joshua keeps gesturing to his left leg, perhaps indicating an issue. He’s certainly boxing like he’s got a problem.
But Prenga has backed off after his immediate success, allowing Joshua to tee off.
Joshua vs Prenga: Joshua survives the first round
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:35 , Jack Tanner
Round one
Anthony Joshua is back in his corner, and already there’s concern if he’s got it in him. Prenga’s uppercut sent him to the floor within 30 seconds. The time in the corner will be precious.
Joshua vs Prenga: Joshua in serious danger
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:33 , Jack Tanner
Round one
Anthony Joshua’s legs are unsteady, and he’s limping. Prenga chucks him to the floor, but that’s not another knockdown. A similar scuffle happens again, and this time its a knockdown - the second of the first round.
Joshua vs Prenga: Joshua knocked down inside 30 seconds
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:32 , Jack Tanner
Round one
Prenga has made himself known - sending the favourite down to the canvas inside 30 seconds. AJ already looking to survive.
Joshua vs Prenga: Formalties concluded
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:30 , Jack Tanner
We’ve had Michael Buffer’s pre-bout ramble, we’ve had the anthems, meaning it’s time for the main event.
Anthony Joshua (29-4, 26 KOs) takes on Kristian Prenga (20-1, 20 KOs). Victory for Joshua should finally set up an all-British heavyweight clash with Tyson Fury. A loss would be arguably the biggest shock of AJ’s career, and throw a huge spanner in the works.
Joshua vs Prenga: National anthem time
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:26 , Jack Tanner
Before the punching gets underway, first the singing. The host nation of this event, Saudi Arabia, has their anthem played, followed by challenger Prenga’s national song of Albania.
God Save the King is played to round off the anthems.
Anthony Joshua makes his way to the ring
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:23 , Jack Tanner
And now it’s time for the real main event - Anthony Joshua. The screens flash ‘He’s back’ before a lion follows Joshua’s name. Will AJ find the 30th win of his professional career and finally set up a clash with Tyson Fury?
Michael Buffer begins the introductions
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:17 , Jack Tanner
You know it’s time for the main event when they wheel out Michael Buffer. He announces that Kristian Prenga is en route to the ring, prompting a big graphic with the Albanian flag to fill the screens.
Joshua-Prenga ring walks imminent
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:10 , Jack Tanner
We’re not waiting around in Jeddah - we’re expecting the ring walks for the main event in the next 10 minutes. Can AJ make quick work of the unknown Prenga?
Spencer Brown: Fury will not be in attendance
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:05 , Jack Tanner
Spencer Brown, manager of Tyson Fury maintains that his fighter will not be physically in attendance - but he will “be here in spirit.”
No face-off after the main event?
Sheeraz found it hard to stayed switched on against Zachenhuber
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:03 , Jack Tanner
WBO super middleweight champion Hamzah Sheeraz speaks to DAZN - stating that he was unmotivated by the calibre of opponent he faced.
He shared: “I got the win and that’s all that matters. I could make a million excuses. I just need to step up. I was switching off at times. I was getting too comfortable. Hopefully we can get a big fight. Any of the champions. Jacob Bank deserves his shot at the title.”
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Sheeraz clings onto world title with majority decision win
Saturday 25 July 2026 23:01 , Jack Tanner
And the judges have it at: 114-114, 115-113, 116-112. Hamzah Sheeraz is your majority decision winner, but the judges must have been impressed by Zachenhuber’s intent and ability to find a second wind every round.
Sheeraz clings onto his WBO super middleweight world title.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Subdued Sheeraz looks likely to retain his crowd
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:57 , Jack Tanner
And that’s the end of the co-main event, the chief support. Hopefully Anthony Joshua and Kristian Prenga produce more action than Sheeraz and Zachenhuber.
Zachenhuber never looked properly troubled, even if at times outclassed. After two strong performances following his controversial draw with Carlos Adames, this was Sheeraz slipping back to his tamer ways. To the judges’ scorecards we go.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Crowd baying for action
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:56 , Jack Tanner
Round 12
The crowd in Jeddah are not pleased by this display from a crowd favourite in Sheeraz. Neither fighter opening up as we approach the final bell.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Final round begins
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:55 , Jack Tanner
Round 12
Zachenhuber surely needs a knockout to win this, whilst Sheeraz will perhaps look to finish a subdued performance with a strong finish.
The opening minute is once again cagey, with neither fighter showing their hand. Zachenhuber has some success through the guard with a combo, but he’s not truly troubling Sheeraz.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber:
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:52 , Jack Tanner
Round 11
Zachenhuber starts this round brightly, perhaps knowing he has to get a knockout or a few knockdown to win this one. Inside the first minute he has a few nice combinations, which doesn’t immediately draw Sheeraz into returning fire. Looks like we will be heading to the cards after round 12 at this rate...
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Cagey final rounds inbound?
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:48 , Jack Tanner
Round 10
Sheeraz received praise from his corner after the last round, but he does not continue in the same vein immediately in the 10th verse. In fact, the round never really gets going, with transactions reduced to very little.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Sheeraz looking for a knockout?
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:44 , Jack Tanner
Round nine
Sheeraz already looking sharper in the ninth. It’s that uppercut that looks the most dangerous. Zachenhuber at risk of going back into his shell and trying to ride the storm.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber:
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:41 , Jack Tanner
Round eight
More of the same from both Sheeraz and Zachenhuber. The finish line is in sight for defending champion Sheeraz, whilst Zachenhuber needs something special to find a knockout. You’d expect that to be the only way Zachenhuber can win, but perhaps the German has caught the eye.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber:
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:36 , Jack Tanner
Round seven
We’re officially past the half-way point, and Sheeraz is looking very comfortable. Southpaw Zachenhuber is not going quietly, with Sheeraz seemingly still trying to figure out the best way to damage the German.
His hesitancy to throw prompts the question whether the injury he suffered against Carlos Adames last year is still causing issues.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Spirited effort from tiring challenger
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:32 , Jack Tanner
Round six
It’s already looking like a case of trying to survive for the German challenger. His output has decreased and he’s shuffling backwards. He looks timid when he stands to trade with Sheeaz, who’s peaking behind a high guard before picking his moment.
He’s yet to resort to clinching, and in fact he looks better off getting in super tight and firing off. As we approach the final minute of round six Sheeraz’s punches are very few and far between - he’s more than happy to let Zachenhuber tire himself out further. If you’re a judge more convinced by punches thrown and intent, you might even give that to the German.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Sheeraz walking down Zachenhuber
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:28 , Jack Tanner
Round five
Sheeraz now taking a more proactive approach to this contest. He’s closed the gap and started chipping away, with Zachenhuber unable to separate and re-establish space.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Contest waiting to catch light
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:24 , Jack Tanner
Round four
We’re still waiting for this one to explode into life. Zachenhuber expending more and more energy without major success, and you have a feeling Sheeraz is happy to be patient ands ee what opens up for him.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Main events shown on screen
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:21 , Jack Tanner
As we wait for round four, Anthony Joshua and Kristian Prenga are both shown being wrapped ahead of their main event contest. Healthy cheers for AJ, of course.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Sheeraz starting to turn the screw
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:20 , Jack Tanner
Round three
Sheeraz has been encouraged by both his corner and Zachenhuber’s approach to throw some uppercuts, and he’s getting closer and closer to properly landing.
Zachenhuber is bleeding, and more visibly feeling the effects of Sheeraz’s punches.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Sheeraz in control but Zachenhuber a keen challenger
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:16 , Jack Tanner
Round two
Sheeraz controlling the pace in the early stages, but there’s a nice left straight throw by Zachenhuber and through the guard of the defending champion. Still very much in cagey territory. We’ve seen Sheeraz be patient and show his power later on in matches before, however.
Zachenhuber certainly not a passenger, but it’s hard to say if he’s doing much damage to Sheeraz.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: First round underway
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:10 , Jack Tanner
Round one
Sheeraz and Zachenhuber begin their dance. Zachenhuber is a southpaw with a much reduced range - surely he needs to step inside as much as possible. Whether Sheeraz lets that happen remains to be seen.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Ring-walks eventually completed
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:06 , Jack Tanner
Hamzah Sheeraz’s extensive ring walk is completed, the champion in a lovely 80s style robe. Whether he takes out Zachenhuber in the same style remains to be seen.
Sheeraz vs Zachenhuber: Walk outs begin for WBO super middleweight world title fight
Saturday 25 July 2026 22:02 , Jack Tanner
Both fighters have made their way to the ring in the Superdome. Reigning champion Hamzah Sheeraz is preceded by a musical act. Sheeraz is expected to cruise past Zachenhuber - but will he be able to end the contest inside the distance?
Andy Lee: Hamzah Sheeraz has a 'shockingly hard' punch
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:57 , Jack Tanner
Hamzah Sheeraz is up next, and his trainer Andy Lee is speaking to DAZN: “What surprised me about working with him, he’s an incredible hard puncher. Shockingly hard puncher. He’s one of the strongest mentality boxers. He’s improving all the time. It’s such a pleasure to see that improvement.”
Tyson Fury - Anthony Joshua's biggest supporter tonight?
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:51 , Jack Tanner
We’ve heard former dance partner Oleksandr Usyk’s gushing praise for AJ earlier, but surely no one wants a Joshua victory tonight more than Tyson Fury.
As much as Fury loves to gloat, tease, and confuse, he’ll know how big a deal Joshua-Fury would be - both for the bank account and capturing the attention of the boxing world.
Eddie Hearn confirmed that the fight is signed, yet still hinges on Joshua getting the job done against Prenga tonight. Fury has stated that he will be in attendance - will he show up to watch Joshua set-up arguably the most anticipated bout in British heavyweight history?
WATCH: Kelly's successful defence confirmed
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:40 , Jack Tanner
AND STILL!!!! 🏆
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) July 25, 2026
Josh Kelly gets the unanimous decision win over Agyarko!
🎟️ Buy #JoshuaPrenga NOW at https://t.co/FoiaUucafv | Live now | Danger Before Destiny ▪️ pic.twitter.com/EXQFEhZoJg
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Josh Kelly retains his IBF world title
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:34 , Jack Tanner
We have the judges’ scorecards. Josh Kelly is announced as unanimous decision winner by a very tight margin - 114-113, 115-112, 115-112.
Kelly remains IBF world super welterweight champion.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: No winner inside 12 rounds
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:31 , Jack Tanner
Round 12
Another low blow from Kelly goes unpunished as we approach the final minute. Kelly clinches to deny Agyarko the opportunity to tee off and do damage. There’s another implication of shots to the back of the head from Kelly, but again the referee merely stops the action, with no punishment. We go to the judges’ cards.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: No early hunting for a knockout in round 12
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:29 , Jack Tanner
Round 12
After these final three minutes, we will find out the holder of the IBF world super welterweight title. Kelly is the incumbent, but challenger Agyarko starts stronger. There’s no immediate hunt for a knockout for either man, implying that both think they have a chance of the cards.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Final moments could prove decisive
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:27 , Jack Tanner
Round 11
Agyarko starts this round with a flurry of jabs, before Kelly responds by teeing off with the hooks. Inside the first minute of round 11 he lands a right hook flush on the jaw of Agyarko, who does not wilt.
Kelly’s mouth guard drops out, leading to a brief pause. Kelly’s nose is worse for wear, to say the least. The final round might prove decisive - a winning point recorded, a knockout found, or a stoppage due to a cut...
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Kelly bloodied
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:22 , Jack Tanner
Round 10
Josh Kelly is bloodied across his face but he starts the round with a left landing flush on Agyarko’s face. Kelly is increasing the pace, but Agyarko is answering so far. Will either man find a knockout before the end of the 12th?
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Tight affair as we enter the championship rounds
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:18 , Jack Tanner
Round nine
The pace has slowed again here, but when these two meet they’re not holding back throwing punches. Agyarko is arguably landing the better blows when they both hit at the same time. There’s a brief pause for a low blow from Kelly on Agyarko. Agyarko finding success by throwing and dipping down quickly, more often than not catching Kelly.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Challenger feeling confident
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:15 , Jack Tanner
Round eight
Agyarko has been feeling himself throughout this contest, launching his arm into the air at the end of each round. His efforts in more recent rounds have given him even more confidence. Midway through the eighth he hits Kelly with a nice left in another up close and personal exchange.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Kelly told to resume game plan
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:10 , Jack Tanner
Round seven
Ahead of the seventh Kelly is told to go back to what works - his reach advantage over Agyarko, relying on range to do his damage.
Agyarko lands a good shot and knows it - his shoulders dance in a little shimmy.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Kelly deducted a point for repeated blows to the back of the head
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:06 , Jack Tanner
Round six
We’re approaching the halfway mark and this one is hotting up. The standoffish start has been forgotten, with the close quarter brawls igniting every 10 seconds or so. Both fighters are almost skittish - scuttling away from encounters if they’re not confident of their chances.
Kelly gets another talking to for repeated blows to the back of Agyarko’s head, leading to a point deduction. That has buoyed Agyarko even further.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Kelly starts fifth round with a burst
Saturday 25 July 2026 21:02 , Jack Tanner
Round five
After arguably Agyarko’s best round in the fourth, Kelly takes matters into his own hands. He starts the fifth with a clear assault on the head of Agyarko, forcing the Irishman to cower on the ropes.
It’s not all Kelly though, as Agyarko produces a cut on his opponent’s left cheek. This frustrates Kelly, who catches Agyarko round the back of the head right in front of the referee. That draws a talking to.
The round ends as it started, the two in close quarters flinging punches.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Defending champion still on top
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:58 , Jack Tanner
Round four
Kelly starts this stanza with some good work behind the jab. Agyarko keeping up his pace of throwing punches he set in the third, but neither fighter is swinging needlessly. Agyarko attempting a searching left hook that is not troubling Kelly. The round ends with a big exchange, although clean hits were barely landed by either fighter.
Hamzah Sheeraz previews his world title defence
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:55 , Jack Tanner
Hamzah Sheeraz is up next, defending his own world title. Speaking about his clash with Simon Zachenhuber he tells DAZN: “Every fight is dangerous, he’s in there throwing leather - so I have to be on my A-game and get the job done. I’ve done it 23 times, so it’s about not putting too much pressure on yourself and enjoying it.”
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Challenger attempts to throw more
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:53 , Jack Tanner
Round three
Not a barnstormer by any means, but Josh Kelly will likely have the first two rounds on the judges’ scorecards. Agyarko shows more intent at the start of the third, but Kelly shutting down any attempts to open up the bout.
A nice right-hand buffets Agyarko onto the ropes in the final 30 seconds of the round.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Tentative start continues
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:49 , Jack Tanner
Round two
Most of the action is being consigned to exchanges, both fighters stepping inside and letting fly. Kelly has a nice hook early on, before Agyarko catches his temple midway through round two. Kelly start to stalk his challenger towards the end of the round, with swelling forming on Agyarko’s face.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Cagey start from both fighters
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:45 , Jack Tanner
Round one
Agyarko trying to get inside and do his damage. The Irishman more than happy to stand off and only engage on his terms. A cagey start from Kelly builds the tension in round one.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: IBF super welterweight title fight begins
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:43 , Jack Tanner
Round one
The first world title fight of the evening is underway. Kelly won’t have it all his own way against Agyarko, but he is expected to retain his crown.
Kelly vs. Agyarko: Ring-walks
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:38 , Jack Tanner
Caoimhin Agyarko makes his way to the ring, The Cranberries’ Zombie speeding up and morphing into Zombie Nation by Kernkraft 400.
The reigning IBF super welterweight champion Josh Kelly is out next, with David Adeleye carrying out his belt.
WATCH: Anthony Joshua arrives as the Jeddah Superdome
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:34 , Jack Tanner
🚨 Anthony Joshua has arrived 🚨
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) July 25, 2026
🎟️ Buy #JoshuaPrenga NOW at https://t.co/FoiaUucafv | Live now | Danger Before Destiny ▪️ pic.twitter.com/cPwnGOghBT
Eddie Hearn believes Tyson Fury won't show
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:33 , Jack Tanner
Anthony Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn believes Tyson Fury won’t show up to watch AJ-Prenga tonight. He tells DAZN: “I’ve got a funny feeling he won’t show - but I’ve been wrong in the past.”
Hearn goes on to confirm that a fight between Fury and Joshua is all but confirmed - dependent on AJ beating Prenga, and a venue being found. He continues: “AJ-Fury is done, it’s signed, it’s happening. We need confirmation of where it is.”
Anthony Joshua is in the building
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:25 , Jack Tanner
The man that everyone wants to see is here - headliner Anthony Joshua has arrived. We’re still a few hours - and two world titles fights - out from his bout with Kristian Prenga.
First world title fight of the evening up next
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:24 , Jack Tanner
Josh Kelly’s maiden defence of his IBF super welter world title is up next. The Brit takes on unbeaten Irish challenger Caoimhin Agyarko. Kelly was impressive to claim the title against former champ Bakhram Murtazaliev in January, and is favourite in this one.
Anthony Joshua's previous defeats
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:15 , Jack Tanner
Anthony Joshua is no stranger to defeat, and he’s certainly no stranger to an upset. His loss to Andy Ruiz in 2019 sparked a lot of soul searching, even if he recovered his three world titles in an immediate rematch.
Joshua’s losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022 respectively were spirited losses to the best heavyweight of this generation, and certainly do not deserve to be classed as upsets.
However, Joshua’s attempt to rebuild back to world title contention against Daniel Dubois in 2024 was a slight shock, AJ’s legs disappearing after Dubois sent the 2012 Olympian to the canvas four times.
Defeat tonight seems unlikely - but so did a loss prior to Joshua’s first meeting with Andy Ruiz. A Prenga victory would represent the biggest shock of AJ’s career - and maybe in heavyweight boxing for a long time.
Tsutsumi ends the contest without breaking a sweat
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:10 , Jack Tanner
And that’s it. Herrera gives some back, but Tsutsumi throws straight down the middle and catches his opponent flush. Down he drops, and the ref immediately calls it. Tsutsumi now has four straight knockout victories in five professional fights. Not paid for a super featherweight.
Tsutsumi comes flying out the blocks in the first
Saturday 25 July 2026 20:08 , Jack Tanner
Tsutsumi has Herrera on the floor in the corner of the last minute in round one. Herrera survives only to be knocked down by the next flurry from the Japanese fighter.
Herrera is desperate to hear the bell - almost wrestling Tsutsumi to the ground as he clings on. The bell rings, but if this continues at the same rate we likely won’t hear it again after the second round starts.
Reito Tsutsumi: Another Turki favourite
Saturday 25 July 2026 19:56 , Jack Tanner
Turki Alalshikh is boxing’s kingmaker, so having the Riyadh Season chief in your corner is certainly not a bad thing.
Japanese super featherweight Reito Tsutsumi has caught the eye of Turki, leading to his inclusion on the undercards of multiple major events. He returns for his fifth fight in 14 months, a 10-round contest against the currently unbeaten Alvino Herrera Meza (18-0-2, 11 KOs).
Expect a flurry of punches from Tsutsumi as he hunts a fourth straight knockout.
Bank defeats August by wide unanimous decision.
Saturday 25 July 2026 19:46 , Jack Tanner
Jacob Bank is handed an 80-72 victory on all three of the judges’ scorecards, recording an emphatic unanimous decision victory over Pawel August.
The Dane moves to 20-0, whilst August drops to 18-1.
Bank tells DAZN: “This is the first time fighting outside of my country. It was hard to start, but I found my boxing in the last rounds.
He expands on his world title chances: “I don’t think it is up to me anymore. I am number two, so it is my time to have a world title chance.”
Bank was ordered as a mandatory challenger for Hamzah Sheeraz’s WBO super middleweight title, before the Brit opted for a voluntary defence against German Simon Zachenhuber.
Bank surely set for unanimous decision win over August
Saturday 25 July 2026 19:41 , Jack Tanner
August is looking for a miracle in the penultimate rounds, but his punches are already losing power. It appears his unbeaten status is about to dissipate, with Bank in control at the end of the seventh round.
Bank is himself hunting for a finisher, with both fighters swinging without much joy. The fight ends, and you’d expect Bank to be crowned winner by a wide unanimous decision.
Bank cruising to victory after six rounds
Saturday 25 July 2026 19:33 , Jack Tanner
Although he is visibly tiring, this might be August’s best round in terms of punches landed and damage dealt. Round five ends with Bank on top but certainly not as comfortable as earlier on in the contest.
The answer in Pawel’s corner? Throw even more punches. He applies this sage advice at the start of round six. Heading into the final minute Bank is finding success with his power punches, with August looking slightly shellshocked - a cut forming above the right eye making matters worse for the British-based Pole.
Bank vs August opening up
Saturday 25 July 2026 19:26 , Jack Tanner
It was a better round in the third for August, even if it came at the cost of being caught by more efforts fired by Bank.
Bank still in the control but this bout is no longer as polished as it seemed in the opening two rounds. In the final minute of round four Bank lets fly with some uppercuts, before ending the round with his hands down, trying to goad August into overextending.
Bank in control against August
Saturday 25 July 2026 19:17 , Jack Tanner
Bank was more than comfortable fighting off the back foot in the first round, allowing August to apply the pressure and be picked off on the counter.
There was a similar pattern to the second round, although Bank was more aggressive and successful with his punches.
Undercard moves onto the second fight
Saturday 25 July 2026 19:10 , Jack Tanner
Nishant Dev’s first-round knockout of Cesar Diaz lead to a lot of dead air for DAZN to fill, but we’re onto to the second fight of the main card.
Jacob Bank (18-0, 11 KOs) takes on Pawel August, a Polish-born super middleweight fighting out of the UK.
Interestingly, Jacob Bank was installed as the mandatory challenger for Hamzah Sheeraz’s WBO super middleweight title - only for the governing body to approve a voluntary challenge.
Prenga's CV filled with unrecognisable names
Saturday 25 July 2026 19:02 , Jack Tanner
It is typical boxing to big up an opponent to help sell a fight, but Kristian Prenga’s CV does not boast many recognisable names to draw comparisons to.
Prenga’s status as an unknown quantity, with video footage of his 20 knockouts scarce, may be his biggest weapon. Diving into his list of opponents, it is difficult to highlight a marquee win.
Joey Dawejko is perhaps the most notable victory. The former WBC USA silver heavyweight champion has a record of 28 wins, 14 losses, and four draws. His losses include defeats to Richard Torrez Jr and Frank Sanchez, with Prenga also securing a stoppage against Dawejko.
Oleksandr Usyk believes current Anthony Joshua the best version
Saturday 25 July 2026 18:57 , Jack Tanner
Oleksandr Usyk, two-time undisputed heavyweight world champion and vanquisher of Anthony Joshua, has joined DAZN’s coverage.
Asked if the version of AJ that he fought was better than he is currently, Usyk responds: “AJ today better. I think AJ better because he work not only condition training, but here too” - Usyk points to his head.
Tonight's underlying theme
Saturday 25 July 2026 18:34 , Jack Tanner
Well, we’re one fight down on the undercard, so whilst we wait for the next contest, let’s return to the major theme running throughout tonight - the build-up to Fury vs Joshua.
It’s the fight the British public and the boxing world has wanted to see for over a decade - perhaps even longer - and we’ve never felt closer to seeing it materialise. If the latest noise is to be believed, if Joshua gets through tonight’s test, we could finally see the fight arranged for later this year.
What we do know that is Tyson Fury is expected to be in attendance tonight, fresh off the back of his seventh-round stoppage of Mariusz Wach yesterday. Expect a face-off - and plenty of drama - between the two major protagonists of British boxing since 2012.
Nishant Dev begins the main card with first round stoppage
Saturday 25 July 2026 18:31 , Jack Tanner
Nishant Dev moves to 7-0 (5 KOs) with a proper blitz of Peruvian Cesar Diaz. A lovely southpaw counter dropped his rival to the canvas. Diaz recovered but already looked shaky, explaining why Dev found it easy to slip an uppercut flush on the Peruvian’s chin.
Somehow Diaz returned to his feet once more, but the next onslaught of Dev punches sent the Peruvian back to the floor, with the referee’s intervention to stop the fight very necessary.
Joshua vs Prenga weigh-in results
Saturday 25 July 2026 18:23 , Jack Tanner
Anthony Joshua weighed-in over seven pounds heavier than he did for his dismantling of Jake Paul in December 2025, rising from 243.4lbs to 251lbs.
The 250lb-mark is usually where Joshua has fought at since his 2022 defeat to Oleksandr Usyk.
Kristian Prenga is over 10 pounds heavier, tipping the scales at 261.4lbs during Friday night’s weigh-in.
Nishant Dev: One to watch?
Saturday 25 July 2026 18:17 , Jack Tanner
Eddie Hearn quickly moved to secure the services of Nishant Dev shortly after the 2024 Olympics.
Not only backed by Matchroom Boxing, Dev has a fan in boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh - explaining his inclusion on plenty of big Saudi Season cards.
Dev takes the next step on his professional journey against fellow undefeated super welterweight Cesar Diaz in the opening fight of the main card.
Main card bouts
Saturday 25 July 2026 17:57 , Jack Tanner
We’ve had the prelims, so we’re heading behind the paywall of the Pay-per-View for the main card.
The quality doesn’t immediately improve - the card is certainly top-heavy - but there are a few Turki favourites making their next steps.
Anthony Joshua vs Kristian Prenga undercard
Super welterweight eight rounds - Nishant Dev (6-0, 4 KOs) vs Cesar Diaz (10-2, 5 KOs)
Super middleweight eight rounds - Jacob Bank (19-0, 11 KOs) vs Pawel August (18-0, 7 KOs)
Super featherweight 10 rounds - Reito Tsutsumi (4-0, 3 KOs) vs Alvino Herrera (18-0-2, 11 KOs)
IBF Super welterweight world championship 12 rounds - Josh Kelly (18-1-1, 9 KOs) vs Caoimhin Agyarko (18-0-0, 7 KOs)
WBO Super middleweight world championship 12 rounds - Hamzah Sheeraz (23-0-1, 19 KOs) vs Simon Zachenhuber (28-1, 19 KOs)
AJ's Saudi Arabian record
Saturday 25 July 2026 17:47 , Jack Tanner
Tonight’s bout in Jeddah represents Anthony Joshua’s fifth fight in Saudi Arabia - and the Middle East has been a happy hunting ground for AJ.
He’s won three of his four previous bouts in Saudi Arabia, including his rematch with Andy Ruiz in 2019 at the Diriyah Arena.
In the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh AJ defeated Francis Ngannou and Otto Wallin, in 2024 and 2023 respectively.
However, tonight’s venue - the Jeddah Superdome - is the same arena where he lost to Oleksandr Usyk for the second time in 2022.
Final prelim bout stopped early
Saturday 25 July 2026 17:38 , Jack Tanner
We're into the second round of eight between Oleksandr Khzyniak and Lenny Patrach. Ukranian Khzyniak has caught the eye with a high volume of his punches, and his latest hook has his French rival on the canvas.
Patrach is back to his feet but has work to do - too much, as he is knocked down moments later. The fight is called off - light heavyweight Khzyniak records the second professional win of his career, in front of compatriot Oleksandr Usyk.
The world titles up for grabs this evening
Saturday 25 July 2026 17:35 , Jack Tanner
Unfortunately for AJ, there are no world titles on the line during the headlining bout against Kristian Prenga.
However, we will see two world championship fights as part of the chief support acts on the under card.
The penultimate fight of the evening sees Hamzah Sheeraz (23-0-1, 19 KOs) make the first defence of his WBO super middleweight belt against German challenger Simon Zachenhuber (28-1, 19 KOs). Zachenhuber’s latest fight - a fifth-round stoppage of Armin Ajrulai - came less than 30 days ago.
Sheeraz’s fellow Brit Josh Kelly (18-1-1, 9 KOs) has his own defence, taking on unbeaten Irish fighter Caoimhin Agyarko (18-0, 7 KOs) for the IBF version of the super welterweight crown.
Preliminary results so far
Saturday 25 July 2026 17:22 , Jack Tanner
We’ve rattled through the early prelims on a packed card. Ziyad Almaayouf recovered from a mid-fight knockdown to defeat Frank Lucian Mango on points, with some slightly wide scorecards raising eyebrows.
The results of the card so far are as follows:
Super lightweight - Mohamed Mabrouk Yehya UD vs Bryan Zapata
Super middleweight - Omar Hikal UD vs Brian Castellano
Super featherweight - Sultan Almohammed TKO 3rd round vs Efren Besalduch
Lightweight - Mohammed Alakel TKO 4th round vs Lydon Chircop
Welterweight - Ziyad Almaayouf UD vs Frank Lucian Mango
Who is Kristian Prenga?
Saturday 25 July 2026 17:09 , Jack Tanner
We’ve known Anthony Joshua’s next opponent for a few months, but Kristian Prenga remains a relative unknown in the heavyweight division.
The 35-year-old boasts a record of 20 wins and one loss in 21 professional fights. Remarkably, all 20 of those wins came by way of knockout - either straight KO or TKO victories.
Combat sports editor Alex Pattle has the lowdown.
Who is Kristian Prenga? Anthony Joshua to face Albanian heavyweight in comeback fight
IN PICTURES: Joshua v Prenga weigh-in
Saturday 25 July 2026 16:46 , Luke Baker
Friday’s weigh-in went off smoothly enough and AJ looks in good shape for his comeback fight this evening
Joshua v Prenga
Saturday 25 July 2026 16:37 , Luke Baker
Good afternoon and welcome to The Independent’s live coverage of Anthony Joshua’s fight with Kristian Prenga this evening.
After years of waiting, we are finally on the brink of the biggest British heavyweight fight of all time - Joshua v Tyson Fury, pencilled in for later this year.
This evening is the final (in-ring) hurdle. AJ can’t afford a slip-up against Albanian unknown Prenga but if he does the business in this warm-up fight, as expected, then the Fury showdown awaits.
Stick with us for full live coverage.
