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Anthony Joshua to face Tyson Fury after sealing long-awaited deal

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Joshua and Fury set for historic heavyweight clash

Anthony Joshua will finally face Tyson Fury after promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed the two British boxing stars have signed a contract for a long-anticipated bout. The fight, years in the making, is expected to take place later this year, though no date or venue has been finalized.

Joshua's comeback fight announced

Before the Fury showdown, Joshua will return to the ring on July 25 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, against Albanian fighter Kristian Prenga. The 36-year-old has not competed since December, when he fought Jake Paul shortly before a tragic car crash in Nigeria claimed the lives of two members of his team.

Prenga, 35, holds a record of 20 wins-all by knockout-and one loss, making him a relatively low-risk opponent for Joshua's return. The bout serves as a tune-up ahead of the blockbuster Fury fight.

A decade of anticipation

Joshua and Fury, both two-time world heavyweight champions, have dominated British boxing on the global stage for over a decade. Despite multiple negotiations, the pair had never faced each other-until now.

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

Anthony Joshua

Fury, 37, recently made a successful return to the ring, defeating Arslanbek Makhmudov in London. Joshua was ringside for the fight and was called out by Fury, who attempted to provoke him into an immediate showdown-though Joshua declined.

Joshua's path to redemption

Joshua's last victory came against Otto Wallin in 2023, with his more recent fights including losses to Daniel Dubois and Francis Ngannou, as well as the exhibition bout against Jake Paul. The car crash in Nigeria, which resulted in the deaths of two close associates, has added emotional weight to his return.

"It's no secret I've taken some time to consolidate and rebuild to be ready for stepping back into the ring, and today is the next step on that journey."

Anthony Joshua

What's next for the heavyweight division?

If the Fury-Joshua fight takes place in the UK, Wembley Stadium or Tottenham Hotspur Stadium are the most likely venues. However, a November date could pose logistical challenges due to weather conditions.

Hearn has previously suggested the bout could air on Netflix, though no official announcement has been made. Details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks as both fighters prepare for what promises to be one of the biggest fights in British boxing history.

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