The British-Nigerian boxing star will make his comeback against Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga in Riyadh on July 25, marking his first fight since the accident that claimed the lives of his friends, Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele. Joshua, who was a passenger in the vehicle, escaped with minor injuries.
While anticipation continues to build around his return to action—and the possibility of a blockbuster showdown with Tyson Fury later this year—Joshua made it clear that some priorities extend far beyond boxing.
“You never overcome it but you gain perspective in life,” the two-time world heavyweight champion said during an appearance on the 5 Live Boxing podcast.
“Life is humbling at times. You never know one's fate. As a soldier, I stand strong for their parents first and foremost.”
Joshua stressed that his own grief remains secondary to the pain being experienced by the families of those lost.
“This isn't about me. I feel it's important to put their parents first at the minute,” he said.
“I'll have my time to grieve. But right now, my heart and mind tell me their parents are my main priority.”
The comments offered a rare glimpse into the emotional challenges the 36-year-old has faced away from the spotlight. Known for his composure and thoughtful outlook, Joshua spoke with characteristic reflection rather than dwelling on the personal impact of the tragedy.
His promoter, Eddie Hearn, revealed that Joshua's boxing plans had been progressing smoothly before the accident. Following his victory over Jake Paul in December, discussions had already begun regarding a potential fight against kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven in March, with a future clash against Tyson Fury pencilled in for later in the year.
“Then obviously the world came crashing down,” Hearn said, describing how the tragedy halted those plans.
Now, with his return date confirmed, Joshua appears determined to move forward while carrying the memory of his friends with him.
At Monday's press conference in London, where he met Prenga face-to-face for the first time, the former champion projected calm confidence and renewed focus.
Wearing sunglasses and a tracksuit, Joshua spoke about his commitment to the sport and his desire to continue competing at the highest level.
“I've still got that fire and I belong here,” he said.
“I don't do this as a joke. I do this because it's what I'm good at. I'm going to prove it this year and keep proving it moving forward.”
The bout against Prenga represents more than just another fight. Victory would likely pave the way for one of the most anticipated matchups in British boxing history—a long-awaited encounter with Tyson Fury.
For more than a decade, Joshua and Fury have stood as the two defining figures of British heavyweight boxing, yet despite years of speculation, negotiations, and public debate, they have never faced each other inside the ring.
Reports suggest an agreement is already in place for the fight, with both men expected to earn record-breaking purses should it finally happen. October or November has emerged as the most likely timeframe.
However, Joshua remains focused on the immediate task before him.
He also revealed that his recent training alongside former rival and current gym partner Oleksandr Usyk has helped elevate key aspects of his game.
According to Joshua, working with the Ukrainian champion has improved his boxing fitness, ring intelligence, and defensive awareness.
“Now I can really read punches again. My eyes are fully locked in,” he said.
Standing across from him on July 25 will be a confident challenger eager to spoil those plans.
Prenga enters the contest with a record of 20 victories, all by knockout, and just one defeat. Although relatively unknown to mainstream boxing audiences, the Albanian believes he has the tools to produce a major upset.
“I am training hard. I've trained more than ever. I feel great. I feel ready. I think I'm going to shock the world,” Prenga said.
The 35-year-old, who now lives in New Jersey, has stopped each of his last three opponents in the opening round and insists he will not be intimidated by Joshua's reputation.
“I’m glad he’s underestimating me,” Prenga said before promising to show the former champion no respect once the bell rings.
Joshua welcomed the challenge.
“I want you to come into the ring and give me no respect and try to do what you think you do best,” he replied.
“Because across the ring is someone who will do exactly the same.”
The pair shared an intense face-off lasting more than a minute before exchanging a friendly handshake, setting the stage for a contest that could determine the next chapter of Joshua’s career.
For now, however, beyond titles, rankings, and future super-fights, Joshua remains grounded by a loss that continues to shape his perspective on life, family, and the responsibilities that extend far beyond the boxing ring.