Anthony Joshua is set to return to the ring on July 25 in a tune-up bout ahead of a long-anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury.
Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh announced on Monday that the Watford-born heavyweight will face Albanian opponent Kristian Prenga in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the Esports World Cup event, which will be broadcast live on DAZN.
The bout will be Joshua’s first since his knockout win over Jake Paul in December.
Following that victory, Joshua was involved in a car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close friends, while he sustained minor injuries.
He has since resumed training and signed a two-fight deal with Riyadh Season, which includes a potential clash with Fury later in the year.
“To my friends in Great Britain – it’s happening. It’s signed,” Alalshikh wrote on social media.
Speaking on his return, Joshua said: “It’s no secret I’ve taken some time to regroup and rebuild before stepping back into the ring, and this marks the next step in that journey.
“I’m pleased to have agreed a multi-fight deal, beginning on July 25 in Saudi Arabia.
“I’m looking forward to competing again and continuing from where I left off.
“As I’ve said before, the landlord will collect his rent—that is certain.”