In a major development for world boxing, promoter Eddie Hearn has confirmed that Anthony Joshua has officially signed a deal to face Tyson Fury in a blockbuster heavyweight clash.

Described by Hearn as "signed, sealed, and delivered," the agreement marks the end of a decade-long wait for a domestic rivalry often called the "Battle of Britain." The Comeback Trail

Before the two-time world champions meet, the 36-year-old Joshua will return to the ring for the first time since a tragic and life-altering hiatus. He is scheduled to headline "The Comeback" against Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on July 25, 2026.

Joshua has been inactive since December 2025 following a fatal car accident in Nigeria. The former champion was a passenger in a vehicle that struck a stationary truck, an incident that tragically claimed the lives of two close members of his team: his long-time strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and personal trainer, Latif Ayodele.

“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,” Joshua stated.

The Road to Fury

While the date and venue for the Joshua-Fury bout remain unannounced, industry insiders suggest a target of November 2026, with streaming giant Netflix touted as a potential broadcaster. Joshua’s last competitive outing was a knockout victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami on December 19, 2025.

The confirmation of the deal follows a tense public exchange between the two heavyweights earlier this month. Joshua was ringside at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to watch Fury defeat Arslanbek Makhmudov. Following the win, Fury called out Joshua in the ring, though the latter declined a face-off at the time, insisting that negotiations happen on his own terms.

“As I said, the landlord will collect his rent. That is certain,” Joshua remarked regarding the upcoming Fury fight.

Joshua must first navigate the challenge posed by Prenga, who holds a dangerous record of 20 wins, all by stoppage. If he emerges victorious in July, the stage will finally be set for the most anticipated fight in British boxing history.