The two-time unified heavyweight champion last boxed in December 2025 when he crushed Jake Paul inside six rounds in Miami.

And after recovering from injuries sustained just days later in the fatal car crash that killed two of his closest friends, he is determined to dispose of Prenga ahead of a highly-anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury.

Speaking exclusively to DAZN News, Joshua said: “It’s a good challenge. I think I'm solid, though. I believe in myself. Confident in myself.

“Prenga's going to do what I need him to do. Throw punches, be confident, not give me no respect. And he's going to push me all the way I think.

“He's going to push me to showcase my talent. He's going to push my cardio. That's what I need, right? That's what I do.

“So he's going to do a good job for me.”

Prenga, 35, stands in the way of a money-spinning bout with Fury that fight fans have craved for years.

The Albanian has lost just once as a pro and recorded 20 victories — all by way of knockout.

But AJ is confident he will finish the task in Saudi Arabia with his hand raised, leaving Fury to do the same against an as of yet unnamed opponent on August 1 to ensure their clash happens.

The 36-year-old Brit added: “Do you know what? It's come at the right time. Everything happens at the right time in life. Maturing, knowing I'm a lot stronger physically, mentally.

“Knowing what's in front of me, knowing Prenga, knowing Fury. I'm very calm. Knowing the challenging training that's ahead, very calm.

“And everything's happening at the right time. I believe that.

“There are two sides [to Fury]. As a person, probably alright. But as a boxer, personality-wise, he's a clown.

“He wants to stand tall so he can pull you down, basically. That's his mentality.”

Watch Fury vs. Hall exclusively on DAZN

'The Beauty' Tommy Fury fights the 'The Beast' Eddie Hall on a great Misfits fight night on Saturday, June 13, exclusively live on DAZN. Buy as a one-off PPV or included, along with Zayas vs. Ennis (June 27), Joshua vs. Prenga (July 25) and Canelo vs. M'billi (Sept 12) PPVs, with a DAZN Ultimate Tier subscription.

For more information, pricing and to buy, click here.