Anthony Joshua Preps for Saudi Fight as Tony Bellew Says He'd Step In
**Anthony Joshua** is set to face Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia on July 25, 2026, and former champion Tony Bellew just admitted he’d now step into the ring with the Bomber if asked.
During a recent "Fights Your Corner" podcast, Bellew was asked directly whether he’d consider fighting Joshua now that he’s retired. He answered unequivocally: “100 %-I’d do it.” The Liverpool‑born cruiserweight, who retired in 2018 after a loss to Oleksandr Usyk, said the idea of a showdown no longer feels out of reach.
Back in February 2017 Bellew dismissed the prospect, calling Joshua “too big” and labeling himself a “big cruiserweight, a very small heavyweight.” He added that he admired Joshua but didn’t see a realistic matchup. Nearly a decade later, Bellew reflected that “every man has a price” and that he now wants “to help him,” hinting at a possible mentorship angle rather than just a fight.
Joshua is currently polishing his game for the Prenga clash, a bout that could pave the way for a long‑awaited clash with Tyson Fury in Las Vegas. Bellew’s comment adds a fresh narrative hook for promoters and fans, suggesting an alternative heavyweight opponent should the Saudi fight fall through or if Joshua seeks a high‑profile tune‑up.
Bellew, a former WBC cruiserweight champion with 20 knockouts in 33 fights, moved up to heavyweight in 2017 and famously stopped David Haye twice. At 39 years old, he would be the elder statesman against a 37‑year‑old Joshua, who is still in his prime. The contrast in age and style could produce a classic “experience versus youth” storyline, reminiscent of past heavyweight duels.
If the Saudi bout proceeds as planned, Joshua will aim to secure a decisive win over Prenga, keeping his path to a Fury showdown intact. Should negotiations with Prenga stall, Bellew’s newfound willingness could give promoters a backup plan that still draws global interest. Either way, Joshua’s camp now has an extra variable to consider as they map out the next steps in his heavyweight journey.
Usyk, who vacated his WBA, WBC and IBF titles earlier this year, is eyeing a potential Deontay Wilder fight, while Fury remains the division’s marquee name. Joshua’s upcoming fight and the buzz around a possible Bellew matchup keep the heavyweight scene lively, offering fans multiple storylines to follow as the summer unfolds.
The next few weeks will reveal whether Bellew’s admission is a genuine offer or simply a podcast sound‑bite. For now, Joshua’s focus remains on the Saudi ring, but the conversation around his next opponent has certainly widened.