Anthony Joshua has insisted that his immediate focus remains on Kristian Prenga and not a potential heavyweight showdown with Tyson Fury.
Joshua is scheduled to face Prenga on July 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in what is widely regarded as a final preparation before a long-awaited clash with Fury later this year. Although discussions over the all-British heavyweight contest have continued for months, the fight has yet to be officially signed.
Speaking to DAZN Boxing, Joshua explained why he ignored an earlier invitation from Fury, saying there is no reason to engage in face-to-face exchanges before completing the task in front of him.
"If he wants to come in the ring when I win on July 25, feel welcome," Joshua said. "Come into my territory. I'm the landlord. I'm going to welcome you into my home. You don't welcome me into your home."
The former unified heavyweight champion stressed that Prenga deserves his full respect and attention. Joshua believes overlooking his opponent would be a costly mistake, despite the growing excitement surrounding a possible meeting with Fury.
Joshua heads into the contest after an impressive sixth-round victory over Jake Paul in December. The win helped restore momentum as he continues his pursuit of another world title opportunity and a blockbuster domestic showdown with Fury.
Meanwhile, Fury also has business to take care of before any agreement can be finalised. The former WBC heavyweight champion is due to face veteran Polish boxer Mariusz Wach in Thailand on July 24, one day before Joshua's fight in Saudi Arabia.
Both contests are viewed as tune-up fights ahead of a potential blockbuster between two of Britain's biggest boxing stars. Promoters are expected to accelerate negotiations if both fighters emerge victorious.
A meeting between Joshua and Fury has been one of boxing's most anticipated matchups for several years. However, previous negotiations have repeatedly failed to produce an agreement despite strong public demand.
For now, Joshua remains focused solely on defeating Prenga in Jeddah. Victory would strengthen his position and increase expectations that a long-awaited showdown with Fury could finally become a reality before the end of 2026.
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