Anthony Joshua to Box Until 40, Returns July 25 in Jeddah

Former two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua has announced his intention to continue boxing until the age of 40, framing his return to the ring as a tribute to two close friends who died in a car crash last year. Joshua, 36, will make his comeback against Albanian contender Kristian Prenga in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on July 25.

The fight marks Joshua's first since he was involved in a fatal accident in Nigeria in December. The crash resulted in the deaths of his friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele. Joshua escaped with rib injuries. Speaking publicly for the first time since the tragedy, he said his primary focus has shifted to supporting the families of the deceased.

"I have to put my emotions to the side because I focus on the parents," Joshua explained. "My emotions can come at a later stage. So I don't make it about me, I make it about them and the mums and dads of the two boys." He described his role as being a "good soldier" for the grieving parents, stating that his mission is now "bigger than me."

Despite the trauma, Joshua insists boxing provides crucial purpose and therapy. "This is my purpose," he said. "Boxing is not only good for...