Anthony Joshua recovered from two first-round knockdowns to stop previously unbeaten Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga in the second round on Saturday, preserving plans for a long-awaited heavyweight showdown with Tyson Fury later this year, Trybal News reports.
The former two-time world heavyweight champion endured a nightmare start at the Jeddah Superdome after Prenga, who entered the contest with 20 knockouts from 20 victories, dropped him twice with heavy shots in a dramatic opening round. For a brief period, Joshua appeared on the verge of suffering one of the most damaging defeats of his career.
Joshua responded emphatically in the second round, regaining his composure before landing a series of powerful right hands that overwhelmed Prenga and prompted the referee to stop the contest.
The victory improved Joshua’s professional record to 30-4 and marked a successful return to the ring after the car accident in Nigeria last December that claimed the lives of two close friends and members of his team, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele.
An emotional Joshua dedicated the victory to their memory.
It’s more than punch power. That was spirit, that was Latz, that was Sina, that was the families,” Joshua said. It hurts to even talk about it. It has been tough. It’s my brothers.”
Joshua also praised Prenga, whose aggressive start threatened to derail the Briton’s comeback.
He’s a strong guy,” Joshua said. He is going to do well and has a bright future. He is strong and durable and gave me a good test, but this is what champions do, we get knocked down, we stand up, and we find a way to win.”
The victory came a day after Fury stopped Polish veteran Mariusz Wach in Thailand, ensuring both British heavyweights remain on course for the fight that has eluded boxing fans for years.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has said contracts for Joshua and Fury have already been signed, although a venue has yet to be confirmed. Wembley Stadium remains under consideration, while the United States has also emerged as a potential host for the undisputed British heavyweight showdown.
Joshua welcomed the prospect of finally facing his long-time rival but insisted his respect for Fury remains intact.
I am going to rip his heart out. I am the meanest and most vicious champion there has ever been,” Joshua said before adding, All jokes aside, I respect everything he has done and achieved, but we are here now. I hope the fans will be in for a lovely treat.”
With both men emerging victorious from their respective comeback bouts, attention will now turn to finalizing one of the biggest fights in British boxing history, a contest that has been years in the making and could finally become a reality before the end of 2026.
