By Kamsi Anayo with agency report
Former two-time world heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, produced a remarkable comeback to defeat Albanian boxer, Kristian Prenga by second-round knockout in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, keeping alive plans for a blockbuster showdown with fellow British rival Tyson Fury later this year.
Joshua’s return to the ring almost ended in disaster after Prenga floored him within the opening 20 seconds of the contest.
The former champion was knocked down again in a dramatic first round, raising fears of a major upset that would have derailed his long-awaited clash with Fury.
However, Joshua showed resilience and championship character. He regained his composure in the second round before unleashing a series of powerful right hands that overwhelmed Prenga.
A crushing punch sent the Albanian crashing through the ropes, prompting the referee to stop the contest and award Joshua a stunning knockout victory.
The victory marks Joshua’s successful return following months away from competitive boxing after injuries and personal tragedy.
Speaking after the fight, the British heavyweight said he would not be stopped and dedicated the victory to two close friends who died in a car accident in Nigeria late last year.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, praised the fighter’s determination, saying the dramatic comeback proved his mental strength and fighting spirit.
The win also clears the way for the long-awaited all-British heavyweight showdown against Tyson Fury, with contracts reportedly already signed, although the venue is yet to be officially announced.
In a post match interview, Joshua threw his challenge saying, ‘have we got Tyson Fury in the ring? To more important matters, Is he here or not’ signifying his willing to fight his British opponent.
The highly anticipated Joshua-Fury contest is expected to be one of the biggest fights in modern heavyweight boxing, with both former world champions now having won their respective comeback bouts.
