Anthony Joshua produced a stunning comeback to defeat Kristian Prenga by knockout after surviving two knockdowns in the opening round of their heavyweight contest.
Joshua endured a difficult start as Prenga launched an aggressive attack, landing a series of heavy punches that twice sent the former world heavyweight champion to the canvas in the first round.
The early setback appeared to put Joshua in serious danger of suffering a major upset, but the 36-year-old quickly regained his composure and responded with relentless pressure and powerful combinations.
Joshua completed the remarkable turnaround in the second round, landing a devastating right hand that dropped the Albanian fighter and prompted the referee to stop the bout.
Following the victory, an emotional Joshua paid tribute to his family and spoke about the difficult period he has endured.
“It’s more than punch power. That was spirit, that was Latz, that was Sina, that was the family. It hurts to even talk about it. It has been tough,” Joshua said.
Overcome with emotion, the former champion briefly stepped away from the microphone before adding, “It’s my brother. I don’t want to talk about it.”
There had been speculation that fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury might attend the event despite previously saying he would not. However, Fury was absent, having recorded a warm-up victory over Mariusz Wach in Thailand less than 24 hours earlier.
Attention now turns to a potential blockbuster showdown between Joshua and Fury, with both camps reportedly having signed contracts. However, the date and venue for the long-awaited fight remain undecided.
Joshua said he respected Fury’s achievements but suggested that the time had come for the two heavyweights to settle their rivalry in the ring.
“I respect everything he has done and everything that he has achieved, but as a fighting person, we’re here now. I hope the fans will be in for a lovely treat,” he said.
For Joshua, however, the night was about more than the prospect of a future fight. After surviving a dramatic opening round and recovering to secure a knockout victory, the former world champion emerged triumphant from one of the most emotionally challenging periods of his career.
