Anthony Joshua, a British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer, has rejected Kristian Prenga’s self-assured pre-fight statements, cautioning the Albanian competitor that his remarks will only exacerbate the situation when they square off on July 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Former two-time unified world heavyweight champion Joshua was responding to Prenga’s audacious remarks during their press conference, in which the Albanian promised to provide him with an experience he had never encountered in the ring.
Joshua indicated that his opponent was making matters worse for himself rather than engaging in a verbal sparring match.
Joshua told DAZN, “I think these guys just dig their grave.”
“They’ve already dug their grave, but they keep going deeper and deeper, and I’m just going to take the necessary action. I firmly believe. I simply know exactly what I must do. I’m not concerned. I admire him. I respect every opponent, but when I look in the mirror, I know what I need to accomplish, and I’ll do it.
The 36-year-old has not competed since defeating American Jake Paul in six rounds in Miami in December, which raised his professional record to 29 victories and four losses, according to Naija News.
Joshua has also talked about starting a new stage in his career, both physically and emotionally. After experiencing personal tragedy after two close friends died in a vehicle accident in Sagamu, Nigeria, late last year, the heavyweight star claimed to have discovered new inspiration.
Joshua maintained that his immediate emphasis is still on Prenga, despite the fact that a large portion of the boxing community is already anticipating a possible all-British matchup with Tyson Fury in November.
“Give me the chance to fight Prenga, give me the chance to fight Fury, give me the chance to fight for the championship,” he declared. Knowing your mission, your next steps, and how to climb the ladder are more important than gazing beyond anyone.
“I know what this year is about, I know how difficult it will be, and I have a clear goal.” I’ve been working out a lot; that’s my life.
Prenga, 35, comes into the match with a strong record of 20 victories and 1 loss, all of which came via knockout.
The heavyweight from Albania last engaged in combat in February, where he defeated American Joe Jones in the first round at Atlantic City. Prenga, who is six feet five inches tall, has frequently asserted that Joshua has never encountered punching power on par with his own.
During the press conference, Prenga declared, “I think I’m going to shock the world.”
Keith Sullivan, his manager, supported the underdog’s prospects as well, claiming that Matchroom Boxing might have misjudged Prenga’s threat.
Joshua is anticipated to use the fight as a pivotal test in his quest for another heavyweight title and a much-anticipated matchup with Fury later this year.
