Joshua Claps Back At Prenga Ahead Of Saudi Arabia Clash

British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has responded confidently to Kristian Prenga’s bold pre-fight remarks, insisting the Albanian challenger is only increasing the pressure on himself ahead of their highly anticipated clash in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on July 25.

Reports indicate that Prenga made a series of confident declarations during the official press conference, promising to give the former two-time unified heavyweight champion an experience unlike any he has encountered in the ring.

Joshua, however, appeared unfazed by the verbal exchanges, suggesting that his opponent’s confidence would ultimately work against him when they face off.

Speaking in an interview with DAZN, the 36-year-old said fighters who engage in excessive talk often create bigger problems for themselves, stressing that he remains fully focused on executing his game plan. While maintaining respect for Prenga, Joshua expressed complete confidence in his preparation and ability to deliver a convincing performance.

The upcoming contest will mark Joshua’s first appearance since his impressive sixth-round stoppage victory over American boxer Jake Paul in Miami last December, a win that improved his professional record to 29 victories and four defeats.

The British-Nigerian star also revealed that he has entered a new chapter in his career, drawing renewed motivation from personal adversity following the tragic loss of two close friends in a car accident in Sagamu, Nigeria, late last year.

Despite widespread speculation surrounding a possible all-British showdown with Tyson Fury later this year, Joshua emphasized that his attention remains firmly fixed on Prenga. He explained that his career objectives include taking each opportunity as it comes, whether it is facing Prenga, fighting Fury, or competing for another world title, while staying committed to the path he has mapped out for himself.

Prenga, 35, enters the bout carrying an impressive professional record of 20 wins and just one defeat, with every victory coming by knockout. His most recent outing saw him stop American Joe Jones in the opening round of their February contest in Atlantic City.

Standing 6ft 5in tall, the Albanian heavyweight has repeatedly insisted that Joshua has never encountered punching power comparable to his own, boldly predicting that he will produce one of the biggest upsets in heavyweight boxing.

Prenga’s manager, Keith Sullivan, has also expressed confidence in his fighter’s chances, suggesting that Matchroom Boxing may have underestimated the threat posed by the Albanian contender.

The July 25 showdown is expected to serve as a significant test for Joshua as he continues his pursuit of another heavyweight world title and a potential blockbuster meeting with Tyson Fury before the end of the year.