Kristian Prenga Promises Early KO Against Anthony Joshua

Albanian heavyweight contender Kristian Prenga has vowed to secure a stoppage victory over former world champion Anthony Joshua before the 10th round when both fighters meet in Saudi Arabia on July 26.

According to Ireporter Online, Prenga made the bold declaration during Tuesday’s pre-fight press conference, insisting he has no intention of simply participating in the high-profile bout.

The hard-hitting Albanian warned that Joshua should expect a completely different test in the ring, maintaining that his punching power will prove decisive against the British-Nigerian star.

“He went through a lot of stuff. He was out of boxing for a while, he had the car accident which I feel sorry for him, and it’s my time. I believe I knock him out. I promise you it’s not going to go 10 rounds,” Prenga said, speaking through a translator while also attempting to communicate in English.

Describing himself more as a fighter than a traditional boxer, Prenga expressed confidence that he is on course to deliver one of the biggest shocks in modern heavyweight boxing.

“I’m a fighter. I’m not a boxer, I’m a fighter. I fight…I’m going to shock the world, brother. I’m going to shock the world,” he added.

The upcoming clash is widely seen as an important step in Joshua’s return to elite competition as he eyes a potential mega-fight with Tyson Fury. However, Prenga’s confidence appears undeterred despite Joshua’s reputation.

Joshua, meanwhile, has dismissed the challenger’s bold claims, stating that his opponents often “dig their own grave” with such remarks and insisting he expects respect to be left outside the ring once the fight begins.

The British star enters the contest with a record of 29 wins, including 26 knockouts, and four defeats. The bout will mark his first appearance since recovering from a serious car accident in Nigeria in December 2025, adding further significance to his comeback.

A commanding performance in Saudi Arabia is expected to keep Joshua firmly in contention for future world title opportunities and could further pave the way for a long-anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury.