BY KINGSLEY EMMANUEL
Former two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua produced a thrilling comeback on Saturday night, overcoming two first-round knockdowns to stop Albania’s Kristian Prenga in the second round of their high-stakes heavyweight contest.
The British heavy hitter found himself in immediate danger as Prenga launched an explosive assault right from the opening bell. Less than 20 seconds into the bout, the Albanian landed a powerful uppercut followed by a looping overhand right, sending Joshua crashing to the canvas.
Although Joshua beat referee Harvey Dock’s count, he remained visibly shaken. Capitalizing on the moment, Prenga pinned Joshua against the ropes and unleashed a relentless barrage, flooring the former champion a second time just before the bell sounded to end a chaotic opening round.
Showing remarkable resilience, Joshua emerged for the second round looking re-focused and composed. Re-establishing his jab, the veteran fighter forced Prenga onto the back foot with a crisp one-two combination.
Moments later, Joshua landed a devastating straight right that stunned Prenga, following up with a heavy series of hooks that dropped his opponent in the corner. Prenga was unable to beat the referee’s 10-count, sealing a dramatic stoppage victory for the Briton.
“You have to dig deep in this sport,” Joshua said during his post-fight interview. “I was caught cold in the first, but champions find a way to answer back.”
The victory improves Joshua’s professional record to 30 wins—including 27 by way of knockout—and four defeats, reigniting momentum for a potential blockbuster all-British showdown with Tyson Fury later this year.
