Anthony Joshua issues a strong warning to Kristian Prenga after bold pre-fight claims ahead of their Jeddah heavyweight clash
British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua, former two-time unified world heavyweight champion, has issued a strong warning to Albanian contender Kristian Prenga following heated pre-fight remarks ahead of their scheduled bout in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on July 25.
Anthony Joshua Kristian Prenga Warning intensified after Kristian Prenga vowed during a press conference to deliver an experience unlike anything the British-Nigerian fighter has faced in the ring.
The comments prompted a measured but firm response from Anthony Joshua, who dismissed the threat while insisting he remains fully focused on execution rather than exchanges of words.
Speaking to DAZN, Anthony Joshua said he believed Prenga’s approach was ultimately counterproductive and would only deepen the pressure on the challenger.
The former champion described the situation as one where opponents often undermine themselves through excessive confidence.
“Their grave’s already been dug, but they just keep digging deeper and deeper,” Anthony Joshua said. “I’m just going to do what I need to do. I’ve got full belief.”
Anthony Joshua Kristian Prenga Warning also comes at a pivotal stage in Joshua’s career, with the 36-year-old not having fought since his stoppage victory over American Jake Paul in Miami last December.
That win extended his professional record to 29 victories and four defeats, reinforcing his position among the elite in the heavyweight division.
Despite speculation surrounding potential future fights, including a long-discussed all-British clash with Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua stressed that his immediate focus remains firmly on Prenga.
He described his mindset as disciplined and forward-looking, insisting that each fight must be treated as part of a broader progression.
Joshua also reflected on a challenging period in his personal life, revealing that he has found renewed motivation following the loss of two close friends in a road accident in Sagamu, Nigeria, late last year.
He said the experience has strengthened his resolve both inside and outside the ring.
Kristian Prenga, meanwhile, enters the contest with a record of 20 wins and one defeat, all of his victories coming by knockout.
The 35-year-old last fought in February, stopping American Joe Jones in the first round in Atlantic City. Standing at 6ft 5in, he has repeatedly claimed his punching power will pose a unique threat to Joshua.
“I think I’m going to shock the world,” Prenga said at the press conference.
His manager, Keith Sullivan, has also backed the Albanian fighter, suggesting that expectations from major promotions may be underestimating his ability.’
The bout is widely viewed as a key test for Anthony Joshua as he continues his pursuit of another world title opportunity and a potential showdown with Tyson Fury later this year.