Kristian Prenga Interview: Anthony Joshua Fight, Underdog Label and a 'Dangerous Mindset'

The stage is set for Joshua's return to boxing, following a period which can only be described as very difficult for the former World Champion. Just six months ago, a car crash put the future of his boxing career in major doubt, while two of his friends lost their lives.

That said, once he steps into the ring, emotions will be put aside. His opponent, Kristian Prenga, is eager to continue his good run of 16 wins in a row. He confirmed as much in an exclusive interview with us, especially given how some people have been describing the fight.

Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury is signed. Are you about to shock the world and cancel the biggest fight in British boxing history?

"Everybody is talking about Joshua vs. Fury as if this fight is just a formality, which is a very dangerous mindset in heavyweight boxing. One punch changes everything in this division.

"I am not showing up for a payday or a photo-op, I am coming to win the fight. By winning, I will smash the biggest fight in British boxing history overnight.

"The world needs to understand that I am not a manufactured fighter. I am a real fighter who has earned everything through hard work.

"I fight for my family, my supporters, for Albania, and now I fight for every person who has ever been overlooked or underestimated.

"A victory changes everything: financially, professionally, and historically. But more than anything, it proves that belief, toughness, and perseverance still matter in this sport."

Will this fight end by KO? Why are you confident you will shock the world?

"I would be surprised if this fight goes the distance. We are both big punchers. I have no fear. That matters. A lot of opponents lose to Joshua before they even get into the ring.

"Not me, I fully train to win. When you combine that mentality with heavyweight power, anything is possible."

What weaknesses do you see in AJ?

"I’m not going to disrespect Anthony Joshua because he’s accomplished a lot in this sport. But like every heavyweight, he has vulnerabilities.

"We believe pressure, pace, and forcing exchanges can expose things that don’t show up when he’s controlling the fight comfortably behind the jab."

Do you expect the old combination-punching AJ or does that fighter not exist anymore?

"Which version of AJ will we get? That’s one of the big questions heading into the fight. Earlier in his career, Joshua fought with more freedom and aggression.

"In recent years he’s become more cautious at times, probably because of some of the setbacks he’s had. We’ll see which version shows up. I am prepared for the very best version possible."

Do you feel you are being overlooked and is that motivating you?

"Yes, for sure [I am being overlooked]. But that’s fine. The people overlooking me today will be the same people pretending they always knew how dangerous I was afterward. Being doubted fuels me."

You have a very high knockout ratio. Tell us about your power and what happens when you land flush on his chin?

"I am a heavy-handed fighter. I don't need five or six clean shots to change a fight, one is enough. When I land on Joshua’s chin, we’ll quickly find out how much he has left."

Will this fight play out like any of AJ’s previous fights, like Ruiz or Dubois?

"No two fights are the same, but those fights showed something important: when Joshua is dragged into uncomfortable situations, he becomes vulnerable," he concluded.