Anthony Joshua Survives Two Knockdowns to Knock Out Kristian Prenga in Dramatic Jeddah Comeback
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — July 25, 2026: Former two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua produced a dramatic comeback victory on Saturday night, recovering from two first-round knockdowns to stop Kristian Prenga by knockout in the second round in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Joshua endured one of the most difficult starts of his professional career after Prenga dropped him twice in the opening round with heavy punches. Although visibly shaken, the British heavyweight survived the round and returned to his corner, where he regained his composure before the second round.
The momentum shifted dramatically in Round 2. Joshua responded with sharper timing, increased aggression and a series of powerful right hands that forced Prenga onto the defensive. After landing another clean combination, Joshua said the floored the Albanian heavyweight, prompting the referee to stop the contest at 2:43 of the second round, sealing a remarkable comeback knockout victory.
The victory marks a successful return to the ring for Joshua following a lengthy absence and keeps him on course for a proposed blockbuster showdown with fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury later this year. Reports following the fight indicate that both camps remain committed to staging the long-anticipated all-British heavyweight clash.
Speaking after the bout, Joshua praised Prenga's resilience and said the performance showed the importance of staying composed under pressure. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, also described the comeback as a demonstration of Joshua's determination and championship mentality after overcoming early adversity.
Saturday night's contest delivered one of the year's most dramatic heavyweight moments, with Joshua overcoming serious early danger to preserve his winning return and strengthen anticipation for his expected next fight against Fury.
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