Joshua Rises From Two Knockdowns to Stop Prenga in Explosive Second-Round Comeback
Anthony Joshua survived a frightening opening round before producing a stunning turnaround to defeat Albania’s Kristian Prenga in their heavyweight contest on Saturday night.
Joshua was sent to the canvas twice in the opening three minutes as Prenga came out aggressively and appeared determined to overwhelm the former world champion from the start.
The first knockdown came less than 20 seconds into the fight after Prenga connected with a powerful uppercut followed by a sweeping right hand. Joshua managed to get back on his feet, but he was still visibly unsteady.
Prenga continued his assault, forcing Joshua towards the ropes and throwing a series of heavy punches. The pressure eventually resulted in a second knockdown before the end of the round.
However, the fight changed dramatically once Joshua returned for the second round.
The British-Nigerian boxer began behind his jab, keeping Prenga at distance before stepping forward with a sharp combination.
A clean right hand appeared to stun the Albanian, and Joshua immediately followed up with a barrage of punches.
Prenga was driven into the corner and could not withstand the attack. After going down, referee Harvey Dock began the count, but the Albanian failed to beat it, handing Joshua a remarkable knockout victory.
Reflecting on the dramatic fight afterwards, Joshua said he had been caught off guard early but found the determination to recover.
“You have to dig deep in this sport. I was caught cold in the first, but champions find a way to answer back,” he said.
The victory further boosts Joshua’s hopes of securing a major heavyweight showdown with fellow British star Tyson Fury later this year.
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