Kristian Prenga breaks silence with a message to Anthony Joshua

Kristian Prenga has sent Anthony Joshua a heartfelt message after their explosive encounter

Unranked Albanian Kristian Prenga (20-2, 20 KOs) dropped Anthony Joshua (30-4, 27 KOs) twice in the opening round of their showdown in Saudi Arabia on July 25.

Ranked IBO #32, the 35-year-old was written off by most as entered the ring with a two-time unified world heavyweight champion. But he shocked the world within just 20 seconds as a short right hook downed the favourite. He rightfully kept his foot on the gas and had the Olympic gold madallist from London staggering all around the ring, scoring another knockdown in the final minute.

However, his decision to come out defensively in the second stanza allowed Joshua to come back into the fight and it was all over just seconds to go before the bell. Prenga had an opportunity to become an overnight superstar but blew his chance, however, the six-foot-five NABA champ did earn his plaudits and he showed his respect to AJ just days after the dramatic dust-up

Prenga said, “My brother, I’m glad I shared a ring with you. I told you before too, you’re a legend, I grew up with you. Congratulations to you, and I wish you the best, to you and your family – to your father, to your mother.

“I wish I see you soon. You’re welcome to Albania, wherever you want is your house – you have another house now in Albania. Thank you my brother.”

Joshua was also full of respect in his post-fight tribute to his suprisingly tough opponent, "I'm still here talking to you now, he's a strong guy... I think Eddie Hearn wants to sign him now, he's going to do well, he's got a bright future!"

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