Kristian Prenga Doesn’t Mind Being Underestimated

Anthony Joshua (29-4, 26 KOs) might be scheduled to face Kristian Prenga (20-1, 20 KOs) on July 25, but his mind continues to wander towards a potential showdown with Tyson Fury. But does this faze Prenga? Not one bit, or so he says.

Talking to DAZN, Prenga said he was rather elated that Joshua had underestimated him.

“I don’t think it’s offended me, but I’m happy because they underestimated me,” he said. “I think it’s not a good idea he make plans to fight Tyson Fury. I like only God to make my plans.”

Joshua has admitted that it is difficult to stop his mind from drifting to Tyson Fury because the fight has been more than a decade in the making and represents the defining chapter of his career. For years, the two have been Britain’s biggest heavyweight stars, yet failed negotiations and shifting promotional landscapes repeatedly prevented them from meeting. And provided he defeats Prenga, he might finally get to face Fury, who he sees as the ultimate destination rather than merely another opponent.

Joshua explained that having Fury on the horizon gives him a clear roadmap and renewed purpose, saying that knowing the sequence of Prenga, then Fury and potentially another world title shot keeps him motivated through training. At the same time, he has stressed that this is not a case of overlooking Prenga; instead, he views the Albanian as the first and most important step toward achieving his ultimate goal.

But it looks like Prenga certainly wants to foil his plans.

“I don’t want to make plans for myself because if I do, it is as if I want to go on top of God and I can’t do that. God is first. It’s the only one. He make the plans and I think I’m going to break his (Joshua’s) plan for me,” he said.

“A Lot of Flaws”

But what does Prenga think of his opponent? In his own words, he (Joshua) wouldn’t last too long.

“I don’t think he is the best heavyweight in the world, but he’s a great fighter. I think he has a lot of flaws,” he said. “It’s not going to go 10 rounds or 12 rounds.”

Joshua Ben Joseph

Joshua Ben Joseph is a Boxing writer renowned for his unparalleled coverage of live events and insightful interviews with prominent athletes in the world of combat sports. With a career spanning over several years, he has authored more than 800 articles. As an experienced editorial cartoonist and investigative journalist, Joshua has a keen eye for detail and a passion for delivering quality content. Aside from his writing, Joshua is an avid powerlifter and solo traveler, embodying the same spirit of determination and exploration that he brings to his work. With a deep love for the sport of boxing that dates back to childhood, he is committed to delivering the highest quality content and helping to build a more transparent and credible industry.

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