Check out our preview for Anthony Joshua vs Kristian Prenga fight.
Anthony Joshua returns to the ring tonight looking to take another step towards a blockbuster showdown with Tyson Fury later this year. Standing in his way is unbeaten Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga, a dangerous puncher with a perfect knockout record in his victories but little experience against elite opposition.
While Prenga's record commands respect, the bookmakers are firmly behind Joshua, with the former two-time heavyweight world champion expected to make a successful comeback in Saudi Arabia.
Who is the Betting Favourite in Anthony Joshua vs Kristian Prenga?
According to latest odds, Anthony Joshua is the overwhelming betting favourite to beat Kristian Prenga, with Joshua priced as a heavy odds-on favourite and Prenga a big underdog.
Fight Winner Odds
- Anthony Joshua: 1/33
- Kristian Prenga: 12/1
Joshua is also heavily fancied to win inside the distance, with bookmakers expecting his superior experience and power to prove decisive before the final bell.
Why Anthony Joshua is the Favourite?
There are several reasons why Joshua heads into the contest as such a short-priced favourite.
Firstly, the level of opposition each man has faced is worlds apart. Joshua is a former unified heavyweight champion with victories over the likes of Wladimir Klitschko, Joseph Parker, Alexander Povetkin and Dillian Whyte, while also sharing the ring twice with Oleksandr Usyk. Prenga, despite boasting an impressive 20-1 professional record with all 20 wins coming by knockout, has never faced anyone close to Joshua's calibre.
Joshua also enters the fight with a clear objective. Victory is expected to set up the long-awaited all-British clash with Tyson Fury later this year, meaning there is little room for error. Promoter Eddie Hearn has repeatedly stressed that tonight is about making a statement before that blockbuster showdown.
Anthony Joshua vs Kristian Prenga Prediction
Everything points towards an Anthony Joshua victory.
Prenga's knockout record ensures he carries some threat, but Joshua should enjoy significant advantages in speed, technical ability, ring IQ and championship experience. Expect the British star to establish control behind his jab before gradually increasing the pressure.
Prediction: Anthony Joshua to win by knockout or technical knockout in the middle rounds.
