According to Kristian Prenga’s sparring partner, we could be in for a shock on Saturday night. Barry McGuigan agrees—but says the shock will be Prenga getting hit by Joshua's right hand.
Prenga not an elite performer
Though he stands 6ft 5ins, Prenga is neither a conventional dangerman nor an elite performer. He’s upright. He doesn’t bob and weave. He is essentially a big, novice pro, nice jab, reasonably quick hands, but as soon as he gets hit it’s good night Irene.
This bloke has not fought anybody remotely in the class of Joshua. And as far as causing an upset, he is certainly no Daniel Dubois or Andy Ruiz.
Joshua's past losses not relevant
Even in those contests, Joshua was in control before walking on to punches. He had Ruiz down and certainly shook Dubois before getting caught. Neither were sustained beatings. Yes he lost twice to Usyk, but again, that is of little relevance on Saturday, a fact Prenga will realise soon enough.
When you get properly hit by an elite fighter your pupils double in size. You feel it and your opponent can see it. It is then about how you respond.
No evidence Prenga can cope
There is no evidence in Prenga’s record to suggest he can cope with what’s coming. Prenga’s team are looking at the fact that Joshua has fought just once in the past 22 months, and then only against blue-collar fighter Jake Paul. This is also Joshua’s first engagement since the loss of two close friends in the tragic car accident last December.
Above all Joshua is a prize fighter. Of course it will be emotional but he knows how to separate the personal and the professional on fight night. This, ultimately, is about setting up the next date in his diary appointment, and we all know what that is.
Joshua to knock him out
Let’s not kid ourselves, Joshua will take a look at this guy then knock him out, just like he did Paul. And then roll on Tyson Fury in November, something we can all get excited about.
