Sparring Partner Backs Prenga to Upset Anthony Joshua Like Ruiz Did

Kristian Prenga’s sparring partner Brandon Moore has predicted that the Albanian heavyweight can defeat Anthony Joshua on Saturday, comparing the potential upset to Andy Ruiz Jr.’s shock win over Joshua in 2019.

Prenga (20-1-0, 20 KOs) faces Joshua in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as a warm-up bout for Joshua’s anticipated clash with Tyson Fury later this year. Joshua is heavily favored, but Moore believes Prenga has the tools to cause an upset.

Moore’s Assessment

Moore praised Prenga’s form in sparring, stating: 'He looks really, really, really good in sparring right now. I think he has a pretty good shot of beating him.' He also noted that Prenga is bigger than Joshua and can catch him 'the same way Andy Ruiz did.'

• Prenga has a perfect knockout record (20-0-0, 20 KOs, though record shows one loss).
• Joshua’s first professional defeat came via TKO to Ruiz in June 2019.
• Moore cited ring rust as a factor, as Joshua hasn’t fought since September 2023.
• The fight serves as a tune-up for Joshua vs. Fury, expected in winter 2024.

What’s at Stake

Moore emphasized the opportunity for Prenga, calling it 'the opportunity of a lifetime.' He added that Prenga needs to perform perfectly to join the ranks of those who have beaten future Hall of Famers. The fight will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Joshua, a former unified heavyweight champion, will be looking to avoid a second major upset as he prepares for the biggest fight of his career against Fury. A win for Prenga would dramatically alter the heavyweight landscape.