Joshua dedicates comeback win to late friends after overcoming knockdowns

Anthony Joshua has dedicated his comeback victory to his late friends and trainers, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, after securing a second-round knockout win against Kristian Prenga. The British boxer, a two-time heavyweight world champion, faced adversity early in the fight, being knocked down twice in the opening round at the Jeddah Superdome on July 26, 2026. Joshua entered the ring wearing camouflage attire bearing the names of his deceased coaches, who were lost in a car crash in Nigeria in December. "It was more than punch power. That was Spirit, that was Latz, that was Sina and their families. It still hurts to talk about it. It’s been tough," Joshua stated after the bout, emphasizing the emotional significance of the win. Despite the early setbacks, Joshua recovered to dominate the contest, ultimately stopping the Albanian fighter. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, praised Joshua's resilience, calling his performance remarkable given the personal tragedy. Hearn also confirmed that contracts have been signed for a highly anticipated bout between Joshua and fellow Briton Tyson Fury, though the date and venue are yet to be announced. Joshua expressed his readiness for the Fury fight, stating, "I respect everything he has achieved, but this is the fight we’ve been calling for, and now we’re here. I hope the fans will enjoy it. I’ve learnt that I can’t be stopped, I won’t be denied, and we’re coming."

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It was more than punch power. That was Spirit, that was Latz, that was Sina and their families. It still hurts to talk about it. It’s been tough.