Ready to 'conquer Earth' - Joshua embraces comeback spotlight

Anthony Joshua is embracing the spotlight ahead of his comeback fight on Saturday in Saudi Arabia, facing Albanian boxer Kristian Prenga. This bout marks Joshua's return to the ring following a tragic car crash in Nigeria last December, an incident that resulted in the deaths of two of his close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif 'Latz' Ayodele.

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We've been working since January, working hard, keeping my head down and aligning all my stars. I'm fully focused. I understand there's a big picture. The goal is to conquer the universe, right? But first we must conquer Earth. And this is my target here.

Joshua appeared relaxed and confident during Thursday's press conference in Jeddah. "We've been working since January, working hard, keeping my head down and aligning all my stars," he told reporters. He expressed a clear ambition, stating, "The goal is to conquer the universe, right? But first we must conquer Earth. And this is my target here."

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Can he knock me out? I really don't believe it. But only God knows that.

Despite not having defeated a top-tier heavyweight since Otto Wallin in December 2023, Joshua is focused on the task at hand. His opponent, Prenga, boasts 20 professional knockout wins but has not faced competition at Joshua's level. Prenga's manager described the fight as a "real-life Rocky moment," and Prenga himself predicted a knockout victory.

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I've been in the ring with some of the quickest heavyweights, some of the fittest heavyweights. I've fought some of the strongest heavyweights. I've fought contenders. I've fought champions. I've been knocked down. I've been knocked out. I stand strong today and I'm ready for the challenge one million per cent.

Joshua dismissed the possibility of being knocked out, saying, "Can he knock me out? I really don't believe it. But only God knows that." He noted his extensive experience fighting various types of heavyweights throughout his career, which includes 29 victories (26 by knockout) and four defeats. A win against Prenga could set up a highly anticipated all-British clash with Tyson Fury, provided Fury wins his own upcoming fight.

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We're going to find out on Saturday and I want to hear your voice shouting. I want that energy in the ring.