Simon Jordan has backed away from his initial suspicions regarding Anthony Joshua’s victory over Kristian Prenga. After re-examining the corner instructions and fight footage, the broadcaster admitted his original claim of foul play was incorrect, attributing Prenga’s defeat to poor coaching.
The controversy began when Jordan questioned why Prenga suddenly abandoned his aggressive approach after dropping Joshua twice in the opening round. Matchroom promoter Barry Hearn dismissed the remarks, suggesting Jordan was implying the contest was fixed and joking that his rival always finds a way to say something foolish. Jordan initially stood by his reaction before re-evaluating the bout alongside trainers and technical analysts.
Addressing Hearn on talkSPORT, Jordan acknowledged the criticism from the Matchroom camp. He stated: “Obviously Barry is getting a bit decrepit so I allow him to have a senior moment and make his observations that way. But I also think that they are right,”
The broadcaster subsequently explained how reviewing the corner audio changed his perspective on the second round. He stated: “When I first watched the bout. I saw Prenga come out and do the polar opposite of what he had done in the first round. My initial thought was, ‘I don’t like how this appears.’ But the more I rewatch it, and the more I listen to the corner work. It kind of takes me down the path that maybe I jumped to conclusions about something being amiss.”
Former fighter Spencer Oliver argued that Prenga’s corner committed a major tactical error by advising him to slow down rather than pressure a hurt opponent. Cruiserweight Richard Riakporhe agreed, stating that Prenga followed flawed advice during the biggest night of his career. Prenga’s cautious start granted Joshua time to regain his composure and steady his legs. Joshua capitalised fully, securing a decisive stoppage once his recovery was complete.
While Jordan accepted the tactical explanation, he emphasised that Joshua remains vulnerable when caught early. He advised Joshua to avoid rising heavyweights Moses Itauma and Daniel Dubois, viewing a fight against Tyson Fury as the most suitable next step.
