NEW YORK CITY — Albanian heavyweight knockout artist Kristian Prenga (19-1, 19 KOs) will look to extend his dominant 15-fight winning streak when he steps into the ring for an eight-round heavyweight bout against veteran Joe Jones (16-14-1, 10 KOs) on February 21. The fight takes place on an RDR Promotions card at the Showboat Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City.
Prenga, a former two-time European kickboxing champion, continues to establish himself as one of boxing’s most dangerous heavyweights. Now fighting out of Edgewater, New Jersey, the 34-year-old will be competing in Atlantic City for the fifth time, a location he has embraced as a second home.
Atlantic City a Proven Stage for Prenga
Prenga’s most recent appearance in Atlantic City came on December 6, when he delivered a first-round stoppage of Brandon Carmack at Bally’s Park Place Hotel Casino. Known for his explosive power and aggressive style, Prenga has turned Atlantic City into a showcase for his knockout ability.
Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 260 pounds, Prenga is confident heading into his latest test.
“This is going to be a great fight,” Prenga said. “Jones is an experienced and tough opponent. I have been training hard and camp is going great. I like fighting in Atlantic City because my fans enjoy spending the weekend there, watching my fight, and if they are lucky in the casino, we all go home winners.”
An Unmatched Knockout Record
A former North American Boxing Association (NABA) champion, Prenga boasts one of the most eye-catching statistics in the heavyweight division—a 100% knockout rate, finishing all 19 of his victories by KO. His lone professional loss came nine years ago, a close points decision to Giovanni Auriemma in just his fifth pro bout.
Since then, Prenga has steadily rebuilt and evolved, combining his kickboxing pedigree with improved boxing fundamentals to become a consistent finishing threat.
Joe Jones Brings Experience and Durability
Standing across the ring will be Joe Jones, a seasoned heavyweight from Jersey City, New Jersey. Jones enters the fight following a six-round majority decision victory over Cleotis Pendaruis on January 9, proving he remains a capable and resilient competitor.
Jones’ experience against a wide range of opponents makes him a meaningful test for Prenga as the Albanian power puncher continues his rise.
New Chapter With Sullivan Management
The February 21 bout also marks Prenga’s debut under Sullivan Management, a growing and respected management team in professional boxing.
“Kristian Prenga is an exciting and powerful puncher,” Sullivan said. “I am thrilled to start this journey with a fight against an experienced Joe Jones in Atlantic City. Kristian is ready to showcase his strength and determination, and the fans are in for an unforgettable night. There will be a lot of Albanian flags flying in the convention center as the pride of Albania will be in full effect on fight night.”
A Strong Stable Behind the Scenes
Sullivan, a former New York State Athletic Commission Deputy Commissioner, manages an impressive roster of fighters, including:
- Undefeated heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor (10-0, 6 KOs)
- Three-time, two-division world champion Miyo Yoshida (18-5)
- Bronx NYPD officer Nisa Rodriguez (4-1, 2 KOs)
- Lightweight Fei Faiva (6-0-1, 4 KOs)
- Undefeated featherweight prospect Brooklyn Barwick (4-0, 4 KOs)
He also co-manages IBF Welterweight World Title challenger Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (14-2, 11 KOs) and middleweight Jim Donovan (2-0, 1 KO) alongside former world champion Andy Lee.
Conclusion
With a perfect knockout rate, growing fan support, and a new management team behind him, Kristian Prenga enters February 21 positioned as one of boxing’s most dangerous heavyweight punchers. Against the experienced Joe Jones, Prenga has another opportunity to electrify Atlantic City and continue his march toward bigger stages and higher-profile bouts.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, and Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and is also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer. He’s also the main photographer for the 4CornersMafia Car Club.
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