Hours before the biggest fight of his career since tragedy struck, Anthony Joshua sent a personal message to talkSPORT’s Jim White – and then delivered an IBF world title belt to the broadcaster’s home.
The gift, signed by the two‑time world champion, was for White’s 69th birthday. On his show, the former Sky Sports presenter unwrapped it and said: “It is remarkable wow. AJ if you’re out there and listening, on behalf of Simon Jordan and myself, it is a heartfelt thanks for that.”
“Joshua gifts IBF belt to Jim White hours before Prenga fight; unknown Albanian vows to shock world and ruin Fury super-fight.”
Joshua had appeared on talkSPORT ahead of tonight’s comeback bout against Albania’s Kristian Prenga at the Jeddah Superdome in Riyadh. In a recorded message to White and regular pundit Simon Jordan, he said: “Jim, Simon I hope you are both well. I appreciate everything you do for the sport I love. It sparks debates and conversations, even though Simon is on my back, but I need it, it spurs me on! Jim I want to wish you a happy birthday. God bless you both, and there is a gift coming in for you both.”
The 36‑year‑old Watford brawler is stepping back into the ring after a month that has been both triumphant and devastating. Ten days ago he knocked out Jake Paul. But the build‑up has been overshadowed by grief: a tragic car accident claimed the lives of two of his close friends. Joshua has said he wants to make his late friends proud by securing victory.
Standing in his way is Prenga, a little‑known Albanian heavyweight who has vowed to “shock the world”. A monumental upset in Jeddah would ruin Joshua’s hopes of a long‑awaited battle of Britain super‑fight against Tyson Fury.
The stakes could not be higher. Joshua’s gift to White is a reminder of the man beneath the gloves – generous, reflective, driven. But inside the ropes tonight, he must be all business, or risk seeing his biggest dream slip away.
