Anthony Joshua Expresses Gratitude to Nigerian Fans as He Departs Nigeria
Two-time heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has expressed heartfelt appreciation to Nigeria for the energy, generosity and kindness shown to him during his recent visit. The British-Nigerian boxer, who had been in the country to complete rehabilitation following an injury, shared his gratitude via a message on Instagram before heading back to England to prepare for his next fight.
Fans Show Support for Anthony Joshua’s Return to Boxing
Supporters flooded Joshua’s post with encouragement and praise.
- Gbadia Figheghawei urged him to “Go and take over the world, my brother.”
- Olumayowa Odejimi added, “We are behind you champ 3x,” predicting a third world title for the fighter.
- @iamdx2 wrote, “You have refuelled your energy, we want you to go and take back your world belts.”
- Royal Diadem noted, “Nigerians know how to have a good time. AJ, you had a good time.”
Highlights from Joshua’s Time in Nigeria
While in Nigeria, Anthony Joshua made headlines with several heartwarming moments that endeared him to fans:
- A viral street-side haircut captured on social media.
- Walking freely through the streets, engaging with locals.
- Visiting Sagamu, his ancestral hometown, which trended widely online.
- Attending the birthday of Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man.
- A viral encounter with his personal chef.
Joshua, whose roots trace back to a Nigerian mother and a father of Nigerian and Irish descent, proudly wears a tattoo of Africa with Nigeria’s borders outlined on his shoulder a symbol of his deep connection to his heritage.
Joshua Eyes Boxing Return After Dubois Defeat
The 35-year-old returns to England to resume training after recovering from the injury he suffered in his fifth-round knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley in September.
His promoter Eddie Hearn recently hinted this may be the final stretch of Joshua’s career.
“This is the final year. Let’s not beat around the bush,” Hearn told Sky Sports. “It could always be your last fight – but realistically, between one and three fights left.”
Deontay Wilder Eyes Clash with Joshua in 2026
Meanwhile, former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has rekindled hopes for a blockbuster fight with Joshua. The 38-year-old American, who has suffered four losses in his last five bouts, believes a long-anticipated showdown could happen in 2026.
Portable Challenges Joshua After Defeating Speed Darlington
In a lighter twist, controversial Nigerian street-pop singer Portable (Habeeb Okikiola) stirred online buzz after publicly challenging Joshua to a fight.
“Now that I’ve beaten Speed Darlington, it is only Anthony Joshua I can fight now,” he said in an interview with pressmen, claiming Speed Darlington was not a worthy opponent.
Portable had earlier demanded ₦100 million to face Joshua, keeping fans entertained with his eccentric boxing aspirations.
