Joshua departs Nigeria for next fight, appreciates Nigerians gestures
Two-time heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has expressed gratitude to Nigeria for the “energy, generosity and kindness” shown to him during his stay in the country as he departs to prepare for his next fight.
The British-Nigerian fighter, who has been spending time in his ancestral homeland to complete his rehabilitation from an injury, shared his appreciation through a heartfelt message posted on his Instagram account.
“Nigeria, thank you for your energy, generosity & kindness,” Joshua wrote in what many fans interpreted as a farewell message ahead of his return to England.
Several fans then commented, wishing the 35-year-old success as he returns to the ring.
Gbadia Figheghawei wrote, “Go and take over the world, my brother.”
Olumayowa Odejimi tipped Joshua for a third world championship reign, commenting, “We are behind you champ 3x.”
Another user with the username @iamdx2 added, “You have refuelled your energy, we want you to go and take back your world belts.”
Royal Diadem also commented on the enjoyable time Joshua had in the country.
“Nigerians know how to have a good time. AJ, you had a good time,” she wrote.
During his time in Nigeria, the 35-year-old boxer made headlines with several memorable moments, including getting a street-side haircut that went viral across social media platforms. Joshua was also spotted walking through the streets, engaging with locals and embracing the warm reception from the community.
The heavyweight star, born to a Nigerian mother and a father of Nigerian and Irish descent, proudly displays his heritage with a tattoo of Africa on his shoulder, with Nigeria’s borders prominently outlined. His visit to Sagamu—his ancestral hometown—dominated social media trends and sparked excitement among fans.
One of the highlights of Joshua’s stay was his attendance at the birthday celebration of Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, where he mingled with several Nigerian billionaires. He also had a viral encounter with his chef, who prepares his meals.
Joshua returns to England as he prepares to resume his boxing career after recovering from an injury sustained following his fifth-round knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley last September. According to his promoter Eddie Hearn, the British-Nigerian fighter is entering what could be the final year of his professional boxing career.
“This is the final year. Let’s not beat around the bush,” Hearn told Sky Sports recently. “He’s going to have somewhere between – it could always be your last fight – but one and three fights, that’s the reality of the situation.”
Meanwhile, former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has expressed interest in a potential blockbuster clash with Joshua next year as he begins his comeback journey. The 38-year-old American, who has lost four of his last five fights, believes a long-awaited showdown with Joshua could materialise in 2026.
Meanwhile, controversial Nigerian street-pop musician Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, would be disappointed with the boxer’s exit after earlier declaring his intention to fight Joshua following his recent victory over Speed Darlington.
“Now that I’ve beaten Speed Darlington, it is only Anthony Joshua I can fight now,” Portable told PUNCH Sports Extra, having previously expressed interest in facing the boxing star for N100m, stating that Speed Darlington was an unworthy opponent
