Anthony Joshua is targeting a showdown with Tyson Fury in 2025, but the two-time heavyweight champion isn’t just focused on reclaiming the world title — he’s also investing in Nigeria’s future.
British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua recently expressed his determination to reclaim the world champion title after paying Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu a New Year’s Day courtesy visit.
“Ups and downs happen, but I can’t stop now. I keep riding the wave. My goal is to become a three-time world champion and face Tyson Fury in 2025,” Joshua told reporters.
He met with Tinubu at his Lagos residence, where he presented the president with an autographed boxing glove. Tinubu expressed pride in Joshua’s achievements, calling him “a true champion and worthy ambassador of Nigeria”.
“Anthony Joshua’s dedication and achievements continue to inspire millions daily,” Tinubu shared in a post on X. “Thank you for the autographed glove — it is a symbol of perseverance and excellence. A symbol of what Nigerians are known for.”
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On returning to his roots in December, Joshua began his visit in Sagamu, Ogun State — his hometown —on the outskirts of commercial capital Lagos.
The visit was marked by warm receptions as he connected with residents and local leaders. A highlight of the visit was his meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun in the state capital, Abeokuta. Following their discussions, the Ogun State Government announced plans to build a state-of-the-art Anthony Joshua Indoor Boxing Ring in Abeokuta.
“Joshua’s achievements on the global stage bring pride to Ogun State, and we are committed to supporting him while celebrating the immense talents that put our state on the world map,” the governor’s office stated. Joshua was also named Ogun State’s official sports ambassador, and he is set to play a key role in the Gateway Games National Sports Festival, where he will light the ceremonial torch in May.
The boxer also visited Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who praised him for his determination and highlighted Lagos’ role as a hub for culture and “endless” inspiration. “As Anthony prepares for a bigger and better 2025, we encourage him to keep inspiring the world with his grit and determination,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Joshua, 35, rose to international fame by winning his first 22 professional fights, holding the heavyweight title from 2016 to 2019. Though he faced setbacks, including two losses to Oleksandr Usyk, Joshua rebounded in 2023 with a series of victories, including a knockout win over Cameroonian boxer Francis Ngannou early last year.
“To all Nigerians in the diaspora, you have a place to call home. I’ll continue to put my feet on the soil here and give back to communities,” declared Joshua, ranked by Forbes as the 16th highest-paid athlete globally in 2024, with earnings of $83 million
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