Eric Patrick
Popular British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has thanked Nigeria for the “energy, generosity, and kindness” he experienced during his visit, as he heads off to begin preparations for his upcoming fight.
The two-time champion, who sustained injury from his last fight, visited Nigeria months ago to continue recovering.
The 35-year-old fighter took to his Instagram account in the late hours of Wednesday to express his gratitude with a sincere message as he returned to England.
He wrote, “Nigeria, thank you for your energy, generosity & kindness.”
Fans flooded his comment section, offering their support and wishing the 35-year-old success as he makes his comeback to the ring.
An Instagram user, Gbadia Figheghawei wrote, “Go and take over the world, my brother.”
Another user, identified as Olumayowa Odejimi, wrote, “We are behind you, champ 3x.”
#iamdx2 added, “You have refuelled your energy, we want you to go and take back your world belts.”
While in Nigeria, the boxer made headlines, especially after a street-side haircut he got captured widespread attention and went viral on social media.
READ ALSO: Why Dubois Knocked Me Out —Anthony Joshua Reveals
Joshua was also spotted walking through the streets, engaging with locals and embracing the warm reception from the community.
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.
His promoter Eddie Hearn, in a separate post, disclosed that Anthony Joshua 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.”