British boxer Anthony Joshua has finally explained why he didn’t acknowledge Nigeria, his country of origin, following his victory over Francis Ngannou.
On March 8th, 2024, Anthony Joshua secured a knockout victory over Francis Ngannou in the second round of a thrilling heavyweight bout in Saudi Arabia. However, during his post-fight speech in the boxing ring, Joshua made the personal decision not to mention Nigeria, which garnered criticism online.
Instead, Joshua extended gratitude to Francis Ngannou’s country, Cameroon, his hometown in London, and the people of Saudi Arabia. This decision led to widespread scrutiny and debate.
In a recent exclusive interview, Joshua addressed the controversy, offering clarity on his motivations. Contrary to assumptions of indifference towards his Nigerian heritage, Joshua revealed that his choice stemmed from a “deeply personal struggle.”
He admitted to facing internal distractions and challenges leading up to the fight, which required him to focus intensely on his mental preparation and performance in the ring.
Joshua further discussed the pressures faced by athletes of his stature, emphasizing the importance of resilience and self-care amidst the constant scrutiny of the industry.
“When I lost my last match, Nigerians were the people who trolled me and made mockery of me. Learn to show love to those losing, not only those winning.
“Those at the bottom need love, care, and support more than those at the top. When someone is falling, hold them; don’t wait to make a mockery of them. They are my people, and I love them still.“
While Joshua’s decision may have sparked controversy and disappointment among some fans, he expressed gratitude for their unwavering support throughout his career.
He reiterated his pride in his Nigerian heritage and reaffirmed his commitment to representing the country proudly in future endeavors.
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