Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua OBE is a British professional boxer. Renowned for his prowess in the ring, Joshua has achieved the status of a two-time former unified world heavyweight champion.
His reign saw him holding the prestigious titles of the World Boxing Association (WBA) (Super version), the International Boxing Federation (IBF), and the World Boxing Organization (WBO) twice between 2016 and 2021.
Additionally, he claimed the International Boxing Organization (IBO) title on two occasions during this remarkable period of dominance.
Early Life
He was born on October 15, 1989, in Watford, Hertfordshire, England, emerging from humble beginnings, the son of Yeta and Robert Joshua.
Yeta, his mother, hails from Nigeria, while Robert, his father, boasts a heritage of Nigerian and Irish ancestry. This diverse lineage rooted Joshua in a rich cultural background, specifically tracing back to the esteemed Yoruba people.
During his formative years, Joshua experienced a blend of British and Nigerian upbringing.
At an early age, he displayed athletic prowess, excelling in various sports. His childhood was marked by a passion for football and athletics.
Remarkably, he showcased his speed and agility, setting a record-breaking time of 11.6 seconds in the 100m sprint during his school years.
Education
Joshua’s educational journey took him from Watford to Nigeria, where he attended Mayflower School in Ikenne.
It was here that he first dipped his toes into the realm of sports, laying the foundation for his future athletic endeavours.
However, life took a turn when his parents’ marriage ended, prompting his return to the UK.
Upon his return, Joshua settled in Garston, Hertfordshire, where he enrolled at Kings Langley Secondary School. It was here that he continued to shine, both academically and athletically.
Known affectionately as “Femi” among friends and teachers, Joshua left an indelible mark on the school, not only for his academic achievements, but also for his prowess on the field.
Career
It was in 2007, at the age of 18, that Joshua’s journey in boxing commenced. Encouraged by his cousin, he stepped into the ring for the first time, igniting a passion that would shape his destiny.
Under the tutelage of Finchley ABC in Barnet, North London, Joshua honed his skills, guided by his innate talent and unwavering determination.
Despite his late start in the sport, Joshua quickly made up for lost time. His natural athleticism and dedication propelled him to success, culminating in victories at the 2009 and 2010 Haringey Box Cup.
These early triumphs served as a precursor to his remarkable ascent in the boxing world.
Joshua’s amateur career was nothing short of spectacular. In 2010, he clinched the senior ABA Championships, showcasing his dominance in the ring.
His exceptional performance earned him a coveted spot on the GB Boxing team, paving the way for further accolades.
The pinnacle of Joshua’s amateur career came in 2012 when he represented Great Britain at the Olympics in London.
Displaying unparalleled skill and determination, he captured the gold medal in the super-heavyweight division, etching his name in Olympic history.
This triumph not only solidified Joshua’s status as a rising star, but also foreshadowed the greatness that lay ahead in his professional journey.
In July 2013, Joshua made the transition to the professional ranks, signing with Matchroom Sport. His debut on October 5, 2013, marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career.
With an electrifying performance at the O2 Arena in London, he dispatched his opponent, Emanuele Leo, with a technical knockout in the first round.
From that moment on, Joshua’s star continued to rise. Fight after fight, he showcased his devastating power and unrivaled skill, earning him a reputation as one of the most formidable heavyweights in the world.
Victories over seasoned opponents solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with in the boxing realm.
Awards and Recognition
Joshua’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. Throughout his career, he has been the recipient of numerous awards and accolades, celebrating his excellence in the sport.
From Amateur Boxer of the Year honours to prestigious Olympic gold, each accolade serves as a proof of his unwavering commitment to greatness.
In 2013, Joshua was bestowed with the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of his contributions to boxing. This prestigious honour underscored his impact both inside and outside the ring, solidifying his status as a national treasure.
Personal Life
Behind the glitz and glamour of the boxing ring lies a story of resilience and perseverance. Joshua’s personal life is marked by challenges overcome and obstacles conquered.
Before donning the gloves, he toiled as a bricklayer, laying the foundation for his future success. However, his journey was not without its setbacks.
A stint in Reading Prison served as a wake-up call, propelling Joshua to channel his energy into boxing.
Despite facing legal troubles, he emerged stronger and more determined, using his past as fuel to propel him toward greatness.
Controversy
Despite his meteoric rise to fame, Joshua has faced his fair share of controversies. From racially charged comments to social media gaffes, he has navigated turbulent waters with grace and humility.
Addressing allegations head-on, Joshua remains steadfast in his commitment to growth and self-improvement.
Social Media Handles
Instagram: @anthonyjoshua
X (Twitter): @anthonyjoshua
Net Worth
Anthony Joshua’s net worth stands as a proof of his status as one of the highest-paid athletes globally.
With lucrative endorsement deals and boxing purses, he has amassed a fortune surpassing £41 million ($53 million) as of 2024, according to Forbes.
