World-renowned British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has expressed admiration for Ghana during a courtesy visit to President John Dramani Mahama in Accra.
The visit, which took place at the presidency on Monday, June 16, 2025, was attended by Sports Minister Kofi Adams, former world champion Azumah Nelson, boxing enthusiast Sharaf Mahama, and former British welterweight champion Amir Khan, among others.
Joshua, who arrived in Ghana on Friday, June 13, 2025, expressed his utmost delight with the country.
“I’m really impressed with your beautiful country—amazing culture, hospitality, the airport, organization—and I can’t wait to go back and tell the world how beautiful this place is,” Joshua said.
He also called for greater investment in sports in Ghana and across Africa, noting the immense potential for international connections through athletics.
“I’ve been calling friends, speaking about ways we can bring investments into Ghana and Africa. I believe there are things we can do through sports and our global connections to help link Africa to the rest of the world,” he added.
Joshua emphasized the importance of exploring and maximizing the business side of sports, acknowledging that an athletic career is relatively short-lived.
During his meeting with President Mahama, Joshua was named “Ambassador for Boxing in Africa.” President Mahama highlighted the importance of role models like Joshua in inspiring young people and promoting the growth of boxing across the continent.
A major highlight of Joshua’s visit was his involvement in the Battle of the Beasts boxing match, held at the renowned Bukom Boxing Arena. The event, organized by Legacy Rise Sports and led by CEO Sharaf Mahama—son of President Mahama—attracted boxing fans from across the country.
Joshua’s presence added a global flair to the event. His interactions with fans and fellow boxers, including legends like Azumah Nelson and Amir Khan, reflected his genuine passion for the sport and appreciation of its cultural significance in Ghana.
Joshua has 28 wins and four losses in his professional career, which includes a gold medal at the 2012 Olympics. He is expected to face Moses Itauma, Jared Anderson, or Deontay Wilder in his next bout.
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Story by: Simon Owusu|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by: Pius Asack
