How Anthony Joshua was rejected by Nigeria

How Anthony Joshua was rejected by Nigeria

Babajide Orevba
updated at April 12, 2023 at 7:48 PM

- Anthony Joshua wanted to represent Nigeria at the 2012 Olympics but was turned down by a Nigerian coach

- The current IBF heavyweight champion was told he had no chance to represent Nigeria at the Olympics

- The 27-year-old later went on to win gold for England in games in London

British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua indicated interest in representing Nigeria at the 2012 Olympics but was turned down by a Nigerian coach in Abuja.

He was born in Watford to Nigerian-born parents and grew up for some of his early years in Nigeria and returned to the UK halfway through.

The current IBF heavyweight champion was told that he had no chance after showing interest to represent Nigeria at the the Olympics.

READ ALSO: OMG! Ahmed Musa and girlfriend release pre-wedding pictures (photos)

Nigerian boxing legend Okorodudu said: "He asked to join Nigerian trials but they told him if he was good he would box for England".

The 27-year-old went on to win gold for England in the 2012 Olympic games in London.

Nigerian boxing instructor Adeniji spoke about Nigeria turning down the 2012 Olympic gold medalist.

How Anthony Joshua was rejected by Nigeria when a coach told him NO CHANCE
Anthony Joshua.
Source: Unknown

READ ALSO: Touching! Anthony Joshua’s message to mom ahead massive bout with Klitschko will move you to tears

He said: "Nigeria's loss, England's gain, it is no secret that he was here but the coach didn't give him a chance.

The IBF heavyweight world title will be on the line when Joshua and Ukrainian boxer Klitschko go head-to-head.

Joshua has had 18 bouts previously and won all, while Klitschko in his previous mammoth 68 fights, won 64 and lost 4.

Also on the local scene, watch the Super Eagles as they prepare for the 2018 World Cup qualifiers.

Authors
Babajide Orevba photo
Babajide Orevba
Babajide Orevba is a CAF accredited Nigerian journalist and HOD of the Local Desk with over 10 years of experience in media landscape.He studied NCE Political Science/Social Studies, AOCOED.
Tags
Anthony JoshuaNigeria