Where is Anthony Joshua from? Ethnicity, Nationality, Real Name and more

Anthony Joshua has an enormous fan base across the globe, who would love to know each and every little detail about his life. With his all-British clash with Daniel Dubois approaching quickly, this frenzy about his personal life seems to have only grown further. 

So, before the fight at the Wembley Stadium on September 21st for the IBF heavyweight title goes down, here’s everything you need to know about Anthony Joshua’s ethnicity, nationality, real name, and more.

Is Anthony Joshua Nigerian? Ethnicity, and early life

Anthony Joshua is of Nigerian descent. Joshua’s Nigerian roots are specifically traced to the Yoruba people, among whom he holds aristocratic rank. He spent some of his early years in Nigeria, attending Mayflower School in Ikenne before returning to the UK at age 12 following his parents’ divorce.

Growing up in the UK, Joshua attended Kings Langley Secondary School, where he excelled in football and athletics, even breaking a school record in the 100-meter sprint. His friends and teachers called him ‘Femi,’ short for his middle name, Oluwafemi.

Though Joshua’s career has made him a global sports icon, he has never distanced himself from his Nigerian heritage. He has a tattoo of Africa on his right shoulder with Nigeria highlighted, symbolizing his pride in his background. Joshua has also supported various charitable causes in Nigeria, including sending vital supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is the nationality of Anthony Joshua?

Since he lives in the United Kingdom permanently, Anthony Joshua’s nationality is British. He was born on October 15, 1989, in Watford, Hertfordshire, England. However, Joshua is of Nigerian descent, with his mother being Nigerian and his father of Nigerian and Irish ancestry. He spent part of his early life in Nigeria before returning to the UK at the age of 12. Despite his British nationality, Joshua is proud of his Nigerian heritage, which he honors through charitable work in Nigeria and a tattoo of the African continent on his shoulder, with Nigeria highlighted.

Anthony Joshua’s real name

Anthony Joshua’s real name is Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua. His middle names, Oluwafemi and Olaseni, reflect his Nigerian heritage, specifically from the Yoruba people. While he is widely known by his first and last name in the boxing world, his full name pays tribute to his Nigerian roots, something he takes great pride in throughout his life and career.

That said, despite settling in the United Kingdom, Joshua seems to have a special connection to his roots in Nigeria, which is perfectly displayed in his actions. Regardless, did you know this about the boxer?