Brain Injury Survivor, and Former British Boxing Champion Pens Down a Heartfelt Message to Anthony Joshua for His Kind Gesture Ahead of Saudi Arabian Fight

The immense joy that enveloped the boxing community on April 4th, 2016 afternoon was a testament to the collective relief. It followed the belated confirmation that Nick Blackwell had emerged from his induced coma two days earlier. However, the overwhelming happiness felt by Blackwell’s family surpasses any sense of relief in the broader boxing world.

The British middleweight boxer collapsed after a title clash with Chris Eubank Jr. on April 2nd, leading to him being comatose. At that time, Anthony Joshua took some time to wish the boxer a speedy recovery. Flash forward to 7 years later, Joshua still remembers the young talent and even acknowledged him with a special gesture.

Anthony Joshua takes some time out to greet Nick Blackwell properly

In a tweet, Nick Blackwell shared a poignant moment involving Anthony Joshua during a weigh-in experience. Blackwell recounted how Joshua demonstrated his kindness. Joshua instantly got down from the stage to greet him. This encounter held special significance as it marked their reunion since Blackwell’s brain injury. Their relationship came into effect after one of his bouts which took place on the undercard of the Anthony Joshua fight.

That is where he defeated John Ryder to grab the British Middleweight title. Moreover, he wrote, “Good Luck [Anthony Joshua].” He also shared a video of the incident on his tweet, to give the fans some sort of context. It’s safe to say that Joshua is a kind soul.

Meanwhile, ahead of the ‘Day of Reckoning’, he let young talents showcase their skills at the open media workout session in Riyadh. However, this became massive news, and some even criticized him for such an action. But he was adamant about pushing the younger generation to greatness and witness glory.

Joshua addresses his antics during the open media workout

During the recent open media workout, the two-time heavyweight world champion maintained an enigmatic presence. Stepping into the ring ahead of his bout against Otto Wallin, he threw a few measured punches before inviting the ‘next generation’ of aspiring boxers to share the canvas. In a display of humility, Joshua stood in the corner alongside his coach Ben Davison. He observed and admired the skills of the emerging talents.

Read More: “You Never Want To See Anybody Do Amazing”: Derek Chisora Blasts Critics Of Anthony Joshua Ahead Of Day Of Reckoning Fight Card 

The champion even took the time to pose for photographs with the young boxers. Later, he explained, “I’ve been here [Saudi Arabia] a few times now and I understand the vision. It’s promoting boxing to the next generation and it obviously helps.” Furthermore, he continued, “It’s just giving them a chance, an opportunity, I think for them it’ll mean the world. They’re the next generation.”

There are many instances where Joshua’s humble nature shines through in his subtle actions. Although boxing is considered to be a brutal sport, some look at kindness as a weakness. As it seems, Joshua wants to win the battle against such mindsets. What are your thoughts about this? Let us know in the comments section.

Watch This Story: Who is Otto Wallin, Anthony Joshua’s opponent for December fight?