‘’I am sure Nigeria would have accepted me.’’- Anthony Joshua

British-Nigerian boxer and world heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua, has shrugged off claims that he was denied the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. It will be recalled that Joshua’s emergence to stardom in 2012 after representing Great Britain at the 2012 Olympics and winning gold, saw many stories in the media noting that Joshua in 2008 was not allowed by boxing authorities to represent Nigeria during the Olympics because he reported late for trials.

Joshua, 31, cleared the air during an interview with the Punch, stating that he could have represented Nigeria if he was interested.

I honestly can’t remember, I would have represented Nigeria, I represented Great Britain, I had no problem competing for Great Britain at that time, it was easy. I am sure Nigeria would have accepted me as well. I don’t think I have any issue, none that I can remember, but definitely I would have competed for Nigeria as well. Nigeria would have definitely opened their arms and supported me for sure

Anthony Joshua

After 12 months of no fighting action, Joshua will return to the ring on Saturday, December 12, to confront his challenger, Kubrat Pulev for the heavyweight titles at the SSE Arena, Wembley. 

Source

Linda Ikeji

Featured Image Source: Forbes