British-Nigerian heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is finally set to fulfill his long-awaited dream of fighting on African soil. According to his promoter, Ezekiel Adamu, plans are underway to stage Joshua’s first professional fight in Nigeria in early 2026.
The announcement has sparked excitement across the boxing world and among Nigerian fans, many of whom have been eager to see the two-time heavyweight champion step into the ring in his ancestral homeland.
A Dream Years in the Making
Joshua, who has often spoken about his Nigerian roots, has repeatedly expressed his desire to fight in Africa, drawing inspiration from the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle” between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo) in 1974.
“This will be a homecoming like no other,” promoter Adamu revealed. “Anthony Joshua has always wanted to bring a major fight to Nigeria, and now the dream is becoming reality.”
Boost for Nigerian Boxing and Sports Tourism
The fight is expected to be more than just a boxing match — it will serve as a historic event for Nigeria’s sporting industry. Analysts predict the bout could attract global attention, draw international visitors, and give a huge boost to Nigeria’s sports tourism sector.
Local boxing officials also believe the event will inspire a new generation of Nigerian fighters, shining a global spotlight on the country’s boxing talent and infrastructure.
Who Will Joshua Face?
While the opponent has not yet been confirmed, reports suggest that talks are ongoing with several high-profile heavyweights. Boxing insiders expect a title fight or eliminator bout that will make the Nigerian debut truly unforgettable.
Looking Ahead to 2026
With the date set for early 2026, fans across Nigeria and the African continent are eagerly waiting for more details about the venue, ticketing, and the fight card. For Joshua, the bout represents not just another step in his boxing journey but also a powerful connection to his heritage.
