Accra, Ghana — June 17, 2025 – British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has stirred conversation across social media after publicly accusing his fellow Nigerians of giving him a false impression about Ghana a country he now describes as “beautiful” and “incredibly welcoming.”
Joshua, 35, made the remarks during a courtesy visit to Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House in Accra on Monday, June 16, 2025, after attending the Legacy Rise Sports: Battle of the Beasts boxing event hosted in the Ghanaian capital.
“Coming to Ghana actually wasn’t on my agenda,” Joshua said.
“Because, for some reason, everyone in Nigeria puts Nigeria above Ghana. But I’m now here and I’m looking around like, they’ve been lying to me.”
The boxer’s candid statement, captured in a now-viral Instagram video, has sparked widespread discussion across both Nigerian and Ghanaian digital communities.
Anthony Joshua’s visit, which began on June 13, included a packed itinerary filled with cultural engagements. From visiting bustling local markets to private interactions with community leaders, Joshua immersed himself in the Ghanaian experience.
“I’m impressed with your beautiful country,” he told Mahama.
“The amazing culture, the hospitality, the airport facilities, and the organisation of events here. I can’t wait to go back and tell everyone across the world how beautiful this place is.”
The visit was part of the Battle of the Beasts initiative, spearheaded by Sharaf Mahama, son of the current President and CEO of Legacy Rise Sports, aimed at spotlighting Ghana as a hub for international sporting events.
During the meeting, President Mahama and Joshua discussed boxing development in Ghana and Africa more broadly. The President welcomed the boxing star warmly, highlighting Ghana’s openness to international talents and its commitment to sports promotion.
In deep appreciation, Ibrahim Mahama, Ghanaian business magnate and brother to the president, presented Joshua with a Honda motorbike estimated to be worth between $10,000 and $18,000, acknowledging his role in supporting Sharaf’s boxing initiative.
Joshua made headlines as he took the motorbike for a spin through the vibrant streets of Accra, captivating fans and bystanders alike.
Social media reactions to his visit have been swift and humorous. One user, @misz\_rosie, wrote, “Some people are bleeding but will still watch 🤣🤣,” while another, @k\_sefah, noted, “Dude can be a good politician. Great speech.”
The boxer’s comments have sparked light-hearted rivalry online between Nigerians and Ghanaians. However, many see his statement as a call to celebrate the strengths of African nations without unnecessary comparison.
His appreciation of Ghana’s cultural richness and infrastructure may open a new chapter of Afro-tourism among African celebrities and athletes, encouraging them to explore and support neighboring countries.
As Anthony Joshua prepares to depart Ghana, he leaves behind not just an impact on the ring, but a cultural impression that’s resonating across borders — one that challenges stereotypes and uplifts the African narrative from within.
The boxing star’s experience serves as a powerful reminder: Africa’s beauty isn’t limited to one nation — and sometimes, it takes a visit to see the truth for yourself.
