Former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has moved his base to Dubai, according to confirmation from a member of his family.
The British-Nigerian boxing star’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, revealed that the move happened several months ago, although the boxer did not formally announce it.
“He has already moved to Dubai. He doesn’t need to inform us before making such a move, but I know he has moved a while ago, talking of months back now,” Adedamola said.
He explained that Joshua’s stay in the United Arab Emirates city is not permanent at the moment, especially because of security concerns linked to tensions in the Middle East.
According to him, the boxer moves in and out of the city depending on his schedule and situation.
“His staying there is on and off, and definitely, he won’t be there now,” he added.
Reports about Joshua’s relocation also appeared in company documents linked to his business empire, which is believed to be worth about £150 million. Filings for two of his companies – Sparta Promotions Limited and 258 Investments Limited – now list the United Arab Emirates as his country of residence.
Dubai has become a popular location for many wealthy Britons because the city does not charge income tax. This financial advantage has attracted several athletes and business figures in recent years.
The 36-year-old boxer, who was born in Watford and has Nigerian roots, first gained global attention when he won a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics.
Joshua has also visited Dubai many times for training and promotional activities. One of his most memorable moments in the city came in 2017 when he held a sparring session on the helipad of the famous Burj Al Arab hotel, hundreds of feet above the sea.
The move to Dubai also comes after a tragic road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in December, which claimed the lives of two of his close associates, personal trainer Kevin Ayodele and recovery therapist Sina Ghami.
The accident happened just days after Joshua knocked out Jake Paul in a boxing fight in Miami. The boxer suffered minor injuries in the crash and has been undergoing treatment and recovery.
His promoter, Eddie Hearn, recently said Joshua is not yet ready to return to full training and may step back into the ring around July.
Joshua has also made other investments in the region, including a luxury penthouse property in Oman, which is believed to be mainly for business or investment purposes rather than a permanent home.
