The President and President-elect of Nigeria have led the plaudits from fans in Nigeria for Anthony Joshua after the British-Nigerian claimed an unanimous decision victory over Jermaine Franklin at the 02 Arena in London on Saturday night.
It is Joshua’s first win in more than two years, having lost consecutive bouts to Oleksandr Usyk.
President Muhammadu Buhari, President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu, musician, Peter Okoye of P-Square are among Nigerians to have congratulated the 33-year-old after his victory over the American.
President Buhari wrote on his official Twitter handle, “I celebrate Anthony Joshua’s victory over a formidable opponent. He has demonstrated that through hard work, dedication, discipline, persistence, and humility, those who dare do win. I pray that this will be a stepping stone to one of the greatest comebacks in boxing history.
President-elect Tinubu also hailed him on the social media platform writing, “Congratulations Champ! Anthony Joshua. Determination and perseverance always pays off. Nigeria is proud of you!”
PDP’s 2023 Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar also sent praises Joshua’s way, “Congratulations, Anthony Joshua, on your impressive victory over Jermaine Franklin by a unanimous decision. This is a testament to your hard work, dedication, and skill. Keep shining.”
Veteran music artiste Mr. P also praised Joshua’s victory writing, “Congratulations champ.”
Popular OAP, Chuma Nnoli said while he was pleased with Joshua’s win, he wishes he had won in a more decisive manner, “I’m happy Anthony Joshua beat Jermaine Franklin last night. But after back-to-back defeats earlier, I wish he had won by Knock Out to send a statement to Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder.”
Joshua called out Tyson Fury after the win on Sunday but a Nigerian supporter, Tobi wrote on his Twitter account with the handle, @tobi__ay, “Big ups to Anthony Joshua but if fury should catch youu.”
Joshua lost his WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO titles to Ukrainian pugilist Oleksandr Usyk in 2021. The 33-year-old locked horns with Usyk in a rematch last August, but he still failed to defeat the Ukrainian.
Nonetheless, Joshua returned to the ring after a seven-month break in a bout against Franklin in London.
Joshua totally dominated the fight albeit he failed to knock out the American in twelve rounds. He won the bout by unanimous decision, defeating his American opponent 118-111, 117-111, 117-111.
This is the first step in a long road for Joshua as he eyes the tough goal of becoming three-time champion.
