'Nigeria is proud of you' - President-elect Bola Tinubu congratulates Anthony Joshua on victory against Jermaine Franklin
Nigerian accountant and politician Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a congratulatory message on social media.
Tinubu a former Lagos State governor has praised English professional boxer of Nigerian descent Anthony Oluwafemi Joshua.
Joshua recorded a unanimous decision victory against American professional boxer Jermaine Franklin at the 02 Arena in London late on Saturday, April 1, 2023.
Tinubu who recently celebrated his 71st birthday is out of the country but did not miss Joshua's first win in two years after he suffered back-to-back defeats against Oleksandr Usyk.
Tinubu and Joshua have a history
Tinubu met Joshua while he held the WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight boxing titles.
There have been videos on social media of Joshua celebrating Tinubu's birthday in the past.
Now Tinubu recently emerged as the president-elect following the Nigerian general elections.
Joshua targets a return to the top of the heavyweight division and victory against Franklin was a step in that direction.
Tinubu celebrates Anthony Joshua's victory
Tinubu recognized Joshua's return to winning ways for the first time since 2021 with a message on his official social media platforms.
The message to the former champion posted by Tinubu said, "Congratulations Champ! @AnthonyJoshua.
"Determination and perseverance always pays off. Nigeria is proud of you! I am proud of you!."
The message by Tinubu went viral on Twitter with positive and negative reactions from supporters and members of rival parties.
Joshua has reiterated his ambition to become a three-time heavyweight champion and is already making plans to do so.
After the fight against Franklin, Joshua called out English professional boxer and reigning WBC heavyweight title holder Tyson Fury.
08:21 - 02.04.2023
Anthony Joshua calls out Tyson Fury after victory against Jermaine Franklin
Anthony Joshua wants heavyweight showdown against Tyson Fury after comeback win against Jermaine Franklin.
Fury was unable to agree to an undisputed fight with Usyk who holds the IBF, IBO, WBA, and WBO heavyweight titles.
A fight between Joshua and Fury now appears to be next with Matchroom boxing and Queensbury promotions already negotiating.
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