President Muhammadu Buhari celebrates the victory of Nigerian-born boxer, Anthony Joshua, over Jermaine Franklin, commending the triumph of the gifted pugilist over a formidable opponent.
Extolling the mentality of Joshua, who did not allow personal setbacks and obstacles to dent his resilient spirit, the President says the former three-time world heavyweight champion has demonstrated that by hard work, patience, dedication, persistence and humility, those who dare do win.
President Buhari lauds Joshua for his courage and discipline, on and off the ring, and prays that this success will be a stepping stone to one of the greatest comebacks in boxing history.
The President believes that the accomplishments of Joshua on the world stage will continue to inspire many upcoming professionals, particularly sportsmen and women, not to be discouraged by temporary defeats and setbacks.
He wishes Joshua a bright future and fulfilling career.
Anthony Joshua edged out Jermaine Franklin by decision in a cagey affair in London.
Joshua was returning to the ring for the first time since losing his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk last year, and a win was essential in order to get his heavyweight career back on track. Victory for ‘AJ’ would also set up potential clashes with the likes of Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder, and breathe new life into a world title challenge.
And it was indeed the Brit who had his hand raised but he was surprisingly taken the distance by the rugged American who refused to give the Briton an inch. The fight descended into chaos at the final bell with animosity between both teams, but Joshua reigned victorious with the scores of 118-111, 117-111, and 117-111 in his favour.
