British-Nigerian boxing icon Anthony Joshua has voiced his astonishment at the realities of Ghana, challenging preconceived notions he says were shaped by misleading narratives from fellow Nigerians.
The two-time unified heavyweight champion made the comments during a visit to Accra for the Legacy Rise Sports: Battle of the Beasts event, held on June 13, 2025.
Joshua admitted he had not initially planned to include Ghana in his itinerary, largely due to the perception—commonly promoted in Nigeria—that Ghana is inferior. That perception quickly changed once he arrived.
“Coming to Ghana actually wasn’t on my agenda. 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,” Joshua candidly said during a courtesy call on former President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House on June 16.
Since landing in Accra, Joshua has immersed himself in local life—appearing in markets, meeting with leaders, and participating in cultural experiences. His trip, organised under the initiative of Sharaf Mahama, offered him a fresh perspective on Ghana’s vibrancy and hospitality.
The boxer spoke glowingly of the country’s infrastructure and cultural warmth. “I’m impressed with your beautiful country, 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,” he added.
In recognition of his support for the development of sports in Ghana, especially boxing, Joshua received a Honda motorbike from prominent businessman Ibrahim Mahama. Valued between $10,000 and $18,000, the gift symbolised appreciation for Joshua’s involvement in Sharaf Mahama’s Legacy Rise Sports initiative.
Riding through the streets of Accra on the motorbike, Joshua’s excitement was captured in a video shared online by content creator KingBygone, showcasing a side of the champion rarely seen in public.
The gesture from Ibrahim Mahama not only highlighted his commitment to nurturing sports in Ghana but also underscored the country’s growing appeal as a destination of culture, progress, and international relevance—something Joshua now intends to share with the world.
