From Bricklayer To Boxing Icon: 10 Surprising Facts About Anthony Joshua You Probably Didn't Know

From Bricklayer To Boxing Icon: 10 Surprising Facts About Anthony Joshua You Probably Didn't Know

By Niyi Busari 

BSNSports.com.ng takes a look at temn surprising facts about Anthony Joshua that many who knew him didn't know about.

Anthony Joshua, one of the most recognizable figures in modern boxing, has built an illustrious career defined by power, discipline, and resilience. But beyond the world titles and stadium sellouts, the British heavyweight has a story filled with surprising twists and personal depth. Here are ten lesser-known facts about the former unified world champion:

1. A Proud Heritage

Joshua’s full name is Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua, a reflection of his Nigerian heritage. He frequently acknowledges his Yoruba roots and maintains strong ties with Nigeria, often visiting and engaging with local communities.

2. A Late Start to Stardom

Unlike many in the sport, Joshua began boxing relatively late — at 18 years old. Remarkably, within just four years, he captured Olympic gold at the London 2012 Games, launching a meteoric rise in the heavyweight division.

3. From Bricklaying to Boxing

Before stepping into the ring, Joshua worked as a bricklayer. His journey from building construction sites to headlining world championship bouts in packed stadiums is a modern sports fairytale.

4. Elite Speed at Heavyweight

Despite weighing over 100kg, Joshua once ran the 100-meter sprint in just 11 seconds, showcasing the rare combination of size and speed that defines his fighting style.

5. A Turnaround Story

Early in his career, Joshua faced legal trouble and was placed on a police curfew, even wearing an ankle monitor. The same leg that bore the tag would later carry him to Olympic glory — a symbol of his personal transformation.

6. Giving Back to the Sport

After suffering his first professional defeat to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019, Joshua donated much of his fight gear to charity auctions, raising funds to support grassroots boxing initiatives across the UK.

7. Record-Breaking Crowds

Joshua has fought in front of more than 90,000 fans at Wembley Stadium — one of the largest live audiences in boxing history — during his 2017 bout with Wladimir Klitschko.

8. A Life of Discipline

Known for his clean lifestyle, Joshua does not drink or smoke. He’s intensely focused on his diet, training, and recovery, often crediting his disciplined routine for his longevity in the sport.

9. A Student of Strategy

Away from the ring, Joshua enjoys playing chess — a hobby he believes enhances his strategic thinking and helps him anticipate opponents' moves during fights.

10. Success with Humility

With career earnings reportedly exceeding $200 million, Joshua remains grounded, often referring to himself as a “humble kid from Watford.” His humility continues to endear him to fans around the world.