In a candid interview, British boxing champion Anthony Joshua has opened up about his choice to continue living with his mother at the age of 34.
Joshua, a two-time world champion, disclosed his reasons for residing in his mother’s two-bedroom ex-council flat, despite his substantial earnings, and expressed his firm stance on family values.
Having moved back into his mother’s home in 2017 after a lucrative victory over Wladimir Klitschko that earned him an estimated £15 million, Joshua remains unswayed by societal expectations.
In a conversation with journalist Louis Theroux, Joshua emphasized the deep bond he shares with his family, particularly his mother, Yeta Odusanya.
“In our culture, supporting our parents is a fundamental aspect of our upbringing,” Joshua explained during the interview with the BBC.
“I choose to live with my mum because family is paramount. I won’t leave her alone just for the sake of a relationship. When someone gets involved with me, they’re embracing my entire family, not just me.”
Despite his public profile, Joshua prefers to keep his personal life private, acknowledging the immense pressure that comes with fame.
He expressed his reluctance to conform to external expectations, highlighting the scrutiny public figures often face.
“Maintaining a private life is essential for my well-being,” Joshua stated. “The constant scrutiny and pressure can be overwhelming. People tend to build you up, only to tear you down.”
Joshua, who is not currently in a public relationship, revealed that he had previously been in an on-off relationship with Nicole Osbourne, the mother of his child.
He had even purchased a £500,000 flat near his mother’s residence for her.
Despite his past relationships, Joshua remains resolute in his commitment to his family, emphasizing the significance of his bond with his mother and his determination to maintain it above all else.
