Nigerian-born world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua has revealed he has lost a close friend to the coronavirus pandemic that is currently raging across the world.
The two-time champ took to social media to reveal his thoughts, as he posted a video message of hope, support and condolences to those suffering due to the COVID-19 scourge, while also revealing the personal loss he has been hit with on account of the pandemic.
Joshua disclosed: “I’ve lost no one immediate to me but I’ve lost close ones from my boxing gym, a close friend, friend of friends. It gets serious when it starts coming closer to home. I want to send you my condolences and my love.
“To the people who are suffering with coronavirus, I wish you a speedy recovery because it is no joke. To the ones who have lost loved ones, I want to say keep your head up. You’ve got my love, blessings to you and your family and condolences.
“I would love to be out there right now doing the most – on my dirt bikes, meeting up with my boys, sparring, going down the boxing gym. But even a rebel like me is trying to follow some guidelines, trying to do the right thing. Really, it’s just a message to say you’ve got my support. I’m with you through this. We’re all doing the right thing.”
Joshua is scheduled to defend his IBF, WBA and WBO titles against Bulgaria’s Kubrat Pulev at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on June 20, but the bout increasingly appears vulnerable to postponement, went on to give accolades to all health workers for their efforts during this tough times, and urged people to abide by all lockdown measures.
