AfriPulse
Nigerian-British boxing superstar Anthony Joshua has ignited a storm of solidarity after a far-right backlash erupted over his decision to celebrate a recent victory with the Nigerian flag.
The controversy was triggered by Nick Buckley MBE, a far-right commentator, who derided Joshua’s gesture as “migrant ingratitude”—a remark that instantly drew widespread condemnation and accusations of racial prejudice. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of support for the former world heavyweight champion, as Nigerians at home and abroad rallied to defend his right to honour his heritage.
Born in Watford to Nigerian parents, Joshua has never hidden his pride in his roots, often embracing both sides of his identity. Supporters argue that celebrating Nigerian heritage does not diminish his British identity, pointing to his Olympic gold medal for Team GB and his immense contributions to British boxing.
Many critics described Buckley’s comments as racially charged and emblematic of a narrow view of belonging in a multicultural society. For Nigerians, Joshua’s act was more than a celebration it was a bold statement of identity, resilience, and pride in the face of intolerance.
As the debate rages on, the episode has once again thrust issues of race, immigration, and national identity in the UK into the spotlight, with Anthony Joshua emerging not just as a champion in the ring, but as a powerful symbol of dual heritage and unapologetic self-affirmation.
Source: FirstWeeklyMagazine | Read the Full Story…
