“There’s a Life After Sports”: Ahead of Fight in Saudi Arabia, Anthony Joshua Gives the Best Piece of Advice He Learnt as a Boxer

Published 12/14/2023, 6:30 AM EST

Anthony Joshua is making a comeback in the heavyweight rankings following consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk. Joshua’s upcoming fight has now been confirmed. He is ready to face Swedish heavyweight Otto Wallin in Saudi Arabia this December 23rd. The bout is scheduled for the same night as Deontay Wilder‘s fight against Joseph Parker.

Anthony has held the title of unified WBO, IBF, and WBA heavyweight champion on two occasions in the past. After serving time in prison and attending a boarding school in Nigeria, Joshua was motivated by Tyson’s journey and went on to become the heavyweight champion. All these hurdles and years of being in the boxing industry have taught Joshua some tough lessons.

What is the best piece of advice Anthony Joshua has for other boxers?

In an interview with Laura Woods on TNT Sports Boxing, Joshua revealed the most important learning he acquired during these years. He learned the importance of having a backup plan. The industry may not offer as much support as one might perceive.” I learnt to make sure you have something to fall back on because the industry doesn’t love you as much as you think, “ said Joshua.

Relying solely on boxing and its fans for a livelihood can sometimes prove dangerous. Therefore, it’s crucial to seize opportunities while one can and develop a business mindset. “What I learnt is to have your business head on because there’s a life after sports and you got to be switched on”. Many boxers such as Mike Tyson, Floyd Mayweather and Joe Fournier ventured into business after their boxing career

How successful are the businesses former boxers built?

In 2006, Mayweather ventured into business by establishing Mayweather Promotions, a move that marked his initial major investment. Under the leadership of CEO Leonard Ellerbe, Mayweather collaborated with industry professionals to build his boxing enterprise. Mayweather Promotions has since expanded its roster to include notable fighters such as WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis, Badou Jack, Andrew Tabiti, Ronald Gavril, and other promising boxers.

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Similarly, Joe Fournier found success in the business world by establishing a popular gym business. He later sold it in 2010 for a significant profit to FTSE 100. Rather than splurging the proceeds, Fournier wisely invested in nightclubs, now owning five establishments, including Whiskey Mist, The Rose Club, BonBonniere London, Streaky Gin, and Bonbonniere Mykonos. In addition to his ventures, Fournier has authored books, further contributing to his financial success.

Despite his iconic status as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers, 57-year-old Mike Tyson faced financial challenges, filing for bankruptcy in 2003. However, he reportedly generates £500K per month through one of his current business endeavors, Tyson 2.0, the cannabis brand.

How important do you think it is for athletes to build a second hustle? Most of them have ventured into businesses after their boxing days. However, there are some who have already started investing their finances while also actively participating in championships. Do you think it interferes with training?

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Written by:

The Greatest aka Muhammad Ali would always say, “We can’t be brave without fear.” I am a Boxing author at EssentiallySports and was first drawn to the boxing gym when a friend of mine came to meet me with her hand wraps still on. After arranging enough resources, I joined the gym and eventually tried my hand at MMA as well.

Edited by:

Arijit Saha