Former Heavyweight Champion, Anthony Joshua Relocates to Dubai
British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua has relocated to Dubai, shifting his business empire and residence from the UK. Here’s why the former heavyweight champion made the move and what it means for his career.
Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua has reportedly relocated his primary residence from the United Kingdom to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, a move that has sparked widespread discussion across the sports and business worlds.
The decision, confirmed through corporate filings linked to Joshua’s business interests, marks a significant shift in the life of one of boxing’s most recognizable global figures. At 36, the Olympic gold medalist and two-time heavyweight champion is not only a major athlete but also the head of a growing commercial empire valued at roughly £150 million (over ₦280 billion). (Businessday NG)
The relocation to Dubai reflects a combination of business strategy, lifestyle choices, and career considerations as Joshua looks toward the next chapter of his professional and personal life.
Corporate Filings Reveal New UAE Residency
The news of Joshua’s relocation emerged from official documents for his companies, Sparta Promotions Limited and 258 Investments Limited, in which the boxer updated his place of residence to the United Arab Emirates.
Such filings are mandatory for company directors in the United Kingdom and must accurately reflect their country of residence.
According to reports, the change confirms that Dubai - long a frequent destination for Joshua’s training camps and business meetings - has now become his primary base. (Nairametrics)
For many observers, the move represents more than a lifestyle change; it is a strategic repositioning of Joshua’s global business operations.
Financial Considerations Behind the Move
One of the biggest motivations behind Joshua’s relocation appears to be financial.
Dubai has become a magnet for wealthy entrepreneurs, athletes, and celebrities largely because the emirate does not impose personal income tax. This policy can significantly reduce the tax burden for high-earning individuals.
Joshua previously received £10.1 million in dividends in 2024 and £6.3 million in 2023, income that would normally be subject to taxation under the United Kingdom’s system, which includes rates of up to 45 percent for top earners.
His promotional company, Sparta Promotions, also generated profits exceeding £20 million in 2024, paying approximately £6.65 million in UK corporate taxes during that period. (Business Insider Africa)
By relocating to Dubai, Joshua may benefit from the emirate’s favourable tax environment, allowing him to retain a larger share of his income and reinvest it into his business ventures.
Move Comes Amid Regional Tensions
Interestingly, Joshua’s relocation comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Recent weeks have seen drone and missile attacks linked to the escalating conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, with some strikes targeting areas within the United Arab Emirates. (The Nation Newspaper)
Despite the security concerns, the boxing star appears determined to proceed with his relocation plans.
Reports indicate that thousands of British nationals have considered leaving the region because of the conflict, yet Joshua has chosen to maintain his UAE residency status. (Nairaland)
Family Confirms the Relocation
The move has also been confirmed by members of Joshua’s family. According to his uncle, Adedamola Joshua, the boxer relocated to Dubai months ago, although his stay in the emirate may be periodic rather than permanent during periods of heightened tension. (Punch Newspapers)
“He has already moved to Dubai… talking of months back now,” his uncle said in comments to local media.
The confirmation helped put to rest speculation surrounding the boxing star’s residency status after the corporate filings surfaced.
Dubai’s Growing Appeal to Global Athletes
Joshua is far from the first elite athlete to establish a base in Dubai. The emirate has increasingly become a hub for international sports figures due to its favorable tax policies, luxury lifestyle, world-class training facilities, and strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa
Joshua himself has maintained a close relationship with Dubai for years, frequently visiting the city for training camps, promotional events, and leisure activities.
In 2017, the boxer even staged a publicity sparring session on the helipad of the iconic Burj Al Arab, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the UAE.
The move, therefore, represents an expansion of a relationship that has been developing over the past decade.
Personal Challenges and Career Reset
Joshua’s relocation also comes after a difficult period in his personal life. In late December 2025, the boxer was involved in a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close associates - his personal trainer and recovery therapist.
Joshua survived the crash with minor injuries but has since been undergoing rehabilitation, including treatment for rib injuries. The emotional impact of the incident reportedly forced the heavyweight star to reconsider aspects of his career and personal life.
Moving to Dubai could therefore represent both a professional and personal reset as he prepares for his next chapter in boxing.
What It Means for Joshua’s Boxing Future
Despite the relocation, Joshua is not expected to step away from professional boxing. Promoter Eddie Hearn has indicated that the former champion is targeting a return to the ring later in 2026, once he has completed his recovery and resumed full training.
Dubai could also serve as a convenient base for international training camps, sponsorship deals, and global boxing events.
With the heavyweight division currently dominated by stars such as Oleksandr Usyk, Tyson Fury, and rising contenders across Europe and the United States, Joshua’s next fights will likely be closely watched by fans and promoters alike.
A Strategic New Chapter
Ultimately, Anthony Joshua’s relocation to Dubai reflects the evolving reality of modern professional athletes who increasingly operate as global entrepreneurs.
Beyond the boxing ring, Joshua has built a commercial empire spanning promotions, endorsements, and investments. Establishing a base in Dubai places him in one of the world’s fastest-growing financial and sporting hubs.
Whether the move proves to be purely strategic or marks a deeper lifestyle shift remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that the British-Nigerian boxing star is entering a new phase of his career - one that extends far beyond the heavyweight division.