March 10, (THEWILL) — Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has officially confirmed he is leaving the United Kingdom to become a resident of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
The 36-year-old boxer revealed the change in documents filed for his business empire, which is reportedly worth about £150 million. The paperwork required him to state his country of residence, which he listed as the UAE.
Joshua, who was born in Watford to parents of Nigerian heritage, rose to global fame after winning a gold medal for Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics. He later became a two-time unified heavyweight world champion.
The move follows a traumatic event on December 29, 2025, when Joshua survived a fatal car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria. The accident claimed the lives of two of his closest team members, personal trainer Latif “Latz” Ayodele and strength coach Sina Ghami.
Despite tensions in parts of the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, Dubai remains a popular destination for wealthy athletes and celebrities.
One major reason is the emirate’s tax system, which does not charge personal income tax. This makes it attractive to high-earning sports stars and entertainers.
Joshua’s companies include Sparta Promotions, which has recorded strong profits in recent years. As a UK resident, the boxer would have been liable for taxes on millions of pounds in dividend payments.
He joins a growing list of high-profile figures who have relocated to Dubai, including former boxing champion Amir Khan and Hollywood actress Lindsay Lohan.
Joshua continues to balance his boxing career with expanding business ventures outside the ring.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
