Former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has extended a heartfelt message of encouragement to British-Nigerian boxer Patricia Mbata as she vies for a spot on Team Nigeria for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
In a video shared by Mbata on Instagram, Joshua joined Finchley and District Amateur Boxing Club coach Sean Murphy in cheering on the middleweight fighter during her trials in Lagos.
Murphy kept his message simple: “Good luck, make sure you win.” Joshua echoed the sentiment, adding, “Well, as he said, make sure you win, but good luck. We are all rooting for you. Sending you love from London.”
Mbata, visibly touched by the support, expressed gratitude to her club and mentors.
“This isn’t just a boxing club; you’re not just coaches or teammates — you are family. I’m boxing this week to secure a spot for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2026. May God guide the way,” she wrote.
Both Mbata and Joshua share deep ties to Finchley ABC, the north London club where Joshua began his amateur career.
Mbata, of Nigerian descent, has often cited Joshua as an inspiration due to their shared philosophy and background in boxing.
Mbata’s career highlights include winning gold at the 2023 African Games in Accra, where she defeated IBA world champion Marbrouk Molka of Tunisia in the women’s 75kg final.
Joshua celebrated her victory publicly on Instagram, showing his support for her rising career.
The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games are scheduled from July 24 to August 1 at the SEC Centre.
Mbata now aims to continue her impressive trajectory and secure a place among the world’s elite boxers.
This gesture from Joshua underscores the importance of mentorship and solidarity in sports, inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue excellence on international stages.
