British-Nigerian heavyweight Anthony Joshua could make his long-anticipated return to Nigeria for a homecoming bout in early 2026, with Abuja’s Moshood Abiola National Stadium identified as the proposed venue.
The plan was disclosed by Nigerian promoter Dr. Ezekiel Adamu, Chief Executive Officer of Balmoral Group and son of sports administrator Dr. Amos Adamu. He confirmed that discussions with Joshua’s team had reached an advanced stage.
“Joshua has always said that before he ends his career, he wants to fight in Nigeria, and we are going to make that fight happen,” Adamu told The Punch. “If we had an offer from Nigeria, it’s a match made in heaven.”
The promoter explained that the fight is being considered for the first quarter of 2026 and may involve an African opponent. Among the boxers being discussed are France’s Tony Yoka, Congo’s Martin Bakole, and former WBC champion Deontay Wilder, who has Nigerian heritage.
Adamu ruled out speculation that Ghana could host Joshua’s African debut, insisting Nigeria was the natural choice. “Joshua is Nigerian. Nigeria is the biggest market. It’s a no-brainer for him to fight here,” he said.
Joshua, born in Watford, England, has often spoken about his Nigerian roots. He spent part of his childhood in the country and has a tattoo of Nigeria’s map on his shoulder.
Adamu argued that Nigeria has both the infrastructure and market to stage global boxing events, noting that the forthcoming “Chaos in the Ring” card in Lagos on October 1 would serve as a preview of what the country can deliver.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has in the past raised the prospect of an African fight, but Adamu’s initiative is the closest step yet toward making it a reality. If confirmed, the contest would be the boxer’s first professional fight on Nigerian soil and could signal a new chapter for international boxing in Africa.
