Buhari, Tinubu Hail Anthony Joshua’s Victory Over Franklin

President Muhammadu Buhari has hailed the victory of Nigerian-born boxer, Anthony Joshua, over Jermaine Franklin, commending the triumph of the gifted pugilist over a formidable opponent.
Joshua, a former world heavyweight champion, got back to winning ways on Saturday night at the 02 Arena in London with a unanimous decision win over Franklin.
The 33-year-old British-Nigerian heavyweight controlled the contest against the durable American but it was not the explosive early finish many expected and betting sites predicted.
The two-time champion won the match with the judges scorecards reading 118-111, 117-111, 117-111.
The British-Nigerian won the fight with his uppercuts landing the most damage as Franklin took all Joshua’s hit boldly refusing to fall.
It is Joshua’s first win in more than two years, having lost consecutive bouts to Oleksandr Usyk.
Joshua has now won 25 fights, with 22 stoppages, and lost three since turning professional in 2013.
It is a second defeat for Franklin, 29, having lost to Briton Dillian Whyte in November.
In a statement on Saturday night by the Special Adviser to the President, Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, Buhari said the Nigeria-born boxer’s resilient spirit was commendable.
Extolling the mentality of Joshua, who did not allow personal setbacks and obstacles to dent his resilient spirit, the President disclosed that the former three-time world heavyweight champion had demonstrated that by hard work, patience, dedication, persistence and humility, those who dared, would win.
President Buhari lauded Joshua for his courage and discipline, on and off the ring and prayed that his success would be a stepping stone to one of the greatest comebacks in boxing history.
The President believed that Joshua’s accomplishments on the world stage would continue to inspire many upcoming professionals, particularly sportsmen and women, not to be discouraged by temporary defeats and setbacks.
He wished Joshua a bright future and a fulfilling career.
Meanwhile, the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has also hailed Joshua on his victory, commending him for his determination and perseverance.
Tinubu in a tweet on Sunday said the country was proud of the boxer.
“Congratulations Champ! @AnthonyJoshua. Determination and perseverance always pay off. Nigeria is proud of you!”, the President-elect wrote.