Former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is preparing to leave the United Kingdom and establish residency in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, despite rising tensions in the Middle East.
The 36-year-old boxer reportedly confirmed his plan to become a UAE resident through official filings linked to his estimated £150 million business empire, where he was required to state his country of residence.
According to reports by the Daily Mail, the paperwork shows Joshua pressed ahead with the move even as regional tensions escalated due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The former two-time heavyweight champion, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, previously represented Great Britain and won gold at the 2012 London Olympics, a victory that helped launch his successful professional boxing career.
Joshua’s relocation to Dubai may also be influenced by financial considerations. The UAE city is a popular destination for wealthy athletes and entrepreneurs due to its luxury lifestyle, modern infrastructure, and zero income tax policy.
Records show Joshua received dividend payments of £10.1 million in 2024 and £6.3 million in 2023, which would normally be subject to taxation in the UK.