Beyond the roar of the crowd and the glory of the boxing ring, former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua nurtures a profoundly personal role that grounds him: being a father. While his power and aggressiveness have made him an international sporting icon, it is his journey of parenthood that has deeply shaped his perspective and sense of responsibility.
The Private Life of a Public Figure
In 2015, when Joshua was 25 years old, he welcomed his first and only child, a son named Joseph Bayley Temiloluwa Prince Joshua, who is lovingly called JJ. Despite his global fame, Joshua has successfully shielded his son from the public eye. He co-parents JJ with his ex-girlfriend, Nicole Osbourne, who works as a dance teacher and yoga instructor.
A Name Rich in Meaning and Culture
The boxer's son carries a name that reflects a beautiful blend of heritage and values. The first name, Joseph, is of Hebrew origin and traditionally means "God will add," symbolizing growth and abundance. The second name, Temiloluwa, has Yoruba roots and translates to "I belong to God," representing deep faith and spiritual devotion. Together, these names highlight a family ethos centered on gratitude, belief, and cultural fusion.
Fatherhood: A New Kind of Strength
Although Joshua keeps JJ's life private, he occasionally shares glimpses of their warm bond. The pair are often seen enjoying quality time together, whether it's traveling on holidays, swimming, playing sports, or simply engaging in leisure activities. These moments paint a picture of a devoted and affectionate father-son relationship.
In a revealing 2018 interview with GQ, Joshua opened up about how becoming a father transformed him. He stated that while boxing taught him self-belief, fatherhood made him believe in life itself. "Having a kid has made me more responsible, more aware of life itself," Joshua explained. "Boxing made me realize I believe in myself, and now I realize I believe in life as well."
For the champion, parenthood is a shared journey of discovery. He cherishes the simple, intimate moments—cuddling his son, playing with him, and allowing JJ to explore his own identity. Joshua views these experiences as the most meaningful, whether they involve playful boxing, wrestling, or just being present together.
Anthony Joshua's story is a powerful reminder that behind the discipline and competition of a world-class athlete lies a man whose greatest source of strength and awareness often comes from the quiet, loving moments of family life.
