Anthony Joshua’s journey from the streets of Watford to the pinnacle of heavyweight boxing is not solely his own; it is a story deeply intertwined with the unwavering support of his family. Born on October 15, 1989, in Hertfordshire, England, Joshua’s roots stretch back to Nigeria, a heritage that has profoundly influenced his life and career. Despite facing challenges such as four losses in his last ten fights, his determination to rise again is undeterred, thanks in large part to his family’s unwavering support.

After his parents divorced when he was 12, Joshua’s mother took on the role of raising him single-handedly, while his father remained a steadfast supporter from a distance. His siblings and a cousin, who now serves as his bodyguard, form a close-knit circle that has been crucial to his success. This familial bond is a testament to Joshua’s strong ties to his Nigerian-Yoruba heritage, which is reflected in his British-Nigerian identity. His childhood visits to Nigeria and the family memories he shares on social media highlight this connection.

As Joshua prepares for his next challenge against Jake Paul, it is his personal life that often captures the spotlight. His role as a father to his son JJ and his loyalty to his family showcase achievements that go beyond his boxing career. Despite the end of his remarkable 22-fight knockout streak, his resilience and the support of his loved ones have never wavered.

Anthony Joshua Parents: Yeta Odusanya Strength

Yeta Odusanya, Joshua’s mother, emigrated from Nigeria to the UK, where Anthony was born. Following her separation from Anthony’s father, Robert, she became the cornerstone of his life. A social worker in London, Yeta has always been there for her son, sharing in his victories and providing comfort during his trials. Joshua often speaks of her as his top priority, expressing gratitude for her unwavering presence through life’s ups and downs. His boxing success has enabled him to give back to her, swapping luxurious vacations for meaningful charity events in the UK.

Yeta’s determination and work ethic have inspired Joshua from a young age, driving him from playing football on Meriden Estate to pursuing boxing at Finchley ABC at the age of 18. Her Yoruba lineage, which includes his aristocratic grandparents James A. Odusanya and Olufunmilayo Solanke, adds a layer of pride to his heritage. Even after setbacks like his defeat to Andy Ruiz Jr., Yeta remains a source of motivation and strength for Joshua, standing by him at ringside and symbolizing the unwavering support that has been pivotal throughout his career. In her presence, he finds a sense of freedom and security that transcends the boxing ring.

Robert Joshua: Father Nigerian Roots Bond

Robert Joshua, of Nigerian-Irish descent, parted ways yet stayed the family’s backbone, returning to Nigeria post-divorce but fueling Anthony’s competitive fire. The boxer recalls his dad’s nonstop support in tough times during Bear Grylls chats, nicknaming him “Josh” or “Big guy” for that unbreaking spirit. Paternal grandparents Isaac Joshua and Moya V. Harper tie into those roots, sending young Anthony to Ikenne boarding school before UK return for Kings Langley.

Despite distance, Robert showed at 2019 Ruiz loss, clashing with promoters afterward; Joshua honors him publicly, blending British birth with African childhood. That heritage shines in his self-definition as British-Nigerian, linking fights to family endurance. Recent career dips haven’t severed ties—the old man remains integral, proving blood outlasts belts.​

Anthony Joshua Siblings: Janet Jacob Loretta Ties

Janet Joshua, eldest sister and mom of two, cheers quietly from fights, shunning spotlights for private life while backing her brother’s path. Jacob, the brother, raps as “Jacobtheplvg,” drops tracks, and hypes Anthony ringside, featured in social hangs with the crew. Loretta rounds the trio, all captured in throwback snaps dancing pre-social media, captioned “family over everything” by AJ.

They bond tight, supporting through Olympic glory to pro undefeated runs and later heartbreaks like Ruiz. Little public detail emerges—Janet stays low-key, Jacob pushes music, Loretta shadows strong—yet that unit bolsters the champ’s focus. Throwbacks show youthful unity, echoing now as he eyes relaunches; siblings provide the steady pulse amid boxing chaos.​

Ben Ileyemi: Joshua Cousin Boxing Spark

Ben Ileyemi, the cousin, sparked Anthony’s 2007 boxing entry at Finchley ABC, turning pro together in 2013 with two wins and a draw for Ben. Now bodyguard and confidant, he spars tough—like pre-Takam sessions—and sticks through highs like Klitschko wars or lows post-defeats.

That gym motivation persists, family pulling him from novice to silver at 2011 Worlds, then London Olympic gold. Ben embodies the inner circle transcending ropes, guarding during glory and spirals. Joshua’s nods highlight how such kin turned street kid into heavyweight force, their duo debut marking shared dreams realized—or adjusted.​

Joshua Son JJ: Fatherhood Life Shift

Joseph “JJ” Joshua arrived October 2015 via ex Nicole Osbourne, yoga instructor and high school link, in a Finchley penthouse AJ bought. Fatherhood flipped his view—”think future, better person”—keeping JJ media-free, prioritizing school over gloves. The kid inspires daily, amid Joshua’s dad duties blending with training camps.

Post-birth, mindset sharpened, fueling resilience through title losses; he shields that joy fiercely. One layer deeper in family web, JJ represents hope echoing louder than bells.​