At 35, Anthony Joshua remains one of the most iconic and disciplined figures in the world of boxing. With two-time heavyweight world champion status, global fame, and significant wealth, one might expect a lavish lifestyle surrounded by luxury, parties, and romantic escapades. However, the British-Nigerian boxer defies all stereotypes. Joshua still lives with his mother, Yeta Odusanya, and prioritizes family life over romantic relationships. This choice has captivated fans and critics alike, prompting the question: why does a man of his stature choose such a humble and family-centered lifestyle?

In this article, we dive deep into the motivations behind Joshua’s life choices, the meaning of family in his journey, and why he continues to reject love despite his popularity and charm.

The Powerful Bond Between Anthony Joshua and His Mother

Since rising to boxing fame, Anthony Joshua has remained grounded, attributing much of his discipline and strength to the influence of his mother. Yeta Odusanya, a Nigerian-born woman who raised Joshua largely on her own in Watford, England, has played a pivotal role in shaping his values and priorities.

In a 2020 interview, Joshua admitted that he still lives with his mother. At the time, this revelation stunned many fans who imagined the heavyweight champion residing in a luxury bachelor pad in central London or a mansion in Beverly Hills. But Joshua has always been different. According to the interview, his decision to continue living with his mother stems from a desire to stay close to his son, JJ, and preserve a strong family unit following his split with ex-girlfriend Nicole Osbourne, JJ’s mother.

He stated:

“I don’t really date. I prioritize my son and my mum. After everything, I just want to be around family.”

This powerful declaration isn’t just a reflection of his lifestyle—it’s a window into his emotional priorities, and why romantic relationships have taken a back seat.

Why Joshua Rejects Love and Avoids Relationships

The idea of Anthony Joshua—6’6″, chiseled physique, global sports superstar—rejecting romantic relationships seems counterintuitive in today’s celebrity culture. But Joshua’s reasoning is more philosophical than practical. He believes that romantic relationships can be a distraction, especially in a world as cutthroat and intense as professional boxing.

In various interviews, Joshua has hinted that being in a relationship would require more energy, time, and emotional investment than he’s willing to give at this stage in his life. He once explained:

“If I was married or had a girlfriend, she would want attention and time, which I couldn’t give because of boxing. My sport is very demanding.”

For Joshua, love comes second to purpose. His commitment to raising his son JJ and remaining present for his mother seems to replace what others might pursue in romantic companionship. In a world of fleeting relationships and public scandals, Joshua’s emotional discipline is rare and admirable.

Anthony Joshua’s Definition of Success: Family over Fame

While most athletes chase fortune and media attention, Anthony Joshua defines success through stability and family connection. After losing his heavyweight belts in the past and then regaining them, Joshua has never let triumph or failure shift his personal values.

He has made it clear that his family is his anchor. His mother is one of the first people he contacts after every fight, win or lose. That habit isn’t just routine—it reflects a deeply ingrained bond and respect for the woman who raised him. Living with her allows Joshua to stay connected to his roots and maintain balance in an otherwise chaotic and pressurized world.

Additionally, raising his son JJ has added a deeper purpose to his journey. The absence of romantic pursuits isn’t about lack of opportunity—far from it. Women adore him, tabloids have speculated about relationships, and yet Joshua stays firm. He sees being emotionally available for his son as the top priority.

“I want my son to grow up understanding real values. That starts at home,” he once said.

The Cultural Significance of Living with His Mother

In many African and immigrant communities, living with one’s parents even into adulthood is not only common but often a sign of respect, unity, and family strength. For Anthony Joshua, who has always embraced his Nigerian heritage, this cultural aspect plays a role in his lifestyle.

Rather than being seen as a man-child or someone avoiding independence, Joshua’s choice to live with his mother can be understood as a profound cultural and emotional decision. It echoes values such as filial piety, generational support, and collective living—values that are often lost in the Western ideal of independence and separation.

By choosing to stay with his mother, Joshua is not just making a personal choice—he’s honoring a cultural lineage that values family over individualism.

Public Reactions: Surprise, Admiration, and Curiosity

News of Anthony Joshua living with his mother at 35 drew mixed reactions across social media. Some were surprised, expecting the champ to be living a more traditional celebrity life. Others expressed admiration for his humility and grounded values.

Twitter users praised his commitment to family:

“AJ lives with his mum? That’s some king behavior right there.”

“People laugh at him for not dating, but he’s out here building legacy with his son.”

While a few critics questioned his emotional maturity, most applauded his decision. In an era where fame often leads to detachment and extravagance, Joshua’s simplicity feels revolutionary. It humanizes him and elevates his public image as someone not swayed by status or materialism.

Is Anthony Joshua Missing Out on Love?

Despite his noble reasons, some fans and analysts wonder if Joshua is unintentionally missing out on emotional growth and companionship that comes with love. Even elite athletes are human. Loneliness can creep in, and romantic intimacy can be a source of strength rather than distraction.

However, Joshua seems to have a long-term perspective. He hasn’t closed the door on love completely. He simply believes the time is not now. His current focus is legacy—both in boxing and fatherhood.

It’s possible that once his boxing career slows down or he retires, Joshua might open his heart to romantic possibilities. For now, however, his love is channeled through his family, his mother, and his son.

Celebrity vs. Private Life: Joshua’s Balancing Act

Another factor behind Joshua’s choice to avoid dating is privacy. He has stated before that romantic relationships often become too public, especially when you’re a high-profile figure. Paparazzi, tabloids, and internet rumors can easily distort or ruin what could be meaningful connections.

By staying away from dating in the public eye, Joshua protects not only his peace of mind but also the people he cares about. His ex-girlfriend, Nicole Osbourne, remains out of the spotlight, and their son JJ is also largely shielded from media intrusion.

This careful control of his narrative is smart and strategic. It allows him to maintain the image of a focused, loyal, and purpose-driven athlete—qualities that not only appeal to fans but also to sponsors and future legacy-building opportunities.

Conclusion: Anthony Joshua’s Lifestyle Is a Reflection of Strength, Not Weakness

Anthony Joshua’s decision to live with his mother at age 35 and reject romantic relationships may seem unconventional for a world champion. But beneath that simplicity lies a deep well of purpose, cultural pride, emotional maturity, and long-term vision.

He is a man guided not by fleeting pleasures, but by legacy, discipline, and love for family. Whether or not he eventually finds romantic love, one thing is clear: Joshua’s choices reflect strength in its most authentic form.

He’s not just fighting in the ring—he’s fighting for values that transcend boxing.