Anthony Joshua has decided to leave the United Kingdom and relocate to Dubai, despite the ongoing conflict in the United Arab Emirates. The 36-year-old former heavyweight world champion, originally from Watford with Nigerian roots, achieved gold at the 2012 London Olympics representing Great Britain. According to reports from the Daily Mail, Joshua is shifting his residency to the UAE, as indicated in documents filed for his £150m business empire.
The move by Joshua has been confirmed even amidst the tensions involving the USA, Israel, and Iran. Recent attacks by Iran using missiles and drones on the UAE have prompted over 100,000 Britons to leave the region and return home to the UK. While Dubai’s attractive weather and amenities lure many expatriates, its appeal is further enhanced by the absence of income tax, a significant benefit for the wealthy. Joshua would have faced UK tax obligations on his substantial earnings in the coming years.
In a surprising turn of events, Joshua’s company, Sparta Promotions, reported significant profits and paid considerable UK taxes in recent years. The decision to relocate coincides with Rio Ferdinand and Kate Ferdinand sharing their experiences of living in Dubai during the tense US-Iran conflict. Despite the unsettling circumstances, Kate reassured followers of their safety following missile strikes in Dubai.
Joshua is joining a growing list of celebrities moving to Dubai, joining the likes of former boxer Amir Khan and Hollywood star Lindsey Lohan.