A resurfaced photograph of British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua praying inside a mosque has triggered a fresh wave of intense online debate about his religious beliefs. The image, which features Joshua alongside his late friend Latif Ayodele, went viral on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), following a tragic road accident that claimed two lives.
The Viral Photo and Joshua's Stance on Faith
The picture, originally posted by user Joseph Muztich, shows Anthony Joshua actively participating in a prayer session within a mosque. This visual immediately led many to question whether the sports icon had converted to Islam. However, reports and Joshua's own past statements confirm he is not a practising Muslim.
In a previous interview, the IBF titlist clarified his personal approach to spirituality. "I don't have a preferred religion: I'd have to do research," Joshua stated. He elaborated, "I was born a Christian, but as I've grown into my own man I don't attach myself to a religion; 100 per cent I have faith. Then it's locking into what suits me." This explanation positions Joshua as someone with strong personal faith who remains open to exploring different religious paths without formal allegiance to one.
Mixed Reactions and Broader Social Commentary
The circulation of the mosque photo elicited a storm of mixed reactions across social media. While some users praised Joshua for his gesture of respect and his open-minded spiritual journey, others criticised his attendance at the mosque, questioning his sincerity and commitment.
The conversation quickly expanded beyond the boxer's personal beliefs, morphing into a wider debate about the intersection of religion, public life, and sports figures in Nigeria. Observers noted that Joshua's case highlights how celebrities are rarely seen outside the lens of broader socio-political and religious discussions. His simple act of prayer was interpreted in myriad ways, reflecting the deeply personal and often divisive nature of faith in the public sphere.
Fact Check: Respect, Not Conversion
It is crucial to separate fact from the speculation fueled by the viral image. Anthony Joshua has not identified as a Muslim. The resurfaced photo is a snapshot of a moment where he was engaging with Islamic practices, which aligns with his stated philosophy of exploring faith. It serves as evidence of his willingness to learn and show respect for diverse religious traditions, not as a declaration of conversion.
The online debate underscores how quickly images can be misinterpreted and how discussions about religion continue to generate powerful reactions, especially when linked to globally recognised personalities like Anthony Joshua.
Context of the Photo's Resurgence: The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Tragedy
The photo regained attention in the wake of a devastating accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that involved the boxer and resulted in the death of two individuals, including his friend Latif Ayodele who appears in the mosque picture. This 127.6 km highway, connecting Lagos, Ogun, and Oyo States, is notoriously one of the busiest and most dangerous roads in Nigeria. The tragic event brought the personal lives and histories of those involved, including Joshua's spiritual journey, into sharp public focus once again.
