Anthony Joshua received a tremendous hero`s welcome, marked by a spectacular entrance, during his recent visit to Ghana for boxing engagements.
The two-time heavyweight world champion from Watford is currently on a global tour focused on rest and recovery, following his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September and subsequent elbow surgery.
The 35-year-old boxer has recently enjoyed luxurious trips to Oman, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia.
However, for an outdoor event on Friday night, he visited Bukom, a legendary hub of African boxing, and impressed the crowd by showcasing his MOTORBIKE skills.
Upon arriving at Kotoka airport in Accra, the nation`s capital, the London 2012 Olympic champion was greeted by throngs of enthusiastic fans waving flags and presenting flowers.
His arrival was welcomed by a traditional drum band and dancers. A local woman spontaneously embraced him tightly around the waist, and a young girl was lifted into his arms, held high above his imposing shoulder.
A young man then rode a scrambler motorbike directly to AJ and handed the vehicle over to the physically imposing boxer, who weighs 18 stone.
The motorcycle procession accompanying their hero caused temporary traffic delays, with some of the escorts performing daring wheelies along the route.
The proud British-Nigerian fighter also posed for photographs with the local police and military personnel assigned to provide security during his visit.
Later that evening, during what was his first visit to the country, AJ wore a Ghanaian scarf embroidered with `Akwaaba,` which means `welcome`.
Inside the Bukom boxing arena, he interacted warmly with fans, exchanging fist bumps, dancing, and even singing along.
Joshua also had the opportunity to meet and take pictures with Ghanaian boxing legend and former two-weight world champion Azumah Nelson, as well as connecting with Amir Khan.
Following the main event, where American Andrew Tabiti defeated Ghana`s Jacob Dickinson by fourth-round stoppage, AJ departed the arena on a motorbike again, with fans eagerly pursuing him for photographs.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has suggested a September return to the ring for Joshua, but this timeframe appears improbable.
Tyson Fury is currently occupied filming a Netflix series, putting the long-awaited two-fight rivalry that British fans have anticipated for nearly a decade on hold.
The heavyweight division`s landscape remains uncertain until WBA, WBC, and WBO champion Oleksandr Usyk and IBF titlist Daniel Dubois face off on July 19 at Wembley to determine the undisputed champion. This fight will likely influence how the titles are contested by other contenders.
Despite the decisive knockout loss to Dubois, Joshua continues to be a highly desirable figure for marketing and promotions.
Furthermore, the four major boxing sanctioning bodies would be eager to see him compete for one of their championship belts.
