World boxing heavyweight champion, Anthony Joshua says claims that Nigeria denied him the chance to compete at the 2008 Olympic Games were untrue.
Claims had circulated that the British-Nigerian had offered to represent Nigeria at the global showpiece but was turned down on the excuse that he reached out after the trials had been concluded.
He turned out for Great Britain four years later in London, clinching a gold medal.
Joshua said he did not remember anything of the sort occurring.
The 31-year-old expressed confidence that Nigeria, just like Great Britain, would have given him the chance to fly its colours in the Olympics.
“I honestly can’t remember, I would have represented Nigeria, I represented Great Britain, I had no problem competing for Great Britain at that time, it was easy.
“I am sure Nigeria would have accepted me as well. I don’t think I have any issue, none that I can remember, but definitely, I would have competed for Nigeria as well. Nigeria would have definitely opened their arms and supported me for sure,” The Punch quoted the WBA, IBF and WBO titles holder as saying.
Joshua will defend his belts against Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev on December 12.
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