Following the defeat suffered by Jermaine Franklin in the hands of Anthony Joshua, accolades have continued to troop in on the Victory recorded by Joshua.
This comes as President Muhammad Buhari described the scenario as a stepping stone to one of the greatest comebacks in the history of boxing.
Joshua got his winning gloves back on Saturday night after a unanimous points win over American, Franklin, at the London 02 Arena.
Joshua was given the win by 118-111, 117-111, 117-111 on the scorecards of the three judges after the 12th round fight.
This was Joshua’s first win in over two years, after losing consecutive bouts to WBA (Super), IBF and WBO world champion Oleksandr Usyk
In a statement on Saturday, Buhari lauded the victory of Nigerian-born boxer, Joshua over a formidable opponent.
Extolling the mentality of Joshua, who did not allow personal setbacks and obstacles to dent his resilient spirit, the President said the former three-time world heavyweight champion has demonstrated that by hard work, patience, dedication, persistence and humility, those who dare do win.
Buhari applauded Joshua for his courage and discipline, on and off the ring, and prayed that this success will be a stepping stone to one of the greatest comebacks in boxing history.
The President believed that “the accomplishments of Joshua on the world stage will continue to inspire many upcoming professionals, particularly sportsmen and women, not to be discouraged by temporary defeats and setbacks”.
He, however, wished Joshua a bright future and fulfilling career
In the same development, the presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar also in his congratulatory message on Saturday via his facebook handle said: “Congratulations to Anthony Joshua on the impressive victory over Jermaine Franklin by a unanimous decision. This is a testament to your hard work, dedication, and skill. Keep shining.”