Anthony Joshua is globally known for his knockout power, Olympic gold medal, and multiple reigns as world heavyweight champion. But during this year’s Easter celebration, the British-Nigerian boxing superstar revealed a softer, more cultural side of himself. Trading boxing gloves for drumsticks, Joshua was seen embracing traditional Yoruba drumming while paying homage to Oba Onikoyi in a rare, heartfelt visit to his ancestral roots. The gesture surprised fans and sparked widespread admiration across social media and international news outlets.

This move wasn’t just about music—it was about identity, family, and reconnecting with a rich cultural legacy. From champion boxer to ceremonial drummer, Anthony Joshua’s Easter journey symbolized personal transformation and a deep respect for tradition.

A Cultural Homecoming: Easter celebration in Nigeria

While many elite athletes spend their time off in lavish resorts or secluded training camps, Anthony Joshua chose a different path. During the 2025 Easter break, Joshua flew to Nigeria to visit his family, particularly to spend time with his parents and elders in the community. But this wasn’t just a family vacation—it was a cultural pilgrimage.

Joshua was spotted in the company of royal figures and local leaders in Lagos State as he paid a visit to Oba Onikoyi, a revered traditional ruler of the Yoruba people. Dressed in regal agbada attire and adorned with beads signifying royalty and respect, AJ didn’t arrive as a celebrity or sports icon—he arrived as a son of the soil.

In a symbolic moment that captured hearts online, he joined traditional drummers in playing the talking drum, a deeply spiritual and communicative Yoruba instrument. Videos showed Joshua smiling as he followed the rhythm, visibly honored to participate in this sacred cultural practice. His drumming was not just performance—it was a humble gesture of unity with his heritage.

From Champion to Cultural Ambassador: Why this moment mattered

For many fans in the diaspora, Anthony Joshua represents the dream of international success. But with his Easter visit, he reminded the world that roots and traditions still matter—even to the most celebrated global figures.

Joshua’s appearance alongside Oba Onikoyi was more than ceremonial—it was deeply symbolic. The Oba is considered a custodian of culture and tradition, and AJ’s visit was an act of homage to the legacy of his ancestors. It was also a recognition of the importance of Yoruba culture, which includes drumming, oral traditions, and ancestral reverence.

While many celebrities focus solely on their image, Joshua used his platform to elevate a conversation around identity. “Coming home is not just about relaxing,” he said during the visit. “It’s about remembering where you came from, giving back, and staying connected.”

This wasn’t the first time Joshua showcased his Nigerian heritage. He’s worn traditional fabrics before, publicly spoken about his roots, and even visited local boxing gyms in Lagos to inspire youth. But the drumming moment struck a different chord—it highlighted that the heavyweight boxer has also become a cultural bridge between continents.

The Symbolism of the Talking Drum: Connecting rhythm and legacy

The talking drum, or “Gangan,” is one of the most iconic instruments in Yoruba culture. It doesn’t just produce sound—it “speaks.” In the hands of a skilled drummer, it can mimic the tonal patterns of human speech, conveying stories, praise songs, or warnings. For Anthony Joshua to hold and play such an instrument, especially in the presence of a royal figure, was profoundly meaningful.

It’s no coincidence that a man whose career relies on rhythm, timing, and precision would be drawn to this percussive art form. The act of drumming served as a spiritual metaphor: as he has mastered timing in the ring, so too could he respect timing in cultural tradition. The symbolism didn’t go unnoticed—fans and cultural commentators praised him for honoring the art of the drum, a tradition that has outlived generations.

Moreover, in a digital age when traditions risk being forgotten, AJ’s choice to publicly engage in drumming sent a powerful message to younger Nigerians and members of the African diaspora: Culture is not a costume—it’s a rhythm of life that should be embraced and preserved.

A New Chapter Beyond Boxing?: Mental reset and personal growth

Anthony Joshua’s transition from world champion to cultural participant may signal a larger shift in his mindset. Having gone through intense highs and lows in the ring—including high-stakes title fights, surprise defeats, and resurgent wins—Joshua has spoken openly about mental health, spiritual growth, and the need for emotional balance.

His visit to Oba Onikoyi and participation in cultural drumming offered a window into this personal evolution. It showed a man not just focused on physical power, but on emotional intelligence and legacy. Drumming may seem like a light-hearted hobby, but for Joshua, it might be part of a broader journey to find peace, clarity, and connection outside of the ring.

This isn’t unusual for great athletes. After years of intense discipline and public scrutiny, many look inward. For Muhammad Ali, it was Islam and activism. For Tyson Fury, it’s been family and faith. For Anthony Joshua, it appears that culture, music, and community are forming the next layer of his identity.

In interviews, Joshua hinted that such visits help him recalibrate. “Sometimes, you need to reconnect with your roots to remember who you are,” he said. “Boxing is my career, but this—this is who I am.”

Inspiring the Next Generation: The global impact of AJ’s journey

One of the most profound effects of Anthony Joshua’s Easter celebration was the inspiration it offered to millions watching. For many young people in Africa and the diaspora, AJ is not just a boxer—he’s a role model. By playing the drum, visiting his homeland, and showing humility before a traditional ruler, he demonstrated that greatness doesn’t mean forgetting where you came from.

Schools, community leaders, and youth organizations across Nigeria have applauded the move, even using footage of Joshua’s drumming to spark cultural education programs. “If someone like AJ can come home and drum with our elders,” said one Lagos teacher, “then our students can also take pride in learning their traditions.”

Joshua’s actions may also influence other athletes and celebrities of African descent to reconnect with their origins. In an age when fame can often lead to cultural detachment, AJ is offering a different blueprint—one grounded in authenticity and humility.

Looking Ahead: What’s next for Anthony Joshua?

With this cultural celebration behind him, fans are now wondering what comes next for Anthony Joshua inside the ring. Rumors continue to swirl about a potential showdown with Tyson Fury or even a rematch with Oleksandr Usyk. But whatever happens next in his boxing career, one thing is clear: AJ is entering a new phase of personal and public identity.

This Easter was not just a holiday—it was a homecoming. A moment of reflection. A step into the rhythm of his roots.

Whether or not he ever becomes world champion again, Anthony Joshua has already won something deeper: the respect of a people, the rhythm of a drumbeat, and a place in the story of cultural pride.