Who Is Yeta Odusanya? Biography, Age, Husband & Why She Rushed to Anthony Joshua’s Bedside in Nigeria
Introduction: The Mother Behind the Champion
When news broke that Anthony Joshua had suffered a health scare in Nigeria, one name instantly resurfaced across headlines and social media — Yeta Odusanya. Within hours, reports confirmed that she had flown in to be by her son’s bedside, triggering emotional reactions from fans worldwide.
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To many, she is simply known as Anthony Joshua’s mother. But that description barely scratches the surface. Yeta Odusanya is not just the woman who gave birth to a heavyweight champion — she is a quiet force of discipline, sacrifice, and resilience who shaped one of boxing’s most formidable figures.
Behind Anthony Joshua’s power, focus, and emotional control lies a mother whose influence runs far deeper than public appearances or viral moments. This article uncovers the full, often untold story of Yeta Odusanya — her roots, struggles, career, motherhood, and the unbreakable bond that defines her relationship with her son.
Yeta Odusanya: Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yeta Odusanya |
| Nationality | Nigerian-British |
| Date of Birth | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Age | Estimated late 50s – early 60s |
| Profession | Social Worker, Consultant |
| Known For | Mother of Heavyweight Boxing Champion Anthony Joshua |
| Children | Anthony Joshua, Janet Joshua, Jacob Joshua |
| Ex-Husband | Robert Joshua |
| Current Residence | North London (Golders Green), United Kingdom |
| Education | Trained in Social Work (UK-based qualifications) |
| Business | Yeta Odusanya Social Work Consultancy (reported) |
| Estimated Net Worth | £400,000 – £700,000 (approx.) |
| Primary Income Sources | Social work consultancy, professional advisory roles |
| Lifestyle | Modest, private, family-centered |
| Famous For | Raising Anthony Joshua & shaping his discipline and values |
Breaking News: The Nigeria Hospital Incident
The recent surge in global interest around Yeta Odusanya followed reports that Anthony Joshua required medical attention while in Nigeria, prompting his mother to rush to his side. According to UK tabloids including Daily Mail and The Mirror, Joshua had been in Nigeria on personal business when he reportedly felt unwell.
Although details remained limited, what stood out was Yeta’s immediate response. She traveled without hesitation, reflecting a mother’s instinct that transcends fame or fortune. For fans, this moment reinforced something long understood within the boxing world — Anthony Joshua may be a global sports icon, but to Yeta, he remains simply her son.
Sources close to the family revealed that her presence had a calming effect, grounding the boxer during a stressful moment. The episode once again highlighted the depth of their relationship, one built on trust, emotional security, and unwavering support.
Early Life & Nigerian Roots
Yeta Odusanya was born and raised in Nigeria, with deep roots in Ogun State. Her early years were shaped by traditional values, discipline, and community — principles she later passed on to her children.
Growing up, she experienced a culturally rich upbringing where family bonds and respect for elders were non-negotiable. Like many Nigerians of her generation, she eventually migrated to the United Kingdom in pursuit of stability and opportunity.
Despite relocating, she never lost her connection to her heritage. Nigerian culture remained central to her parenting style, something Anthony Joshua has often credited for his mental toughness and humility.
Professional Life: The Social Worker Behind the Scenes
Unlike many celebrity parents, Yeta Odusanya carved her own professional identity. She worked as a qualified social worker, and later ran Yeta Odusanya Social Work Consultancy Limited, focusing on community welfare and support services.
Her work involved assisting vulnerable individuals and families, particularly within immigrant communities. This background shaped her empathetic nature and explains why she values discipline balanced with compassion.
While the public often labels her “Anthony Joshua’s mum,” those who know her professionally recognize her as a woman driven by service, responsibility, and purpose — not fame.
Marriage to Robert Joshua
Yeta was married to Robert Joshua, a man of Nigerian-Irish heritage. Together, they started their family life in the UK, settling in Watford, where Anthony and his siblings spent much of their childhood.
Their marriage, like many, faced challenges. Cultural adjustments, financial pressures, and life in a new country tested their relationship. Eventually, the couple separated — a turning point that reshaped the family dynamic.
Despite the separation, both parents remained deeply involved in their children’s lives, ensuring stability during formative years.
Divorce & The Return to Nigeria
Following the divorce, Yeta made the difficult decision to return to Nigeria for a period. This phase marked one of the most emotionally demanding chapters of her life.
The separation meant leaving her children in the UK temporarily, a sacrifice she made believing it would ultimately benefit their future. For Anthony, this period proved formative — it introduced independence, resilience, and emotional maturity at a young age.
It was during this transitional chapter that Yeta began to reshape her role not just as a mother, but as a guiding force from afar.
The Tough Decision: Sending Anthony to Boarding School
Perhaps the most defining decision of Yeta’s life was sending Anthony Joshua to Mayflower School in Nigeria — a strict boarding school known for discipline.
At the time, Anthony struggled with direction and discipline. Yeta believed structure, cultural grounding, and accountability were essential. The decision was painful; mother and son were separated physically and emotionally.
Years later, Anthony openly credits that experience as transformative. It instilled discipline, respect, and resilience — qualities that later defined his boxing career.
What felt like punishment at the time became a foundation for greatness.
Mother and Son: A Bond Beyond Boxing
Anthony Joshua has never hidden his admiration for his mother. In interviews, he often says, “No woman can replace my mum.”
Their bond is rooted in mutual respect rather than celebrity glamour. Even today, Anthony consults her on major life decisions and maintains close contact.
She remains his emotional anchor — the person who grounds him when fame, pressure, and expectations grow heavy.
Why She Never Watches His Fights Live
One of the most touching facts about Yeta Odusanya is that she cannot watch her son fight live.
The violence of boxing is too much for her. Instead, she stays at home, prays, and waits for the final result. Only once the fight is over does she allow herself to watch highlights — often with relief rather than excitement.
This quiet ritual reveals the depth of a mother’s love: pride mixed with fear, faith mixed with restraint.
Yeta’s Other Children: Janet & Jacob
Beyond Anthony, Yeta is also the mother of Janet Joshua and Jacob Joshua.
- Janet maintains a private life but is involved in business ventures and supports the family behind the scenes.
- Jacob prefers life away from the spotlight and remains closely bonded with his siblings.
Together, the three children form a close-knit family shaped by strong maternal values.
The Famous “Pounded Yam” Diet
Anthony Joshua often jokes that his strength comes from his mother’s kitchen. Yeta is known for preparing traditional Nigerian meals, especially pounded yam and egusi soup.
Even during training breaks, she ensures he eats home-cooked food rather than processed meals. Nutrition, for her, is cultural as much as physical — a way to nurture both body and spirit.
Where Does Yeta Odusanya Live Now?
Today, Yeta reportedly splits her time between North London (Golders Green) and Nigeria. Anthony has ensured she lives comfortably, but her lifestyle remains modest.
She avoids luxury excess and prefers a quiet, grounded routine — family visits, community involvement, and spiritual life remain her priorities.
Net Worth & Financial Status
While she is the mother of a multi-millionaire boxer, Yeta Odusanya’s personal wealth comes primarily from her career in social work and consultancy.
Her estimated net worth is believed to be in the mid-six figures, reflecting stability rather than extravagance. She has never relied on her son’s fame, choosing independence over public display.
Social Media Presence
Yeta maintains a low-profile digital presence. She reportedly has an Instagram account, though it remains private and family-oriented. When she does post, it’s usually about family moments, cultural events, or faith-based reflections — never self-promotion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Yeta Odusanya?
Yeta Odusanya is a Nigerian-British social worker best known as the mother of heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua. Beyond her public identity, she is a deeply private woman who played a crucial role in shaping her son’s discipline, values, and resilience from a young age.
Where is Anthony Joshua’s mother from?
Yeta Odusanya is originally from Ogun State, Nigeria. She later relocated to the United Kingdom, where she raised her children and built her professional career as a social worker.
What ethnicity is Anthony Joshua?
Anthony Joshua is of Nigerian ethnicity. His mother, Yeta Odusanya, is Nigerian, while his father, Robert Joshua, has Nigerian-Irish roots. This mixed heritage strongly influences his cultural identity.
Does Anthony Joshua have a child?
Yes, Anthony Joshua has one son, named Joseph Joshua, born in 2015. He is known to be a devoted father and often speaks about how becoming a parent changed his outlook on life and responsibility.
Why did Yeta Odusanya rush to Nigeria recently?
Yeta Odusanya reportedly traveled to Nigeria after concerns emerged regarding Anthony Joshua’s health while he was visiting the country. As a protective and deeply involved mother, she went to be by his side, a moment that highlighted their close bond.
Is Yeta Odusanya married?
Yeta Odusanya was previously married to Robert Joshua, Anthony’s father. The couple later divorced, but both remained actively involved in their children’s upbringing.
What does Yeta Odusanya do for a living?
She is a trained social worker and has been associated with social care and consultancy work in the UK. Her career focuses on community welfare and family support services.
Where does Yeta Odusanya live now?
Yeta Odusanya reportedly lives in North London, though she also spends time in Nigeria. She prefers a quiet, private lifestyle away from media attention.
Why doesn’t Yeta Odusanya watch Anthony Joshua’s fights live?
She has openly admitted that watching her son fight causes her anxiety. Instead, she prays during his matches and waits until the fight is over before watching highlights.
What is Yeta Odusanya’s net worth?
Yeta Odusanya’s estimated net worth is between £400,000 and £700,000, earned primarily through her career in social work and consultancy. She maintains a modest lifestyle despite her son’s wealth.
Is Yeta Odusanya active on social media?
Yeta maintains a low-profile social media presence. Any accounts linked to her are typically private and focused on family rather than public engagement or promotion.
Why is Yeta Odusanya important in Anthony Joshua’s life?
She is widely regarded as the emotional backbone of Anthony Joshua’s life — the person who instilled discipline, cultural pride, and resilience that later defined his boxing career.
Conclusion: More Than a Boxer’s Mother
Yeta Odusanya is far more than Anthony Joshua’s mother. She is a woman of discipline, resilience, and quiet strength — a mother who made painful choices so her children could thrive.
Her story reflects sacrifice, cultural pride, and emotional endurance. Behind every champion stands someone who shaped their character long before the spotlight arrived — and for Anthony Joshua, that pillar has always been Yeta Odusanya.
