Boxing superstar Anthony Joshua has confirmed he is leaving the UK to take up residence in Dubai, despite the city currently being targeted by Iranian drone attacks amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The 36-year-old former heavyweight world champion, born in Watford to Nigerian parents, made the move official in filings for his £150 million business empire. Joshua’s paperwork for Sparta Promotions Limited and 258 Investments Limited formally lists the United Arab Emirates as his new country of residence.

The decision comes amid rising attention on Dubai, where thousands of Britons have faced difficulties leaving due to ongoing missile attacks. Joshua, popularly known as “AJ,” has long been a frequent visitor to the city, using its elite sporting facilities for training, brand promotion, and holidays. His high-profile visits have included a 2017 helipad sparring session at the Burj Al Arab and recent training sessions with MMA star Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Dubai’s appeal for the boxing champion extends beyond its luxury and climate. The emirate has no income tax, meaning Joshua would avoid UK tax liabilities on dividends of £10.1 million in 2024 and £6.3 million in 2023. His company reported profits of £20.396 million last year, paying £6.65 million in UK tax.

Joshua’s relocation follows a difficult period in his life, including a tragic car accident in Nigeria last year that claimed the lives of his close friends and trainer, Kevin ‘Latz’ Ayodele, and therapist Sina Ghami. The boxer has been focused on recovery, recently sharing updates of his rehabilitation on social media.

He joins a growing list of wealthy Britons establishing residency abroad, including Manchester United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, EasyJet founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou, and Pimlico Plumbers tycoon Charlie Mullins.