Nigerian-British professional boxer and two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has shared his thoughts on the path to reaching billionaire status. In a recent post on his Snapchat, Joshua made a bold statement, advising entertainers and athletes to prioritize business ventures over fame.

Joshua, who has built a successful career in boxing, stated that achieving billionaire status cannot be solely attributed to sports, music, or entertainment. He emphasized the importance of understanding business principles and focusing on sustainability rather than getting lost in the limelight.

In his post, he wrote: “For any to reach billionaire status, it will not be through sports, music or entertainment. Don’t get lost in the hype, focus on the sustainability, books and business ethics.”

The Path to True Wealth: Beyond Fame

Joshua’s perspective highlights a crucial aspect of wealth-building that is often overlooked in the world of entertainment and sports. While the likes of Jay-Z, Rihanna, Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, and LeBron James have achieved billionaire status, their success is not just a result of their careers in entertainment or sports. Many of these figures have diversified their wealth through savvy investments, business ventures, and endorsements.

For instance, Jay-Z has expanded his wealth through ventures like Roc Nation, Armand de Brignac, and Tidal, while Rihanna saw her fortune skyrocket thanks to her Fenty Beauty line. Similarly, LeBron James has built a business empire through his partnership with Nike, investments in Blaze Pizza, and various media deals.

These examples show that the path to billionaire status for entertainers and athletes is more about leveraging their fame and wealth to explore and invest in business opportunities. It’s not just about collecting endorsement deals; it’s about strategically positioning oneself in industries that offer long-term growth and financial sustainability.

Opinion: Joshua’s Insight Into Wealth Building

Anthony Joshua’s words resonate deeply, especially in today’s world where the allure of fame often clouds long-term financial thinking. It’s easy for athletes and entertainers to become seduced by the immediate rewards of their fame, but Joshua’s call to focus on business ethics and sustainability is an important reminder that true wealth is built on more than just talent or popularity.

As Joshua rightly pointed out, billionaires in entertainment and sports have made their fortunes through a combination of business acumen, smart investments, and an entrepreneurial mindset. While fame can open doors, it’s the strategic business decisions that ultimately solidify lasting wealth.

In the Nigerian and African context, many entertainers and athletes rise to prominence, but it’s important to recognize that sustaining wealth requires much more than just playing the game or performing on stage. It’s about becoming astute in business and using your platform to venture into diverse sectors that offer long-term stability and growth.

Joshua’s advice should serve as a wake-up call for young and aspiring athletes and entertainers. Fame is fleeting, but a sound business foundation can lead to generational wealth. Instead of being caught up in the hype, focusing on business literacy and ethical practices in business could be the key to building a legacy that outlives one’s career.

As more public figures like Joshua speak out on the importance of business, it’s hoped that this message will spark a shift in how the next generation of stars view success—not just as a destination, but as a sustainable journey in both their careers and investments.