Financial analysts, in conjunction with former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, are said to have initiated initial talks with Championship club Watford regarding a potential acquisition valued at £150 million, according to The Athletic.
Under the ownership of Italian businessman Gino Pozzo since 2012, Watford has been on the lookout for fresh investment opportunities for quite some time.
The prospect of Anthony Joshua’s involvement, even if it’s part of a group, highlights the club’s aspirations to bolster its financial and promotional stature.
Given the club’s estimated valuation ranging between £150 million and £175 million, these discussions appear to be within Joshua’s reported net worth, making the proposed deal financially viable.
Watford stands to gain significantly from Joshua’s global recognition and commercial appeal.
While Joshua himself is not directly involved in the talks, he was approached about investing in the Championship club. These discussions are described as being at a preliminary stage.
Details of the proposal remain undisclosed, but it is known that Watford has engaged with other parties regarding a minority stake in the club.
Known as ‘AJ’, Joshua has an estimated net worth of £150 million to £200 million, according to the 2024 Sunday Times Rich List.
He has strong ties to Watford, having been born at Watford General Hospital next to the club’s Vicarage Road ground, growing up in North Watford on the Meriden Estate, and attending school in nearby Kings Langley.
“A business that has brought investment opportunities to Anthony in the past was approached and held an entry-level discussion about an opportunity with Watford Football Club,” a spokesperson for Joshua told The Athletic.
“This was an initial chat without even a discussion over due diligence which so often kills these types of deals.”
Joshua’s commercial influence is substantial, with endorsements from major global brands. His sports stardom, coupled with a social media following of 28 million, could bring significant visibility and marketing opportunities to Watford.
Despite the potential appeal of this investment, Joshua’s spokesperson emphasized his current focus on boxing.
“Anthony Joshua is not involved and has no plans to be involved. He is fully focused on boxing and has no time to give to new opportunities outside of his sport.”
