Anthony Joshua paid a surprise visit to a children’s hospital and distributed Christmas gifts.

The two-time heavyweight boxing champion was praised as a “hero” by NHS employees after shocking sick children on the Kids Starfish unit at Watford General Hospital.

Scroll down to see sweet pics of AJ hanging out with the kids

Anthony Joshua posed up for pictures with happy patients.

The boxing star visited Watford General Starfish Ward.

He hailed the NHS staff as heroes.

The heavyweight boxing champion gave out gifts.

Anthony smiles with NHS employees.

Joshua talked about sports with kids and took photographs with staff and patients during his poignant visit.

As he spent hours touring the specialized unit, the boxing champion was spotted giving gifts to happy kids.

Additionally, he spoke with parents and West Hertfordshire NHS employees who assist in keeping the unit open during the holiday season.

“Today was all about trying to put a smile on a few faces and to acknowledge the tireless work of all NHS staff across the entire nation,” the world champion stated during the visit.

“I got to know some incredible children and very motivational parents. I was fortunate that Santa could assist me in distributing a few modest presents.

“It’s important to do your part, especially in your local community, as Christmas can be a really difficult time of year.”

Given that he was born there in 1989, Joshua has a long history with the hospital. He made too many trips to the A&E department as a teenager for his mother to approve of. Then following his Olympic triumph in 2012 he returned to open the Leigh Warman Mural in the Children’s A&E Department.

Paediatric Consultant Lynn Sinitsky said: “The joy that Anthony has spread today is truly healing.

“The smiles on the faces, especially from one ten year old who woke up to see Anthony was incredible.”

Meanwhile, Ward Manager Kerry Beasley said: “Its a great thing he has done, its amazing for the staff and the patients.

“It really boosts morale and spreads Christmas spirit. We couldn’t get him out!”

Joshua oversaw an initiative to provide 2,000 pieces of Under Armour gear to hospital NHS employees during the Coronavirus Pandemic. The goal was to return a little portion of the crew’s tireless efforts, which included those of the cooking, housekeeping, and medical staff. The goal of Clean Herts Community is to offer opportunities and support to individuals of all demographics in Watford, Anthony’s hometown, with an emphasis on youth.

The Olympic Gold Medallist has always had a strong commitment to giving people, especially the younger generation in his community, opportunities. CHC has started offering educational and physical programs this year, including science and cookery workshops and football camps. In November, they also collaborated with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, a Hollywood legend, to provide select Watford-based children with an opportunity of a lifetime. Additionally, they participated in the premiere of his popular Christmas movie Red One.

It happens while Joshua was at the boxing coach’s surprise birthday celebration, which he said saved his life. At the age of 18, AJ entered the Finchley Amateur Boxing Club in an attempt to escape difficulties on the streets of London. Additionally, Joshua was led to outstanding national titles by head trainer Sean Murphy, who also helped him win an Olympic gold medal. Over the years, the two have stayed friends, and AJ attended Murphy’s surprise party, which was hosted by Finchley ABC.

He posed alongside Murphy and posted a throwback snap of his amateur days with the caption: “Ride Or Die.”

In Joshua’s last three bouts, he has been cornered by British coach Ben Davison.

Joshua playing with a child.

Joshua set up the Clean Hearts Community, a community-interest company dedicated to uplifting the local community.

The boxer looked very happy speaking with NHS staff and parents.

Joshua showed off his caring side in the visit