Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has called on fans and media to respect the boxer’s privacy following a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends.
A Tragic Loss for Joshua
On 29 December, Joshua sustained minor injuries in a crash that killed team members Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele. Since the accident, the former two-time world heavyweight champion has paid tribute to his friends and attended their funerals in the UK.
Hearn emphasized that, in the wake of such tragedy, Joshua’s wellbeing should come first. “This is not a time for updates, this is not a time for careers; this is a time for faith and prayer and healing for Anthony,” Hearn said in a statement from Matchroom. “Physically, spiritually, emotionally, you’ve got to give him time.”
No Rush on Boxing Decisions
Questions about Joshua’s boxing future have been put on hold. Hearn told talkSport that there would be no discussions about his career or upcoming fights for now. “With everything he has been through and the tragic loss of Sina and Latz, Anthony needs time and privacy. There will be no conversations from us about his career, nothing about any move or what’s next,” he said.
Joshua had fought just ten days before the crash, stopping YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in six rounds in Miami. At the time, speculation was already growing about a potential return in February, possibly leading to a showdown with fellow Briton Tyson Fury later in the year. Those plans are now uncertain as Joshua takes time to grieve and recover.
Prayers and Support for Healing
Hearn highlighted the importance of focusing on Anthony’s physical and emotional recovery, as well as the wellbeing of the families affected. “There is nothing to discuss, and prayers for him and the families of all those involved in this terrible incident,” he said.
In the midst of global attention, Joshua is prioritizing healing over headlines — a reminder that even world-class athletes need time to process tragedy before returning to the spotlight.
