Anthony Joshua Considers Retirement After Surviving Tragic Car Crash

Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is reportedly considering stepping away from professional boxing following a devastating car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close friends and key members of his training team.

According to a report by The Punch, Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, revealed that the 36-year-old boxer privately informed family members of his intention to retire in the aftermath of the accident, which occurred last week near Lagos.

Speaking on Monday, Adedamola said the decision brought a sense of relief to relatives who have long endured the emotional strain associated with Joshua’s boxing career. He explained that each of Joshua’s fights had become a source of intense anxiety for the family, describing the emotional toll as overwhelming, especially during moments when the boxer was knocked down in the ring.

The fatal crash claimed the lives of Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, both long-standing figures in Joshua’s boxing camp. Ghami served as his strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele was his personal trainer. The duo were travelling with Joshua in a Lexus SUV when it collided with a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Joshua was pulled from the wreckage and rushed to hospital, where he received treatment for minor injuries. Ghami and Ayodele were pronounced dead at the scene.

In the wake of the tragedy, Joshua pledged lifelong support for the families of the deceased. He later broke his silence on social media, sharing an Instagram post featuring himself with the bereaved families and captioning it “My Brother’s Keeper,” alongside symbolic emojis.

On Sunday, Joshua attended an emotional funeral service for both men at the London Central Mosque, where Janaza prayers were observed before burial rites were concluded later in the day.

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has arraigned the driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Kayode, on charges including causing death by dangerous driving. Kayode has pleaded not guilty, and the case has been adjourned until January 20.

Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, had been spending time in Nigeria following his December 19 knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami.