Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is reportedly considering retirement from professional boxing following a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends and key members of his boxing team.
A family source disclosed that the devastating incident has had a profound emotional impact on the 36-year-old boxer, prompting him to rethink his future in the ring. Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, revealed that the boxer privately communicated his intention to step away from boxing, describing the moment as a turning point for both Joshua and his family.
According to him, the decision has brought a sense of relief to the family, who have long lived with the emotional strain that comes with watching Joshua fight. He said every bout placed the family under intense pressure, adding that seeing him get knocked down felt unbearable. He noted that if Joshua chooses to walk away while still respected in the sport, the family would be grateful.
The uncle further confirmed that Joshua personally informed the family of his intentions and has pledged lifelong support to the families of the two victims, Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, who died in the crash. Joshua broke his public silence on Sunday when he shared images with the bereaved families on Instagram, alongside the caption “My Brother’s Keeper,” signalling his commitment to stand by them.
The fatal accident occurred along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway while the group was travelling in a Lexus SUV. Reports indicate that the vehicle collided with a stationary truck, killing Ghami and Ayodele on the spot. Joshua was rescued from the wreckage and taken to hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries before being discharged.
An emotional funeral service was later held at the London Central Mosque, where the coffins of the deceased were placed side by side as prayers were offered. Residents of Sagamu expressed gratitude that Joshua survived the crash while mourning the loss of the two men, describing the incident as a painful tragedy.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command confirmed that the driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Kayode, has been charged at the Sagamu Magistrate Court with multiple traffic-related offences, including causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a valid licence. The driver pleaded not guilty, and the case was adjourned until January 20.
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