Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has described Anthony Joshua as "inspiring" as the former world heavyweight champion takes his first steps back into training following a devastating car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends.
Tragedy in Lagos
The incident occurred on 29 December 2025 near Lagos. Joshua, often referred to as 'AJ', sustained minor injuries but was seen in visible distress exiting the vehicle. The crash proved fatal for two of his companions: Sina Ghami, who acted as Joshua's strength and conditioning coach, and trainer Latif 'Latz' Ayodele.
The boxing community rallied in support, paying tribute to the deceased, while Joshua himself shared a heartfelt post on social media honouring his former teammates. The 36-year-old fighter was in Nigeria on holiday after his victory over Jake Paul in Miami just ten days prior to the accident.
A Return to Routine
In a significant move signalling his intent to heal, Joshua recently returned to the gym. He posted a video on Snapchat showing him engaging in a workout, which included hitting pads, general exercises, and using a stationary bike.
Promoter Eddie Hearn subsequently joined him for a session, sharing a picture of the pair on exercise bikes on his Instagram. "Great to catch-up with Anthony Joshua today," Hearn wrote. "His resilience and strength is inspiring."
Hearn's post continued, acknowledging the profound loss: "The loss is heavy and he will take his time to get back on track but said he is truly grateful for all the support and the love shown for Latz and Sina."
Future in Boxing on Hold
Despite this positive step, Hearn has urged caution regarding any swift return to the ring for Joshua. Speaking to Sky Sports, he emphasised that the fighter's recovery must be comprehensive before any career decisions are made.
"He will need his time physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually before he makes a decision on his future," Hearn stated. "I do think he will want to return to boxing, but that will be his decision when the time is right."
Hearn made it clear that Joshua's wellbeing is the sole immediate priority, not fight negotiations. "It is certainly not a conversation I'll be having with him any time soon," he explained. "The only conversation is 'are you OK?' and sometimes we find people will give that facade of being OK, but what happened to him is not normal and heartbreaking for all involved."
The promoter concluded by stating that Joshua himself will announce his plans when ready: "When the time is right, I believe he will make his decision and you will hear it from him. That is the only voice you should listen to in that respect and we'll give him his time to make that decision and heal."
