Promoter Eddie Hearn has broken his silence on the future of British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua, confirming the athlete will be given significant time and privacy following his involvement in a fatal car crash in Nigeria last week.
The Tragic Incident in Lagos
The former two-time world champion was travelling on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on New Year's Eve when the black Lexus Jeep he was in collided with a stationary truck. The crash resulted in the tragic deaths of Joshua's two close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele.
Joshua, 36, was taken to hospital but was discharged later that same day. He subsequently returned to the United Kingdom, where he attended the funerals of his friends at a London mosque on Sunday. The British boxer has vowed to provide lifelong support to the families of the deceased.
Hearn's Statement on Joshua's Future
In an emotional live interview on talkSPORT, Hearn addressed the media speculation surrounding Joshua's next career move, including a potential blockbuster fight against Tyson Fury. He firmly stated that all boxing discussions are on hold.
"At the moment, Anthony needs time. Time and privacy," Hearn declared. "There will be no conversations from us about a career, any moves, what’s next. This is a terrible tragedy and Anthony’s going to need his own time, physically and emotionally."
He emphasised respect for Joshua and the grieving families, concluding, "Let’s give him his time and pray for him and of course all the families involved in this terrible incident."
Legal Proceedings and Retirement Rumours
Nigerian police have charged Joshua's chauffeur, Mr Kayode, with multiple offences including causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a valid licence. The driver was granted bail set at five million naira (approximately $3,480) and the case has been adjourned until January 20.
Amid the tragedy, rumours surfaced from a man claiming to be Joshua's uncle, Adedamola Joshua, who told Nigerian publication The Punch that the boxer had informed his family of his retirement. However, Mirror Fighting understands that Joshua has not yet made any official decision regarding his fighting future.
The incident occurred while Joshua was on holiday in his parents' homeland, following his recent victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. Promoter Frank Warren, who represents Tyson Fury, echoed Hearn's sentiments, stating that boxing will be the last thing on Joshua's mind as he processes the immense personal loss.
