Eddie Hearn has issued a poignant update on Anthony Joshua's condition following the devastating car crash in Nigeria last month that claimed the lives of two of the boxer's close friends. The Matchroom Boxing chief recently met with Joshua in Dubai, marking their first encounter since the tragic incident, and provided candid reflections on the heavyweight star's recovery and uncertain future in the sport.
Hearn's Emotional Reunion with Joshua in Dubai
During a visit to Joshua's residence in Dubai, Hearn shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, captioning it, "Great to catch up today." In an interview with iFL TV, Hearn elaborated on the emotional meeting, stating, "It was good to just see him. I have not had the opportunity to see him since the terrible crash." He described the somber atmosphere, noting that the house was where Joshua lived with his late friends, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, making the environment particularly challenging for the 36-year-old.
Physical and Mental Recovery Efforts
Hearn confirmed that Joshua is actively working to overcome the minor injuries he sustained in the crash, which occurred just days after his knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami. Reports indicate that Joshua narrowly avoided more severe harm by swapping seats before the journey. "Physically, he is getting himself over the injuries that he suffered," Hearn explained. "They are not injuries that will affect him long-term moving forward, but they are injuries that will take time."
Emphasizing the mental aspect, Hearn revealed that Joshua's current training regimen is primarily for personal well-being rather than a return to boxing. "He is training for his own mind," Hearn said. "And he is training for himself physically to recover and repair. I just cannot believe his strength and resilience." This approach aligns with Joshua's own social media posts, where he described his workouts as "mental strength therapy," including lower leg exercises and stationary bike sessions.
Uncertainty Over Joshua's Boxing Future
When pressed about Joshua's potential return to the ring, Hearn expressed significant doubt. "Boxing is a tough and rough sport. You can't just go back in camp with injuries like that and I do not know when or even if he will go back into camp," he stated. He added that there have been no discussions about future fights, focusing instead on Joshua's healing process. "At the moment, there is no conversation or no need to have a conversation about that. It's just... 'AJ' will always train."
This uncertainty is compounded by conflicting reports from Joshua's inner circle. His uncle, Adedamola Joshua, claimed in an interview with The Punch that the boxer has privately decided to retire, saying, "The major thing there is that he has retired from boxing." However, Mirror Fighting understands that no final decision has been made. Conversely, Oleksandr Usyk, a close friend and former opponent, shared a different perspective after speaking with Joshua, telling Ready To Fight, "I heard a desire to continue in his voice — for the friends he lost and for the chance to live that the Lord gave him."
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Support
In related developments, the driver involved in the crash, 46-year-old Adeniyi Kayode, appeared in Magistrates' court in Ogun State, Nigeria. He faces charges including causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a valid licence. The case has been adjourned until February 25, with Kayode released on bail.
Hearn concluded by highlighting the broader support network around Joshua, remarking, "It was really good to see him as a friend. And just see him, talk to him, be around him and we are forever there for him as so many people are. Nothing will fill the void of losing those two in his life." As Joshua continues to mourn and recover, the boxing world awaits further clarity on whether he will step back into the ring or focus on his personal journey ahead.
