Eddie Hearn, the prominent boxing promoter, has issued a heartfelt public plea for Anthony Joshua to be given space and understanding in the wake of a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of two of the boxer's close friends.
A Tragic Incident in Nigeria
The fatal crash occurred on 29 December in Nigeria. While the former two-time world heavyweight champion sustained only minor injuries, his team members and friends, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, tragically lost their lives. Joshua has since paid tribute to the men and attended their funerals in the UK.
Hearn's Emotional Appeal for Privacy
In statements released via his promotional company, Matchroom, and in an interview with talkSPORT, Hearn made it unequivocally clear that Joshua's boxing career is currently the furthest thing from anyone's mind. “This is not a time for updates, this is not a time for careers; this is a time for faith and prayer and healing for Anthony,” Hearn stated.
He emphasised the need for the 34-year-old fighter to recover “physically, spiritually, emotionally” and asked the media and fans for restraint. “Give him his time to heal... At the moment, Anthony needs time and privacy. There will be no conversations from us about his career,” Hearn affirmed, sending prayers to the families of the deceased.
Boxing Future Left in Limbo
The accident has thrown Joshua's immediate fighting plans into serious doubt. He had fought just 10 days prior to the crash, securing a sixth-round stoppage victory over Jake Paul in Miami on 19 December. Talks of a potential ring return in February and a blockbuster showdown with British rival Tyson Fury later in the year have now been put on indefinite hold.
Hearn's message underscores that the focus is solely on Joshua's wellbeing and supporting those affected by the loss of “two brilliant men.” The boxing world now waits respectfully, understanding that any discussion of the sport must come only after a period of necessary grief and recovery.
