Family source says the former heavyweight champion is rethinking his boxing future following a fatal Lagos-Ibadan Expressway accident that claimed the lives of two key members of his inner circle.
Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua may be considering stepping away from professional boxing following a devastating car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and members of his boxing team, according to a family source.
Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, disclosed that the 36-year-old boxer privately communicated his intention to consider retirement after the fatal accident, describing the incident as an emotional and life-altering turning point for both Joshua and the entire family. He explained that the decision, though difficult, has brought a sense of relief to relatives who have long endured the emotional strain that comes with watching Joshua compete at the highest level.
“The major thing now is that he has decided to step away from boxing, and that brings us some relief,” his uncle said. “Each time he fights, it puts the family under intense emotional pressure. Seeing him knocked down feels like losing our breath. Now that he is choosing to leave while still respected, we are grateful.”
According to the family, Joshua personally informed them of his intentions and has also committed to providing lifelong support for the families of the two victims, Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, who died in the crash. The boxer broke his public silence on Sunday by sharing images with the bereaved families on Instagram, accompanied by the caption “My Brother’s Keeper,” signalling his resolve to stand by them through their loss.
The tragic accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway when the Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and members of his team reportedly collided with a stationary truck. Ghami and Ayodele were said to have died on the spot, while Joshua was rescued from the wreckage and taken to hospital, where he received treatment for minor injuries.
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 by family members, friends, and members of the boxing community. Back in Ogun State, residents of Sagamu expressed gratitude that Joshua survived the crash, even as they mourned the loss of the two men.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command confirmed that the driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Kayode, has been charged before the Sagamu Magistrate Court on multiple traffic-related offences, including causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a valid driver’s licence. He pleaded not guilty to the charges, and the case has been adjourned until January 20.
As fans around the world await clarity on Joshua’s future in the ring, the tragedy has cast a sombre shadow over his illustrious career, with many acknowledging that the emotional toll of the incident may ultimately shape one of boxing’s most significant decisions in recent years.
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