Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has said former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua needs time away from the ring to heal emotionally following the tragic deaths of two of his close friends and members of his inner circle. Speaking amid growing speculation about Joshua’s future in boxing, Hearn stressed that the loss has deeply affected the British-Nigerian boxer and should be handled with empathy rather than pressure.
Hearn explained that the deaths have gone beyond a professional setback, describing them as a profound personal tragedy for Joshua, who shared a close bond with the victims. According to the promoter, the boxer is still processing the emotional weight of the loss and focusing on supporting the bereaved families, making it unrealistic to expect immediate decisions about his boxing career or return to competition.
The incident, which occurred in a fatal car accident, has cast a shadow over Joshua’s camp and sparked conversations within the boxing community about the mental and emotional toll elite athletes face beyond the sport. Hearn noted that while Joshua remains passionate about boxing, his current priority is healing, reflection, and regaining emotional balance before considering any professional commitments.
“He has been through something incredibly painful,” Hearn said, adding that time and space are essential for Joshua to recover fully. He also appealed to fans and the media to respect Joshua’s privacy during this period, emphasizing that true strength includes knowing when to step back and heal.
Anthony Joshua, one of the most recognisable figures in global boxing, has yet to make a public statement outlining his next steps. However, Hearn’s comments suggest that any decision regarding future fights or potential retirement will only come after the boxer has had adequate time to grieve and rebuild emotionally.
As tributes continue to pour in for the deceased, the focus remains on Joshua’s well-being, with many within the sport echoing calls for patience and compassion as he navigates one of the most difficult moments of his life.
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