Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is reportedly considering stepping away from professional boxing following a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends and long-time team members.
The fatal crash occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, killing Joshua’s conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and his personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele. Joshua survived the incident with minor injuries.
A family source revealed that Joshua has already communicated his intention to retire to his relatives. Speaking during a visit to the family home in Sagamu, Ogun State, his uncle explained that the decision has brought relief to the family, who have endured years of emotional strain watching his boxing career.
He said every fight left them deeply anxious, especially whenever Joshua was knocked down in the ring, adding that the family is grateful he may be choosing to leave the sport while still at the top.
Joshua has pledged to support the families of his late teammates. He recently broke his public silence with an emotional social media post showing moments with the bereaved families, accompanied by the words “My Brother’s Keeper,” a message widely seen as a commitment to responsibility and care.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has charged the driver involved in the crash, Adeniyi Kayode, with causing death by dangerous driving and related offences. The driver has denied the charges, and the case has been adjourned until January 20.
Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, had been on holiday in Nigeria following his recent knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami. His reported decision has sparked widespread debate over whether he will ever return to the ring or if his boxing career has come to a definitive end.
