Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is considering walking away from boxing following a fatal car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his closest friends, with his family saying the decision has brought them relief.
This was revealed following The crash that claimed the lives of Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and his personal trainer, Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, when their SUV collided with a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola, revealed that the 36-year-old boxer has privately communicated his intention to step away from the sport following the tragic accident.
“He has told the family that he is done with boxing, for us, that news came with mixed emotions, but mostly relief because any time Anthony steps into the ring, the whole family is under pressure,when he gets hit or knocked down, it is like something is tearing our hearts apart.” Adedamola said.
According to him, the family believes the boxer has little left to prove in the sport.
“He has achieved everything God destined for him in boxing,If he walks away now, he is leaving with honour, respect and loud ovation,as no amount of money is worth the trauma we go through each time he fights.”he added .
Adedamola emphasize on the impact this tragedy on the boxer, his revealed the experience had deeply affected him.
“This incident shook him to his core, he lost people who were not just workers but brothers to him, since that day, his mindset has changed completely.” He said
The boxer has reportedly vowed to support the families of the deceased for life, a commitment his uncle confirmed.
“He told us clearly that the families of Sina and Latz will never be abandoned, he sees their children as his own responsibility. That is the kind of heart Anthony has.” Adedamola said.
Joshua publicly acknowledged the loss on Sunday, sharing photographs with grieving relatives on Instagram and writing, “My Brother’s Keeper,” alongside symbols of love and protection.
Community members in Sagamu, Ogun State, where Joshua’s family hails from, expressed gratitude that the boxer survived the crash.
One indigene, Adeniji Taiwo, said, “We thank God we did not lose our son, our hearts are broken for the families who lost their children, and we pray God gives them strength. Anthony is our pride, and no one here wishes him harm.”
Taiwo also urged the boxer not to distance himself from Nigeria because of the incident.
“Fear may come, but this is his father’s land, “Home is home he said.
God will continue to protect him wherever he goes.”
Responding to concerns that the tragedy could strain Joshua’s ties with the country, his uncle dismissed the speculation.
“This is a Christian family, and we believe strongly in faith, “Emotions can make people talk, but Nigeria is his root. Nothing can take that away from him.” Adedamola said.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has charged the driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Kayode, with causing death by dangerous and negligent driving, among other offences. The case has been adjourned until January 20.