Promoter Eddie Hearn has stated that former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will make his own decision about a potential return to the ring, but only once he has been given sufficient time to heal from a devastating car crash.
A Tragic Incident in Nigeria
The British boxing star, aged 36, was involved in a serious road accident in Nigeria on 29 December. The crash resulted in the tragic deaths of Joshua's two close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif 'Latz' Ayodele, and left Joshua himself injured.
The incident occurred while Joshua was on holiday in the African nation, following his sixth-round knockout victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami on 19 December.
Hearn's Support and the Path to Recovery
Hearn, the chairman of Matchroom Boxing, has emphasised that his sole priority is supporting Joshua through this profoundly difficult period. He has dismissed any immediate speculation about the fighter's future, insisting that conversations about a comeback are inappropriate at this time.
"I think AJ, as we have seen in the past on boxing-related stuff, is always a brave-face guy, a very positive guy," Hearn told Sky Sports. "This is very different to that and I know he will take his time. He will need his time physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually before he makes a decision on his future."
Future Fights on Hold
Prior to the accident, talk in the boxing world had quickly turned to a potential blockbuster bout with long-term rival Tyson Fury. However, Hearn has made it clear that any such plans are now on indefinite hold.
He expects Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, to spend a "considerable amount of time" away from the sport as he grieves and recovers.
"I do think he will want to return to boxing, but that will be his decision when the time is right," Hearn affirmed. "It is certainly not a conversation I'll be having with him any time soon. The only conversation is 'are you OK?'"
Hearn concluded by stating that the public should only listen to Joshua's own voice regarding any future plans, and that the fighter's team will give him all the space he needs to heal before any decisions are made.
