In a sobering revelation, Anthony Joshua's long-time promoter Eddie Hearn has conceded that the British heavyweight boxing star may never step into the ring again. This follows a devastating car accident near Lagos at the end of December that claimed the lives of two of Joshua's closest companions.
A Tragic Incident and Its Aftermath
The funerals for Joshua's strength coach Sina Ghami and personal trainer Latif 'Latz' Ayodele were held on Sunday, January 4 at a London mosque. Joshua himself narrowly avoided death by changing seats just before the vehicle embarked on its fateful journey. After spending New Year in hospital, he returned to the UK, landing at London Stansted Airport on January 2 to recuperate at his mansion.
Hearn's Candid Assessment
Hearn, who has guided Joshua's professional career since 2013, spoke openly about the situation in an interview with IFL. "I have not had the opportunity to see him since the terrible crash," Hearn stated. "It's not easy. Anthony Joshua may never box again following his car crash."
He elaborated on Joshua's current condition, noting: "He is keeping himself busy. Physically, he is getting himself over the injuries that he suffered. They are not injuries that will affect him long-term moving forward. But they are injuries that will take time."
The Reality of Boxing's Demands
Hearn emphasised the challenging nature of the sport in relation to Joshua's recovery. "Boxing is a tough and rough sport. You can't just go back in camp with injuries like that and I do not know when or even if he will go back into camp. At the moment, there is no conversation or no need to have a conversation about that."
This uncertainty has likely put on hold any negotiations for a potential high-profile bout with long-term rival Tyson Fury, which had been speculated for early this year.
Training as Therapy, Not Preparation
Despite Joshua sharing snaps of himself working out and hitting pads in mid-January – which he described as 'mental strength therapy' on his Snapchat – Hearn was quick to clarify the nature of this activity. "AJ will always train," Hearn explained. "Do not forget that boxing changed his life forever and he will never leave the gym."
He continued: "What you are seeing at the moment is not him training for his return. He is training for his own mind. And he is training for himself to recover and repair. I just cannot believe his strength and resilience."
Joshua's Personal Reflections
Joshua broke his silence on the incident in an Instagram post on January 8, expressing gratitude for the support shown to his friends. "Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers. I didn't even realise how special they are," he wrote.
He reflected on their relationship, adding: "I'll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men. 100% it's tough for me, but I know it's even tougher for their parents. I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers."
Prior to the funeral, Joshua posted a poignant photograph with the relatives of his two friends, captioning it simply: "My brothers keeper."
As the boxing world watches and waits, Joshua's future in the sport remains profoundly uncertain, with his promoter's candid admission highlighting the significant physical and emotional challenges the fighter now faces.
