Eddie Hearn has sparked fresh speculation about the future of former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, after indicating that boxing is no longer the fighter’s immediate concern following a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends.
Speaking during an interview with talkSPORT Boxing, Joshua’s long-time promoter avoided addressing any potential fights or career plans, stressing that the 36-year-old is currently focused on healing and mourning his loss.
According to Hearn, this is not the time for discussions about boxing or Joshua’s future in the sport.
“He needs time and privacy right now. There will be no statements from us regarding his career or upcoming fights. His priority is to recover physically and emotionally,” Hearn said.
“There is nothing to talk about at the moment. Let’s allow him space and continue to pray for him and the families affected by this heartbreaking incident.”
Although Hearn did not explicitly confirm Joshua’s retirement, his remarks appear to support claims from within the boxer’s family that a major decision has already been taken.
Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, disclosed that the two-time heavyweight champion has informed the family of his intention to step away from professional boxing.
“The most important thing for us is that he has retired from boxing, and that brings us relief,” Adedamola said during a visit to the family residence in Sagamu.
“Each time he fights, the emotional strain on us is overwhelming. Whenever he gets knocked down, it feels like our hearts are leaving our bodies. Now that he has decided to leave while people still celebrate him, we are grateful.”
When asked if Joshua personally communicated the decision, his uncle responded simply: “Yes.”
The retirement discussions follow a fatal road accident on December 29 along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, which resulted in the deaths of Joshua’s close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele.
Joshua later addressed the tragedy in an emotional post on social media platform 𝕏, paying tribute to the deceased and reflecting on their influence in his life.
“Thank you for all the love shown to my brothers. I didn’t even realise how special they were. We laughed and joked together without knowing God had placed great men around me,” Joshua wrote.
“It’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents. I trust God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers.”
More insight into Joshua’s emotional state emerged through a now-deleted video shared by UFC star Kamaru Usman, which captured a visibly shaken Joshua speaking about the incident.
“Two of my close friends passed away,” Joshua said. “One was in front, one was behind him on the right side. It still hasn’t sunk in yet.”
Police investigations revealed that Adeniyi Kayode, 46, was driving the black Lexus SUV involved in the crash, which collided with a stationary truck carrying soya beans. Joshua and Kayode survived without serious injuries.
Kayode has since been arraigned before a magistrate court in Sagamu on charges including dangerous driving causing death, reckless driving, and driving without a valid licence. The case has been adjourned until January 20, with bail set at ₦5 million.
Ayodele, widely known as Healthy Mindset, was Joshua’s longtime personal trainer and close friend, while Ghami was a familiar figure in Joshua’s training circle and stood in his corner during his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19.
Joshua reportedly spent New Year’s Eve in hospital before returning to the United Kingdom. Funeral prayers for Ghami and Ayodele were later held on January 4 at the London Central Mosque.