Former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is reportedly weighing the option of retiring from professional boxing following a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close associates.
Joshua’s uncle Adedamola Joshua revealed that the boxer privately informed family members of his decision after the crash, which occurred last week during a visit to Nigeria. Speaking at the family residence in Sagamu, Ogun State, he said the development brought mixed emotions but also relief to relatives who have long worried about the dangers of the sport.
According to him, watching Joshua fight has always been emotionally draining for the family, especially during moments when he is knocked down in the ring. He added that the boxer’s decision to step away from boxing while still celebrated has brought comfort to his loved ones.
The 36-year-old survived the accident with minor injuries, but two of his close friends and key members of his training team, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, lost their lives. Both men had travelled with Joshua to Nigeria to visit his family when their vehicle collided with a stationary truck on the Lagos Ibadan Expressway.
Joshua has since pledged lifelong support to the families of the deceased. He recently shared photos on social media showing him with the bereaved families, accompanied by a message expressing his commitment to looking after them.
Sources close to the boxer described him as deeply loyal to his team, noting that Ghami served as his strength and conditioning coach while Ayodele was his personal trainer throughout much of his career.
The accident occurred as the group were returning from Lagos. Rescue officials reportedly had to extract Joshua from the wreckage before he was taken to hospital for treatment.
Joshua later attended an emotional funeral service in London where hundreds gathered to pay their respects to the late Ghami and Ayodele.
Members of the Sagamu community also expressed gratitude that Joshua survived the crash, describing him as a source of pride to the town and urging him not to abandon his roots despite the trauma of the incident.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has charged the driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Kayode, with multiple offences including dangerous driving and causing death. The case has been adjourned until January 20.
Joshua, who was born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, had been holidaying in Nigeria after recording a sixth round knockout victory over American boxer Jake Paul in Miami last December.
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