Anthony Joshua retires from boxing?

British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua is reportedly weighing a permanent exit from the sport following a devastating road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and team members.

The 36-year-old boxer, who has Nigerian heritage, survived the crash with minor injuries after being pulled from the wreckage of a Lexus SUV. The fatal accident occurred last week along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway when the vehicle slammed into a stationary lorry.

Tragically, Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and his longtime personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele, were killed on the spot. The group had been travelling to visit Joshua’s family for the New Year when the collision happened.

According to Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, the boxer has already informed his family of his decision to retire from boxing. Speaking to Nigerian media outlets, he said the announcement has brought the family a sense of relief after years of emotional strain.

“The major thing is that he has retired from boxing. That is what makes us glad because every time he steps into the ring, we are emotionally overwhelmed,” his uncle said. He added that watching Joshua endure punishment in the ring had become unbearable for the family. “Each time he’s knocked down, it feels like our hearts are coming out of our chests.”

At the time of the accident, Joshua appeared to be enjoying a resurgence in his career. He had recently scored a sixth-round knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19, 2025, and speculation was growing about a potential blockbuster all-British clash with Tyson Fury in 2026.

Joshua first rose to global prominence after winning gold at the London 2012 Olympics. Since turning professional in 2013, the Watford-born fighter has built an impressive résumé, defeating top names such as Wladimir Klitschko, Dillian Whyte, and Joseph Parker.

Although he has yet to make a formal public announcement about his retirement, Joshua has paid tribute to his fallen teammates. On Sunday, he shared photos alongside the grieving families of Ghami and Ayodele, accompanied by the caption, “My Brothers’ Keeper.”

Reports indicate that the former heavyweight champion has committed to supporting the families of his late coach and trainer financially for life. He also attended an emotional funeral service for the two men at the London Central Mosque.

Meanwhile, investigations into the crash are ongoing. The driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Kayode, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving. He has denied the charge, claiming the car’s brakes failed. It has also emerged that Joshua may have survived because he switched to a back seat shortly before the journey began.