Anthony Joshua has made a comeback to the boxing gym after almost three weeks since he was in a serious car accident in Nigeria. The former two-time heavyweight world champion was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that crashed into a stationary truck on a major expressway near Lagos, Nigeria. Although Joshua sustained minor injuries, the accident tragically claimed the lives of two of his close friends and teammates, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Their funerals were held in London on January 4.
Joshua, who was in Nigeria for a holiday and family visit, had recently defeated YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul before the accident. Following a few days of hospital treatment, Joshua was discharged on New Year’s Eve. Speculation arose about his future in boxing, but the British boxer has since shared images on Snapchat showing him back in the gym engaging in what he described as “mental strength therapy.” The photos depict him working out, hitting pads, performing lower leg exercises, riding a stationary bike, and swimming.
Despite reports that Joshua had decided to retire due to the car crash, his uncle revealed the information, stating that Joshua had conveyed his retirement plans to the family. However, Mirror Fighting understands that Joshua has not yet made a final decision about his boxing career. Additionally, the driver involved in the accident has been charged with various offenses by the Ogun State Police Command.
Promoter Eddie Hearn emphasized that there have been no discussions about Joshua’s return to boxing and acknowledged the need for Joshua to take time to recover physically and emotionally. Hearn expressed confidence that Joshua would eventually make a decision about his future in the sport. He emphasized that Joshua’s well-being is paramount, and the decision to return to boxing will ultimately be up to Joshua himself.
