British boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has made it clear that the decision on when former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua returns to the ring rests solely with the boxer himself. This follows a tragic car accident in Nigeria that has left Joshua recovering and mourning the loss of close friends.
The Tragic Incident on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious road accident on December 29 while on holiday in Nigeria. The crash occurred on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and resulted in the devastating loss of two of Joshua's close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele. The British boxer, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, sustained injuries in the collision.
Joshua had travelled to Nigeria shortly after his impressive sixth-round knockout victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. The holiday trip turned tragic with the fatal accident, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a celebratory period.
Hearn's Emphasis on Full Recovery
In an interview with BBC Sport, Eddie Hearn, Joshua's long-time promoter, stressed that the athlete's wellbeing is the absolute priority. He stated that Joshua needs adequate time to heal on multiple levels before any career decisions can be considered.
“He will need his time physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually before he decides on his future,” Hearn told the BBC. “I do think he will want to return to boxing, but that will be his decision when the time is right.”
Hearn redirected the focus entirely to Joshua's personal recovery, moving conversations away from boxing schedules and future fights. The promoter insisted that the only appropriate question for now is ‘are you OK?’, acknowledging the profound and heartbreaking nature of the event.
Future Decisions Rest With Joshua
Eddie Hearn was adamant that the public should listen only to Anthony Joshua regarding any plans for a boxing return. He affirmed that the former champion will communicate his decision directly when he feels ready.
“When the time is right, I believe he will make his decision, and you will hear it from him,” Hearn said. “That is the only voice you should listen to in that respect.”
This stance puts all speculation about Joshua's next fight on hold, placing the boxer's mental and physical health at the forefront. The boxing world now waits respectfully as Anthony Joshua navigates this period of recovery and loss, with his career timeline entirely in his own hands.
