Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is seriously thinking about retirement. This follows a car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his close friends. The news comes from a family member who spoke to the media.
Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, told the Nigerian newspaper The PUNCH about the boxer's thoughts. He said the 36-year-old fighter told his family he is considering stepping away from boxing. This private talk happened after the tragic accident last week. "The major thing is that he has retired from boxing," his uncle stated. He added that the family is somewhat glad about this possible decision. They often feel very worried when he fights.
The fatal car crash occurred in Nigeria. It resulted in the deaths of two members of Joshua's team. They were also his close friends. The boxer himself survived the accident. Specific details about the crash are still under review by local authorities.
Anthony Joshua is one of boxing's most famous active heavyweights. He is a two-time former world champion. His professional record stands at 28 wins and 3 losses. His most recent fight was a knockout victory against Francis Ngannou in March. A potential retirement would shake up the sport's top level. The heavyweight division is currently very competitive.
The boxer's management team has not yet released an official statement. Promoter Eddie Hearn has previously said Joshua remains focused on his career. Hearn had been planning for a future fight against the winner of an upcoming title bout. Those plans may now change based on Joshua's personal decision.
Other boxing news outlets have reported on the uncle's comments. BBC Sport and Sky Sports have both covered the story. They note that an official confirmation from Joshua himself is still pending. The boxing world is now waiting to see what the champion decides to do next.
A timeline of Joshua's career shows quick rise to fame. He won an Olympic gold medal in 2012. He then became a world champion just four years later in 2016. He lost his titles to Andy Ruiz Jr. in a major upset in 2019. Joshua won them back in a rematch later that same year. He then lost two fights to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022.
Friends of the boxer have expressed their shock over the accident. They have also sent their support to Joshua and the families of those who died. The tragedy has clearly had a deep impact on the fighter and his inner circle. His uncle's comments suggest family concerns have always been part of his career. The recent event may have brought those concerns to the forefront.