Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, is calling on fans and the media to respect the boxer’s privacy as he comes to terms with a devastating car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his friends.
A Tragic Loss
On 29 December, Joshua sustained minor injuries in the crash, while his team members, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, tragically lost their lives. Since then, Joshua, a former two-time world heavyweight champion, has returned to the UK to attend their funerals and pay tribute to the friends he lost.
Hearn emphasized the gravity of the situation, saying, “This is not a time for updates, this is not a time for careers; this is a time for faith and prayer and healing for Anthony. Physically, spiritually, emotionally, you’ve got to give him time.” He stressed that the focus should remain on the wellbeing of Joshua and the families affected by the accident.
Respecting Joshua’s Privacy
In an interview with talkSport, Hearn reinforced the need for privacy: “To be honest, at this stage, it is a no comment from us – just out of respect to Anthony. With everything he has been through and the tragic loss of Sina and Latz, at the moment, Anthony needs time and privacy. There will be no conversations from us about his career, nothing about any move or what’s next.”
Hearn urged fans and the public to offer support through prayers and understanding rather than speculation about Joshua’s future in boxing.
Boxing Plans on Hold
Joshua had fought just 10 days before the crash, defeating YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami. Talks of a potential February return and a highly anticipated bout with fellow Briton Tyson Fury were underway, but those plans are now understandably on hold as Joshua grieves and recovers.
Hearn concluded, “There is nothing to discuss, and prayers for him and the families of all those involved in this terrible incident.” The focus, for now, remains on giving Joshua the time and space he needs to process this heartbreaking loss.
