Anthony Joshua has made a comeback to the boxing gym close to three weeks after being involved in a fatal car accident in Nigeria. The former two-time heavyweight champion was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that crashed into a stationary truck on a major expressway near Lagos, resulting in the tragic deaths of his friends and teammates, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Their funerals were held in London on January 4.
While in Nigeria for a holiday and family visit, Joshua had recently defeated Jake Paul before the accident. Following a brief hospital stay, Joshua has been seen working out in the gym, engaging in what he calls “mental strength therapy.” He has been spotted doing various exercises, including lower leg workouts, stationary biking, and swimming.
Despite reports from Joshua’s uncle suggesting his retirement from boxing post-accident, it is understood that Joshua has not confirmed any decision on his future yet. The driver involved in the crash has been charged, and details have emerged that Joshua narrowly escaped death by switching seats in the vehicle just before the accident.
Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter, emphasized that no discussions are ongoing regarding Joshua’s boxing future and emphasized the need for Joshua to take time for himself to heal physically, mentally, and emotionally before making any decisions. Hearn expressed belief that Joshua may want to return to boxing eventually but stressed that the timing for such decisions is critical and requires consideration of various factors, including the emotional toll of the recent incident.