The boxing world has been rocked by reports that former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is seriously considering retirement. The news comes today, Tuesday, 6 January 2026, just one week after a devastating car accident in Nigeria claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and mentors.
Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, confirmed the decision to the press during a visit to the family home in Sagamu, stating that the 36-year-old boxer has communicated his desire to quit the sport to his family in private.
The crash occurred on Monday, 29 December 2025, on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. New details reveal just how narrowly Joshua escaped the same fate as his companions.
He was initially in the front passenger seat but moved to the back midway through the journey at the driver’s request, as his large frame was obstructing the wing mirror. Minutes later, their Lexus SUV struck a stationary truck on the passenger side, the exact spot where Joshua had been sitting.
The impact killed Sina Ghami (Strength & Conditioning Coach) and Latif “Latz” Ayodele (Personal Trainer) instantly. Joshua was rescued from the wreckage with minor physical injuries but was said to be “devastated.”
While Joshua has not yet held a formal press conference, his family indicates the emotional weight of the tragedy is the primary driver for his exit.
“He has said that he’s leaving while the ovation is highest… Each time he’s in the ring, we are carried away emotionally. Now we are happy he is leaving.” – Adedamola Joshua, Anthony’s Uncle.
Fact-Check Warning: Fact-checkers have flagged a viral AI-generated video currently circulating on social media which purportedly shows Joshua announcing his retirement. While his family confirms he is considering it, the video itself is a “deepfake” using a 2022 press conference clip.
The driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was arraigned on Friday at a Sagamu Magistrate Court on four counts, including dangerous driving causing death. He has pleaded not guilty, claiming the brakes failed. Trial resumes 20 January 2026.
Sources close to Joshua indicate he has committed to providing lifelong financial support to the families of Ghami and Ayodele.
Joshua attended a private funeral service for his friends at the London Central Mosque this past Sunday, 4 January.
In his first social media post since the accident, Joshua shared a photo with the bereaved families on Sunday, simply captioned: “My Brothers Keeper.”
