Shocking Revelations: Anthony Joshua’s Potential Retirement Explained Following Deadly Crash in Nigeria

Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is reportedly considering retiring from boxing following a fatal car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends and long-time team members on December 29, 2025.

According to The Punch, Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, revealed the development in an exclusive interview with the newspaper during a visit to the family’s home in Sagamu, Ogun State, on Monday.

“The major thing there is that he has retired from boxing. That is one thing that makes us glad because each time he’s fighting in the ring, we are always carried away emotionally,” Adedamola said.

The boxing world is reeling after shocking reports surrounding Anthony Joshua’s potential retirement. Following a tragic car crash in Nigeria that claimed lives, the heavyweight superstar is now reportedly reconsidering his career in the ring. While the fatal accident was initially thought to be the main reason behind his decision, new details suggest there may be more at play.

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“Each time he’s knocked down, it is just like the heart is coming out of our chest. All these emotional feelings whenever he’s fighting, it’s too much trauma for us also. Now that he has said that he’s leaving while the ovation is highest, we are happy.”

When asked if Joshua had officially communicated the decision to his family, he replied, “Yes.”

The 36-year-old boxer reportedly made the decision after the tragic incident last week in which his conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, and personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele, died on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Joshua, who survived the crash with minor injuries, has promised to support the families of his late friends.

He broke his public silence on Sunday with an emotional Instagram post featuring photos with the bereaved relatives, captioned “My Brothers Keeper”, accompanied by two heart emojis and a military helmet symbol, a gesture interpreted as one of remembrance and protection.

The phrase, drawn from Genesis 4:9, underscores a moral duty to care for others.

Report: Heartbreaking Scenes from the Burial of Anthony Joshua’s Deceased Friends Sina Ghami, Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele

Anthony Joshua: The funeral held today in London for Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele follows a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed their lives. Both men were close friends of Anthony Joshua, the British heavyweight boxing champion known worldwide for his prowess in the ring and his charismatic personality outside it.

The accident shocked not only Joshua but also the wider community of friends, family, and fans who have followed his career. The loss of these two individuals has brought a somber pause to Joshua’s life and career, highlighting the fragility of life beyond the spotlight.

The funeral drew a large crowd, including thousands of mourners and members of the Muslim community, reflecting the deep respect and affection held for the deceased. Anthony Joshua himself attended the service, joining others in paying their respects and mourning the loss of his friends.
This event marked a poignant moment for Joshua, who has been publicly grieving since the tragic accident. The funeral at the London Central Mosque served not only as a farewell but also as a gathering of community support for Joshua and the families affected.The loss of these two friends has resonated widely, highlighting the personal side of the boxing champion beyond his public persona. The London funeral was a significant step in the healing process for all who knew Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele.

Anthony Joshua’s Response and Future Outlook

Since the accident, Anthony Joshua has been relatively private, focusing on healing and supporting the families affected. The funeral marks a significant step in his grieving process. Joshua’s public statements and social media posts have conveyed his sorrow and his commitment to honoring the memory of his friends.

Looking ahead, this personal loss may influence Joshua’s career and public engagements. Fans and observers are watching closely to see how he navigates this difficult period, balancing his professional ambitions with the need for personal healing.

Community and Public Reaction

The funeral was not only a private affair but also a public moment of solidarity. Thousands of mourners gathered to pay their respects, reflecting the impact Sina and Latif had on their communities. The event was covered widely by media outlets, emphasizing the human side of a sports icon dealing with personal loss.

Social media has also been flooded with tributes to both men, with many expressing condolences to Joshua and the families. The tragedy has sparked conversations about road safety and the importance of community support in times of grief.

The Funeral Service

The funeral took place at the London Central Mosque, a prominent location for the Muslim community in London. The choice of venue reflects the faith and cultural background of the deceased and their families. The service began at 10 a.m. and was attended by thousands, including members of the public, friends, family, and notable figures from the sports and entertainment worlds.

Anthony Joshua’s attendance was particularly notable. Despite the emotional weight, Joshua was present to honor his friends, showing a side of vulnerability and grief that contrasts with his public image as a fierce competitor. Reports indicate that Joshua arrived a few hours late but participated fully in the mourning rituals.

Profiles of the Deceased

• Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele: A personal trainer by profession, Latif was a longtime friend of Anthony Joshua. His role as a trainer and fitness enthusiast made him a significant figure in Joshua’s life, both personally and professionally. Latif was known for his dedication to health and fitness, and his close relationship with Joshua extended beyond the gym into deep personal friendship.
• Sina Ghami: Also a close friend of Joshua, Sina was well-regarded in their social circle. Though less publicly known than Latif, Sina’s presence in Joshua’s life was meaningful, and his loss has been deeply felt by those who knew him.

Grief in London, Unspoken Pain in London as Funeral Brings Anthony Joshua’s World to a Standstil

Anthony Joshua: A mood of deep grief enveloped London on Sunday as relatives, friends and members of the boxing community gathered to remember two close confidants of former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, whose sudden deaths have reverberated throughout the sport.

The Janaza (funeral prayer) for the late associates of boxing star Anthony Joshua took place in London, drawing mourners who came to pay their final respects.

Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele lost their lives in a fatal road crash in Nigeri last Monday. Joshua was also caught up in the incident but survived with only minor injuries.

The fatal accident, which occurred during a visit to Nigeria last month, has since sparked broader concerns about responsibility and road safety, as legal processes have now commenced.

At the London Central Mosque, a large crowd assembled for the Janaza (funeral) prayer, while Ghami’s burial was scheduled to follow later in the day at Hendon Cemetery and Crematorium from noon.

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A wake in honour of both men was also planned for around 3pm at Cavendish Banqueting Hall in North West London. Joshua, who was born in Watford, grew up across North London and Hertfordshire.

The 36-year-old boxer had been travelling as a passenger in a Lexus SUV that crashed into a stationary truck. He was treated and discharged from hospital on New Year’s Eve.

Ahead of the funeral rites, the remains of Ghami and Ayodele were repatriated to the United Kingdom.

Both men were widely seen as key figures within Joshua’s inner circle, contributing significantly to his training, preparation and professional rise. Their passing has darkened what was meant to be a joyful period in the boxer’s career.

Joshua, born in Watford to Nigerian parents, had journeyed to Nigeria for a holiday following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19.

The driver involved in the crash, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was arraigned by the Ogun State Police Command on charges of causing death by dangerous driving and operating a vehicle without a valid licence.

The matter was adjourned until January 20, with the court granting the defendant bail in the sum of ₦5 million. He was remanded in custody pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions.