Anthony Joshua Considers Retirement After Fatal Nigeria Road Crash Kills Two Team Members

Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is considering a permanent retirement from professional boxing following a fatal road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two key members of his inner circle, PulseNets has learnt.

The devastating incident, which occurred during a private visit to the country, has reportedly pushed the 36-year-old boxer into deep reflection about his career, with family sources confirming that he has already communicated his intentions to close relatives.

Joshua survived the crash but lost two long-time associates and close friends, a development that has profoundly shaken his camp. Those familiar with the situation told PulseNets that the emotional impact of the tragedy has been overwhelming, forcing the former champion to reassess his priorities beyond the boxing ring.

Speaking on the matter, Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, confirmed that the family was privately informed of the decision. He explained that the boxer’s career had long been a source of intense emotional strain for relatives, who constantly feared for his safety during fights.

According to him, the anxiety eventually became unbearable, and the family now feels a sense of relief at the possibility of Joshua stepping away from the sport.

“The most important thing for us is that he has decided to retire from boxing, and that alone gives us peace,” he told PulseNets.
“Anytime he stepped into the ring, we were emotionally unsettled. When he was knocked down, it felt like our hearts were coming out of our chests. The trauma was too much for the family. Now that he has chosen to leave at a time when people still celebrate him, we are genuinely grateful.”

When asked if the decision came directly from Joshua himself, his uncle confirmed it without hesitation.

“Yes, it came from him personally,” he said.

Beyond discussions about retirement, PulseNets gathered that Joshua has also made a firm commitment to provide long-term support for the families of the two men who died in the accident — Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele — both of whom were integral parts of his boxing team for several years.

Joshua addressed the tragedy publicly days after the crash, sharing photographs with the bereaved families alongside a short message reading “My Brother’s Keeper.” Those close to him say the post was more than symbolic, reflecting both his personal values and his resolve to stand by the families during their time of grief.

Sources who spoke to PulseNets described loyalty as a defining trait of Joshua’s character, noting that Ghami and Ayodele were regarded not merely as staff but as family. Ghami was responsible for strength and conditioning, while Ayodele served as Joshua’s personal trainer, roles they had maintained throughout much of his professional journey.

The trio had travelled to Nigeria to spend time with family when the accident occurred. Their vehicle reportedly collided with a stationary truck along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Ghami and Ayodele died on the spot, while Joshua was pulled from the wreckage and rushed to hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries.

A funeral service was later held in London, drawing a large crowd of mourners. The two coffins were placed side by side during prayers, followed by a wake later in the day to honour their lives and contributions.

In Sagamu, Joshua’s ancestral home, emotions remain mixed. Residents expressed gratitude that the boxer survived, while also mourning the loss of the two men. One local indigene told PulseNets that Joshua remains a symbol of pride and goodwill within the community.

Addressing speculation about Joshua’s relationship with Nigeria after the incident, his uncle dismissed concerns, emphasising faith, family, and enduring roots.

“So many things are said in moments like this, but we are a Christian family and we approach everything with faith,” he explained.
“When something tragic happens, emotions can make you say anything, but with time, you realise that this will always be your root.”

Meanwhile, PulseNets obtained confirmation that the driver involved in the crash has been arraigned in court on charges related to dangerous and negligent driving, with the case adjourned to a later date.

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Joshua, who was born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, had been spending time in the country following a recent fight victory overseas.

While uncertainty still surrounds the future of his boxing career, family voices suggest that the ring may, for now, have seen the last of Anthony Joshua.