By Hunvio Pedetin The world of boxing may have seen the last of Anthony Joshua in the ring. Following a horrific car accident on the Lagos-...
By Hunvio Pedetin
The world of boxing may have seen the last of Anthony Joshua in the ring. Following a horrific car accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends, the former heavyweight champion is reportedly ready to retire.
The 36-year-old boxing star survived the "fatal" crash last week, but the emotional scars appear to be deeper than the physical ones. Speaking from the family home in Sagamu, AJ’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, revealed that the boxer has privately told his family he is done with the sport.
For AJ’s family, the news of his retirement brings a strange sense of peace. For years, they have watched their son take heavy hits in the ring, holding their breath every time he was knocked down.
"Each time he’s knocked down, it is just like the heart is coming out of our chest," his uncle shared. "Now that he has said he’s leaving while the ovation is loudest, we are happy."
The accident, which occurred when their SUV collided with a stationary truck, took the lives of Sina Ghami (his strength coach) and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele (his personal trainer). These weren't just employees; they were Joshua’s brothers.
Breaking his silence on Instagram, Joshua posted a moving tribute with the caption, “My Brothers Keeper.” Sources close to the champ say he has committed to taking care of the families of his fallen friends for the rest of their lives.
In a chilling twist of fate, it was revealed that Joshua was originally supposed to be in the front seat. However, because of his large frame, the driver asked him to swap to the back so he could see the mirrors clearly. That simple move likely saved AJ’s life, as his friend Latif took the front seat and unfortunately did not survive.
While the boxing world mourns the potential end of a legendary career, the people of Sagamu are just grateful their "glory" is alive. Local resident Adeniji Taiwo captured the mood of the community: "We thank God we didn’t lose our son. This is his home, and he is our glory."
As the driver of the vehicle faces charges in a Sagamu court, the focus remains on Anthony Joshua’s healing. Whether he ever puts on the gloves again or not, Badagry and the rest of Nigeria stand with him as he mourns his brothers.
Photo Credit: The Ring Magazine
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