Promoter Eddie Hearn says he expects Anthony Joshua to fight again following the tragic deaths of two close friends, but admits there are no guarantees about the former heavyweight champion’s future.
Joshua, 36, sustained minor injuries in a road traffic accident in Nigeria on 29 December that claimed the lives of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. The two-time world champion has kept a low profile since the incident, focusing on recovery and spending time away from the spotlight.
Training But Not Ready Yet
Joshua returned to light training in January and shared a video of himself working out, describing it as mental strength therapy. Hearn, who has promoted him since his Olympic gold medal triumph in 2012, said the physical and emotional toll of the accident should not be underestimated.
While Joshua has been back in the gym, Hearn stressed he is not yet ready to resume full boxing training and will not rush a return. The promoter believes the sport remains something Joshua loves deeply, and that fighting again could form part of his healing process.
Future Fights Uncertain
Before the accident, plans were reportedly in place for Joshua to return in March and potentially set up a long-awaited bout with Tyson Fury. Those discussions are now on hold, and Hearn acknowledged he is unsure whether that fight will materialise.
Joshua last competed on 19 December, stopping Jake Paul in the sixth round to move his record to 29 wins and four defeats, with 26 victories coming by knockout. After that win, he publicly called for a showdown with Fury.
For now, Joshua’s next steps remain uncertain. Hearn expects him to gradually increase the intensity of his training over the coming weeks and months, but says only time will determine whether the former champion steps back into the ring again.
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