British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has resumed training, taking a positive step in his recovery following a devastating car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close friends and members of his team.
The 36-year-old former world champion suffered minor injuries in the crash on December 29, near Lagos. The accident involved their vehicle and a stationary truck, resulting in the deaths of Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele.
Nineteen days after the tragedy, Joshua shared a video on Snapchat showing himself back in the gym, working pads and training, with the phrase “mental strength therapy” appearing on one of the clips. His return to training comes less than a month after his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19, which took place just days before the incident.
In an emotional Instagram post last week, Joshua paid tribute to Ghami and Ayodele, reflecting on their bond and the pain of their loss. He wrote that he only fully realised how special they were after they were gone, adding that while the loss is deeply painful for him, it is even more heartbreaking for their families.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, told Sky Sports that the boxer will only return to competitive action when he feels ready. He stressed that Joshua needs time and space to recover physically, mentally, and emotionally.
“The only question right now is, ‘Are you OK?’” Hearn said. “What he has been through is devastating for everyone involved. When the moment is right, he will make his decision himself.”
Joshua’s appearance back in the gym highlights his resolve to rebuild his strength and focus, even as he continues to grieve the loss of his close friends.
