By SUNTV Global Channel | January 6, 2026
Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is reportedly considering stepping away from professional boxing following a devastating road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends and team members.
A family source confirmed to SUNTV Global Channel that the 36-year-old boxer privately communicated his intention to retire in the aftermath of the crash, which occurred last week along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State.
Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, disclosed the development during a visit to the family home in Sagamu on Monday, saying the decision has brought some relief to relatives who have long worried about the emotional toll of his boxing career.
“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.
When asked if Joshua clearly informed the family of his decision, he responded simply: “Yes.”
The fatal accident, which happened on Monday, December 29, 2025, involved a Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and members of his entourage. The vehicle reportedly crashed around 11:00 a.m. near the Sagamu Interchange, close to Danco Filling Station on the Ibadan-bound section of the expressway.
Two passengers, identified as Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, died at the scene. Joshua, who was seated in the rear of the vehicle, sustained minor injuries and was taken for medical treatment.
The Ogun State Police Command, in a statement signed by its spokesperson DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, confirmed the incident and said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are ongoing.
“The Ogun State Police Command confirms that world-renowned boxer, Anthony Joshua, was involved in a road traffic accident on Monday, December 29, 2025, at about 11:00 am in Makun, Ogun State,” the statement read.
“Tragically, two other passengers in the vehicle lost their lives at the scene.”
Police also confirmed that Joshua’s driver has since been arraigned in court over allegations of reckless driving. The driver, however, pleaded not guilty, attributing the crash to brake failure.
Sources close to the family told SUNTV Global Channel that Joshua has pledged lifelong support to the families of the deceased, describing the loss as deeply personal and emotionally overwhelming.
Over the weekend, the boxer attended an emotional funeral service for Ghami and Ayodele at the London Central Mosque, where Islamic funeral prayers (Janaza) were held. The coffins were placed side by side as hundreds of mourners gathered to pay their last respects before burial arrangements continued later in the day.
Back home in Sagamu, residents expressed gratitude that Joshua survived the crash while mourning the loss of the two men.
A Sagamu indigene, Adeniji Taiwo, described the boxer as a source of pride to the community.
“We thank God we didn’t lose our son. For those who lost their children, God will comfort them,” Taiwo said.
“This is his home. No one in Remo wishes him evil. He is our glory.”
While there has been no official public statement from Anthony Joshua himself, family members say the trauma of the incident may permanently shape his future, both in and out of the ring.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and bring updates as the story unfolds.
