Anthony Joshua resumes workouts after tragic Nigeria crash that killed teammates as uncertainty surrounds his boxing future

Anthony Joshua is back in the gym, and his quiet return has caught the boxing world’s attention. Just weeks after a deadly car crash in Nigeria, the former two-time heavyweight world champion shared a short but powerful message that shows where his mind is right now. The 36-year-old boxer posted new workout photos and videos, giving fans a small look into how he is coping after a deeply painful moment in his life.

Joshua was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that crashed into a parked truck near Lagos, Nigeria. While he survived with minor injuries, the accident killed two of his close friends and teammates, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Their funerals were held in London on January 4. Joshua had been in Nigeria on holiday and visiting family, just days after knocking out YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. After spending several days in the hospital, he was discharged on New Year’s Eve. Since then, many fans have wondered if he will ever fight again.

Anthony Joshua returns to training as questions grow about his boxing future

This week, Anthony Joshua shared images on Snapchat showing him back in the gym. In the posts, he is seen hitting pads, riding a stationary bike, working on leg exercises, and even swimming. He called the session “mental strength therapy,” a phrase that clearly shows the focus of his return. One photo also showed his time on a cardio machine, with the caption, “I am a fighter.”

Joshua also shared an old image from his 2017 fight at Wembley Stadium, where he was punched by heavyweight legend Wladimir Klitschko. The post felt reflective, mixing memories of his career with his present struggle.

On January 6, Anthony Joshua’s uncle Adedamola Joshua told The Punch that the boxer had privately informed his family he planned to retire. He said, “The major thing there is that he has retired from boxing… Now that he has said that he’s leaving while the ovation is highest, we are happy.” However, Mirror Fighting later reported that Joshua has not yet made a final decision.

Meanwhile, the legal case linked to the crash continues. On January 2, the Ogun State Police Command confirmed that the driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was charged at the Sagamu Magistrate Court. Police spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi told AFP, “The defendant was granted bail in the sum of five million naira with two sureties. He was remanded pending when he meets his bail condition.”

Anthony Joshua also narrowly avoided death. Reports said he was first seated in the front before being asked to move to the back. Speaking to Sky Sports, his promoter Eddie Hearn said, “When the time is right, I believe he will make his decision. You’ll hear it from him. The future of Anthony Joshua will be told by Anthony Joshua.”

Also Read: Anthony Joshua Net Worth In 2025: Inside His Boxing Earnings, Career, And Payday Before Jake Paul Fight

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