Joshua Back in Training but Future Fight Uncertain, Says Promoter Eddie Hearn
Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has resumed training following the tragic deaths of two close friends, but his promoter Eddie Hearn says there are no guarantees the 36-year-old will return to the ring.
Joshua sustained minor injuries in a road traffic accident along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on December 29, 2025, which claimed the lives of Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele.
The two-time world champion returned to training in January, sharing a video on social media with the caption ‘mental strength therapy.’
Hearn, who has promoted Joshua since his professional debut after winning Olympic gold in 2012, told First Round TV that while Joshua is back in the gym, the emotional and physical toll of the tragedy means his comeback remains uncertain.
‘I don’t think there are any guarantees he fights again, but at the same time I expect him to, because it is something that he loves. It is something he can carry those guys with him through as well, and it is something he wants to do.’
Hearn added that Joshua is still working his way back to full boxing training: “He has been training, but he is not ready yet and won’t be for a while.’
Joshua’s future remains one of the most closely watched storylines in boxing, with fans and analysts waiting to see whether the former unified champion will step back into the ring in 2026.
