Eddie Hearn has calls for pause in the discussion of former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua’s boxing future following the tragedy in Nigeria.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has called for a halt to all discussions regarding Anthony Joshua’s boxing future as the fighter mourns the loss of two close friends. Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele both died in a crash near Lagos on Dec. 29, a tragic accident that Joshua survived with only minor physical injuries but immense emotional weight.
Speaking this week, Hearn made it clear that the former heavyweight champion’s wellbeing is the only priority. “Since the accident, I’ve had people phoning me saying: ‘What’s the update…’ The reality is, this is not the time for updates, this is not the time for careers,” Hearn told Matchroom Boxing. He emphasized that the focus must remain on the healing process, stating, “Physically, spiritually, emotionally, you’ve got to give him time. We’re not interested in the future.”
The loss has deeply impacted Joshua’s tight-knit camp. Ghami, a strength coach, and Ayodele, a trainer, were described by Hearn as essential sources of positivity. “Sina would walk into a room and just light it on like: ‘Come on!’ He was just the absolute energy lifter. And Latz the same,” Hearn recalled.
While speculation about retirement has surfaced since the accident, Hearn maintains that “this is a time for faith and prayer and healing for Anthony.” Joshua has since returned to the UK to attend his friends’ funerals. For now, the sporting world remains on hold as the 36-year-old prioritizes his recovery and supports the families of his fallen “brothers.”
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