Liputan6.com, Jakarta - World heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua is currently in the public spotlight after rumors surfaced about his retirement from boxing.
This speculation came after a tragic car accident in Nigeria on December 29, 2025, that claimed the lives of two of his close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele.
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Joshua reportedly suffered only minor injuries in the tragic incident.
The tragic incident immediately sparked speculation about the future of Anthony Joshua's career in the ring.
Furthermore, a surprising claim came from his uncle stating that the champion had decided to retire.
Those closest to Anthony Joshua, including his promoter, quickly responded to the rumors.
Uncle Claims: Anthony Joshua Retires for Family
Anthony Joshua's uncle, Adedamola Joshua, publicly stated to Nigerian media outlet The Punch that his nephew has made the major decision to retire from boxing.
The family is relieved by this decision, admitting they experience deep emotional trauma every time they watch Anthony Joshua fight in the ring.
“Every time he gets knocked down, it feels like our hearts come out of our chests. All those emotions every time he fights are extremely traumatic for us as well. Now that he has said he’s leaving while the applause is at its loudest, we are happy,” he explained.
However, there has been no official confirmation from Anthony Joshua himself or his management team regarding this claim.
Promoter Eddie Hearn Denies Anthony Joshua Retirement Rumors
Contrary to his uncle's claims, Anthony Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, firmly denied rumors of the boxer's retirement.
“We live in a world where everyone feels they deserve to know what’s next. Anything you hear about his career—until AJ tells you himself—don’t believe it. It was a terrible accident, a tragic injury. It will take time for him to recover physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” he told Fight Hub TV.
Hearn also warned the public not to believe any information regarding Anthony Joshua's career unless it comes directly from the boxer himself.
Anthony Joshua Respond
Since the accident, Anthony Joshua has largely remained silent publicly regarding his boxing future.
His public statements have been limited to social media posts acknowledging the loss, such as "My Brothers' Keeper," without mentioning boxing or career plans.
Before this tragic incident, Anthony Joshua had just recorded an impressive victory over Jake Paul via knockout in December 2025.
He was even expected to return to the ring in early 2026, with a potential big-money fight against Tyson Fury.
However, the accident and its aftermath have now cast serious doubt on all those plans.