Anthony Joshua has stepped back into the gym as part of what he described as “mental strength therapy,” just weeks after being involved in a devastating road accident in Nigeria. The former world heavyweight champion posted a short video on social media showing him working pads with a trainer, signalling a cautious return to routine amid a period of deep personal loss.
The British boxer was travelling as a passenger in a Lexus SUV on December 29 when the vehicle crashed into a stationary truck on a busy Lagos–Ibadan highway. While Joshua escaped with minor injuries, two key members of his inner circle, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, were killed at the scene.
Ayodele served as Joshua’s personal trainer, while Ghami was his long-time strength and conditioning coach. Their deaths sent shockwaves through the boxing community and immediately raised questions about Joshua’s emotional wellbeing and future in the sport.
Despite earlier warnings from his promoter that he could be sidelined for some time, Joshua’s recent gym appearance suggests a gradual process of healing rather than a full training comeback. He made it clear through his caption that the session was focused on mental resilience rather than competitive preparation.
Promoter Eddie Hearn has stressed that no pressure will be placed on the 36-year-old to make quick decisions about his career. Speaking this week, Hearn explained that Joshua would need space to recover physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually before deciding whether to fight again.
Joshua had been in Nigeria on holiday following his victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. Prior to the accident, there had been renewed discussion about a potential long-awaited clash with Tyson Fury, who recently emerged from retirement.
However, Hearn has made it clear that boxing plans are firmly on hold. Any conversations about future fights, including a possible bout with Fury, will only happen when Joshua feels ready and chooses to speak publicly about his next steps.
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