Eddie Hearn feared Anthony Joshua would retire after fatal car crash
Promoter Eddie Hearn feared Anthony Joshua would retire from boxing following a devastating car crash in Nigeria last December that killed two of the heavyweight’s close friends.
The 36-year-old was travelling in a Jeep that collided with a stationary truck, resulting in the deaths of his personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and strength coach, Sina Ghami.
While the British fighter escaped with minor physical injuries, he required hospital treatment and extensive rehabilitation.
Physical and mental toll
Speaking ahead of a scheduled bout with Kristian Prenga in Saudi Arabia on 25 July, Hearn revealed the profound impact the tragedy had on his fighter.
The Matchroom boss admitted he had serious doubts about whether the former two-time world champion would ever return to the ring.
You’re talking about six months where he was involved in a tragic accident. Physically, he was seriously damaged in that accident.
Before he could even get into camp, he had to do three months of rehab, the menial stuff, being on a bike for three hours a day.
Hearn explained that the initial focus was entirely on basic physical recovery through minor body movements rather than boxing training.
A renewed driving force
Despite the physical setbacks, overcoming the psychological trauma posed an entirely different challenge for the heavyweight.
However, the promoter believes the tragic loss of his key team members has provided a new purpose for his upcoming return.
Mentally and emotionally, you can only imagine what was going through his mind. What he has done to pull himself back, physically and emotionally with this driving force. He’s more dangerous than he’s been before.
They actually dedicated their own lives to the movement of AJ and achieving his dreams in the sport and I think he’s carrying that purpose.
Hearn added that the victims were two of his greatest supporters who wanted him to succeed more than anything.
Legal proceedings ongoing
An immediate police investigation was launched in Nigeria following the fatal collision.
Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, appeared at Sagamu Magistrates Court in Ogun state in February charged with causing death by dangerous driving.
He also faces charges of reckless and negligent driving, alongside operating a vehicle without a valid licence.
The accused was previously granted bail as he faces the prospect of a severe custodial sentence.