Anthony Joshua Retirement Speculations: Uncle Claims Fighter Will Step Away, No Word from AJ
Recently, Anthony Joshua faced a significant personal loss, as two of his friends and team members tragically passed away in a car accident in Nigeria. Consequently, rumors of retirement are circulating regarding the former heavyweight champion, with his uncle stating that AJ has privately informed the family he will not return to boxing. Joshua, 36, sustained minor injuries in the incident, which occurred just days after his victory over Jake Paul on December 19 in Miami. He was visiting Nigeria, where his parents originated. Adedamola Joshua, Joshua’s uncle, shared with The PUNCH that the fighter “has retired from boxing,” indicating that AJ had conveyed this decision to his family. At present, there is no official confirmation from Anthony Joshua or any statements from Matchroom Boxing. Following his win against Jake Paul, Joshua (29-4, 26 KO) had called out Tyson Fury, his longstanding media adversary. With Fury’s announcement of a return to boxing in 2026, it appeared we might finally witness the long-anticipated clash between the two leading heavyweight figures of their generation in the UK. Additionally, discussions arose concerning Joshua potentially vying for the WBO heavyweight title against Fabio Wardley, which promoter Eddie Hearn suggested might hold greater significance for Joshua, especially with a world title at stake. The individuals who tragically lost their lives in the accident, Kevin Latif “Latz” Ayodele and Sina “Evolve” Ghami, were not merely friends but also longstanding coaches and team members of Joshua. He has a reputation for being deeply loyal to his close circles, and at the very least, he will require time to grieve and thoroughly contemplate his next steps in his career.
Published: 2026-01-06 21:51:00
source: www.badlefthook.com
