Anthony Joshua resumes training after tragic accident
Anthony Joshua has posted footage of himself training for the first time since the devastating road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close friends, reports BritPanorama.
The 36-year-old former world heavyweight champion uploaded clips to Snapchat showing him working the pads with a trainer and exercising on a stationary bike. He described the workout footage as “mental strength therapy” as part of his recovery from the December 29 tragedy.
The compilation also included Joshua completing lower body exercises and making use of a pool as part of his rehabilitation programme. One post featured a defiant caption: “I am a fighter.”
The accident occurred on a major road near Lagos when the vehicle carrying Joshua and his companions collided with a stationary lorry. Strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and trainer Latif “Latz” Ayodele were killed in the crash. Joshua, who had been holidaying in Nigeria after his victory over Jake Paul in Miami, sustained injuries and was pulled from the wreckage.
Joshua spent New Year’s Day in the hospital before being discharged two days post-incident. Lagos state commissioner for information Gbenga Omotoso confirmed that Joshua was “deemed clinically fit to recuperate from home.” He paid an emotional tribute to his late friends, calling them “great men” and expressing regret for not fully appreciating their significance during their time together.
The boxer acknowledged his own struggles while recognising the deeper pain experienced by the families of the deceased. “It’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents,” Joshua remarked. He concluded his video by reiterating his “My Brother’s Keeper” commitment to support the relatives of Ghami and Ayodele.
Promoter Eddie Hearn indicated he expects Joshua to eventually resume his boxing career but emphasised the necessity for the fighter to have space to heal. Hearn stated, “What happened to him is not normal and heartbreaking for all involved,” while also indicating discussions about future fights would not be appropriate at this time.
As Joshua embarks on his recovery journey, there remains an ongoing dialogue about the complex intersection of resilience and tragedy in the life of a public figure, reminding us of the human cost behind the headlines in the world of sport.
