WATCH: Anthony Joshua Chooses ‘Mental Strength Therapy’ Following Devastating Loss in Car Accident

Former two time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua finally returns to training after horrific crash amidst retirement doubts.

WATCH: Anthony Joshua Chooses ‘Mental Strength Therapy’ Following Devastating Loss in Car Accident

Anthony Joshua starts training after major crash (via Boxing Scene)

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Anthony Joshua’s personal life has taken a turbulent turn in recent weeks as success in the ring was followed by tragedy away from it. The former heavyweight champion drew headlines for a dominant knockout win over Jake Paul before news surfaced of a fatal car crash in Nigeria just ten days later. Recent footage indicates Joshua has returned to the gym while coping with the trauma of the horrific incident.

The accident occurred on December 29, 2025, on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a major highway in southwest Nigeria. Joshua was travelling in a Lexus SUV with members of his team when the vehicle collided with a stationary truck on the side of the road. Two of his close associates, strength coach Sina Ghami and trainer Latif Ayodele, passed away in the crash. However, Joshua suffered minor injuries.

In the aftermath of the fatal crash, questions emerged about whether Joshua would consider stepping away from boxing altogether. However, recent training footage shows the British heavyweight back on his feet, working through boxing drills alongside core and cardio exercises. The clips also showed Joshua submerging himself in a pool as part of breath-control and recovery work.

Joshua has consistently spoken about the importance of mental health throughout his boxing career. He has emphasized the need for stronger support systems for both active and retired fighters, given the intense physical and emotional demands of the sport. The British heavyweight has also opened a care home for retired boxers, reflecting his broader charitable efforts beyond the ring.

Once regarded as one of boxing’s most imposing champions, Joshua has endured significant setbacks at the top of the division. He suffered two title fight losses to Oleksandr Usyk and was later defeated by Daniel Dubois in September 2024, his final professional outing before facing Paul. Those defeats took a noticeable toll on his mental health, reflected in his actions following the second loss to Usyk.

In the weeks since the crash, Joshua has reflected on the loss while supporting the families of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Both men were pivotal in his rise through the heavyweight ranks and shaped much of his career. Their deaths were a deeply personal blow, and as he returns to training, Anthony Joshua remains focused on honoring their legacy and carrying their influence into the next chapter of his career.

Anthony Joshua gets support from former rival after horrific accident

Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko share a notable history in heavyweight boxing, highlighted by their 2017 world title clash. That fight marked a turning point in Joshua’s career, as he defeated the Ukrainian veteran to unify the WBA, IBF, and IBO belts and solidify his status as a top heavyweight. Klitschko, a veteran with a nearly two-decade-long reign, earned widespread respect for his skill and sportsmanship.

Anthony Joshua Wladimir Klitschko
Anthony Joshua Wladimir Klitschko (via X)

Following news of Joshua’s survival in the fatal car crash, Klitschko reached out to express his concern and encouragement. The gesture underscored the respect between the former opponents and highlighted the solidarity among fighters outside the ring. Klitschko acknowledged the traumatic nature of the incident while celebrating Joshua’s resilience and determination to continue his career.

I am deeply saddened to learn of what happened to AJ and his close group of friends. Having had the privilege of being in an unforgettable battle with him, I have always considered him as a true example of class and someone who deserves all my respect.

Wladimir Klitschko via Boxing Scene

In addition to Klitschko, several other figures in the boxing world, including Oleksandr Usyk, Francis Ngannou, and promoter Eddie Hearn, also sent messages of support to Anthony Joshua. Matchroom Boxing, led by Hearn, publicly acknowledged the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. These gestures highlighted the community’s solidarity and close-knit nature.

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