Boxing Helping Joshua Process Tragic Loss of Close Friends, Says Eddie Hearn

Promoter Eddie Hearn has opened up about Anthony Joshua’s emotional state following the tragic deaths of his close friends and integral team members, Sina Ghami and AbdulLateef "Latz" Ayodele, revealing that returning to the boxing gym is helping the former heavyweight champion navigate his grief.

Ghami (Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach) and Ayodele (his personal trainer) both lost their lives in a devastating car crash in Sagamu, Nigeria, while traveling alongside Joshua, who survived the incident with minor physical injuries.

Hearn emphasized that after the initial shock and a necessary period of mourning, stepping back into a structured training routine has provided Joshua with a vital mental anchor. Rather than serving as a distraction, the boxing ring has become a familiar space for processing the immense loss:

• Mental Sanctuary: Hearn noted that the discipline and raw focus required in boxing training have given Joshua a daily purpose and a constructive outlet for his emotions during an incredibly heavy time.
• Honoring Their Legacy: Because both Sina and Latz were deeply woven into the fabric of "Team Joshua", serving not just as coaches but as foundational brothers who drove his athletic success, Joshua views keeping his competitive drive alive as a direct tribute to their memory.
• No Pressure on Future Bouts: While the training is actively helping Joshua heal, Hearn reiterated that Matchroom Boxing is placing absolutely zero pressure on him regarding timeline commitments or finalizing his next major stadium fight, prioritizing his long-term mental well-being above commercial business.

The boxing community and fans worldwide have continued to rally behind the British-Nigerian heavyweight since the tragic accident. Joshua previously expressed his deep gratitude for the global outpouring of love, admitting that returning to the UK to heal and train has allowed him to fully realize just how special and deeply loved his late companions were to everyone around them.