Former heavyweight champion resumes training after team members’ deaths with motivational slogan.
British-Nigerian boxing icon Anthony Joshua has made a significant step in his recovery, returning to the gym this week following the devastating car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close team members late last year.
The former two-time world heavyweight champion, born in Watford to Nigerian parents, posted a series of clips on social media showing him hitting pads, exercising and riding a stationary bike in a training session — a meaningful return to the boxing environment amid his physical and emotional healing.
One of the training videos was captioned “Mental Strength Therapy”, a slogan that reflects Joshua’s mindset as he works through the aftermath of the December 29, 2025 accident near Lagos, which killed his strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and personal trainer Latif “Latz” Ayodele.
The tragedy occurred just 10 days after Joshua’s knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami, leaving the boxing world shaken as the 36-year-old boxer sustained minor injuries but lost two trusted confidants.
Joshua spent time in hospital in Lagos before being discharged and flown back to the UK, where he attended the funerals of his late friends. In recent days, the British-Nigerian fighter has focused on recovery sessions and shared emotional thanks to fans and supporters on social media for the outpouring of love and prayers.
Despite his return to light training, Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn has been emphatic that no decisions about his future in the sport will be rushed. Hearn told Sky Sports that Joshua would need time to heal physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually before contemplating a return to competitive boxing.
The former heavyweight champion’s gym comeback underscores his resilience and determination, but also highlights the personal journey he is now navigating — balancing grief, healing and the possibility of future challenges in the ring.
Stay with Hot Sports Scoops for further updates on Anthony Joshua’s recovery and potential return to boxing.