Eddie Hearn shuts down talk over Anthony Joshua future after car crash

Eddie Hearn has insisted to talkSPORT that focus is not on Anthony Joshua’s boxing career after his tragic car accident.

Joshua recently defeated influencer-turned-fighter Jake Paul in December, and was planning for a big 2026 in the squared circle.

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But last week, he was involved in a heartbreaking and tragic accident in Nigeria, which killed his two friends, Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele and Sina Ghami.

Joshua himself suffered minor injuries and was severely shaken up by the accident, and was hospitalised before returning to the UK.

Of course, boxing is likely to be the last thing on the 36-year-old’s mind right now, but many are still pondering his next move.

His uncle recently claimed that he was now retired from the sport and wouldn’t lace up his gloves again.

But it appears those claims are premature, with promoter Hearn insisting focus has simply been on Joshua’s recovery.

He told Jim White: “To be honest at this stage, it is a no comment from us.

“Just out of respect to Anthony. With everything he has been through and the tragic loss of Sina and Latz.

“At the moment, Anthony needs time and privacy. There will be no conversations from us about his career.

“Nothing about any move or what’s next. This is a terrible tragedy and he’s going to need his own time physically and emotionally.

“There is nothing to discuss and prayers for him and the families of all those involved in this terrible incident.”

Mark Robinson/Matchroom

Clearly reports that Joshua has made a decision on his career are premature for now.

Joshua’s 2026 plans before the car accident

Before tragedy struck, Joshua had looked to launch into a big year inside the ring.

His emphatic victory over Paul in a blockbuster event had helped boost his profile globally, with the clash watched by 33 million people.

It was clear that he was then intending to return to the traditional ranks and make a push for the biggest and best fights against heavyweight elite.

He was originally expected to return in February or March, but that of course now looks highly unlikely.

The bout was expected to be a tune-up clash for a huge all-British showdown with long-term foe Tyson Fury.

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Fury has now confirmed he is reversing his decision to retire from boxing and will return imminently.

And it was understood a framework of a deal was in place for the pair to meet, but that could now be in jeopardy.