As Anthony Joshua prepares for his first fight since the tragic loss of two close friends, he shares his struggle to cope with the grief.
New Delhi, India Jul 23, 2026 ALN: Anthony Joshua says he is not ready for the loss of his two close friends and team members to "sink in yet" as he prepares for his first fight since their death.
Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele died when the vehicle they were travelling in, alongside heavyweight boxer Joshua and another passenger, collided with a stationary truck on a major road near Lagos, Nigeria, on 29 December 2025. The tragic incident has not only left a profound impact on Joshua's personal life but has also cast a shadow over his professional career as he seeks to return to the ring.
Joshua, who sustained minor injuries in the crash, is set to return to the ring against heavyweight Kristian Prenga on Saturday for his first contest since knocking out American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul just 10 days before the crash. The timing of the incident has been particularly difficult for Joshua, who has expressed that the emotional weight of losing friends who played significant roles in his life is still fresh and overwhelming.
The 36-year-old told BBC: "It's tough, every time I think about it, it hurts. Even talking about it now... pictures… it hurts but I keep my mind occupied you know. If I stop, you let it sink in and I'm not ready for it to sink in yet." This statement reflects not only his grief but also his determination to channel that emotional turmoil into his performance in the ring. Joshua's relationship with Ghami and Ayodele was deeply rooted in mutual respect and friendship, with Ghami serving as Joshua's full-time and exercise rehabilitation coach for over a decade. This long-standing partnership was pivotal in shaping Joshua's career, particularly in his approach to fitness and recovery.
Hours before the crash, Joshua shared a light-hearted moment on social media, posting a video of himself playing table tennis with his long-time friend Ayodele, a personal trainer. This glimpse into their camaraderie serves as a poignant reminder of the bond they shared, making the loss even more difficult for Joshua to process. As he prepares for his upcoming fight, the memories of their friendship are likely to weigh heavily on him, influencing both his mindset and motivation.
Prenga will be Joshua's first competitive fight since his knockout loss to IBF world champion Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024. That defeat marked a significant moment in Joshua's career, raising questions about his future in and his ability to reclaim his status as a top heavyweight contender. The pressure to perform against Prenga is compounded by the emotional burden he carries, making this comeback fight not only a physical challenge but also a mental one.
In the lead-up to the fight, Joshua admitted to feeling a "little bit nervous" before his return. "It's competition at the highest level," he added. "I want to perform for my team, I want to make them proud and make myself proud. It's a balance of nerves but I understand what my job is. [I have] a lot of understanding and clarity on what I have to do." This acknowledgment of nerves is a common sentiment among athletes returning to competition after a significant setback, particularly one as traumatic as the loss of close friends.
A long-awaited fight between Joshua and fellow Briton Tyson Fury is expected to take place later in the year, provided both men win their respective encounters. The prospect of this high-profile bout has been a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike, with many viewing it as a defining moment for both fighters. However, Joshua is keenly aware that he cannot afford to look past Prenga, who poses a legitimate threat in the ring.
Former heavyweight champion Fury faces Poland's Mariusz Wach in Pattaya, Thailand on Friday, with the 46-year-old expected to be Fury's final opponent before the 'Battle of Britain' bout against Joshua. The timing of these fights has created a unique narrative, as both boxers find themselves on a collision course that could culminate in a historic showdown. Fury's bout with Wach takes place the night before Joshua is scheduled to take on Albania's Prenga, which may provide an opportunity for Fury to attend Joshua's event, further heightening the anticipation surrounding their potential matchup.
Joshua, however, has made it clear that he is not allowing himself to be distracted by the prospect of facing Fury. "I'm not overlooking Prenga. This is a big deal for me this fight. God willing, everything works out," he said. This statement underscores his commitment to focusing on the task at hand, acknowledging the importance of the upcoming fight not just for his career, but also as a tribute to his late friends. Joshua's determination to honor their memory through his performance speaks volumes about his character and resilience as an athlete.
Joshua further elaborated on the significance of the fight, stating, "If it's not Saturday night where we face-off, it will be within the next four to six weeks. It's a big mark to leave on the . If I win on Saturday and I could win later in the year, it's massive. The stars are aligned and I have to make sure that I'm on course. It's out there for me to go and do. It's going to be challenging but I can be the coward or the hero and I have to decide what I want to be." This reflection reveals Joshua's awareness of the stakes involved, both personally and professionally, as he navigates this challenging period in his life.
In conclusion, Anthony Joshua's upcoming fight against Kristian Prenga is not just another bout in his career; it represents a pivotal moment of resilience in the face of personal tragedy. As he grapples with the loss of close friends and team members, Joshua's determination to honor their memory while striving for success in the ring showcases his strength of character. The implications of this fight extend beyond the itself, as it serves as a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure and overcome adversity. Joshua's journey is one that resonates with many, reminding us all of the importance of friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of one's goals, even in the darkest of times.
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