Family mounts pressure on Anthony Joshua to quit boxing

By Tosin Omojola –

Although sports enthusiasts still await an official statement from him announcing his retirement from the ring, family pressure could eventually force Anthony Joshua to take the decision.

There have been unconfirmed reports claiming that the UK-based, Nigerian-born pugilist had retired after escaping death in a fatal road mishap which claimed the lives of two of his associates, Sina Gbami and Latif Ayodele.

Joshua is reportedly considering a permanent exit from professional boxing following the tragic road accident in Nigeria, an action the family will gladly welcome, having mounted pressure on him to quit the sport even before the incident.

According to family sources, the 36-year-old boxer has privately informed relatives of his intention to step away from the sport after the crash, which occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Those close to the family said the emotional impact of the tragedy has triggered serious reflection about Joshua’s future in the ring, compounding years of anxiety surrounding his boxing career.

Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, confirmed that the decision was communicated to the family, describing a sense of relief after years of emotional strain whenever the former champion competed.

“The major thing there is that he has retired from boxing. That is one thing that makes us glad,” he said, noting the trauma the family endured each time Joshua stepped into the ring.

Beyond discussions about retirement, Joshua has reportedly pledged long-term support to the families of the two men who died in the crash, describing them as more than staff but family after years of working closely together.