Heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk has expressed confidence that Anthony Joshua will return to the ring following the tragic death of two of his close friends in a car crash.
The British-Nigerian boxer was involved in a fatal road accident last month in Nigeria that claimed the lives of Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, both friends and key members of his team. Joshua was a passenger in a black Lexus that collided with a stationary truck on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway near Makun.
Usyk, who defeated Joshua in their world title bouts in 2021 and 2022, revealed that he has spoken with his former rival since the tragedy and believes retirement is not on Joshua’s mind, despite speculation to the contrary.
Speaking to Ready to Fight, Usyk said the 36-year-old showed a strong desire to continue boxing, motivated by the memory of his fallen friends and gratitude for life.
“I’ve already spoken with him,” Usyk said. “I heard a desire to continue in his voice — for the friends he lost and for the chance to live that the Lord gave him.”
The Ukrainian champion also shared a personal reflection, recalling advice he once received from the mother of a fallen comrade.
“She told me, ‘Oleksandr, he would be very proud that you are continuing your work; he will watch you from heaven,’” Usyk added.
Usyk’s comments suggest Joshua remains mentally focused on fighting on, despite enduring one of the most difficult periods of his life.
