Anthony Joshua Reflects on Personal Tragedy Ahead of Ring Return

British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has revealed he is still struggling to process the tragic loss of two close friends and backroom team members as he prepares for his first fight since their deaths.

Sina Ghami, Joshua’s long-time sports rehabilitation coach, and Latif Ayodele, a personal trainer and close friend, died in a road collision near Lagos, Nigeria, on December 29, 2025. Joshua sustained minor injuries in the crash, which occurred just ten days after his victory over Jake Paul.

Speaking ahead of his upcoming bout against Albania’s Kristian Prenga in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the 36-year-old boxer admitted the emotional toll remains heavy, stating that he keeps his mind occupied to avoid letting the painful reality fully sink in.

The fight marks Joshua’s return to competitive action since his loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. Despite feeling a mix of nerves and determination, he remains focused on delivering a strong performance for his team.

Meanwhile, speculation continues around a potential domestic showdown with Tyson Fury later this year. Both fighters are competing this weekend, with Fury taking on Mariusz Wach in Thailand. Joshua noted that while his immediate focus remains entirely on Prenga, a face-off with Fury could happen in the coming weeks if both emerge victorious.