Anthony Joshua’s former two-time opponent backs him to return to the boxing ring after fatal crash and tragic loss

Anthony Joshua is facing one of the hardest periods of his life. He lost two close friends in a tragic car crash. The former two-time heavyweight world champion survived the accident with only minor injuries. But the emotional impact has been huge. Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, who were part of Joshua’s team, lost their lives in the crash in Nigeria late last month. Since then, questions have been raised about whether AJ will ever return to the boxing ring.Oleksandr Usyk, who twice defeated Joshua in the ring, believes the British star still has the inner drive to fight again. After speaking to Joshua on the phone, Usyk said he sensed a strong wish to keep going. He feels Joshua may want to continue not just for himself, but also to honour the friends he lost and the life he was given.Speaking to Right to Fight, Oleksandr Usyk explained that when he spoke to Anthony Joshua, he could hear a clear desire to move forward. He felt Joshua’s motivation came from the memory of his fallen friends and from gratitude for surviving the crash. Usyk shared a personal story of his own. He recalled a moment when the mother of a fallen comrade told him that continuing his work would make the deceased proud. That message stayed with him. Usyk said he believes Joshua may feel the same way. In his view, loved ones who have passed away continue to guide and protect those still living, including inside the boxing ring.Before the accident, a long-awaited all-British fight between Joshua and Tyson Fury was being discussed. That bout is now uncertain. Promoter Eddie Hearn has said Joshua needs a long break. He believes AJ must first recover physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Hearn feels Joshua may want to return to boxing one day, but only when he personally feels ready. Right now, Hearn says the only important question is whether Joshua is truly okay. He also warned that people often hide their real pain after such traumatic events.Earlier this week, Joshua shared a short training video from the NAS Sports Complex in Dubai. He described the session as part of his mental strength therapy. Joshua has not yet spoken openly about his boxing future. Meanwhile, the driver involved in the crash has been charged with dangerous and negligent driving. Also Read: Anthony Joshua net worth timeline (2016 to 2026): How the British heavyweight built a millions worth boxing empire