Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is weighing a permanent exit from professional boxing following a deadly road accident in Nigeria.

The decision came after a crash that killed two members of his inner team.

Family sources say the boxer has already informed relatives of his plans.

Joshua, 36, survived the incident but lost two close friends and colleagues.

The tragedy has shaken his camp and prompted deep reflection about his future in the sport. Those close to him say the emotional toll has been heavy.

His uncle, Adedamola Joshua, said the family received word of the decision privately. He explained that the family has lived with constant fear whenever Joshua steps into the ring.

He said the anxiety became unbearable over time. He added that the family feels relieved by the choice.

“The major thing there is that he has retired from boxing. That is one thing that makes us glad because each time he’s fighting in the ring, we are always carried away emotionally,” he said.

“Each time he’s knocked down, it is just like the heart is coming out of our chest. All these emotional feelings whenever he’s fighting, it’s too much trauma for us, also. Now that he has said that he’s leaving while the ovation is highest, we are happy.”

Asked if Joshua personally shared the decision, his uncle confirmed it. “Yes,” he said.

Beyond retirement talks, Joshua has also pledged long-term support for the families of the two men who died. They are Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele. Both were part of his long-standing boxing setup.

Joshua spoke publicly days after the crash. He shared photos with the bereaved families and wrote “My Brothers Keeper”. The message reflected his commitment to stand by them. It also echoed a biblical theme of responsibility and care.

People familiar with his camp say loyalty defines Joshua. They say Ghami and Ayodele were not just staff but family. Ghami handled strength and conditioning. Ayodele worked as his personal trainer. Both had been with him for years.

The trio travelled to Nigeria to see family when the crash occurred. Their vehicle hit a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Ghami and Ayodele died at the scene. Joshua was rescued from the wreckage and taken to hospital. He suffered minor injuries.

A funeral service was later held in London. Mourners gathered in large numbers. The two coffins were placed side by side during prayers. A wake followed later in the day.

Back home in Sagamu, emotions remain mixed. Residents expressed gratitude that Joshua survived. They also mourned the loss of the two men. One indigene said the community considers Joshua a source of pride and goodwill.

Joshua’s uncle also addressed concerns about his ties to Nigeria after the incident. He said emotions can run high after tragedy but roots remain strong. He stressed faith and family as anchors.

“There are a lot of things we have heard, but this is a Christian family, and everything we take with faith,” he said.

“Once something like that happens, emotionally, you can say anything, but as time goes on, you know this is (always) your root.”

Meanwhile, the driver of the vehicle has been charged in court. The case relates to dangerous and negligent driving. Proceedings have been adjourned to a later date.

Joshua, born in the UK to Nigerian parents, was spending time in the country after a recent fight victory abroad.

What comes next for his boxing career remains uncertain. But for now, family voices suggest the ring may have seen the last of him.