I have to put my emotions to the side because I focus on the parents — Anthony Joshua

I have to put my emotions to the side because I focus on the parents — Anthony Joshua

British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua has spoken emotionally about the loss of two close friends who died in a car crash in Nigeria, promising to stand firmly with their grieving families as he continues his career in the ring.

Joshua said he has chosen to focus on supporting the parents of his late friends, describing it as his responsibility to remain present for them in the aftermath of the tragedy.

The former heavyweight world champion made the remarks ahead of his upcoming fight against Albanian boxer Kristian Prenga in Jeddah on July 25, his first bout since the incident.

The two men, identified as Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, were members of Joshua’s close circle and part of his wider team, with their deaths leaving a deep personal impact on the boxer.

Joshua said he is deliberately setting aside his personal grief to prioritise the families left behind, adding that his role now is to provide emotional and financial support where possible.

“I have to put my emotions to the side because I focus on the parents,” he said, stressing that the situation is bigger than his own feelings.

He added that he sees his commitment as a form of duty, saying he intends to remain a “good soldier” for the families as they cope with their loss.