Eddie Hearn has understandably spoken out against reports that Anthony Joshua won’t box again following the car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his closest friends. There has since been speculation that the heavyweight is now considering retirement.
Hearn, while in conversation with FightHub TV, expressed his frustration that conversations about Joshua’s future are front and center of conversations.
“I think we live in a world now where everyone feels entitled to know how he’s feeling and what’s next,” the promoter said.
“I’m getting calls every day from the media asking [for updates on his career]. It’s like, are you serious? Right now, he should be left alone to recover physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Anything you hear about his career, unless it comes directly from ‘AJ’, don’t believe it.”
Joshua last fought in December, knocking out Jake Paul in six rounds to take his record to 29-4 (26 KOs). Any plans for 2026 have rightly been shelved to allow Joshua the time and space to process the consequences of what happened in Nigeria.
“It was a terrible accident and a tragic situation,” said Hearn. “He’ll need some time to recover. I find it disrespectful, and I know it’s my job to speak sometimes, but this is not boxing. This is life, and this is the very, very sad side of life.
“He’s mourning, we’re all mourning, and the families more than anyone are mourning. Right now, there’s no comment on AJ’s career until that time comes when a conversation should take place. That’s nowhere near happening right now.”
