Anthony Joshua addresses the media for the first time following the incident in Nigeria.
Anthony Joshua has addressed the public for the first time since the car accident in Nigeria in December that resulted in the deaths of his two friends.
Joshua was part of the incident on December 29 near Lagos, Nigeria, which claimed the lives of his friends Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele.
On Thursday, the former two-time heavyweight champion shared an emotional video on YouTube where he spoke about the event for the first time.
“The last time I communicated with you all was in Miami. We had numerous plans to conclude 2025, and we were on a mission,” Joshua stated.
“We returned home to visit our families, and everything was turned upside down. God is the ultimate planner. We can organize to the best of our abilities, but that was such an unexpected situation that was beyond our control.
“Not only did their parents, uncles, cousins, friends, and I lose two remarkable individuals, we lost people we truly cared about who played significant roles in all of our lives.
“It’s challenging. It’s really challenging. I’m not going to sit here and reveal all of my emotions. In today’s world, it’s easy to overanalyze individuals and pass judgment, but I know what I feel, and that is what matters to me. I understand what my responsibility is.”
Joshua, 36, struggled to hold back tears while reflecting on his friends. In the video’s description, he acknowledged that the speech “took a few attempts.”
“It’s unfortunate. It’s unfortunate … So, there’s that aspect. What can I say,” an emotional Joshua expressed.
“One day my time will arrive, and I’m not afraid. … At all. It’s actually reassuring that I have two brothers on the other side. I’ve experienced loss before, but I don’t think I’ve lost people in this manner. … My left and my right, you know?
“I was walking with giants who kept me safe.”
Joshua expressed gratitude for the supportive messages he received and committed to realizing the aspirations of his “brothers.”
“My objective is to continue assisting them in achieving their goals. Even though they may not be present physically, when I pray, I know spiritually they will guide me. It’s not solely physical strength that will carry me through; it will require much more.
“A great deal of strength from a higher power, so I will certainly be offering my prayers, and I will work to help them fulfill their dreams for their families.
“Not just me, there is a whole team of us. … A complete brotherhood, a complete sisterhood that will be working to honor their legacy and dreams.
“I don’t believe I’ve expressed the love and gratitude. It is all recognized by me, by them, and by their families. We acknowledge the thousands, perhaps millions, around the globe who have shown immense love for both of them.”
