'Soldier' Joshua standing strong for friends' parents
To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. This video can not be played Figure caption, Anthony Joshua says 'This isn't about me' By Kal Sajad BBC Sport boxing journalist at Exhibition White City, London Published 15 minutes ago Anthony Joshua says he is standing strong "as a soldier" for the parents of two close friends killed in a car crash as the British heavyweight prepares for his return to boxing. The two-time world champion was a passenger in the car when Sina Ghami and Latif 'Latz' Ayodele died in Nigeria in December . In his first fight since the accident, in which Joshua sustained minor injuries, he will face the relatively unknown Albanian Kristian Prenga in Riyadh on 25 July. "You never overcome it but you gain perspective in life," Joshua, 36, told the 5 Live Boxing podcast. "Life is humbling at times. You never know one's fate. As a soldier, I stand strong for their parents first and foremost. "This isn't about me. I feel it's important to put their parents first at the minute. "I'll have my time to grieve. But right now, my heart and mind tell me their parents are my main priority." The 2012 Olympic gold medallist was speaking before Monday's news conference in London where he came face-to-face with Prenga for the first time. Victory would clear the path for a long-awaited showdown against Tyson Fury later this year. For more than a decade, Joshua and Fury have been the defining figures of British heavyweight boxing on the global stage, yet have never shared a ring. An agreement is in place and both fighters are expected to earn career-high purses when they finally meet, with October or November the likely target dates. But the fight will only materialise if Joshua takes care of business against Prenga. Fury, meanwhile, is also understood to be planning an interim bout, potentially in Dublin on 1 August against an opponent yet to be named. Fury hints at August fight in Dublin Published 5 days ago Dua Lipa declines offer to perform at Fury v Joshua Published 1 May 'Joshua warm-up defeat would scupper Fury fight' Published 29 April 'Joshua's world came crashing down' Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Anthony Joshua last fought against Jake Paul in December, a victory which left him with 29 wins from 33 professional fights Promoter Eddie Hearn told the 5 Live Boxing podcast that Joshua was "happy and excited about 2026" after December's victory against Jake Paul , and that plans had been in place to fight Rico Verhoeven in March before taking on Fury in August. But 10 days later the crash happened. "And then obviously the world came crashing down," Hearn added. When the news conference began, the conversation understandably shifted towards the task ahead. Wearing a tracksuit and sunglasses, Joshua spoke about a renewed sense of focus. "I've still got that fire and I belong here," Joshua added, appearing relaxed and in good spirits. "I don't do this as a joke. I do this because it's what I'm good at. I'm
Joshuas resilience is truly inspiring. Boxing is no walk in the park, and his dedication to honoring his fallen friends shows the true meaning of perseverance and courage. #StandWithJoshua #BoxingSpirit
While Joshuas strength is commendable, its crucial to remember that true resilience isnt about pushing through pain and neglecting ones well-being. Perhaps its time for Joshua to take a break and focus on his mental health, rather than constantly putting himself in harms way. #BoxingTalk
While Joshuas unwavering stance is commendable, its crucial to consider the broader ethical implications of such actions. How might this affect the communitys perception of military service and its role in upholding justice? Engaging in a thoughtful debate on these issues could provide valuable insights.
Absolutely inspiring! Joshuas dedication to honoring his fallen friends is a testament to his strength and courage. His resilience in the face of such tragedy is truly remarkable. Lets all stand with Joshua and support him in his boxing journey. #StandWithJoshua #BoxingSpir #Perseverance #Courage
Joshuas act of standing strong for his friends parents is a testament to the courage and compassion of our military. It reminds us of the sacrifices made for peace and the importance of community. #VeteranSpirit #StrongMilitary
Solidarity in service? I get it, but lets not forget, sometimes its the little things that can tear us apart. Joshuas bravery is admirable, but maybe he shouldve considered the broader impact on his friends families. After all, we dont want to turn every military action into a heros mission, do we?