The boxing world saw a welcome but emotional sight on Saturday as former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua made his first public appearance since a devastating car accident in Nigeria late last year. Joshua, who had been mourning the loss of close friends Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele following the December 29 crash, chose London’s O2 Arena for his return to the spotlight.
Dressed in a clean white tracksuit, Joshua arrived alongside promoter Eddie Hearn to support Derek Chisora in what was the 50th and final fight of Chisora’s storied career. While the atmosphere inside the arena was celebratory for British boxing, a tense moment occurred backstage when Joshua’s long-time rival Deontay Wilder reportedly walked past the Briton without acknowledgement, reigniting memories of the world title bout between the two that never materialized during their peaks.
Despite the cold shoulder from the American, Joshua remained focused on the evening’s significance. Speaking ringside with DAZN, he shared his enthusiasm for the current state of the sport: “It’s amazing to be here. Boxing, especially British boxing, is booming. I’m obviously biased, I’m rocking with Derek regardless, so I’m Team Chisora.” His presence provided a massive boost to the London crowd, who have been eager for news on the fighter’s wellbeing.
While fans are already speculating about a potential domestic mega-fight with Tyson Fury, Eddie Hearn has emphasized that there is no rush for a return to the ring. Joshua last competed just before Christmas against Jake Paul in Miami, and the priority remains his physical and emotional healing. For now, seeing the champion back in the boxing environment is a significant step forward in his recovery.
Do you think a clash with Tyson Fury is still the biggest fight in British boxing, or has the landscape shifted too much during Joshua’s time away?
