Anthony Joshua has spoken about the emotional weight of returning to boxing after the deaths of two close friends and members of his team. The former heavyweight champion said he is not yet ready for the loss to fully "sink in" as he prepares for his next fight.

Joshua’s comments highlight the personal challenge behind this stage of his career. While much of the focus in boxing is usually on training, tactics and form, this fight comes with a deeper sense of grief as he copes with the absence of people who were part of his inner circle.

The two men, Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele, were described as close friends as well as important members of Joshua’s team. Their deaths have added a painful dimension to his return, making this bout about more than competition inside the ring.

As Anthony Joshua gets ready for his first fight since their deaths, his words reflect a fighter trying to balance professional demands with personal loss. His return now carries both the pressure of performance and the reality of mourning people who played a significant role in his life and career.