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Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is reported to be stable after a serious car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the deaths of two close friends and team members. The incident occurred on Monday along one of the country’s busiest highways.
Official Update From Promoter and Authorities
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed through Matchroom Boxing that the boxer sustained injuries and was transported to hospital for checks and observation.
The statement also identified Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele as the two passengers who tragically lost their lives in the crash.
Images circulating on social media showed Joshua being rescued from a severely damaged vehicle, visibly in pain as emergency responders assisted him.
Government Confirms Joshua’s Condition
A joint statement from Lagos and Ogun state governments said medical teams carried out full clinical assessments and confirmed that the two hospitalized individuals were stable and not in need of emergency intervention.
Lagos State Commissioner for Information Gbenga Omotoso acknowledged the crash on X, noting that state ambulances were dispatched promptly.
Where and How the Accident Happened
The collision occurred around 11 a.m. local time on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a key route connecting Ogun State to Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub. Nigeria is also the ancestral home of Joshua’s parents.
Ogun State Police reported that the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua lost control under circumstances still being investigated.
Joshua, who was seated in the rear, suffered minor injuries, while another passenger was also hurt.
According to Federal Road Safety Corps spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide, early findings suggest the vehicle was exceeding the speed limit, attempted an overtaking maneuver, and collided with a stationary truck parked along the roadside.
Ogun State officials later confirmed that two male foreign nationals died at the scene.
Messages of Support Pour In
Joshua recently defeated Jake Paul on December 19 in Miami, a fight aimed at sharpening his form after losing the heavyweight title to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021.
Reacting to the news, Paul said: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ, and everyone affected by this tragic accident.”
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu personally called Joshua while he was in hospital, offering condolences and prayers for recovery. The president also spoke with Joshua’s mother, who expressed gratitude for the support.
Police and Medical Updates
Ogun State Police Commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo told the Associated Press that Joshua was being treated at an undisclosed hospital, adding that no further details about his injuries were available at this time.
Eddie Hearn later told Daily Mail Sport that he learned of the incident while on a family holiday and emphasized that the team did not want to speculate, though early indications suggested Joshua was “thankfully OK.”
Joshua’s Strong Ties to Nigeria and Future Plans
Joshua attended boarding school in Nigeria at age 11 and returned to the country in 2019 ahead of his rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr. He has also been in preliminary talks about a potential blockbuster fight with Tyson Fury in 2026.
The tragic Nigeria car accident has cast a somber shadow over the boxing world, claiming the lives of two people close to Anthony Joshua while leaving the former champion hospitalized but stable.
As investigations continue into the cause of the crash, fans, fighters, and leaders alike have united in support, emphasizing that human life outweighs any sporting achievement. The focus now remains on Joshua’s recovery and honoring the memories of those lost.
FAQs
What is Anthony Joshua’s current condition after the crash?
Anthony Joshua is stable and under medical observation, with no emergency intervention required.
Where did the accident take place in Nigeria?
The crash occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a major highway linking Ogun State and Lagos.
Who were the victims in the accident?
Two close associates of Joshua, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, died at the scene.