Lagos, Nigeria – British boxing star Anthony Joshua is recovering in hospital after being involved in a serious car crash in Nigeria that tragically claimed the lives of two close friends and members of his team.
The two-time former world heavyweight champion was taken to hospital on Monday and is said to be in stable condition, according to his promoter and Nigerian authorities.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the boxing world and sparked an outpouring of support from fans, fellow athletes, and political leaders.
What Happened in the Crash?
The crash took place on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, one of Nigeria’s busiest roads, at around 11:00am local time.
According to officials:
Joshua was travelling in the back seat of a Lexus SUV
The vehicle lost control and crashed into a stationary truck
Two passengers, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, died at the scene
Joshua and another individual were taken to hospital for treatment
Photos shared on social media showed emergency responders helping Joshua out of the damaged vehicle as he appeared to be in visible pain.
Official Statements on Anthony Joshua’s Condition
Joshua’s promotional company, Matchroom Boxing, confirmed the incident in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The statement said Joshua:
Sustained injuries in the accident
Was taken to hospital for medical checks and treatment
Will remain under observation
A joint statement from the Lagos and Ogun state governments later confirmed that both hospitalised patients were stable and did not require emergency medical intervention.
No further details about Joshua’s injuries have been released.
Police and Road Safety Findings
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the crash.
However, early findings suggest multiple contributing factors:
Ogun State Police
Said the crash may have been caused by a burst tyre
The driver reportedly lost control, causing the car to swerve into a parked truck
Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)
Claimed the vehicle was travelling above the legal speed limit
Said the crash happened during an overtaking manoeuvre
Confirmed the truck was stationary by the roadside
The investigation remains ongoing.
National Leaders and Boxing World React
Nigeria’s President Speaks to Joshua
Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, personally contacted Joshua while he was in hospital.
In a public message, the president said he:
Offered condolences for the deaths of Joshua’s associates
Wished the boxer a full and speedy recovery
Spoke with Joshua’s mother and prayed with her
Joshua reportedly assured the president that he was receiving excellent medical care.
Jake Paul Shares Emotional Message
YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, whom Joshua recently defeated, also reacted.
Paul wrote:
“Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ, and everyone impacted by this tragic accident.”
Eddie Hearn: “Thankfully He Appears OK”
Matchroom boss Eddie Hearn said he learned of the crash while on holiday.
Speaking to Daily Mail Sport, Hearn said:
He did not want to speculate on Joshua’s condition
From what he had seen, Joshua appeared to be OK
The situation remains deeply tragic due to the loss of life
Anthony Joshua’s Strong Ties to Nigeria
Nigeria holds deep personal meaning for Anthony Joshua:
His parents are Nigerian
He attended boarding school in Nigeria at age 11
He returned to the country in 2019 after a 17-year absence
Nigeria remains a key part of his identity and heritage
Recent Boxing Career Update
Joshua’s crash comes just days after a major win:
He knocked out Jake Paul in the sixth round on 19 December in Miami
The fight was part of his effort to regain sharpness
Joshua previously lost his heavyweight titles in 2021 to Oleksandr Usyk
He is currently in talks to fight Tyson Fury in 2026
Final Thoughts
While Anthony Joshua is expected to recover, the tragedy has overshadowed recent success in the ring.
The deaths of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have left a lasting impact on Joshua’s team and the wider boxing community, serving as a powerful reminder that life matters far beyond sport.
More updates are expected as investigations continue.
References
ESPN
Matchroom Boxing (X)
Lagos State Government (X)
Ogun State Police
Federal Road Safety Corps (Nigeria)
Daily Mail Sport
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