British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua has been injured in a serious car crash in southwestern Nigeria that killed two members of his training camp, in a tragedy that has shocked the global boxing community.
The accident occurred Monday morning on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway — one of the country’s busiest highways — when the vehicle carrying Joshua and his team collided with a stationary truck, according to authorities.
Joshua Injured and Hospitalized
Joshua, 36, who was returning to Nigeria shortly after a high-profile victory, sustained minor injuries in the collision and was taken to a local hospital. Officials said he is in stable condition and undergoing observation.
Footage circulating on social media shows the former two-time world heavyweight champion being helped from the wreckage appearing dazed and in pain shortly after the crash.
Tragic Loss of Trainers and Friends
Authorities and multiple reports confirm that two people traveling with Joshua were killed at the scene. Official statements and subsequent coverage have identified the deceased as Sina Ghami and Kevin “Latif” Ayodele, both longtime associates of the boxer — one his strength and conditioning coach, the other a personal trainer and close friend.
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu publicly offered condolences to Joshua and the families of the deceased, calling the crash a devastating loss and praying for strength for those affected. (TMZ)
Circumstances Under Investigation
Early indications from the Federal Road Safety Corps suggest the SUV was traveling at excessive speed and lost control during an overtaking maneuver before striking the parked truck. Investigators continue to examine the exact cause of the crash.
Reactions from the Boxing World and Beyond
Fellow fighters and commentators have expressed shock and sympathy. Former ring rival Jake Paul — who Joshua defeated by knockout less than two weeks earlier — posted on social media that he is “praying for Anthony Joshua and the lost lives” and emphasized that “life is much more important than boxing.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn also confirmed he is gathering information and that Joshua appears to be “OK” based on footage seen so far.
What’s Next?
The crash casts uncertainty over Joshua’s immediate plans, including anticipated future fights. For now, attention has turned to the victims’ families, Joshua’s recovery, and a full investigation into the cause of the collision.
