Anthony Joshua Injured in Car Crash in Nigeria; Two Friends Killed
World-renowned British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident on Monday morning along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in Makun, Ogun State, local officials and eyewitnesses confirm.
The 36-year-old former world heavyweight champion suffered minor injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Tragically, two of the passengers in the vehicle — reportedly close friends and members of his team — died at the scene.
Crash Details
According to eyewitnesses and first responders, the Lexus SUV in which Joshua was travelling collided with a stationary truck on the busy highway at around 11:00 a.m. (local time).
- Joshua was seated in the rear of the vehicle and managed to walk away from the wreckage, though visibly shaken.
- Two other occupants — identified in early social media reports as Sina and Latz, believed to be Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach and personal trainer — were pronounced dead on the spot.
- Another passenger sustained injuries and was also taken to hospital.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and state police say a preliminary investigation suggests the vehicle lost control during an overtaking maneuver, potentially while traveling at excessive speed, and slammed into the truck. Formal findings are expected as the probe continues.
Reactions and Aftermath
Joshua, who holds British citizenship and Nigerian heritage, had been visiting the country following his recent boxing victory over YouTuber-turned-fighter Jake Paul in Miami just ten days earlier.
A spokesperson for Joshua’s team described the boxer as “shaken but conscious,” and confirmed that he is under medical observation. Tributes and messages of support have been shared online by fans, fellow athletes, and colleagues.
Nigeria’s transport authorities reiterated calls for drivers to adhere strictly to speed limits and road regulations, particularly on high-traffic corridors such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
(More updates are expected as official statements and further information are released.)