Anthony Joshua Injured in Fatal Nigeria Car Crash That Killed Two Close Friends
Former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is recovering in stable condition after being involved in a fatal car crash in Nigeria that left two people dead, local authorities and multiple news outlets confirmed. The accident occurred on December 29, 2025, as Joshua — fresh off his sixth-round knockout win over Jake Paul earlier that month — was traveling with members of his team near Lagos on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. ESPN.com
Officials said the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua collided with a stationary truck parked by the roadside after losing control during what preliminary reports suggest was an overtaking maneuver at elevated speed. The crash tragically claimed the lives of two foreign nationals, later identified as Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, who were close friends and integral members of Joshua’s training camp. Ghami served as his strength coach, and Ayodele was a longtime personal trainer. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene. Sky News
Images and video from the scene were widely shared on social media, showing the extent of the wreckage and Joshua being assisted by responders before being transported to a nearby hospital. Despite the severity of the collision, the 36-year-old boxer sustained only minor injuries and was later described by medical staff as stable and under observation, not requiring emergency intervention beyond routine checks. ESPN.com
The Ogun State Police Command and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said they were investigating the precise cause of the crash, with officials noting that preliminary findings pointed to the SUV travelling above the speed limit and losing control during an overtaking attempt. Statements from local authorities emphasized that such traffic violations are major contributors to fatal road accidents on Nigerian highways. Reuters
News of the accident prompted an outpouring of condolences from the boxing community, sports figures, and public personalities. Among those responding was Jake Paul, whom Joshua recently fought in Miami; Paul wrote on social media that “life is much more important than boxing” and offered prayers for the victims and those affected by the tragedy. Additionally, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally contacted Joshua and his family to extend his condolences and support, highlighting the emotional weight of the incident. AP News
Joshua, a British-Nigerian who spent part of his childhood in Nigeria, had been in the country after a brief holiday following his landmark victory over Paul on December 19, 2025. That win was seen as a pivotal comeback, with many anticipating a rumoured 2026 bout against rival Tyson Fury. In the wake of this tragic accident, however, Joshua’s boxing future understandably takes a back seat to recovery and the mourning of lives lost. ESPN.com
As investigations continue and the global boxing world comes to grips with the alarming news, Joshua’s camp and promoter Eddie Hearn have asked for privacy for all involved. Tributes to Ghami and Ayodele have poured in, including from colleagues and friends of Joshua who have spoken about the profound impact both men had on his career and life.
While the physical injuries Joshua suffered appear minor, the emotional toll of losing two trusted members of his inner team will likely reverberate far beyond the hospital and into the next chapter of his life and career.
