British boxing icon and former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has been involved in a devastating road accident in Nigeria that has left two people dead and sent shockwaves through the global sporting community.
The crash occurred in Ogun State along the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a major transport route in southwestern Nigeria. According to Nigerian authorities, Joshua was one of five men involved in the collision, which saw the vehicle he was traveling in crash into a stationary truck parked by the roadside.
Two Lives Lost, Joshua Suffers Minor Injuries
Officials from the Ogun State Police Command confirmed that Joshua, 36, sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital for medical checks. He is reported to be in stable condition and remains under observation. Two others involved in the crash were unharmed.
Tragically, the accident claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s close friends and team members. Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s promoter, confirmed the deaths of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele in an emotional statement.
“With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, have tragically passed away,” Matchroom Boxing said, adding that Joshua is receiving medical care and support during this difficult time.
Authorities Investigate Cause of the Crash
Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said preliminary findings suggest the vehicle was likely traveling at excessive speed when it lost control while overtaking, before colliding with the parked truck. Officials described speeding and wrongful overtaking as serious traffic violations and among the leading causes of fatal accidents on Nigerian highways.
Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have not confirmed who was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash.
Condolences From Nigeria’s President and Boxing World
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu extended his sympathies to Joshua and the families of the victims, calling the incident a “tragic accident” and expressing condolences on behalf of the nation.
Tributes have also poured in from the boxing world and beyond. American social media star and boxer Jake Paul, whom Joshua defeated just over a week earlier, shared his condolences on social media, saying he was “praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”
A Personal Tragedy Amid Career Momentum
The accident comes at a moment when Joshua’s career had regained momentum. Just days earlier, he knocked out Jake Paul in the sixth round of a highly publicized bout in Miami, marking his return to the ring after a 15-month layoff.
Joshua, the son of British-Nigerian parents, has long maintained strong ties to Nigeria. Born in Britain, he spent part of his childhood attending boarding school in Ikenne before returning to the UK at the age of 12. His connection to the country has remained a significant part of his identity throughout his career.
Looking ahead, Joshua is expected to face long-time rival and fellow Briton Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated showdown in 2026-though for now, boxing takes a back seat as he mourns the loss of close friends.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on honoring the lives lost and supporting those affected by a tragedy that has cast a shadow over one of boxing’s most recognizable figures.
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