Makun, Ogun State — December 29, 2025
Former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway near Sagamu, Ogun State. The crash, which occurred on Monday morning, claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s close friends and team members, identified as Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele The Guardian Nigeria The Guardian Nigeria Vanguard.
According to police reports, Joshua, 36, was seated in the rear of a Lexus SUV when the vehicle collided with a stationary truck. He sustained minor injuries and was rushed to a Lagos hospital, where doctors confirmed he is in stable condition NBC News TheCable WDHN Sky News.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as locals rushed to rescue the occupants. Photos from the wreckage showed Joshua shaken but conscious, surrounded by sympathizers TheCable News18.
Family Reaction
Joshua’s family expressed deep shock at the incident. A relative told the BBC that the news came as a “rude shock” to the family, adding: “We are hoping for his speedy recovery and also the people who passed away – I pray for the departed to rest in peace” Vanguard. His uncle noted that Joshua often visits Nigeria around the New Year, making the tragedy even more painful for the family.
Boxing World Responds
Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s promoters, confirmed the deaths of Ghami and Ayodele, describing them as “integral” to Joshua’s team The Guardian Nigeria.
Eddie Hearn, Matchroom chairman, said: “With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz.” The Guardian Nigeria
Tyson Fury, Joshua’s longtime rival, paid tribute to the victims, calling them “close members of his team” and offering condolences The Independent.
Official Statements
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the crash and said investigations are ongoing into the circumstances NBC News TheCable.
The Federal Road Safety Corps reported that the SUV may have been speeding and lost control during an overtaking maneuver before slamming into the truck WDHN.
The Ogun State Government expressed condolences, calling the incident a “devastating loss” and praying for Joshua’s recovery Legit.ng.
Wider Impact
The tragedy has reignited concerns about road safety on Nigeria’s highways, particularly the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, notorious for heavy traffic and frequent accidents. Fans across Nigeria and the UK have flooded social media with prayers for Joshua and tributes to his late friends.
Sources: NBC News NBC News, TheCable TheCable, WDHN WDHN, Sky News Sky News, News18 News18, The Independent The Independent, Guardian Nigeria The Guardian Nigeria The Guardian Nigeria, Vanguard Vanguard, Legit.ng Legit.ng
