At a Glance
- Anthony Joshua hospitalized after a fatal crash in Lagos.
- Two close teammates died; officials cite speed-limit violation.
- President Bola Tinubu personally called Joshua to express condolences.
- Why it matters: The incident highlights road safety risks for high-profile visitors and impacts the boxing community worldwide.
On Monday, British heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua was rushed to a Lagos hospital following a car crash that claimed the lives of two of his close teammates. The incident, occurring on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, has drawn attention from government officials and the boxing world alike.
Crash Details
Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing said on X that Joshua sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment, and he will remain there for observation. The vehicle was a Lexus SUV driven on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway at about 11 a.m. local time. Two passengers, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, tragically passed away.
- Vehicle: Lexus SUV
- Location: Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
- Time: 11 a.m. local
- Injuries: Minor for Joshua, two fatalities
Official Statements
Lagos state commissioner for information, Gbenga Omotoso confirmed the accident in a post on X, adding that the government had sent ambulances to the crash site.
Ogun State Police said:
> “The vehicle conveying Mr. Joshua, a Lexus SUV, was involved in the accident under circumstances that are currently being investigated. Joshua, seated in the rear of the vehicle, sustained minor injuries and is receiving medical attention with another injured person.”
Federal Road Safety Corps spokesperson Olusegun Ogungbemide reported:
> “Preliminary investigations indicated the vehicle was traveling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor, lost control during an overtaking maneuver and crashed into a stationary truck.”
Lagos and Ogun state governments jointly stated:
> “Following thorough clinical evaluations, medical professionals have confirmed that both patients (hospitalized after the accident) are stable and do not require any emergency medical intervention at this time.”
President Bola Tinubu called Joshua in hospital and said:
> “I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates. I wished him a full and speedy recovery, and prayed with him. AJ assured me he is receiving the best possible care. I also spoke with his mother and prayed for her. She was deeply appreciative of the call.”
Jake Paul expressed his condolences:
> “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”
Lanre Ogunlowo, commissioner of police for Ogun state, told the News Of Austin:
> “Anthony Joshua is in an undisclosed hospital being treated for his injuries. I have no further information on the injuries.”
Eddie Hearn earlier told the News Of Austin:
> “We are trying to contact Anthony and in the meantime we don’t want to speculate on how he is but thankfully he appears OK from what I have seen in the images.”
Joshua’s Background & Future Plans
Joshua beat YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on Dec. 19 in Miami, a bout he used to regain sharpness in the ring. He lost the world heavyweight title in 2021 to Oleksandr Usyk. Joshua has been in talks to fight fellow Briton Tyson Fury in 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Anthony Joshua is stable after a crash that killed two teammates.
- Officials cite a speed-limit violation as a cause.
- President Tinubu personally called Joshua to offer condolences.
The incident underscores the importance of road safety and the global reach of the sport.
