Anthony Joshua Stable After Fatal Nigeria Car Crash
The accident took place at approximately 11:00 AM local time near the Sagamu Interchange, a notorious stretch of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. Anthony Joshua was traveling as a passenger in a black Lexus SUV when the vehicle reportedly lost control and collided with a stationary truck parked by the roadside.
According to preliminary reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the vehicle may have been traveling above the speed limit and attempted an overtaking maneuver before crashing into the rear of the parked truck. Rescue officials arrived on the scene within minutes to find the vehicle severely damaged. While Joshua, who was seated in the rear, survived with minor injuries, the impact was fatal for two others in the vehicle.
Loss of Close Friends and Team Members
The boxing community is grieving the loss of two integral members of Joshua's camp. His promoter, Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing, confirmed the identities of the deceased as Sina Ghami and Kevin "Latz" Ayodele. Both men were described as longtime friends and professional trainers who had been with Joshua through the highs and lows of his career.
Sina Ghami served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, while Kevin Ayodele was his personal trainer. Both had been instrumental in Joshua's most recent training camp for his December 19 fight against Jake Paul in Miami. The loss is said to be a devastating blow to Joshua, who viewed both men as family.
Medical Status and Official Statements
Following the crash, Anthony Joshua was rushed to an undisclosed hospital for medical evaluation. A joint statement released by the Lagos and Ogun State governments confirmed that "AJ" is in stable condition and did not require emergency surgical intervention. He sustained minor injuries, including bruising and localized pain, but is expected to make a full physical recovery.
Video footage circulating on social media showed a visibly shaken Joshua being assisted from the wreckage. Despite the trauma, he was conscious and able to communicate with first responders. Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, personally called the boxer to offer his condolences and wish him a speedy recovery. The President also reached out to Joshua’s mother to offer support during this difficult time.
Impact on Joshua’s Boxing Career
This tragedy comes just ten days after Anthony Joshua’s dominant sixth-round knockout victory over Jake Paul. That win was meant to be the launchpad for a massive 2026 campaign, potentially leading to a long awaited showdown with Tyson Fury. While Joshua’s physical injuries are minor, the psychological toll of losing two close friends is immeasurable.
Industry insiders suggest that his immediate plans for training will be put on hold indefinitely as he takes time to mourn and recover. The boxing world has rallied behind the star, with rivals and fans alike flooding social media with messages of support. Even Jake Paul, his recent opponent, posted a heartfelt message stating, "Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives and for AJ."
Road Safety Concerns in Nigeria
The incident has also reignited a national conversation regarding road safety on Nigeria’s major highways. The Lagos Ibadan Expressway is one of the busiest routes in the country, but it is frequently criticized for poor lighting, stationary vehicles obstructing traffic, and a lack of strict speed enforcement. Authorities have promised a thorough investigation into the specific circumstances of the Lexus SUV's collision to determine if mechanical failure or human error was the primary cause.
Key Takeaways from the Incident
Condition: Anthony Joshua is stable and recovering in a hospital.
Casualties: Sina Ghami and Kevin "Latz" Ayodele tragically passed away at the scene.
Location: The crash occurred on the Lagos Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Context: Joshua was in Nigeria visiting family following his recent win in Miami.
The thoughts of the global boxing community remain with the families of the deceased and with Anthony Joshua as he navigates this incredibly difficult period of recovery and grief.