Anthony Joshua has been injured in a car crash in Nigeria which killed two of his close friends. The former world heavyweight champion was taken to hospital after the accident on Monday morning, with his team confirming the deaths of Sina Ghami and Kevin 'Lateef' Ayodele.
The crash occurred at about 11am on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, according to Ogun state police commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo. Joshua's Lexus SUV hit a stationary vehicle, with the driver also sustaining injuries. Police said Joshua, who was in the rear of the vehicle, suffered minor injuries and was receiving medical attention.
In a statement, Joshua's spokesman said the two men were "close friends and integral members" of his team, and asked for privacy for their families. "Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment," the statement added. "He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation." Joshua's trainer Kevin Ayodele and strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami were both killed. Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn paid tribute, saying: "With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men."
Nigeria's president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said he had spoken to Joshua to convey his condolences and wished him a full recovery. The federal road safety corps said five adult males were involved, with two killed, one injured and two unhurt. Preliminary findings blamed excessive speed and wrongful overtaking, saying the vehicle lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into a stationary truck. Police have begun a thorough investigation.
Joshua, 36, has family ties in Sagamu, near the crash site. He last fought on 20 December, knocking out Jake Paul, and was expected to face Tyson Fury next year. Paul wrote on X: "Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today's unfortunate accident."
