British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has been injured in a car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his close friends, his camp has confirmed. The accident occurred on Monday morning on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway when Joshua's Lexus SUV hit a stationary vehicle, according to Ogun state police commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo.
The deceased have been identified as Sina Ghami and Kevin 'Lateef' Ayodele, who were integral members of Joshua's team. Ghami served as a strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele was a trainer. Joshua sustained minor injuries and is in a stable condition, receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
An official statement from Joshua's spokesperson expressed deep sadness, requesting privacy for the families. Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn also paid tribute, saying: 'With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz.'
Nigeria's federal road safety corps said preliminary findings indicate excessive speed and wrongful overtaking caused the crash. The driver of Joshua's vehicle was also injured. Nigeria's president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, offered condolences and said he had spoken with Joshua to wish him a full recovery.
Joshua, 36, recently defeated YouTuber Jake Paul in a boxing match on 20 December. Paul posted 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.'
