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 former world champion was travelling on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday morning when his Lexus SUV hit a stationary vehicle, according to Ogun state police commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo.
Joshua's strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and trainer Kevin 'Lateef' Ayodele died in the accident. A statement from Joshua's spokesman said: 'It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm ... the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele. Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team.' Joshua sustained injuries and was taken to hospital, where he is in a stable condition and under observation.
Nigeria's Federal Road Safety Corps said preliminary findings indicate the Lexus was travelling beyond the speed limit and lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre, crashing into a stationary truck. The agency added that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking were the primary causes. Five adult males were involved; two died, one was injured, and two escaped unhurt.
Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu spoke with Joshua to convey condolences and wish him a full recovery. Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn paid tribute, saying: 'With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz.' YouTuber Jake Paul, whom Joshua knocked out in December, also expressed sympathy, writing: 'Life is much more important than boxing.'
