Heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua's future in the ring has been thrown into uncertainty after he was involved in a devastating road traffic accident in Nigeria on Monday, which claimed the lives of two of his long-time friends and team members.
The Crash: A Tragic Incident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
The two-time world champion was a passenger in a black Lexus SUV when it collided with a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near Makun. The crash occurred at around midday local time, just ten days after Joshua's knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami. Local police confirmed that the vehicle was travelling in excess of the 50mph speed limit and lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre.
Tragically, Joshua's strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and trainer Kevin Latif Ayodele were killed in the impact. Five people were involved in the collision overall. Footage from the scene showed the 36-year-old boxer shirtless and appearing dazed as he was helped from the mangled wreckage of the vehicle, which was left completely destroyed.
Joshua's Condition and the Aftermath
Authorities from the Ogun State Police and the Federal Road Safety Corps stated that Joshua sustained what were described as 'minor' injuries and was taken to a specialised medical facility in Lagos. Officials confirmed he was 'awake and conscious' and had spoken with his family.
However, sources close to the fighter have expressed concerns that his injuries, which potentially include rib and knee damage, may be more severe than initially stated. A full medical team is monitoring him, and he remains in hospital under observation for the time being.
A statement from Joshua's representative confirmed the deaths with 'the deepest and most profound sadness', describing the two men as 'close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team'. The statement requested privacy for the families.
Impact on Boxing Career and Future Fights
The crash has immediate and severe implications for Joshua's fighting schedule. He was reportedly on a one-week holiday visiting family in Nigeria, with plans to resume training for a potential bout against kickboxer Rico Verhoeven in late March in Saudi Arabia.
Most significantly, the long-awaited heavyweight showdown with Tyson Fury, tentatively planned for late 2026, is now in serious doubt. Beyond the physical injuries, the psychological trauma of the ordeal, which killed two companions in the same vehicle, will be a significant factor in his recovery and return to the sport.
Promoter Eddie Hearn, who was on a family holiday when the news broke, said he was attempting to contact Joshua and awaiting more information. Joshua's recent opponent, Jake Paul, posted on social media: 'Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today's unfortunate accident.'
Investigations into the exact circumstances of the crash are ongoing. Joshua, who has strong Nigerian roots and attended boarding school in Ikenne near the crash site, had posted a video on Instagram playing table tennis with Kevin Ayodele just hours before the fatal journey.
