The family of British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua endured a frantic search of hospitals after learning he had been involved in a deadly car crash in Nigeria on Monday, his uncle has revealed.
Family's desperate search for news
Adedamola Joshua, the boxer's uncle, described the "rude shock" that swept through the family when they received news of the accident near Sagamu. Speaking to journalists in Ijokun, he explained the distressing aftermath. "We did not know on time that he was involved in an accident," he said, highlighting the panic that ensued.
He detailed the family's efforts to locate the world champion, stating, "Since the incident happened, we have been rallying round to see if it is possible to get to see our son but that has been impossible because of his status." The protective measures around Joshua meant his relatives did not initially know which hospital he had been taken to.
Details of the fatal collision
The tragic incident occurred on the busy Lagos-Ibadan highway. The Lexus SUV carrying Joshua is understood to have suffered a tyre blowout before colliding with a stationary truck near a petrol station.
Tragically, the crash claimed the lives of two of Joshua's close companions. Latif 'Latz' Ayodele, the boxer's personal trainer, and Sina Ghami, a sport and exercise rehabilitation coach, both died in the accident.
Anthony Joshua, who was a passenger in the vehicle, sustained minor injuries and is confirmed to be in a stable condition at a hospital in Lagos.
Community in shock and promoter's statement
Adedamola Joshua conveyed the profound impact on the local community, saying, "The sad news actually jolted Sagamu community and up till now everyone is still in shock." He noted the flood of calls from well-wishers seeking updates on the boxer's condition.
The family, while anxious to see him, understands the need for security. "We are also thinking that it will be fine if they allow even if it just three of the family members to see him," his uncle added, confirming they have been in touch with Joshua's parents who are also in Nigeria.
Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, released a statement on social media on Monday confirming he had been made aware of the incident while on a family holiday. "We are trying to contact Anthony and in the meantime we don't want to speculate on how he is but thankfully he appears OK from what I have seen in the images," Hearn stated.
The Federal Road Safety Corps Nigeria has released images showing the severe wreckage of the SUV involved in the collision, underscoring the severity of the crash.
