British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident on Monday, December 29, 2025, while in Nigeria. The crash occurred on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway when the Lexus SUV he was traveling in lost control during an overtaking maneuver and collided with a stationary truck. Reuters
Local authorities indicate that excessive speed and a burst tire likely contributed to the vehicle losing control and the subsequent collision. The Sun
Casualties and Injuries
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Joshua was hospitalized with minor injuries and is in stable condition under observation in a Lagos hospital. The Guardian
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Two close associates of Joshua — his strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and personal trainer Latif Ayodele — were tragically killed in the crash. AP News
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Both men were reportedly key members of his team, traveling with him at the time of the accident. The Guardian Nigeria
This tragedy struck just 10 days after Joshua’s recent boxing victory over Jake Paul, a high-profile fight that drew global attention. Reuters
Joshua’s Condition and Official Statements
According to official reports:
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Joshua was rescued by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and taken to Duchess International Hospital in Lagos for treatment. Wikipedia
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His injuries have been described as non-life-threatening, and he is reportedly “stable” though still under medical care. The Guardian
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Matchroom Boxing, his promotional team, released a statement confirming the deaths of Ghami and Ayodele, describing them as “integral” to Joshua’s training camp and close friends. The Guardian Nigeria
The crash has also raised questions about his boxing future, especially with other major fights discussed for early 2026. Indiatimes
Road Safety and Broader Context
The crash has drawn attention to road safety concerns in Nigeria, where accidents resulting from poor infrastructure, speeding, and improper overtaking are common. AP News
Authorities are investigating the exact causes, including:
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Road conditions
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Vehicle malfunction
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Potential driver error
Public officials and athletic bodies have reiterated the importance of improved safety measures on major highways. AP News
Tributes and Reactions from the Boxing World
The global boxing community reacted quickly with condolences and messages of support:
From Fellow Fighters
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Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk both publicly expressed condolences to Joshua and the families of the deceased. The Guardian
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Usyk described the loss as “unbelievable” and highlighted the friendship and respect within the sport. TalkSport
From Jake Paul
Joshua’s recent rival, Jake Paul, set aside their competitive history to send a message of support and emphasize the tragedy’s human cost. beIN SPORTS
Promoters and Officials
Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn offered deep sympathies and praised the contributions of Ghami and Ayodele to Joshua’s career. The Guardian Nigeria
National Response
Nigerian officials, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, have offered prayers and support for Joshua and the victims’ families. The Guardian
Who Were Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele?
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Sina Ghami: Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, widely respected in the boxing community for his commitment and role in the athlete’s development. His gym in London temporarily closed in tribute. The Times
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Latif Ayodele: Joshua’s personal trainer and close friend, known for his mentorship and daily involvement in camp preparations. Both men were considered part of Joshua’s “inner circle.” The Times
A community fundraiser has already raised significant donations in their memory, including plans to build a mosque in honor of Ayodele’s legacy. Indiatimes
What This Means for Joshua’s Career
The timing of the accident, coming on the heels of a big victory over Jake Paul, puts Joshua’s boxing future in question:
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Promoter Frank Warren has cautioned that recovery and long-term readiness for the ring are uncertain, especially given the emotional toll of losing close colleagues. Indiatimes
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A potential major fight with Tyson Fury in 2026 — widely discussed prior to the incident — may now be reconsidered based on Joshua’s recovery timeline. The Sun
For now, updates on his health and return to training will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder that life outside the ring can have deeper impacts than any title or rivalry.
Anthony Joshua’s survival is a relief, but the loss of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele — both beloved figures in the boxing world — has cast a shadow over the sport.
As tributes continue to pour in from fellow fighters, promoters, and global fans, the focus remains on healing, support, and honoring those who dedicated their lives to the game.
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