Lagos, Nigeria — Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has been injured in a car crash in Nigeria that left two people dead, local authorities have confirmed.
The incident occurred at around 12:00 local time (11:00 GMT) on Monday along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, a notoriously dangerous highway. Joshua, 36, was a passenger in a black Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary red commercial truck. This stretch of road, often highlighted for its perilous nature, has frequently been the site of severe accidents, particularly during busy travel periods.
Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) stated that preliminary findings indicate the SUV was travelling above the legal speed limit when it lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre before striking the truck. Such details have raised serious concerns about road safety and driver accountability in the region.
Five men were involved in the crash. Two, described by officials as male foreign nationals, tragically lost their lives at the scene, highlighting the severity of the accident. Joshua and the driver survived and were rescued by members of the boxer’s security team, who quickly arrived at the site to assist.
Video footage captured at the scene revealed the dramatic moment when Joshua was helped out of the wreckage from the back seat of the SUV, showcasing the severity of the crash and the immediate response from those around him.
The Lagos-Ibadan expressway is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s deadliest roads, notorious for heavy traffic, especially during festive periods when many Nigerians from overseas are returning home for celebrations. This particular time of year sees an influx of vehicles, which can exacerbate the already dangerous conditions.
Joshua, born in Watford, England, has deep family roots in Sagamu, Ogun State, which is in close proximity to the crash site. He had been in Nigeria following his December 19 victory over American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, creating a significant buzz around his visit to his ancestral home and the local sports community.
Hours before the incident, Joshua shared a video on Instagram showcasing him playing table tennis, indicating a more lighthearted moment just prior to the tragedy, which makes the incident all the more shocking for his fans and supporters.
Jake Paul responded on social media with empathy, stating: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.” Such messages of support underline the universal connection within the boxing community and the broader impact of such tragic events.
Local police commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo confirmed that an investigation into the crash has been ordered to determine the exact circumstances and accountability surrounding the incident. This inquiry is crucial not only for justice for the deceased but also as a preventive measure to enhance road safety in the future.
A relative of Joshua in Nigeria described the news as a “shock” to the family, expressing their disbelief and adding they were praying for his recovery while mourning the loss of those who died in this incident. The emotional toll on the family and community is significant, as Joshua’s star status has made him a beloved figure in the region.
Joshua’s family is well-known in Sagamu, where he had been anticipated to join relatives for New Year celebrations. There is an ongoing initiative to build a new indoor boxing venue in Ogun State named after him, reflecting his impact not only as an athlete but also as a sports ambassador for the region. This facility is expected to inspire the next generation of boxers and athletes, further solidifying Joshua’s legacy in Nigerian sports culture.
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