World-famous heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious road accident in Nigeria in late December 2025, an incident that shocked fans across the globe and led to tragic losses within his close team.
The crash occurred on December 29, 2025, while Joshua was traveling along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, one of Nigeria’s busiest highways. What initially appeared to be a routine journey quickly turned into a devastating event with far-reaching consequences.
What Happened on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway
According to reports from international and Nigerian media outlets, the vehicle Joshua was riding in collided with a stationary truck along the highway in Ogun State. Early findings suggest the SUV may have lost control while overtaking another vehicle before the impact.
Joshua was a passenger, not the driver, and emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene. The accident drew immediate attention due to both its severity and Joshua’s global profile.
Fatalities and Injuries
Tragically, the crash claimed the lives of two members of Joshua’s inner circle:
Sina Ghami, his long-time strength and conditioning coach
Latif “Latz” Ayodele, his personal trainer and close confidant
Both men were described in tributes as instrumental to Joshua’s training, discipline, and personal growth over the years.
Joshua himself sustained minor physical injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment and observation. Witness accounts noted that he appeared shaken and disoriented immediately after the crash, but medical officials later confirmed his condition was stable.
Hospital Discharge and Emotional Aftermath
After several days under medical care, Joshua was released from hospital on January 1, 2026. Shortly after his discharge, he and his mother visited a funeral home in Lagos to pay their respects as arrangements were made for the deceased members of his team.
Those close to the boxer have emphasized that, while his physical injuries were not severe, the emotional toll of the incident has been profound.
Global Reaction From the Boxing World
The accident prompted an outpouring of support from across the sporting community:
Promoter Eddie Hearn described the loss as heartbreaking and paid tribute to the professionalism and loyalty of Joshua’s team. Fellow boxers, including former rivals, shared messages of sympathy and encouragement, highlighting the tight-knit nature of the boxing world beyond the ring.
Fans from the UK, Nigeria, and around the world flooded social media with messages of support, prayers, and condolences.
Renewed Focus on Road Safety in Nigeria
Beyond the personal tragedy, the accident has reignited discussions about road safety in Nigeria, particularly on major highways like the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Authorities have pointed to speeding, dangerous overtaking, and poorly marked stationary vehicles as ongoing risks that continue to claim lives.
Several commentators have called for stricter enforcement and improved safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Where This Leaves Anthony Joshua
The accident came just days after Joshua’s high-profile return to the ring following his December 2025 victory over Jake Paul, a fight that had reignited conversations about the next phase of his career.
At 36, Joshua remains one of the most recognizable figures in global boxing. However, in the wake of this tragedy, sources close to him say his immediate focus is on recovery, reflection, and honoring the memory of the men he lost.
A Sobering Reminder
For fans and observers alike, the incident serves as a sobering reminder that even global sports icons are not immune to sudden tragedy. As Anthony Joshua steps away from the spotlight to heal, the boxing world waits not for his next fight, but for his well-being.
