Anthony Joshua survives fatal crash in Nigeria

On December 29, 2025, former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident in Ogun State, Nigeria. The boxer received minor injuries, but two of his close friends and team members died as a result of the accident.

The accident occurred around 11:00 local time on the Lagos-Ibadan highway, one of the most dangerous roads in the country, writes xrust. According to preliminary data from the Federal Road Safety Corps of Nigeria (FRSC), Joshua's Lexus SUV (he was sitting in the back seat) exceeded the speed limit while attempting to overtake and crashed into a parked truck. Five people were involved in the accident: Joshua and another passenger were injured, two died on the spot, two remained unharmed.

Matchroom Boxing (Joshua's promotion company) released an official statement: «It is with deepest sadness that we confirm the death of two close friends and key team members, Sina Gami and Lateef Ayodele.» The boxer was quickly taken to a specialized clinic in Lagos, where after examination his condition was assessed as stable. He remains under medical supervision.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubupersonally contacted Joshua, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished the athlete a speedy recovery, calling the incident a “tragic accident.”

Details of the tragedy and context

The tragedy occurred just 10 days after Joshua’s triumphant return to the ring. On December 19, 2025, in Miami (USA), he knocked out American blogger-boxer Jake Paul in the sixth round, interrupting a 15-month downtime. This fight became one of the most talked about events of the year in boxing.

Sina Gami served as a strength and rehabilitation coach, and Lateef Ayodele served as Joshua's personal trainer. Both accompanied the boxer for many years and were considered his closest circle. A few hours before the accident, Joshua posted a video on Instagram of him playing table tennis with Latif.

FRSC emphasizes: speeding and dangerous overtaking remain the main causes of fatal accidents on Nigerian highways. Who exactly was driving the Lexus has not been officially disclosed.

Joshua, who has Nigerian roots (his parents are British-Nigerian), spent part of his childhood in a boarding school in Ikenne (Ogun State), just 80-100 km from the scene of the accident.

Joshua is now planning to return to full-time training. His long-awaited rematch or fight with Tyson Fury is expected in 2026.

Xrust Anthony Joshua survives fatal accident in Nigeria