Reporting for The London Magazine, British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has been injured in a fatal Nigeria car crash that claimed the lives of two close members of his professional team, according to Nigerian authorities and official statements from his representatives.
The incident occurred on Monday morning on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State, southwest Nigeria, a major transport corridor that connects the commercial capital Lagos with inland regions. Joshua, a former unified world heavyweight champion, was travelling in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck under circumstances that are now under formal investigation.
Fatalities and Injuries Confirmed
Two passengers in the vehicle, identified as Sina Ghami, Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, and Kevin “Lateef” Ayodele, a trainer and long-time associate, were pronounced dead at the scene. Joshua sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital in Lagos for medical checks, where he was reported to be stable and conscious.
In a statement issued by Joshua’s camp, his representatives confirmed the deaths and asked for privacy for the families affected. “Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team,” the statement said, adding that Joshua would remain under observation as a precaution.
Circumstances of the Crash
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Ogun State police, five adult males were involved in the crash. Preliminary findings indicate that the SUV may have been travelling above the posted speed limit and lost control while overtaking before striking a stationary truck parked at the roadside.
The FRSC cited excessive speed and wrongful overtaking as suspected contributing factors — both among the leading causes of fatal road accidents in Nigeria. Authorities stressed that the investigation remains ongoing and that final conclusions have yet to be reached.
Road Safety Context in Nigeria
The Lagos–Ibadan Expressway has long been identified as one of Nigeria’s most dangerous highways due to high traffic volumes, speeding, and heavy goods vehicles. Official road safety data show that thousands of road crashes occur annually across Nigeria, resulting in several thousand fatalities each year.
In the first nine months of 2025 alone, Nigerian road safety authorities recorded more than 6,800 traffic crashes nationwide, with over 3,400 deaths and tens of thousands of injuries. Road safety officials have repeatedly highlighted the need for stricter enforcement, improved infrastructure, and safer driving practices on high-speed intercity routes.
Official and Public Reactions
Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, offered condolences to the families of the deceased and wished Joshua a full recovery. Senior officials in Ogun and Lagos states confirmed that Joshua had spoken with family members and was receiving appropriate medical care.
Tributes have also come from the boxing world. Promoter Eddie Hearn described Ghami and Ayodele as “two great men,” while fellow fighters and sports figures expressed shock at the news.
Impact on Joshua’s Career
The crash occurred just days after Joshua’s high-profile return to the ring, following his victory in the widely viewed Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua bout. While no official decisions have been announced regarding Joshua’s future schedule, the accident introduces uncertainty around his immediate training plans.
Joshua, 36, had been visiting Nigeria on a short personal trip, maintaining longstanding family ties to the country. He has previously spoken openly about his Nigerian heritage and attended school in the region during his childhood.
A Personal Loss Beyond Sport
While attention has inevitably turned to Joshua’s recovery and boxing future, the deaths of Ghami and Ayodele underscore the human cost of the incident. Both men had worked closely with Joshua for years and were regarded as trusted members of his inner circle.
Their passing has been widely mourned within boxing circles and among fans, highlighting that the tragedy extends well beyond the sport itself.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have confirmed that a full investigation into the Nigeria car crash is under way. Officials say further updates will be provided once findings are finalised.
For now, Joshua remains under medical supervision, and his representatives have said no further statements will be issued until there is clarity on his condition and the outcome of the investigation.
