Anthony Joshua Injured in Nigeria Car Crash, Two Others Dead
The former heavyweight champion was hospitalized after a fatal highway collision that claimed two lives and shocked the boxing world
British-Nigerian boxing icon Anthony Joshua has been injured in a tragic car crash in Nigeria that has left two people dead, according to authorities and multiple media reports. The incident, which occurred on Monday morning along one of the country’s busiest highways, has sent shockwaves through the sports world and dominated headlines across international news outlets.
At around 11 a.m. local time on December 29, 2025, Joshua was traveling as a passenger in a Lexus SUV on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near Makun in Ogun State, a region in southwestern Nigeria that connects the sprawling megacity of Lagos with the inland city of Ibadan. The busy expressway has long been known for its heavy traffic and frequent serious accidents.
According to statements from the Ogun State Police Command and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the vehicle Joshua was in collided with a stationary truck parked on the roadside. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the precise circumstances that led to the crash, including whether the SUV was traveling at high speed or attempting a risky overtaking maneuver.
Joshua’s Condition
Despite the severity of the collision, Anthony Joshua, 36, was reported to have sustained only minor injuries. He was conscious at the scene and later taken to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. Videos circulating on social media show Joshua being helped out of the heavily damaged vehicle, visibly shaken but alert, and in some clips, seated amid shattered glass.
A police statement confirmed that two of the occupants of the car died at the scene. Their identities have not yet been publicly released, and it remains unclear whether they were part of Joshua’s team, friends, or other associates. Two additional occupants escaped the crash without serious injury.
Local and International Reaction
News of the accident was met with an outpouring of concern from fans, fellow athletes, and figures across the sporting world. Among the responses was a message from Jake Paul, Joshua’s recent opponent, who took to social media to express his thoughts on the tragedy: “Life is much more important than boxing,” he posted, offering prayers for Joshua and the victims involved.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, also commented on the situation, explaining that he had been trying to reach Joshua following the incident. Hearn noted that, based on imagery he had seen, Joshua appeared to be okay but emphasized that more detailed updates were pending as the investigation and medical assessments continued.
A Career and Legacy Interrupted
Anthony Joshua is one of the most recognizable figures in modern boxing. A former two-time world heavyweight champion, he has been a dominant force in the sport for over a decade, known for his power, athleticism, and resilience in the ring. Just days before the crash, he had secured a knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami — a bout that reinvigorated discussions about his legacy and potential future matchups, including a long-anticipated fight with British rival Tyson Fury.
The timing of the accident — coming so soon after one of the biggest fights of his recent career — underscores the sudden and unpredictable nature of life outside the squared circle. While physical injuries are reportedly minor, the emotional impact of such a harrowing event, coupled with the loss of life, undoubtedly resonates deeply.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities in Ogun State have pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into the crash. Early suggestions from officials and eyewitnesses point to excessive speed and a possible burst tire as contributing factors, though these details are still being verified. In many parts of Nigeria, traffic safety concerns remain high, and road conditions coupled with heavy vehicle use often lead to dangerous situations.
As investigators work to piece together exactly what happened, fans around the world are watching closely for updates on Joshua’s health and the identities and backgrounds of those who lost their lives.
Looking Ahead
For now, the boxing community holds its breath, hoping for the full recovery of Anthony Joshua and mourning the tragic loss of life. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly life can change, even for the world’s most elite athletes.
As more information becomes available, the world will continue to follow this story — one that blends the high-stakes drama of professional sport with the profound reality of human vulnerability on the world’s roads.



Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.