Boxer, Anthony Joshua, injured in horror car crash in Nigeria that killed two people
Follower urges Theresa May to deport Anthony Joshua. PHOTO: REUTERS
Boxing star, Anthony Joshua, has been injured in a serious car crash in Nigeria that tragically killed two other people, local police and multiple outlets reported on Monday. The 36‑year‑old former world heavyweight champion was involved in an accident on the Lagos‑Ibadan expressway near Makun in Ogun State when the vehicle he was riding in collided with a stationary truck, authorities said.
According to the Ogun State Police Command, Joshua was seated in the rear of a Lexus SUV at around 11 a.m. local time when the collision occurred. He sustained what officials described as minor injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Investigators are still examining the exact cause of the crash.
Tragically, two other passengers in the vehicle died at the scene, police confirmed, though their identities have not yet been released. Visuals circulating on social media from local outlets showed the boxing champion among shattered glass inside the wrecked car shortly after the accident.
The crash comes just days after Joshua scored a high‑profile sixth‑round knockout victory against YouTuber‑turned‑boxer Jake Paul in Miami on December 19, marking his first win after a long hiatus from the ring. He had travelled to Nigeria, where he has family roots, following the fight. C
Witness accounts and local reports describe a chaotic scene after the collision, with bystanders and emergency responders working to free passengers from the damaged vehicle. Lagos‑Ibadan is one of Nigeria’s busiest highways, and accidents are not uncommon, underscoring concerns about road safety in the region.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, said officials were trying to get in touch with the boxer and had seen images suggesting he was ‘okay’ despite the severity of the crash. Pictures and video clips shared on social media show Joshua conscious and being assisted out of the wreckage, though statements from his camp have been limited pending further updates.
The news has drawn an outpouring of support from fans online, many relieved to hear Joshua survived while expressing condolences for the two people who lost their lives. Social media users noted how quickly life can change, especially after Joshua’s high moment in the ring just days earlier. As investigations continue, authorities are urging caution on the highway and calling for improvements in road safety measures to prevent similar tragedies.