British boxing superstar Anthony Joshua narrowly escaped death in a horrific car accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria on December 29, 2025, but the incident tragically claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and team members.

The former two-time heavyweight champion was traveling in a Lexus SUV when the vehicle reportedly lost control during an overtaking maneuver and collided with a stationary truck. Preliminary investigations suggest excessive speed may have contributed to the crash, which occurred around 11 a.m. local time on one of Nigeria’s busiest and most dangerous highways.

Joshua, who has Nigerian heritage through his parents and was visiting the country following his recent knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami, sustained minor injuries. He was rushed to a hospital where he remains in stable condition under observation. Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating online show the boxer being helped from the wreckage, appearing conscious but in visible pain as rescuers assisted him.

The two victims were identified as Sina Ghami, Joshua’s long-time strength and conditioning coach, and Kevin “Latif” Ayodele, his personal trainer and dear friend. Both men were integral to Joshua’s team and had been by his side for years, traveling with him globally. Just hours before the accident, Joshua had shared a lighthearted video on social media playing table tennis with Ayodele, highlighting their close bond.

In a heartfelt statement, Joshua’s management team expressed profound sadness: “Both were close friends and key parts of Anthony’s life and career. Our thoughts are with their families during this devastating time.” Promoter Eddie Hearn echoed the grief, describing the loss as unimaginable for the boxing community.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally called Joshua in the hospital to offer condolences and wish him a speedy recovery. “This is a tragic accident that has shaken us all,” the president stated. Even Jake Paul, Joshua’s recent opponent, posted a message emphasizing that “life is much more important than boxing,” while praying for those affected.

The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has a notorious reputation for fatal accidents, with speeding and poor road conditions often cited as factors. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the circumstances, including potential traffic violations.

Joshua, 36, had been enjoying a well-deserved break after his dominant return to the ring on December 19, where he knocked out Paul in the sixth round. The win marked a resurgence for the Olympic gold medalist, who is eyeing major fights in 2026.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility, even for a champion like Joshua who has faced giants in the ring. As he recovers, the boxing world rallies around him, mourning the irreplaceable loss of two loyal companions who were more like family than team members.

The community awaits further updates on Joshua’s health while honoring the memories of Ghami and Ayodele, whose dedication helped shape one of boxing’s biggest stars.