British heavyweight boxing legend Anthony Joshua narrowly escaped death in a horrific car crash on Nigeria’s Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on December 29, 2025, but the incident claimed the lives of two close associates and has sparked intense speculation. The former two-time world champion, aged 36, was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that slammed into a stationary truck, resulting in a devastating collision that left the vehicle mangled.

Joshua sustained minor injuries and was rushed to a specialized hospital in Lagos, where he remains in stable condition under observation. Medical evaluations confirmed he requires no emergency intervention, and he has been in contact with family members. However, the tragedy deepened as his longtime strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and personal trainer Kevin Latif Ayodele—both described as integral team members and dear friends—tragically perished at the scene.

The crash occurred around 11 a.m. local time on one of Nigeria’s busiest and most dangerous highways, a route notorious for fatal accidents due to speeding and poor road conditions. Initial reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps suggested the Lexus was traveling at excessive speed during an overtaking maneuver, leading to loss of control. Later accounts pointed to a burst tire as the trigger, causing the driver to swerve uncontrollably into the parked truck.

A total of five adult males were involved, according to authorities: Joshua, the two victims, the driver (who survived with injuries), and one other passenger who escaped unharmed. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with bystanders helping extract Joshua from the wreckage as he winced in pain amid shattered glass.

Promoter Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing issued a statement expressing profound sadness, requesting privacy for the grieving families. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally spoke with Joshua, offering condolences and prayers for recovery.

The incident comes just days after Joshua’s triumphant return to the ring, where he delivered a sixth-round knockout victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. Paul himself reacted on social media, emphasizing that “life is much more important than boxing” and sending prayers to all affected.

As investigations continue, questions swirl around the exact circumstances. Ogun State Police have launched a thorough probe, and emerging details about potential traces suggesting a mysterious fourth person’s involvement on the vehicle have fueled rumors of foul play. While official reports maintain it as a tragic road accident—common on Nigeria’s highways—authorities are examining all angles to rule out any sinister motives.

Joshua, of British-Nigerian heritage, was visiting family roots in the country following his recent fight. The boxing world unites in shock, with tributes pouring in for Ghami and Ayodele, highlighting their dedication to Joshua’s career. This devastating event serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility, even for a champion who has faced giants in the ring.