The world is grappling with the tragic road accident that occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, along the busy Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, specifically within the Makun axis of Ogun State. The incident involved former World Heavyweight Boxing Champion Anthony Joshua, who miraculously survived with minor injuries, while two of his close associates tragically lost their lives.

The fatal crash, which occurred around 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM near the Sinoma area close to the Sagamu Interchange, involved a black Lexus SUV with registration number KRD 850 HN, conveying Joshua and other occupants, which collided with a stationary red commercial Sinotruck. A total of five individuals were involved in the collision. Images released by Nigerian officials depicted the crumpled wreckage of the SUV, with its doors ripped out and the roof smashed. Footage circulated online showed Joshua shirtless and dazed, sitting amidst shattered glass in the wrecked vehicle.

The two individuals who passed away were identified as Latz (also known as “Latz” or “Healthy_Mindset” on Instagram) and Sina Evovle. Latz was Anthony Joshua’s personal trainer and a close friend, a physical trainer and a devoted Muslim. Sina Evovle served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach and was seen preparing him for his Jake Paul fight just two weeks prior. Sina, originally from Syria, was full of life, having posted videos of their arrival at Murtala Mohammed International Airport just hours before the accident. Both were foreign nationals, British men, though their precise nationality or passport status at the time of death remained unconfirmed. Their remains were later deposited at the Livewell Morgue in Sagamu.

Despite the severity of the crash, Joshua, who was seated behind the driver, and one other passenger were promptly rescued by security personnel attached to his convoy. They were immediately evacuated to a specialized medical facility in Lagos for urgent medical attention. Following several clinical assessments, doctors confirmed both patients were stable, conscious, and did not require any emergency interventions at this time, with Joshua communicating well with his family. A comprehensive medical team has been put in place to monitor their condition closely and ensure adequate care.

Preliminary investigations by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) attributed the primary causes of the crash to excessive speeding and wrongful overtaking by the Lexus Jeep, which lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and collided with a “properly parked” stationary truck. The FRSC emphasized that these are serious traffic violations and remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways.

The tragic incident elicited widespread sympathy and official responses. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu spoke personally with Anthony Joshua, his mother, and Governor Dapo Abiodun, conveying his condolences for the loss of his two associates, wishing him a speedy recovery, and assuring him of the best care in the hospital. President Tinubu praised Joshua's courage, discipline, and unwavering love for Nigeria, calling him a source of national pride and praying for strength and wisdom during this painful period.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Ogun State Government officials also extended their deepest sympathies to the bereaved families. Governor Sanwo-Olu confirmed the stability of Joshua and the other injured passenger and stated that both state governments were jointly monitoring the situation to ensure all necessary support was provided. He also revealed that investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash had already commenced to establish the cause and prevent recurrence. Ogun State Governor's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, underscored the tragic loss and urged motorists to exercise utmost caution and adhere strictly to traffic regulations, especially during the festive season.

Among other notable figures, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, expressed sorrow and highlighted concerns about the reported lack of readily available ambulances to convey Joshua to the hospital. American professional boxer, influencer, and actor Jake Paul also conveyed his condolences, emphasizing that life is more important than boxing. Tributes continued to pour in for Latz and Sina Evovle across all social media platforms.

The Ogun State Police Command has commenced a thorough investigation into the accident, assuring the public of transparency and updates as the probe progresses. Authorities, including the FRSC, continue to urge motorists to avoid dangerous overtaking, excessive speed, and disregard for traffic regulations, advocating for patience, lane discipline, and prioritizing safety over haste on Nigerian highways.