Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident in Nigeria on December 29, 2025, which tragically claimed the lives of two of his close friends and associates, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Joshua himself sustained minor injuries and was reported to be in a stable condition in hospital, where he remained for observation. His promoter, Matchroom, confirmed the incident and extended their deepest condolences to the families of those affected, requesting privacy during this difficult time.

The accident occurred around 11:00 am local time (1000 GMT) on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, near Sagamu in the town of Makun, one of Nigeria’s busiest routes. Joshua, a British national of Nigerian heritage with family roots in Sagamu, was traveling in a Lexus SUV that reportedly collided with an 18-wheeler truck. Pictures circulating online showed a shirtless Joshua surrounded by broken window glass inside the damaged vehicle. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed five adult males were involved in the crash; two fatalities, two unharmed, and Joshua rescued alive with minor injuries.

According to preliminary investigations by the FRSC, Joshua's Lexus was suspected of traveling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit. They stated the vehicle lost control during an overtaking maneuver and crashed into a stationary truck parked on the side of the road. However, a witness named Kunle, 27, disputed this account, telling AFP that the truck "was not stationary when the accident happened." Police in Ogun state, just north of Lagos, confirmed the fatalities and have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the wreck.

The incident garnered significant attention and an outpouring of support. Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu, after speaking with Joshua and his mother, posted on social media, praising Joshua's courage and love for the country and assuring him of the best medical attention from Governor Dapo Abiodun. Jake Paul, whom Joshua had recently defeated in a Netflix-backed boxing match earlier in December, also expressed his concern on X, stating, "Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today's unfortunate accident." The accident occurred during Joshua's visit to Nigeria, following his December 19 fight with Paul. His last fight before Paul was a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September, and he has since been linked with a fight against Tyson Fury.