Shola Akinyele
British-Nigerian boxing superstar Anthony Joshua was involved in a fatal road accident on Monday along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Makun, Ogun State, Nigeria, resulting in two deaths and leaving the former heavyweight champion with minor injuries.
The crash occurred around 11:00 a.m. near Danco Filling Station when a Lexus SUV carrying Joshua reportedly collided at high speed with a stationary truck.
Eyewitness accounts indicate Joshua was seated in the rear behind the driver, with three other occupants in the vehicle, part of a two-vehicle convoy that included a Toyota Pajero.
Two passengers in the Lexus are confirmed to have died at the scene, while Joshua and the driver sustained injuries. Dramatic footage and photos circulating online show a dazed and topless Joshua being assisted from the wreckage amid shattered glass, appearing in visible pain but able to move with help.
Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) operatives and local residents provided initial emergency assistance at the scene. Reports note a delay in ambulance arrival, with the injured transported to a nearby hospital in alternative vehicles.
Ogun State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that Joshua was taken to an undisclosed hospital for treatment and is in stable condition with minor injuries.
Commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo has ordered an investigation into the cause of the crash, which remains under review.
Joshua, 36, who has strong family ties to Sagamu in Ogun State, was visiting Nigeria following his recent knockout victory over Jake Paul on December 19. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, acknowledged the incident, noting the team is in contact and relieved Joshua appears okay based on available images.
Social media erupted with shock and concern, with fans expressing relief for Joshua’s survival while mourning the loss of the two victims and highlighting ongoing safety issues on the notoriously dangerous Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
No official statement has yet been released from Joshua’s camp, but sources close to the boxer indicate he is recovering and processing the traumatic event.
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