The boxing world has been left in shock following the devastating news that former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a horrific car crash in Nigeria. The incident, which occurred just over ten days after his recent high-profile boxing match, tragically claimed the lives of two of his close associates, including members of his personal training team. While Joshua miraculously survived the severe accident, the profound loss of life has sent shockwaves throughout the global sports community.
The news of the accident, involving the 36-year-old boxer, deeply rattled fans and professionals alike. The unfortunate event took place on December 29, as the former world heavyweight champion was traveling from Lagos to Ibadan province in a Lexus vehicle.
Reports from the scene depicted a harrowing situation. Joshua, who was reportedly seated in the back of the vehicle, was found amidst shattered glass, wearing only shorts. The accident is said to have occurred when the Lexus, traveling at high speed, collided with a heavy-duty truck from behind. The impact was severe, causing extensive damage to the front section of the car, which was almost entirely destroyed.
Local residents in the Makun area of Ogun province, where the crash took place, quickly rushed to the scene to provide assistance. They successfully helped extricate the 36-year-old boxer from the wreckage. However, the tragedy was compounded by the immediate deaths of two other occupants of the vehicle, identified as members of Joshua’s training team.
News of the devastating incident quickly reached Jake Paul, Joshua’s opponent from their recent bout. The 27-year-old boxer-turned-YouTube star expressed his profound shock and offered his deepest condolences to Joshua for the loss of his team members. Paul posted a heartfelt message of encouragement on social media, stating: ‘Being alive is more important than boxing. I pray for the lives lost and send my deepest sympathies to Anthony Joshua and everyone affected by this tragic accident.’
While officials in Ogun province did not immediately confirm the identities of the victims, media reports swiftly named the two men as close friends and personal trainers of Joshua. They were identified as Latif Ayodele, a physical conditioning coach and social media content creator, and Sina Ghami, a strength and fitness trainer. Their loss has been deeply felt within Joshua’s inner circle and beyond.
This tragic accident occurred shortly after Joshua’s much-anticipated match against Jake Paul in Miami, USA, on December 20. In that memorable bout, the 36-year-old boxer secured a decisive victory by knocking out Jake Paul in the sixth round. Reports indicated that Anthony Joshua earned an estimated $72 million from the fight, which concluded in just over 16 minutes in the ring.
