Former two-time world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is in stable condition following a serious road traffic accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that claimed the lives of two close associates, according to a statement from Joshua’s management and promoter, Matchroom Boxing.

Tragic Losses in Joshua’s Team

The statement confirmed with “profound sadness” that Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, also known as Kevin ‘Lateef’ or ‘Latz,’ died in the crash on December 29. Ghami, a highly regarded strength and conditioning coach who co-founded Evolve Gym in London, had worked with Joshua for over a decade, helping enhance the boxer’s endurance and power. Ayodele, Joshua’s personal trainer, was known for his dedication to fitness and humanitarian initiatives in Nigeria.

Details of the Accident

The accident occurred around 11 a.m. local time when the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his team collided with a stationary truck. Preliminary reports from Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps indicated that excessive speed and a wrongful overtaking maneuver were contributing factors. However, Ogun State police later suggested that a tire burst may have caused the vehicle to lose control.

The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, linking Nigeria’s economic hub to other regions, is notorious for high accident rates due to heavy traffic, frequent breakdowns, and poor road maintenance. Experts have long warned that these conditions make the expressway particularly dangerous for motorists.

Joshua’s Condition and Response

Joshua, seated in the rear of the SUV, sustained injuries but remained conscious and able to communicate with family. He was taken to a specialized medical facility in Lagos for observation, with authorities confirming that no emergency surgical interventions were required.

The 36-year-old British-Nigerian boxer had just returned from Miami, where he secured a sixth-round knockout victory over Jake Paul on December 19. He was visiting Nigeria for the holiday season. Earlier on the day of the crash, social media posts showed Joshua enjoying playful moments with Ayodele, including a friendly table tennis game.

Tributes and Reactions

The news of the accident has prompted an outpouring of support from the global boxing community. Jake Paul, Joshua’s recent opponent, wrote on social media: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted.” Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also called Joshua personally to offer his condolences.

Matchroom Boxing requested privacy for the grieving families, stating: “Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected.”

Experts note that this incident highlights ongoing safety concerns on Nigeria’s major highways. Road safety consultant Dr. Chukwuma Eze commented, “Even experienced drivers can face fatal consequences on highways like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, where vehicle conditions and road infrastructure are often inadequate.”

The boxing world continues to monitor Joshua’s recovery, while tributes for Ghami and Ayodele reflect their lasting impact on both the sport and their communities.