Anthony Joshua has flown back to the UK after being involved in a fatal car crash in Nigeria that killed two of his close friends.
Joshua, a passenger in the incident, was taken to hospital after the crash on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway on Monday, which was promptly confirmed to have taken two lives. It was not until later in the day that reports suggested the two casualties were Joshua’s personal trainer Latif “Latz” Ayodele and strength coach Sina Ghami.
The former two-time world heavyweight champion, who only sustained minor injuries, was discharged from a Lagos hospital on Wednesday afternoon and initially stayed in Nigeria to recuperate before flying back to his homeland.
Prosecutors have charged the vehicle’s driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, with causing death by dangerous driving, reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care, and driving without a valid driver’s licence. The case has been adjourned until 20 January.
Joshua’s vehicle collided with a truck parked on the side of the expressway, according to Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps.
They also suggested speeding and an overtake attempt were to blame for the crash, but Ogun state’s police commissioner later told ESPN that a burst tyre on Joshua’s vehicle caused the driver to lose control and “swerve into the stationary truck parked along the road”.
Video footage from the aftermath of the crash shows Joshua sitting in his mangled SUV, appearing dazed and in pain. Ayodele and Ghami were pronounced dead at the scene.
Matchroom, which promotes 36-year-old Joshua, and 258 MGT, his management company shared a joint statement: “With profound sadness, it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, have tragically passed away.
“Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment. He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation.
“Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected – and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time. No further comment will be made at this time.”
The crash came just 10 days after Joshua knocked out YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a fight in Miami.
The Briton beat Paul in six rounds in his first fight since a knockout defeat by Daniel Dubois in September 2024. It was his 29th win from 33 professional fights.
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