Boxing star in stable condition after SUV collides with stationary truck on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

Lagos, Nigeria | December 29, 2025 - British-Nigerian heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is in stable condition in hospital following a devastating car crash on Monday that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and team members.

The accident occurred around 11 a.m. local time on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State, a major highway linking Lagos to other parts of the country. Joshua, 36, was a passenger in the rear seat of a black Lexus SUV when the vehicle, suspected of speeding, lost control during an overtaking maneuver and slammed into a stationary truck parked on the roadside.

Nigeria's Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) stated in a preliminary report that excessive speed and improper overtaking were likely factors in the crash. Five adult males were involved: two died at the scene, Joshua sustained minor injuries, one other passenger was injured, and two escaped unhurt. Joshua's security team, traveling in a separate vehicle, helped rescue him and the driver from the wreckage.

The two victims have been identified as Sina Ghami, Joshua's strength and conditioning coach, and Kevin "Latif" Ayodele (also known as "Latz"), his longtime personal trainer. Both were described by Joshua's camp as "integral members of his team" and "close friends." Matchroom Boxing, Joshua's promoter, issued a statement expressing profound sadness: "It is with the deepest sorrow that we confirm the passing of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families during this incredibly difficult time."

Video footage circulating on social media showed a dazed Joshua wincing in pain as he was assisted from the mangled vehicle and transferred to emergency responders. He was immediately taken to an undisclosed hospital in Lagos for treatment and observation.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu personally called Joshua to offer condolences and wish him a speedy recovery. "I spoke with AJ... and prayed with him," the president posted on social media. "He assured me he is receiving the best possible care." Tinubu also spoke with Joshua's mother.

Tributes poured in from the boxing world. Promoter Eddie Hearn called Ghami and Ayodele "two great men," while former opponent Jake Paul, whom Joshua defeated earlier this month, wrote: "Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ, and anyone impacted."

Joshua, whose parents are from Nigeria, was reportedly visiting family ties in the country over the holidays following his recent high-profile victory. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, with the case handed over to the Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division.

The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is notorious for fatal accidents due to heavy traffic and road hazards. Joshua's team has requested privacy for all affected families as he recovers.