NIGERIA: Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital following a serious car accident in Nigeria that tragically claimed the lives of two of his close friends, state officials confirmed on Wednesday. The incident has sparked widespread concern among fans and the global sports community, with many expressing relief at Joshua’s recovery and sorrow over the loss of lives.
The accident occurred on Monday on a busy highway connecting Lagos and Ibadan in southwestern Nigeria. According to officials, Joshua was travelling in a sports utility vehicle with his friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, when their car collided with a stationary truck. The crash proved fatal for Ghami and Ayodele, while Joshua escaped with minor injuries.
Nigerian police said the boxer sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was rushed to hospital as a precaution. He remained under medical observation for two days before doctors cleared him to leave. In a joint statement released late Wednesday night, spokespersons for the Lagos and Ogun state governments confirmed that Joshua had been discharged.
“Anthony Joshua was discharged from hospital late this afternoon,” the statement said. “Though heavy hearted and full of emotion over the loss of his two close friends, he was deemed clinically fit to recuperate at home.”
Authorities in Ogun state, where the crash took place, shared preliminary findings from the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE). According to the agency, initial investigations suggest that the vehicle was travelling at excessive speed at the time of the accident. Officials also said a burst tyre caused the driver to lose control, leading to the collision with the parked truck.
The highway linking Lagos and Ibadan is one of Nigeria’s busiest roads and has long been associated with traffic accidents, often attributed to speeding, poor vehicle conditions, and stationary heavy vehicles. The latest incident has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and improved road safety measures.
Anthony Joshua, who holds dual British and Nigerian heritage, is one of the most prominent figures in global boxing. A former unified heavyweight champion, he has a massive following both internationally and in Nigeria, where he is regarded with pride as a sporting icon. News of the accident quickly spread across social media, prompting an outpouring of support and messages of condolence from fans, athletes, and public figures.
While Joshua is now recovering at home, officials said he remains deeply affected by the loss of his friends. No further details have been shared about funeral arrangements or whether Joshua will make a public statement in the coming days.
The tragic crash serves as a stark reminder of the dangers on major highways and the importance of road safety, even for high-profile individuals. Authorities said investigations into the accident are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
