- The 36-year-old boxer was discharged after receiving medical attention
- They also assured fans that Joshua was recovering well and requested privacy for the bereaved families
- The bout marked his first appearance since a defeat in 2024 and improved his professional record to 29 wins from 33 fights
British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua has returned to the United Kingdom following a tragic road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two members of his inner circle.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the former two-time world heavyweight champion was involved in the crash as a passenger on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday.
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The incident later claimed the lives of his long-time personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele, and strength coach, Sina Ghami. Joshua sustained minor injuries and was rushed to a Lagos hospital for treatment.
The 36-year-old boxer was discharged after receiving medical attention and remained briefly in Nigeria to recover before flying back to the UK. Sources confirmed that he was stable and under close observation during his hospital stay.
Investigations into the incident led to the arraignment of the driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, who has been charged with multiple traffic-related offences, including dangerous and negligent driving. The case has been adjourned until January 20.
Preliminary findings by the Federal Road Safety Corps indicated that Joshua’s SUV collided with a stationary truck parked along the expressway. While initial reports cited speeding and a failed overtaking attempt, the Ogun State Police Command later clarified that a tyre burst caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
Promoters Matchroom Boxing and Joshua’s management company, 258 MGT, confirmed the deaths in a joint statement, describing Ayodele and Ghami as valued team members and close friends.
They also assured fans that Joshua was recovering well and requested privacy for the bereaved families.
The heartbreaking incident occurred barely days after Joshua’s return to winning ways in the ring, following his knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami.
The bout marked his first appearance since a defeat in 2024 and improved his professional record to 29 wins from 33 fights.
The loss has cast a sombre mood over the boxing community, with tributes pouring in for the late trainers, whose contributions to Joshua’s career spanned several years.
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