Anthony Joshua Injured in Car Crash; Two Lives Tragically Lost

British boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident on the morning of December 29, 2023, while traveling on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Nigeria. The incident resulted in the tragic deaths of two individuals and left Joshua hospitalized with minor injuries. Reports indicate that Joshua was a rear passenger in a Lexus Jeep when it collided with a stationary lorry.

Images circulating on social media depicted the 36-year-old boxer appearing stunned and in pain as passing motorists rushed to assist him. He was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation. The crash reportedly took place shortly after 11:00 AM near Makun in Ogun State, where Joshua has familial ties in Sagamu.

Details of the Incident and Response

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), preliminary investigations suggest that the Lexus Jeep was traveling above the legal speed limit and lost control while overtaking before crashing into the stationary lorry. The FRSC stated that their team arrived at the scene within three minutes of notification, facilitating prompt rescue operations and victim evacuation.

The accident involved a total of five adult males, resulting in two fatalities, one individual sustaining injuries, and two others escaping unharmed. The injured victim was taken for medical treatment, while the deceased were transported to Livewell Morgue in Ajaka, Sagamu. The Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division has been notified and is conducting a further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Local police commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo confirmed the occurrence of the accident, stating that officers were dispatched to verify the details and provide assistance to those affected. The Ogun State Police Command has also confirmed to the BBC that Joshua and the other injured individuals were taken to an undisclosed hospital.

Reactions and Support from the Boxing Community

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, who was on holiday in the Caribbean at the time, expressed his relief upon hearing that Joshua was okay and en route to the hospital, although he could not provide further details. A family member of Joshua, who requested anonymity, shared their shock at the news and expressed hopes for his swift recovery. They mentioned that Joshua had been traveling from Lagos to visit family, noting, “He’s normally coming around for the new year.”

The boxing community has rallied around Joshua, with Turki Alalshikh, a Saudi boxing chief, posting a message of gratitude for Joshua’s safety and condolences for the deceased. American boxer Alycia Baumgardner, who recently defended her titles on the undercard of Joshua’s fight, also conveyed her support, emphasizing the fragility of life and the importance of family during such moments.

As updates regarding Joshua’s condition remain pending, the focus continues to be on the loss of life and the impact of this tragic event on the boxing community and beyond.