Anthony Joshua Involved in Serious Car Accident on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway – Two Dead, Boxer Sustains Minor Injuries

Date of Report: December 29, 2025

Overview: British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a tragic car accident earlier today on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria’s Ogun State. The two-time former heavyweight titleholder sustained minor injuries in the crash, which claimed the lives of two others. The incident occurred when Joshua’s Lexus SUV collided with a stationary truck, according to police reports. Joshua, 36, was in the backseat and was treated at a nearby hospital before being discharged. This report compiles details from eyewitness accounts, official statements, and media coverage, as the story develops amid widespread concern from fans worldwide.

Details of the Accident

The crash happened around 8:00 AM WAT on the busy Sinoma axis of the expressway. Joshua’s vehicle reportedly suffered a tire burst, leading to the collision with a parked truck. Two passengers in the SUV were pronounced dead at the scene, while Joshua escaped with non-life-threatening injuries, including cuts and bruises. He was seen grimacing in pain in footage from the site but is said to be stable.

Scene from the accident site where Anthony Joshua’s Lexus SUV collided with a truck on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Ogun State Police Command confirmed the fatalities and injuries, with spokesperson Omolola Odutola stating: “Two people died in a car crash in Ogun State involving the two-time former heavyweight champion.” Investigations are ongoing, with preliminary reports citing mechanical failure as a possible cause. No foul play has been suggested.

Joshua’s Background and Recent Activities

Anthony Joshua, born in Watford, UK, to Nigerian parents, has been a dominant force in boxing since turning pro in 2013. He held the WBA, IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles from 2016 to 2019 and regained them briefly in 2019. Recently, he knocked out Jake Paul in a high-profile bout in Miami on December 15, 2025, boosting his net worth to an estimated $150 million. Joshua was in Nigeria for holiday celebrations and family time when the accident occurred.

Public Reaction and Tributes

The news sparked immediate concern on social media, with #AnthonyJoshua trending globally. Fans and celebrities expressed relief at his survival while mourning the deceased. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu issued a statement sympathizing with Joshua and the victims’ families. Boxing peers like Tyson Fury tweeted: “Prayers up for AJ and those lost – stay strong, champ.” Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with one telling NY Post: “Two died on the spot.”

Broader Implications for Road Safety in Nigeria

This incident highlights ongoing road safety issues in Nigeria, where accidents on highways like Lagos-Ibadan are common due to poor maintenance, speeding, and mechanical failures. Advocacy groups call for better infrastructure and enforcement.

Joshua is expected to recover fully and return to training soon. CivicWire.ng wishes him a speedy recovery and extends condolences to the bereaved families.

Sources: BBC, ESPN, NBC News, NY Post, Premium Times, TheCable; all details verified.

Another view of the crash site, showing the damaged vehicles involved in the incident.