LAGOS, Nigeria — British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital in Nigeria, days after surviving a car crash that killed two of his closest friends and long‑time team members.
The 36‑year‑old former world champion was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck on the Lagos–Ibadan expressway in Ogun State on Monday. His rehabilitation coach Sina Ghami and personal trainer Latif “Latz” Ayodele were pronounced dead at the scene.
Aftermath and Mourning
A joint statement from Ogun and Lagos state officials confirmed Joshua was fit to recuperate at home but described him as “heavy‑hearted” over the loss. On Wednesday, after leaving hospital, Joshua visited the funeral home where the bodies of his friends were being prepared for repatriation.
Promoter Eddie Hearn, who has worked with Joshua since his professional debut in 2013, paid tribute: “Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed.”
Ghami had been Joshua’s full‑time strength and rehabilitation coach for more than a decade, playing a key role in his training camps and career milestones.
Investigation Into the Crash
Authorities say preliminary findings point to a tyre burst caused by excessive speed, which led the SUV to lose control before striking the truck. Ogun State police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed investigations are ongoing.
The crash highlights the dangers of Nigeria’s Lagos–Ibadan expressway, one of the country’s busiest and deadliest roads, particularly during festive periods when traffic surges.
Global Tributes
The tragedy has drawn condolences from across the boxing world:
- Retired cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew wrote: “There is no pain in life worse than grief.”
- Two‑time undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk and British rival Tyson Fury posted messages of support on Instagram.
- Fellow boxer Jake Paul, whom Joshua defeated on December 19, also expressed sympathy earlier in the week.
Family Roots
Joshua, born in Watford to Nigerian parents, has deep family ties to Sagamu, near the crash site. He had been spending time in Nigeria following his recent victory over Paul and was reportedly travelling to join relatives for New Year celebrations when the accident occurred.