British–Nigerian heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car accident on Monday, December 29, 2025, in Ogun State, Nigeria, authorities confirmed. The incident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a major highway in southwestern Nigeria, and resulted in the deaths of two people — while Joshua and others survived with injuries. ESPN
What Happened? Details of the Crash
According to Nigerian authorities, the vehicle carrying Joshua — a Lexus SUV — was travelling at high speed when it lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and collided with a stationary truck parked on the roadside. Sahara Reporters
- Local police reports and Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) say excessive speed and wrongful overtaking were likely contributing factors. Sahara Reporters
- The crash involved five adult men in the SUV. Sahara Reporters
- Two passengers died at the scene, while others escaped with injuries or walked away unhurt. Sahara Reporters
Joshua was seated in the rear of the SUV at the time of the collision. ESPN
Joshua’s Condition
The 36-year-old former world heavyweight champion was rescued from the wreckage alive and taken to a hospital for medical treatment. Police and medical officials have described his injuries as minor, and he was conscious at the time of transfer. ESPN
Footage circulating on social media shows Joshua appearing dazed and wincing in pain as he is assisted from the damaged vehicle. The Times of India
Casualties and Victims
Tragically, two people in the SUV were pronounced dead at the scene. Their identities have not been officially released, but eyewitness reports have mentioned that people sitting beside the driver and beside Joshua were among the deceased. Africanews
Authorities said they are continuing an investigation into the crash and the factors that led to the collision. Sahara Reporters
Official Response and Investigation
The Ogun State Police Command and the FRSC have both confirmed the accident and the fatalities, while launching a formal investigation. Roads safety officials emphasize that violations such as high speed and unsafe overtaking are leading causes of fatal accidents on Nigerian highways. Sahara Reporters
Local emergency services responded to the scene and transported the injured to nearby hospitals. WSLS
Public and Boxing World Reaction
News of the crash has spread rapidly online, triggering an outpouring of support for Joshua and condolences for the families of the victims. Fellow boxers, fans, and even recent opponent Jake Paul shared messages emphasizing that “life is much more important than boxing” and offering thoughts and prayers for everyone affected. Reddit
Context: Joshua’s Recent Boxing Activity
Joshua was in Nigeria shortly after securing a sixth-round knockout victory over social media personality-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami on December 19, 2025 — a fight that brought him back into the global boxing spotlight. ESPN
Before the accident, there had been talk of a potential future matchup with British rival Tyson Fury in 2026. Sky Sports
Conclusion
The Anthony Joshua accident in Nigeria is a developing story with international attention. While Joshua himself survived with relatively minor injuries, the tragedy of two fatalities at the crash site has deeply affected the boxing community and the public. Investigations into the exact causes are ongoing, and further official updates are expected as authorities continue their work.
