Anthony Joshua Injured in Fatal Car Crash in Nigeria: Latest Updates and Condition

Author: [Mohammed Saad] Published: 29 December 2025 Verified By: Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Ogun State Police Command

While the boxing world was still celebrating his dominant victory over Jake Paul in Miami just ten days ago, tragedy has struck Anthony Joshua’s camp. On Monday morning, 29 December 2025, a Lexus SUV carrying the former two-time heavyweight champion collided with a stationary truck on a notorious stretch of Nigerian highway.

This report provides the verified timeline of the accident, the official health status of Anthony Joshua, and the tragic details regarding the fatalities involved.

The Incident: What Happened on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway?

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the crash occurred at approximately 11:00 AM local time on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, specifically within the Makun axis near the Sinoma area of Sagamu, Ogun State.

The incident involved a convoy of two vehicles. Anthony Joshua was travelling in a black Lexus SUV (Registration KRD 850 HN) which was reportedly attempting to overtake another vehicle when it lost control.

Ogun State Sector Commander, Akinwumi Fasakin, confirmed that the luxury SUV rammed into a stationary red Sinotruck parked by the roadside. The impact was catastrophic, shearing off the front and side of the Lexus.

Official Cause: The FRSC’s preliminary investigation cites “excessive speed” and “wrongful overtaking” as the primary causes of the collision.

Anthony Joshua Health Update: Is the Former Champion OK?

The most urgent question for fans across the UK and the world has been regarding Joshua’s condition.

The Facts:

• Status: Stable.

• Injuries: Described officially as “minor injuries.”

• Current Location: Evacuated to a local hospital in Sagamu for observation.

Despite social media videos showing a dazed and shirtless Joshua at the crash scene, his promoter Eddie Hearn has moved quickly to calm fears. Speaking to the UK press from his family holiday, Hearn stated:

“We are trying to contact Anthony… but thankfully he appears OK from what I have seen in the images. We are awaiting more information on what has happened and will update in due course.”

[Expert Note: The Adrenaline Mask] It is common for elite athletes to appear “fine” immediately after high-impact trauma due to massive adrenaline spikes masking pain. While Joshua was seen walking at the scene, medical protocols for concussion and whiplash will be the true determinant of his recovery timeline over the next 48 hours.

Fatalities Confirmed: Tragic Loss in AJ’s Convoy

While Joshua survived, the crash resulted in the tragic loss of life. The FRSC and Ogun State officials have confirmed that two people died on the spot.

• Victims: Two male occupants of the Lexus SUV.

• Identity: Confirmed as foreign nationals and close associates of Joshua.

• Survivors: Of the five adult males involved in the crash, two died, one sustained serious injuries, and two (including Joshua) escaped with minor injuries.

The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Livewell Morgue in Ajaka, Sagamu. The survivor with serious injuries is currently receiving critical care.

Why the “Makun Axis” is Nigeria’s Deadliest Road Stretch

To understand how this happened, one must look at the location. The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is the busiest inter-state route in Nigeria, connecting the commercial hub of Lagos to the rest of the country.

However, the specific Makun axis where the crash occurred is statistically one of the most dangerous stretches of tarmac in West Africa.

• The “Stationary” Problem: It is common for heavy-duty trucks to break down and remain parked on the highway without warning triangles.

• 2025 Accident Statistics: In the first quarter of 2025 alone, the FRSC recorded 73 deaths on this specific highway.

• The Surface: While recently reconstructed, the smooth surface often encourages speeding, a factor the FRSC explicitly noted in Joshua’s case.

The Impact on Boxing: Will the Tyson Fury 2026 Fight Be Delayed?

Anthony Joshua had just re-asserted himself at the top of the heavyweight division with a 6th-round knockout of Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. The plan was a massive “Battle of Britain” against Tyson Fury tentatively scheduled for early 2026.

Potential Delays: Even with “minor” injuries, a high-speed car crash places immense stress on the cervical spine (neck) and back.

• Training Camp: AJ was likely due to start light training in late January.

• Recovery Protocol: If he has suffered even a mild concussion or whiplash, his return to sparring could be delayed by 3–6 months to prevent long-term neurological damage.

FAQs

Is Anthony Joshua still in the hospital?

Yes, as of the latest reports on Monday evening, he is being observed at a hospital in Sagamu, though his injuries are not life-threatening.

Who died in the Anthony Joshua car crash?

Two male passengers in the Lexus SUV died at the scene. They have been identified as foreign nationals and associates of the boxer.

What car was Anthony Joshua in during the accident?

He was a passenger in a black Lexus SUV (Registration KRD 850 HN).

Was Anthony Joshua driving the car?

No. Eyewitness reports confirm Joshua was seated in the rear of the vehicle.

How fast was the car going?

Specific speeds haven’t been released, but the FRSC stated the vehicle was travelling “beyond the legally prescribed speed limit.”

Why was Anthony Joshua in Nigeria?

Joshua has deep family roots in Sagamu, Ogun State. He frequently visits the town to reconnect with his heritage and was reportedly travelling to the family home when the crash occurred.

What is the latest statement from Matchroom Boxing?

Eddie Hearn has confirmed he is aware of the incident and that Joshua appears “OK” based on visual evidence, but a formal press release is pending full medical assessment.

Summary

Anthony Joshua has survived a fatal car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that tragically claimed the lives of two of his close associates. While the former champion has sustained only minor injuries, the psychological toll and the physical recovery from such a high-velocity impact will be significant.

Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased during this difficult time.

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