Anthony Joshua pays respects to pals killed in horror crash after leaving hospital
Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital following a tragic car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of the boxer’s close friends
Boxing star Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital after the horror car crash that killed two of his team members.
The two-time world heavyweight champion had been under “observation” for several days due to minor injuries he sustained in the accident in Nigeria on Monday, that tragically took the lives of two of his close friends. However, on Wednesday evening, the regional governments of Lagos and Ogun states confirmed the 36-year-old was well enough to continue his recovery at home.
Joshua was travelling as a passenger in a black Lexus SUV when it smashed into a stationary lorry on a major road near Lagos, resulting in the deaths of close friends Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Joshua and his mother paid their respects to them at a funeral home on Wednesday afternoon before their bodies were repatriated to the UK, according to a statement from Ogun State Government.
Published on X, the Ogun State Government statement read: “The governments of Lagos and Ogun states once again, commiserate with the families of the two young men Lateef Ayodele and Cina Gami who tragically and unfortunately lost their lives in the road accident involving Anthony Joshua on the 29th Dec 2025.
“We pray The Almighty grant the repose of their souls whilst granting their families and loved ones the fortitude to bear this very sad and painful loss.
“Anthony Joshua was discharged from hospital late this afternoon though heavy hearted and full of emotions over the loss of his two close friends he was deemed clinical fit to recuperate from home.
“Anthony and his mother were at the funeral home in Lagos this afternoon to pay their final respects to his two departed friends as they were being prepared for repatriation scheduled for later this evening .
“Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu deeply appreciate the public concern and show of love and affection over this very sad and unfortunate incident.
“They also appreciate Mr President. His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for all fatherly support he gave through out the process.
“We also want to appreciate the team of Doctors and medical personnel at the Lagoon Hospital Ikoyi that attended to Anthony and those that sustained injuries . The quality of care and professionalism is truly commendable.”
This news follows the launch of a search by Nigeria police for the driver of the lorry involved in the collision that resulted in Joshua’s injuries and the death of his friends.
While the search for the driver continues, officers have successfully tracked down the vehicle involved. The damaged HGV is now being held at Sagamu car pound after being towed there, according to the Daily Mail.
The soya bean lorry, registered to a Lagos-based firm, displays extensive damage, with police tape clearly visible.
Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, was on holiday in Nigeria after his victory over Jake Paul in Miami, Florida, on December 19. He was caught up in the crash, but managed to get away with only minor injuries, police confirmed.
Authorities also revealed the lorry had been illegally parked before the incident occurred.
“He was parked on the side of the highway which is illegal, he had not broken down and he was not with the vehicle when the accident happened,” a Nigerian police officer revealed.
The hunt for the lorry’s driver comes after Joshua’s driver was released from hospital. There are indications that he might face charges for dangerous driving.
“Anthony Joshua’s driver has been discharged from the hospital, and he is currently giving his statement,” CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, a spokesman for the Nigerian Police Force, told reporters.
