Anthony Joshua Survives Tragic Car Crash in Nigeria That Kills Two Close Team Members

British boxing superstar Anthony Joshua narrowly escaped death after a car accident in Ogun State, Nigeria, on 29 December 2025 that claimed the lives of two of his closest associates.

The crash occurred around 11 a.m. local time on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a busy highway linking Ogun State to Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos. Local authorities confirmed that Joshua sustained only minor injuries and was treated at a nearby hospital.

The victims, identified as Sina Ghami, Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, and Kevin Latif Ayodele, his personal trainer, were both killed in the incident. Both men had traveled with Joshua for years, forming an integral part of his boxing team.

Ghami, who worked with top athletes including NFL star Le’Veon Bell and NBA player Draymond Green, had accompanied Joshua to Miami for training ahead of his high-profile fight against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, which took place on 19 December 2025. Ayodele, meanwhile, had been with Joshua since his early career, with his first Instagram post featuring the young boxer.

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed condolences to Joshua, tweeting that he had spoken to the boxer personally and wished him a speedy recovery. “I prayed with him and assured him of the best possible care,” Tinubu added.

Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn described Ghami and Ayodele as “great men and close friends of AJ,” emphasizing the emotional toll on the boxing champion. Lagos State authorities later confirmed that Joshua was released from hospital and is recuperating at home.

The tragedy comes just days after Joshua secured a knockout victory over Jake Paul, during which he broke Paul’s jaw. Despite his recent triumph, Joshua faces a period of mourning as he grapples with the loss of two longtime companions.

“Life is far more important than boxing,” Paul posted on social media following the news, sending prayers to Joshua and the families of the victims.