Anthony Joshua, the British-Nigerian fighter and ex-world heavyweight champion, experienced minor injuries on Monday following a car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the deaths of two other individuals, according to local law enforcement.
Joshua, who has claimed the heavyweight title twice, was riding in the rear seat of a Lexus SUV on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway close to Sagamu, which is his family’s original home, when the incident occurred around 11 a.m. local time.
“A Lexus SUV that was transporting Anthony Joshua was involved in an accident under circumstances that are presently being looked into,” stated a report from the Ogun State Police Command.
“He was positioned in the back of the SUV, suffered minor injuries and is currently receiving medical care. Unfortunately, two other passengers in the vehicle died at the location of the accident.”
Law enforcement informed ESPN that Joshua’s SUV collided with a parked truck on the roadside. It remains unverified what vehicle the deceased individuals were traveling in.
“The incident was caused by a tire blowout on Joshua’s SUV, leading to the driver losing control and swerving into a truck that was parked along the road,” Ogun State Police Commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo told ESPN.
“As far as I know, there are two confirmed deaths, and Joshua has been transported to a hospital, the location of which is not disclosed, for treatment.”
Joshua was in Africa after achieving a knockout victory against YouTube sensation Jake Paul in the sixth round nine days earlier in Miami.
“Initial reports suggest he is alright, but we are waiting for more official information,” a spokesperson for Joshua communicated to ESPN after the accident.
Images circulating on social media depict Joshua being rescued from a damaged vehicle while appearing to be in pain.
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn mentioned to Daily Mail Sport that he was enjoying a vacation with family when he learned about the incident.
“We’re attempting to reach out to Anthony, and at this moment, we prefer not to speculate about his condition, but thankfully he seems alright based on what I have seen in the photos,” Hearn told Daily Mail Sport. “We are expecting more updates regarding this event and will provide information when available.”
The Ogun State Police Command stated that it will release further information concerning the matter as the inquiry continues.
Joshua’s recent victory over Paul marked his 29th win in 33 professional matches and appeared to advance him toward a long-anticipated match in 2026 against British opponent Tyson Fury, who is now retired.
Paul, who suffered a knockout loss against Joshua in the sixth round on December 19, expressed his condolences to the 36-year-old British boxer on social media.
“Life holds greater importance than boxing. I am sending prayers for the lost lives, AJ, and everyone affected by this tragic incident,” Paul posted on X.
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