Anthony Joshua is in a stable condition after he was injured in a car crash in Nigeria that killed two people.
Joshua, 36, sustained minor injuries when the Lexus SUV he was travelling in collided with a stationary truck, Ogun State Police Command said.
Medical staff have conducted ‘several clinical assessments’ on Joshua, who does ‘not require any emergency interventions at this time,’ confirmed a statement from The Governments of Ogun and Lagos in Nigeria.
The statement read: “Anthony Joshua the British-Nigerian two-time unified world heavyweight boxing champion was involved in a road traffic accident earlier today along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
“The vehicle conveying the team of four, ran into a stationery truck resulting in two fatalities.
“We sympathise with the families of those involved in the accident, and pray that God will grant them the strength to go through this difficult time.
“Anthony Joshua and another passenger were immediately evacuated to a specialised facility in Lagos.
“Doctors have conducted several clinical assessments and have confirmed that both patients are stable and do not require any emergency interventions at this time.
“A comprehensive medical team has since been convened and will continue to monitor them closely.
“Anthony Joshua has since been relating well with his family.”
A spokesperson for Anthony Joshua confirmed that Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, two members of the fighter’s training team, passed away in the accident.
“It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm, following a road traffic accident in Lagos Nigeria earlier today, the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latif’ Ayodele.
“Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team.
“We respectfully ask that space and privacy be given to the families at this time while they process this truly shocking and devastating news.”
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn also posted a statement on social media which read: “With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away.
“Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment. He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation.
“Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected – and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.”
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said the Lexus was suspected to be travelling in excess of the speed limit and lost control while overtaking.
The collision happened around 11am in Makun, around 30 miles from Lagos.
Footage on social media shows Joshua in pain and dazed as he is helped out of the wrecked vehicle.
The British former world heavyweight champion was in the rear of the vehicle – which was carrying four other adult males – before being helped out of the wreckage by a crowd of onlookers.
Joshua, who is conscious in the footage, is seen wincing in pain.
Police have confirmed that Joshua has been taken to hospital and they are investigating the cause of the accident.
