British former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua, 36, was involved in a serious car accident in Ogun State, Nigeria, on Monday, December 29, 2025. The crash resulted in the deaths of two people and left Joshua with minor injuries, Nigerian police confirmed.
The accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, one of Nigeria’s busiest highways, at about 11:00 a.m. local time near Makun, northwest of Lagos. Joshua was in a Lexus SUV with four other men when the vehicle collided with a stationary truck parked by the roadside.
Crash Details and Immediate Aftermath
According to statements from the Ogun State Police Command and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), preliminary findings suggest the SUV was traveling at high speed and lost control while attempting an overtaking maneuver before crashing into the parked truck. Excessive speed and wrongful overtaking were identified as key risk factors. Video and photos circulating on social media show the badly damaged wreckage of the vehicle and Joshua being helped out by bystanders. In the footage, the boxer appears conscious but in pain as he is assisted from the crash site. Police said that two occupants of the vehicle died at the scene. The identities of the deceased have not been officially released, though some local reports and eyewitness accounts suggest they were close companions of Joshua, possibly including members of his training team. Joshua and at least one other survivor were transported to a local hospital. Officials described Joshua’s injuries as minor, noting he was alert and receiving treatment. Two other passengers reportedly walked away from the crash without significant harm.
Response from Authorities and Investigation
The Ogun State Police Command extended condolences to the families of the victims and confirmed that a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the crash has begun. Law enforcement is reviewing witness accounts, physical evidence, and traffic data to establish a complete timeline of events. The FRSC reiterated that improper overtaking and speeding are common contributing factors in many fatal road crashes across Nigeria, often exacerbated by heavy traffic and high vehicle volumes on major intercity routes like the
Joshua’s Recent Boxing Career
The accident occurred shortly after Joshua’s high-profile victory over American social media star Jake Paul on December 19, 2025, at the Kaseya Center in Miami, where he knocked Paul out in the sixth round of their bout. That fight marked Joshua’s return to the ring after a significant layoff and captured international attention. Following the Paul fight, there had been discussion of Joshua’s potential future bouts, including an anticipated 2026 matchup with fellow British heavyweight Tyson Fury. The timing of the crash — soon after a major win — adds to global interest in the story as fans and media await further updates.
Joshua’s Connection to Nigeria
Joshua has strong personal ties to Nigeria. He is the son of British-Nigerian parents and spent part of his youth in the country, attending boarding school in Ikenne before returning to Britain at age 12. His visit to Ogun State was connected to both personal and professional engagements.
Public Reaction
News of the crash spread quickly online, with fans expressing relief that Joshua survived and condolences for the victims. Even Joshua’s recent opponent, Jake Paul, shared thoughts and prayers for those affected. Social media users also commented on road safety issues, noting the hazards of high-speed travel on Nigerian highways.
What Happens Next
Police and safety authorities are expected to release further updates as the investigation progresses and as more information about the victims and cause of the accident becomes available. Joshua’s team has not yet issued a full official statement but confirmed he is under medical care.
