Boxing champion Anthony Joshua’s holiday celebration in Nigeria turned tragic when a highway crash claimed two lives and left the heavyweight fighter hospitalized with injuries.
Story Snapshot
- Anthony Joshua injured in fatal car crash on Lagos-Ibadan expressway December 29, 2025
- Two people killed when Joshua’s Lexus Jeep collided with stationary commercial truck
- Crash occurred just days after Joshua’s knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami
- Nigerian authorities investigating burst tire and speeding as potential causes
- Boxing career implications unclear as Joshua receives medical treatment
Tragic End to Victory Celebration
Anthony Joshua was traveling as a passenger in a black Lexus Jeep on December 29, 2025, when the vehicle collided with a stationary red commercial Sinotruck near Sagamu, Ogun State. The crash occurred around 11am local time on the notorious Lagos-Ibadan expressway, claiming two lives and leaving the former heavyweight champion with minor injuries. Joshua was visiting his ancestral hometown following his recent knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami.
Investigation Reveals Dangerous Highway Conditions
Ogun State Police Commissioner Lanre Ogunlowo told ESPN that a burst tire caused the driver to lose control and swerve into the stationary truck. However, the Federal Road Safety Corps cited speeding during an overtaking maneuver as the preliminary cause. The Lagos-Ibadan expressway has a notorious reputation for accidents due to reckless driving, vehicle failures, and poor road conditions that endanger travelers regularly.
Boxing Career Implications Mount
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed he is gathering information about the fighter’s condition, stating Joshua is believed to be “OK.” The crash raises concerns about potential delays to Joshua’s planned February 2026 bout and a highly anticipated future fight with Tyson Fury. The heavyweight division faces uncertainty as Joshua recovers from both his recent victory over Paul and this unexpected setback.
The timing proves particularly unfortunate given Joshua’s career momentum. His sixth-round knockout of Jake Paul on December 19 ended a 15-month layoff and broke Paul’s jaw in two places. The Netflix-streamed fight drew 33 million viewers and positioned Joshua for major heavyweight title opportunities in 2025 and beyond.
Official Response and Investigation Status
Nigerian authorities responded immediately to the scene, with both police and Federal Road Safety Corps providing detailed statements. Five adult males were involved in the crash total, with two fatalities, Joshua suffering minor injuries, one other person injured, and two individuals unharmed. Joshua was hospitalized for medical attention while his UK team works to verify details and coordinate his care.
Jake Paul, despite their recent rivalry in the ring, issued a statement on social media saying “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying…” The incident highlights the dangers faced by international travelers on Nigeria’s highway system, where infrastructure challenges and traffic safety remain persistent concerns for both locals and visitors celebrating the holidays.
Sources:
Boxer ‘badly shaken’ after two killed in car crash in Nigeria
Anthony Joshua involved in car crash in Nigeria that killed 2
Anthony Joshua injured in car crash in Nigeria that leaves two dead
