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Famous Boxer In ‘Stable’ Condition After Fatal Car Crash Kills Two

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Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua is recovering in a Lagos hospital after being involved in a serious car crash in Nigeria on Monday that left two people dead, according to officials in Ogun State. Joshua, 36, was described as alert and in stable condition after suffering what authorities called minor injuries.

The crash occurred late Monday morning on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a busy route in southwestern Nigeria. Police say Joshua was one of several occupants in a Lexus SUV that struck the rear of a stationary truck parked along the roadway. Emergency responders and bystanders pulled the boxer from the damaged vehicle as rescue efforts unfolded.

Authorities confirmed two men inside the SUV died at the scene. Their identities have not been publicly released, pending family notification. Officials have not disclosed whether the victims were part of Joshua’s travel group, security detail, or unrelated passengers, noting that an investigation is still underway.

The Federal Road Safety Corps initially suggested speed and a failed overtaking maneuver could have contributed to the violent collision — a common factor in deadly incidents on the expressway. Despite the severity of the crash, doctors say Joshua does not require surgery and is communicating with loved ones while undergoing further evaluation.

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Footage shared on social media — later verified — showed a dazed Joshua limping away from the wreck. The video sparked immediate global concern, especially within the boxing community, where Joshua remains one of the sport’s most recognizable figures.

In a statement, Nigerian officials expressed condolences to the families of the deceased while asking the public to be patient as investigators determine what led to the crash. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reportedly reached out with support for the British-Nigerian fighter, calling Joshua a “symbol of national pride” due to his global accomplishments in boxing.

Officials in Ogun have confirmed that Joshua remains “conscious” and has spoken with his loved ones. They also said the former heavyweight champion does not require any emergency medical treatment right now.

The accident came just 10 days after Joshua’s widely discussed victory over social media star-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami, a knockout performance many believed had reenergized his career heading into 2026. Joshua traveled to Nigeria soon after the fight to visit family and participate in year-end engagements in the country where he spent part of his childhood.

jake paul and anthony joshua face off in ugly christmas sweaters

Paul posted a brief message praying for Joshua and the victims of the crash — a rare moment of compassion between two recent rivals, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Others in the sport, including promoters and fellow fighters, also shared concerns as reports spread internationally.

Investigators are expected to review traffic camera data, assess whether the truck was lawfully stationed on the roadside, and examine the condition of the SUV involved. The British Foreign Office has been notified and is monitoring the situation as more details develop.

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