British Boxer Anthony Joshua Injured in Fatal Nigeria Car Crash
British boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious car crash in Nigeria that resulted in the loss of two lives on Monday. The accident took place around 11 a.m. local time on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Ogun State, a region closely tied to Joshua’s family heritage.
Details of the Incident
According to local police, Joshua suffered minor bruises while two other passengers, including the driver, tragically lost their lives. The deceased were identified as foreign nationals. Babaseyi Boluwatife, a spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, assured that “Anthony Joshua is well and responding to treatment.” Joshua’s recent visit to Nigeria highlights his family connections in the area.
Background and Recent Events
Joshua, who previously held three major heavyweight titles and won a gold medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics, had just secured a stunning knockout victory over Jake Paul shortly before the crash. This fight, held in Miami on December 19, showcased Joshua’s capabilities as a boxer, further solidifying his status in the sport.
In the aftermath of the accident, Jake Paul expressed his sympathies via social media, emphasizing the importance of life above the sport.
Dangerous Roads in Nigeria
The highway where the crash occurred has been identified as the most perilous road in Nigeria. Local media reports indicate that more than 600 fatalities have been recorded over a two-year span. The Nigerian Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) indicated that Joshua’s vehicle collided with a parked truck while attempting to overtake. Preliminary findings suggested that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking were significant contributors to the accident.
Traffic Safety in Nigeria
- Excessive speed and wrongful overtaking are leading causes of fatal accidents.
- Over 600 fatalities recorded on dangerous highways in Nigeria over 27 months.
- Joshua was driving a Lexus SUV during the crash.
The incident has drawn significant attention, with videos circulating online showing Joshua being rescued from the wreck. The boxer maintains a strong connection to his Nigerian roots, proudly displaying a tattoo that honors his heritage. Currently, Joshua has not made any public statements following the crash.