The boxing community is continuing to respond to the tragic car accident involving Anthony Joshua. Joshua was among five individuals involved in a deadly crash in Lagos, Nigeria, on Monday. He had returned to Nigeria just days after his recent win against Jake Paul in Miami.
Video shared on social media showed the former two-time unified heavyweight champion emerging from the wreckage in visible pain, with reports confirming two fatalities in the accident. Medical updates state that Joshua is currently stable after evaluation, but two members of his team, Shina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, sadly lost their lives.
Prominent figures from the boxing world, including Joshua’s former opponents, have expressed their condolences and support. Former undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, who handed Joshua back-to-back losses in 2021 and 2022, described the loss of Gami and Ayodele as heartbreaking and extended his sympathies to their families while wishing Joshua a swift recovery. Francis Ngannou, another notable fighter, also conveyed his best wishes for Joshua’s recovery and condolences to those impacted by the tragedy.
Jake Paul, Joshua’s recent opponent, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that life is more important than boxing. He offered prayers for the victims and their families, as well as Joshua, calling for peace and support during this difficult time.
Fan Take: This heartbreaking incident reminds the fighting community that beyond the sport, the health and safety of its members are paramount. The outpouring of support highlights the strong bonds within the boxing world and could foster greater unity and care among fighters and their teams going forward.
