Authorities have disclosed the suspected cause of the fatal road accident involving British boxing star Anthony Joshua along the Lagos–Ibadan expressway, providing initial insights into how the tragic incident unfolded on Sunday.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the Lexus SUV carrying the former two-time heavyweight champion lost control while attempting a high-speed overtaking manoeuvre. The vehicle reportedly collided with a stationary truck near a petrol station, resulting in the deaths of two passengers and serious shock to all involved.
Officials noted that the SUV was exceeding the legally prescribed speed limit at the time, which is believed to have contributed significantly to the loss of control and subsequent collision. Authorities have emphasised that excessive speed during overtaking remains a common cause of road accidents in Nigeria, highlighting the need for stricter adherence to traffic regulations.
Two Dead, Joshua Hospitalised
The crash resulted in the deaths of two occupants of the SUV, whose identities have not yet been released. Anthony Joshua, who was seated in the back, sustained minor injuries and was immediately rushed to a hospital, accompanied by one other survivor. Ogun State Police confirmed that both survivors are receiving medical treatment, although the facility’s name has not been disclosed for privacy and security reasons.
A road safety official stated that five adult males, including Joshua and the two deceased victims, were involved in the incident. Eyewitnesses reported that the crash scene was chaotic, with immediate assistance provided by bystanders and Joshua’s security detail, who were travelling in a second SUV trailing the main vehicle.
Conflicting Accounts Under Investigation
While the Federal Road Safety Corps has cited excessive speed during an overtaking attempt as the primary factor, other reports have raised the possibility of a tyre burst or mechanical failure preceding the collision. Authorities have confirmed that detailed investigations are ongoing to establish the exact sequence of events, including any contributory factors such as road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driver response.
Witness Accounts Paint Grim Picture
Eyewitnesses described a distressing scene in which the Lexus SUV, carrying Joshua and other passengers, collided with the truck after losing control. The witnesses stated that the passenger beside the driver and another beside Joshua died instantly at the scene, while others were left shaken and traumatized. Footage circulating on social media shows Joshua being assisted out of the wreckage, visibly shocked but physically able to walk, shortly after the collision occurred.
Police Confirmation and Official Response
Ogun State Police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed the fatalities in an official statement. He noted that Joshua and another survivor were hospitalised and receiving treatment. “I can confirm that an accident occurred. Two died, while Joshua and one other were taken to hospital,” he said. The identities of the deceased have not been made public pending notification of next of kin.
Context: Joshua’s Recent Return to Nigeria
Anthony Joshua had reportedly arrived in Nigeria just hours before the accident, following his knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami. He was travelling with members of his team, and no family members were reportedly present. Prior to the crash, Joshua shared an Instagram story showing him playing table tennis with a friend, though it remains unclear exactly when the footage was recorded in relation to the accident.