The family of Nigerian-born British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time following the road accident that left two of his close associates dead.
Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, revealed that the family first learned about the crash through phone calls and online reports, admitting that details were initially unclear.
He said the family was not immediately informed of the specific hospital where the former world champion had been taken after the incident.
“It is a very sad news to us because he always come down whenever there is festivity to stay with us. We don’t know the actual hospital that he’s been taken to. We have gone round all hospitals in Shagamu.” He said.
The accident occurred on a major highway in Ogun State, Nigeria, involving a vehicle carrying Anthony Joshua, two associates and a driver.
According to reports, the car rammed into a stationary truck along the road, resulting in the deaths of the two associates at the scene.
Joshua reportedly escaped with minor injuries. Due to the absence of an ambulance at the time of the crash, police officers at the scene transported the boxer to a nearby hospital in a police vehicle for medical attention.
Speaking on the incident, Adedamola said the family was deeply shaken by the news, especially by the loss of lives, and described the situation as tragic. He added that their immediate concern was Joshua’s condition and ensuring he received proper medical care.
The incident has sparked renewed concern over road safety and emergency response on major highways in Nigeria, with questions raised about the lack of immediate medical services at accident scenes.
Anthony Joshua, one of the most recognisable figures in global boxing, has since been reported to be in stable condition as the family continues to mourn the loss of the two men who were travelling with him.
Further details surrounding the crash are expected as investigations by local authorities continue.
Meanwhile on Monday Anthony Joshua’s rival in a recent bout American youtuber cum boxer Jake Paul sent his prays and quick recovery messages of Joshua following the passing of his associates after the accident.
Paul who is still recovering from a broken jaw after his fight with joshua indicated that there was no bad blood between the two.
Taking to X, he wrote: ‘Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident’.
Joshua beat Paul with a knockout punch which broke Paul’s jaw in two places and led to multiple lost teeth.
