Former Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua Released from Hospital Following Fatal Car Accident in Nigeria

Former heavyweight boxing world champion Anthony Joshua has been discharged from the hospital following a car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the deaths of two of his close friends. The incident occurred on Monday, with Joshua being released from the hospital on Wednesday evening.

The former world champion was returning to his home in Nigeria to celebrate his recent victory over Jake Paul when the accident happened. Joshua, who has Nigerian heritage, was in the backseat of a vehicle that collided with a stationary truck on a major road near Lagos. Tragically, his personal trainer, Kevin 'Latif' Ayodele, and strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, were killed in the crash. Joshua sustained minor injuries but was released from the Lagoon Hospital in Ikoyi.

"The quality of care and professionalism is truly commendable," read a statement posted on X by the regional governments of Lagos and Ogun. The statement also expressed gratitude to the medical staff who attended to Joshua and the other injured parties. Joshua had visited a funeral home with his mother to pay their respects to Ayodele and Ghami earlier on Wednesday.

Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, paid tribute to the deceased in an Instagram post, stating, "Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed." He also offered prayers for strength and guidance for their families, friends, and Joshua during this difficult time.

Residents of Sagamu in Ogun State, where Joshua's relatives live, expressed their shock and sadness over the incident. Adedamola Joshua, the uncle of Anthony Joshua's father, told The Associated Press, "All the people are very close with him [Joshua] and he is very free among the people. So it was a great shock for us."

Oluwatoyin Omoleye, a resident of Sagamu, shared his disappointment, saying, "I am so sad because Anthony was coming home to celebrate with our people here." The community's outpouring of support and love for Joshua and his friends highlights the deep connection the boxer has with his Nigerian roots.