Anthony Joshua Discharged from Hospital After Fatal Crash

Boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital following a tragic car accident in Nigeria that resulted in the deaths of two of his close friends. The former two-time heavyweight titleholder was hospitalized for several days due to minor injuries after the crash near Lagos on December 19, 2023.

According to the regional governments of Lagos and Ogun states, the 36-year-old athlete is well enough to continue his recovery at home. Joshua was a passenger in a black SUV that collided with a stationary lorry on a major road, which ultimately took the lives of his friends, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami.

Details of the Accident and Aftermath

Following the accident, Joshua and his mother visited a funeral home to pay their respects to Ayodele and Ghami before their bodies were repatriated to the United Kingdom. A statement published on social media indicated that Joshua left the hospital “heavy-hearted and full of emotions over the loss of his two close friends.” The statement also praised the medical team at Lagoon Hospital Ikoyi for their exceptional care.

“The quality of care and professionalism is truly commendable,” the post read.

As the investigation into the accident continues, Nigerian police have launched a search for the driver of the lorry involved in the collision. Reports indicate that the lorry was illegally parked on the side of the highway prior to the accident, according to a police spokesperson. The vehicle, which was carrying soybeans and registered to a Lagos-based company, has been located and is currently held at a car pound in Sagamu.

“He was parked on the side of the highway which is illegal; he had not broken down and he was not with the vehicle when the accident happened,” stated CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the Nigerian Police Force.

Ongoing Investigation and Joshua’s Driver

As part of the investigation, Joshua’s driver has also been discharged from the hospital and is providing a statement to police. There are suggestions that he may face charges for reckless driving. The police are working to finalize their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, had been in Nigeria for a holiday following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami, Florida. The incident has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a celebratory time for the boxer, as he now grapples with the loss of his friends while recovering from his injuries.

The boxing community and fans around the world have expressed their condolences and support for Joshua during this difficult time. As he continues his recovery, the focus remains on the ongoing investigation and ensuring justice for the lives lost in this tragic accident.