Fears are mounting that British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua may have sustained injuries “worse than first thought” following a horrific car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends.

While initial reports suggested the 36-year-old former world champion was “fine” and in “stable” condition, new details have emerged suggesting his recovery may be more complex than originally anticipated.

Details of the Tragic Accident

The accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway when a Lexus, in which Joshua was a passenger, collided with a stationary truck. The impact was devastating, resulting in the tragic deaths of Joshua’s long-time associates, Sina Ghami and Kevin Latif Ayodele.

Ayodele, known affectionately as “Latz,” was a cornerstone of “Team AJ,” serving as Joshua’s personal trainer and a close confidant since his first world title win in 2016. Just hours before the crash, Joshua had posted a video to social media showing the two friends enjoying a game of table tennis.

Concerns Over Joshua’s Medical Condition

Footage from the scene showed a visibly distressed Joshua being helped from the wreckage. Although he was transported to a local hospital and described as stable, sources close to the fighter are now voicing concerns.

According to a report by the Daily Mail, an individual within Joshua’s “inner circle” suggested the boxer is dealing with more than just minor bruises. The potential injuries include:

  • Significant Rib Damage: Which could impact his breathing and core movement.

  • Knee Complications: A major concern for any professional athlete, particularly a heavyweight boxer reliant on footwork and power generation.

Official Statements

Promoter Eddie Hearn released a brief statement on Monday evening to update the public and media.

“Anthony remains in hospital in a stable condition,” Hearn confirmed, though he did not elaborate on the specific nature of the orthopedic concerns mentioned by those close to the fighter.

What This Means for AJ’s Career

At 36, a significant injury to the ribs or knees could pose a serious threat to Joshua’s future in the ring. Beyond the physical toll, the emotional weight of losing two members of his inner circle in such a traumatic event is immeasurable.

The boxing world now waits for a formal medical assessment to determine if these “worse than thought” fears are realized, or if the champion can make a full recovery.