Renowned British Boxer, Anthony Joshua, has been injured in a car accident in Nigeria that has left two dead. Here's everything to know about it.
Anthony Joshua had recently made headlines after he gave a devastating blow to Jake Paul in a high-profile boxing match. Now, just as fans moved beyond his victory, an alarming update revealed that the former heavyweight champion has been involved in a serious car crash in Nigeria. The accident has left two dead, and the status of the others is still unknown. Local authorities confirmed the incident, leaving his family and well-wishers across the world in shock. Here's everything you might want to know about it.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Nigeria and Reuters, the initial findings from the accident have suggested that Anthony was travelling in a Lexus SUV. His vehicle was allegedly moving above the prescribed speed limit and attempted to overtake another vehicle. As it tried to carefully move beyond the other vehicle, the Lexus SUV reportedly lost control and collided with a truck standing near the roadside. Furthermore, the officials stated that the car crash occurred on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, near the Sagamu Interchange.
For those unaware, the expressway is ranked among Nigeria's most dangerous and heavily trafficked highways, especially during festival season. Initial findings suggest that the British boxer was seated in the back of the vehicle at the time of the accident. Some initial images released by the authorities on the internet showcased a severely damaged car and a lorry at the car scene. As per the BBC, the police said that Anthony has sustained minor injuries and he was immediately taken to the hospital. They confirmed that the boxer is doing well but the incident has left him shaken.
As per the local outlets, road safety officials mentioned that five adult men were seated inside the vehicle when the car crash took place. Among those, two have been tragically killed, while the other two managed to escape without harm. Moreover, FRSC officials added that Anthony was "rescued alive and sustained minor injuries" as emergency responders arrived immediately after the crash. Another relative of the boxer expressed his deep sadness and concern. Sharing their views on the incident with the BBC, the relative said:
"We are hoping for his speedy recovery, and also for the people who have passed away. I pray for the departed to rest in peace."
Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua, a.k.a. Anthony Joshua, was born in Watford, England, and has always proudly spoken about his Nigerian heritage. His family roots lie in Sagamu, and he is one of the most popular national sports figures in Nigeria. He even serves as a sports ambassador. Anthony Joshua is also a two-time unified heavyweight champion, who held the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO titles between 2016 and 2021. At the same time, he has 29 professional wins to his name, with 26 knockouts, making him one of the most notable heavyweight fighters of his era.
Authorities are still investigating the car crash to confirm more details. Meanwhile, authorities, fans, and officials have extended their well-wishes for the wellness of Anthony and others injured, with condolences for those who lost their lives in the crash.
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