BREAKING NEWS: Anthony Joshua Survives Horrific Car Accident in Nigeria – Two Close Friends Killed, Paul Brothers Face Backlash Amid Conspiracy Theories
Lagos, Nigeria / London, UK, December 31, 2025 – The boxing world has been plunged into shock and grief following a devastating car accident involving former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.
The incident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria, where Joshua’s SUV collided with a stationary truck during a lane change, resulting in the tragic deaths of two close friends and team members, while Joshua himself escaped with minor injuries.
According to initial police reports and eyewitness accounts, the high-speed crash happened late at night as Joshua was returning from a personal visit in the country. The SUV reportedly lost control while overtaking, slamming into the parked truck.
The two passengers – long-time friends and members of Joshua’s inner circle – were pronounced dead at the scene. Joshua, seated in the back, suffered cuts, bruises, and possible whiplash but was conscious and able to walk away from the wreckage.
He was rushed to a nearby hospital for observation and released hours later.
Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s longtime promoter, issued an emotional statement: “We are heartbroken for the families of the two men who lost their lives. Anthony is devastated – these were his brothers, not just friends. He’s physically okay, but this will take time to process.
Thank you for the messages of support.”
The boxing community responded with an outpouring of condolences. Oleksandr Usyk, Joshua’s former opponent, posted: “My heart is with Anthony and the families. Life is fragile. Strength and prayers.” Chris Eubank Jr.: “Real talk – AJ is a warrior, but this is bigger than boxing.
Praying for him and the families.” Tony Bellew: “Compassion first. AJ survived, but he lost people he loved. That’s the real fight now.”
Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh, who has promoted several of Joshua’s recent fights, wrote: “Deepest condolences to Anthony Joshua and the families of the victims. Boxing is a dangerous sport, but life outside the ring can be even more unpredictable. We stand with you.”
However, the tragedy quickly became overshadowed by controversy online, particularly surrounding the Paul brothers – Jake and Logan Paul. Just hours earlier, fans had seen Joshua in good spirits celebrating his dominant win over Jake Paul.
The timing of the accident – weeks after the heated buildup and knockout – fueled wild conspiracy theories across social media.
Some users speculated about “curses,” “bad karma,” or even foul play linked to the Pauls’ post-fight bitterness. Jake Paul’s detached social media reaction – a simple “Prayers up” story without mentioning Joshua by name – drew sharp criticism for lacking empathy.
Logan Paul’s tweet wishing “safe travels to everyone on the road” was mocked as tone-deaf, with many accusing the brothers of opportunism amid their ongoing rivalry.
Joe Rogan’s podcast comments about seat belts and road safety in developing countries also sparked debate, with some praising his realism and others calling it insensitive timing.
Frank Warren summed up the sentiment: “This is a human tragedy first. Two young men are gone. Anthony is lucky to be alive. The rest – conspiracies, trolling the Pauls – is noise. Focus on the families.”
As details emerge, Nigerian authorities have launched a full investigation into road conditions on the notoriously dangerous Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, known for frequent accidents involving stationary vehicles and poor lighting. Questions remain about emergency response times and whether mechanical failure played a role.
Joshua, known for his resilience in and out of the ring, has yet to make a public statement beyond a brief thank-you to supporters via his management team. Sources close to him say he is “devastated” and focusing on supporting the bereaved families.
The accident serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility for athletes who face danger not only in competition but in everyday moments. Joshua’s survival has been described as “miraculous,” but the loss of two friends leaves a void that no victory can fill.
The boxing community – from legends like Usyk and Bellew to promoters like Hearn and Alalshikh – has rallied around Joshua with genuine support. Meanwhile, social media’s mix of grief, speculation, and petty rivalries highlights the toxic side of online discourse during tragedy.
As 2025 draws to a close, Anthony Joshua begins a different kind of recovery – one measured not in rounds, but in healing and remembrance. The sport waits patiently for his return, but more importantly, stands with him in this unimaginable loss.