Family of former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has spoken about the road crash involving the boxer on Monday along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
An uncle of the boxer, Adedamola Joshua, said the family only learned about the incident after receiving several calls from concerned individuals.
“We did not hear about it on time until calls started coming in from people checking on him. It was really shocking,” he said, describing the news as a “rude shock”.
Joshua was travelling in a Lexus SUV when it collided with a stationary truck at about 11 a.m.
The accident led to the deaths of two of his close friends and team members.
“We are grateful that Anthony and the driver survived, but we are deeply saddened by the loss of two people very close to him. Our hearts go out to their families,” his uncle added.
The boxer is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility in Lagos.
His parents, who are also in Nigeria, have told the family that he is in stable condition.
Those who died in the crash were identified as Ayodele Kelvin, 36, a Nigerian-British citizen and Gami Sina, 36, a British citizen.
Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s promoter, confirmed that both men were close friends and members of his team.
“Since the incident, we have been trying to see him, but his status as a world figure means his safety comes first. We hope to be allowed to visit soon,” his uncle said.
The crash has caused concern in the Sagamu community, with family members, friends and neighbours offering support to Joshua and the families of the deceased.
