In a significant update following the tragic road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has been officially discharged from the hospital. The boxer, who had been under medical observation for injuries sustained during the crash, has returned home to continue his recovery.
Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, confirmed the development on Wednesday, stating that Joshua was deemed clinically fit to leave the medical facility. The boxer had been receiving care at Lagoon Hospital in Ikoyi since Monday, after the Lexus SUV he was traveling in collided with a stationary truck. While the sports icon survived with relatively minor physical injuries, the accident took a heavy emotional toll, claiming the lives of two of his closest associates: personal trainer Kevin Latif Ayodele and strength coach Sina Ghami.
One of Joshua’s first actions upon being discharged was a somber visit to a funeral home in Lagos. Accompanied by his mother, the boxer went to pay his final respects to his fallen teammates whose remains are currently stationed there. This visit underscores the deep personal bond Joshua shared with his backroom staff, who were instrumental in his recent career successes.
The aftermath of the accident has seen conflicting reports regarding its cause. While the Ogun State Police Command initially suggested a burst tyre triggered the crash, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) released preliminary findings pointing toward excessive speed and a wrongful overtaking maneuver. Regardless of the technical cause, the incident has drawn an outpouring of grief and support from across the country. Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos both expressed their gratitude for the public’s concern during what they described as a very unfortunate tragedy.
This homecoming turned tragic just days after Joshua’s high-profile knockout victory against Jake Paul in Miami. Known for his strong ties to his roots in Sagamu, Joshua has always been an active figure in the Nigerian social scene, even presenting President Bola Tinubu with a signed boxing glove during a previous visit. As he begins his recuperation at home, the boxing world and his local fans continue to send messages of strength to the champion and the families of the deceased.
