Anthony Joshua Released from Hospital Following Tragic Car Accident in Nigeria

British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua has been released from a Nigerian hospital just days after a devastating car crash that claimed the lives of two of his close companions.

Authorities from Ogun and Lagos states confirmed in a joint announcement that Joshua is now stable enough to recover at home. They noted that he is feeling a profound sadness due to the loss of his friends.

The 36-year-old athlete was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a parked truck along a major expressway in Ogun State, situated near Lagos, on Monday.

The deceased were identified as Joshua’s close associates and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele.

Upon his discharge from the hospital on Wednesday, Joshua made a visit to the funeral home where arrangements for the repatriation of his friends’ bodies are underway, as indicated in the statement.

Promoter Eddie Hearn, who has been associated with Joshua since his professional debut after winning Olympic gold in 2012, paid heartfelt tribute to the late friends.

“Rest in peace Latz and Sina,” Hearn shared on social media. “Your energy and loyalty, among many other admirable qualities, will be sorely missed. I pray for strength and guidance for their families, friends, and of course AJ during this incredibly challenging time.”

Sina Ghami served as Joshua’s full-time sport and exercise rehabilitation coach for over a decade, playing a crucial role in his career.

Ogun State police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi informed the media on Wednesday that investigations into the incident are still in progress and described the inquiry as “discreet.”

According to preliminary findings from the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) in Ogun State, the accident occurred after the vehicle suffered a tire blowout before crashing into the truck.

Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, was visiting Nigeria following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19.

Former cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew expressed his condolences on social media: “Thoughts and prayers to the families of these men. Such tragic losses under horrific circumstances! I hope he (Joshua) can find a way to process this over time, as there is no pain greater than grief.”

Fellow boxers, including two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk and former British heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, also shared their condolences on social media platforms.