Anthony Joshua: British former world heavyweight champion injured in car accident in Nigeria that killed two people

Anthony Joshua remains in a stable condition in hospital after he was injured in a fatal car crash in Nigeria in which two of his friends and members of his training team died.

Joshua, 36, sustained ​minor injuries when the Lexus SUV he was travelling in collided with a stationary truck.

A spokesperson for Joshua confirmed that Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele died in the accident.

"It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm, following a road traffic accident in Lagos Nigeria earlier today, the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin 'Latif' Ayodele.

"Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony's team."

Ghami ran a gym in north London and floral tributes continued to be left there on Tuesday.

Joshua remains in hospital under observation after the fatal collision, which happened around 11am in Makun on Monday, around 30 miles from Lagos.

Footage on social media showed Joshua in pain and dazed as he was helped out of the wrecked vehicle.

The British former world heavyweight champion was in the rear of the vehicle - which was carrying four other adult males - before being helped out of the wreckage by a crowd of onlookers.

Medical staff have conducted 'several clinical assessments' on Joshua, who does 'not require any emergency interventions at this time,' confirmed a statement from The Governments of Ogun and Lagos in Nigeria.

Vehicle 'lost control while overtaking'

The Federal Road Safety Corps said the Lexus was suspected to be travelling in excess of the speed limit and lost control while overtaking.

Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn also posted a statement on social media which read: "With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away.

"Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment. He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation.

"Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected - and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time."

Nigerian president and boxing rivals express condolences

Joshua, who has Nigerian heritage, was spending time in the country following his recent fight against Jake Paul in Miami.

After a 15-month absence from the sport, Joshua had marked his return with a sixth-round knockout win over the YouTube star at Kaseya Center on December 19.

Paul expressed his condolences in a social media post, writing: "Life is much more important than boxing.

"I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today's unfortunate accident."

John Fury also spoke on a social media video about the tragedy, expressing his condolences.

He said: "AJ, you've got a guardian angel, my friend. Condolences to the deceased. Two young men, should never have happened.

"AJ, God had his arms wrapped around you tight, because looking at that crash, you're one lucky guy. I'm pleased you're alive, son, I'm pleased you're alive."

Nigerian president Bola Ahmed Tinubu revealed that he had spoken to Joshua and his mother.

"I have spoken with AJ to personally convey my condolences over the passing of his two close associates, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami in the recent accident," he said.

"I wished him a full and speedy recovery, and prayed with him. AJ assured me he is receiving the best possible care. I also spoke with his mother and prayed for her. She was deeply appreciative of the call.

"Governor Dapo Abiodun, who was at the hospital with them, assured me he will do everything possible to ensure AJ receives the best attention."

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