British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has been discharged from hospital in Nigeria a few days after a fatal car accident that killed two of his close friends.
The former world champion was cleared to recover at home, according to a joint statement from Ogun and Lagos states, which said Joshua was deeply saddened by the loss. The 36-year-old was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that crashed into a stationary truck on a major expressway in Ogun State near Lagos on Monday.
The two men who died were Joshua’s close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele.
After leaving the hospital on Wednesday, Joshua visited a funeral home, where the bodies of his friends were being prepared for repatriation.
His long-time promoter Eddie Hearn paid tribute on Instagram, saying the energy and loyalty of Ghami and Ayodele would be greatly missed, and offered prayers for their families and for Joshua during the difficult time. Ghami had worked as Joshua’s rehabilitation coach for over 10 years.
Ogun State police said investigations are still ongoing, while the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) revealed early findings suggest the vehicle suffered a tyre burst before hitting the truck.
Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, was on holiday in Nigeria following his win over Jake Paul in Miami on 19 December.
Tributes also came from boxing figures including Tony Bellew, Oleksandr Usyk, and Tyson Fury, who sent messages of condolence and support to Joshua and the families of the victims.
