Anthony Joshua injured in Nigeria car crash that killed two team members | BBC News

Key Concepts

• Anthony Joshua: British heavyweight boxer, former world champion.
• Latif Idelli: Joshua’s personal trainer, deceased in the accident.
• Cena Gami: Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, deceased in the accident.
• Road Traffic Accident (RTA): The incident involving Joshua’s vehicle and a parked truck in Nigeria.
• Stable Condition: Medical assessment indicating Joshua’s injuries are not life-threatening.

The Accident and Immediate Aftermath

The report details a road traffic accident in Nigeria involving British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua. Following a recent victory over Jake Paul, Joshua was visiting family in Nigeria when the accident occurred on a busy and notoriously dangerous road. While Joshua and the driver of the vehicle escaped with injuries and are reported to be in stable condition, two members of his training team – Latif Idelli and Cena Gami – tragically died in the crash. Pictures circulating online show Joshua visibly distressed following the incident. Local officials confirmed Joshua and the driver were taken to hospital for checks and observation.

Identifying the Victims

The two deceased individuals have been identified as Latif Idelli, Joshua’s personal trainer, and Cena Gami, his strength and conditioning coach. The report highlights their significant contribution to Joshua’s career, noting they assisted him in preparation for “some of the biggest bouts of his career.” A prior Instagram post from Joshua, showing him playing table tennis with Idelli hours before the accident, underscores the close relationship between the two.

Investigation and Cause of the Accident

Preliminary investigations suggest the vehicle Joshua was travelling in lost control while attempting to overtake another vehicle, subsequently colliding with a parked truck. The report doesn’t provide further details regarding specific factors contributing to the loss of control, but emphasizes the dangerous nature of the road where the accident took place.

Reactions and Condolences

The accident has prompted widespread reactions from the boxing community and political figures. Jake Paul, Joshua’s recent opponent, posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ, and anyone impacted by today's unfortunate accident.” Eddie Hearn, chairman of Joshua’s promoters, expressed his grief, stating, “With the heaviest of hearts, two great men rest in eternal peace. Cena and Latz, my thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone.” Nigerian President Bola Tinubu personally spoke with Joshua, offering his condolences and confirming Joshua was receiving adequate medical care. According to Tinubu, “AJ assured me he is receiving the best possible care.” A spokesperson for Joshua described the deaths as “truly shocking and devastating.”

Future Plans and Overall Sentiment

Joshua was scheduled to fight in Saudi Arabia in February, but the report indicates these plans are currently secondary in light of the tragedy. The overall sentiment conveyed is one of profound loss and support for Joshua, who has lost not only colleagues but close friends. The report concludes by emphasizing the unity within the boxing world in offering support to the grieving fighter.