Anthony Joshua Devastated After Two Close Friends Killed in Tragic Nigeria Car Crash In a shocking turn of events, the boxing world was shaken this week by news of a tragic car accident involving British heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. The former world champion sustained minor injuries, but the crash claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and members of his team. The incident occurred on Monday morning on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria, where Joshua was visiting family and friends. According to the Ogun state police commissioner, Lanre Ogunlowo, Joshua's car collided with a stationary vehicle at around 11 a.m. The driver of Joshua's vehicle was also injured in the crash. Joshua, who had been in Nigeria for personal reasons, was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of his injuries, which were described as minor. However, the tragic loss of his two friends has left the boxing champion devastated. In a statement released shortly after the accident, Joshua expressed his grief and paid tribute to his departed colleagues. "I am in shock and saddened by the deaths of two close friends of mine," he said. "They were incredible, hard-working individuals who shared my passion for sport and improving the lives of others. I owe it to them to step back, reflect, and support their families in this time of mourning." The identities of the two victims have not been officially released, but sources close to Joshua's team have confirmed they were members of his inner circle who had been instrumental in his rise to the top of the sport. One was reportedly Joshua's long-time friend and personal assistant, while the other was a trusted member of his training and management staff. This tragedy is the latest in a series of personal setbacks for the boxing superstar, who has faced numerous challenges both in and out of the ring in recent years. In 2019, Joshua lost his heavyweight titles to unfancied underdog Andy Ruiz Jr. in a shocking upset, before regaining them in a rematch later that year. He has also had to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the postponement of several of his scheduled fights and disrupted his training regime. And now, the sudden and devastating loss of two of his closest confidants has left Joshua reeling. "Anthony is absolutely devastated," a source close to the boxer told reporters. "These were not just colleagues to him, but dear friends who he trusted implicitly. They were an integral part of his team and his life, and their passing is an enormous blow both personally and professionally." The accident has sent shockwaves through the close-knit boxing community, with Joshua's fellow fighters, promoters, and fans offering their condolences. Many have praised the 32-year-old's strength of character in the face of such tragedy, and have pledged their support as he navigates this difficult period. "Anthony is one of the toughest competitors I've ever met, both physically and mentally," said rival heavyweight Tyson Fury. "But even the strongest of us can be brought low by such senseless loss. My heart goes out to him and his loved ones during this terrible time." Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, also expressed his sympathies, calling the incident a "devastating blow" for the boxer and his team. "Anthony is surrounded by a close-knit group of friends and advisors, and the loss of two of them in such a tragic way is unimaginably painful," Hearn said. "We will do everything we can to support him and ensure he has the time and space to grieve properly before returning to the ring." The accident has also raised broader concerns about road safety in Nigeria, where traffic accidents are a major public health issue. According to the World Health Organization, Nigeria has one of the highest rates of road traffic fatalities in the world, with an estimated 35,000 deaths per year. Experts have long called for greater investment in infrastructure, enforcement of traffic laws, and public education campaigns to address the problem. The latest incident involving a high-profile international figure like Joshua has reignited these calls and placed a renewed focus on the need for urgent action. For now, Joshua and his team are focused on processing their grief and providing support to the families of the victims. The boxer has cancelled all of his scheduled public appearances and training sessions, and it remains uncertain when he will return to the ring. "This is a deeply personal tragedy for Anthony, and he needs time and space to grieve and heal," Hearn said. "The boxing world will be waiting for him whenever he is ready, but for now, our thoughts and prayers are with him and his loved ones." As the boxing community rallies around Joshua, the tragic accident has served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear. Joshua's loss is a devastating one, but his resilience and determination in the face of adversity have always been his greatest strengths. With the support of his fans and the boxing community, he will undoubtedly emerge from this tragedy stronger than ever.