Anthony Joshua Injured in Fatal Nigeria Collision Casting Doubt on 2026 Boxing Schedule
Lagos, Monday, 29 December 2025.
Two fatalities are confirmed following a high-speed collision involving Anthony Joshua on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway today. While the heavyweight star escaped with minor injuries, the tragedy immediately jeopardizes his anticipated February 2026 return, threatening to derail the lucrative Riyadh Season timeline and pending Tyson Fury negotiations.
Details of the Collision in Ogun State
The accident occurred at approximately 11:00 AM on Monday along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Makun, Ogun State [1][2]. According to eyewitness reports, Joshua was travelling in a Lexus SUV, license plate KRD 850 HN, which collided with a stationary truck near the Danco Filling Station [1][3]. The vehicle was reportedly part of a convoy that included a Pajero and security detail, with eyewitnesses suggesting the crash happened during an overtaking maneuver [1][4].
Economic Implications for the Heavyweight Division
This incident casts a shadow over what was projected to be a highly lucrative year for the heavyweight division. Joshua is fresh off a victory against Jake Paul in Miami earlier this month, a fight that reportedly earned him £70 million [2]. The momentum from that win was intended to carry directly into a scheduled appearance in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in February 2026 [2][5]. This timeline is now precarious; any delay to the February bout could have cascading effects on broadcast schedules and venue commitments associated with the Riyadh Season.