The UK Foreign Office is “urgently investigating reports of a road incident in Nigeria involving at least one British national”, thought to be the crash involving Anthony Joshua, where two other passengers died. The UKFO confirmed to the BBC that they are investigating the matter and a spokesperson said that they are ready to “offer consular assistance, if requested”.

They added: “Our thoughts are with those affected, and their families.” Joshua was rushed to hospital and officials claimed that he is conscious and spoke to his family following the incident. The former world champion was a passenger in a vehicle that collided with a stationary truck on a major expressway near Lagos.

The Federal Road Safety Corps in Nigeria claimed that initial findings suggest that the Lexus Jeep was travelling over the speed limit and crashed during an overtaking manoeuvre.

A statement read: “Preliminary reports from the Ogun Sector Command indicate that the crash occurred at about 1200HRS and was promptly reported to the Corps. FRSC operatives arrived at the scene within three (3) minutes of notification, enabling swift rescue operations, evacuation of victims, effective traffic control, and prevention of secondary crashes.

“The incident involved two vehicles: a black Lexus Jeep and a stationary red commercial Sinotruck with unknown registration number. A total of five adult males were involved in the crash.

“Two persons sadly lost their lives, one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt. Anthony Joshua was rescued alive and sustained minor injuries.

“The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu. The Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division (MTD) was duly notified for further investigation and necessary documentation.

“Preliminary findings indicate that the Lexus Jeep, which was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor, lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into a stationary truck well packed by the side of the road.”

Ogun and Lagos state governments also released a joint statement on the crash, confirming the status of Joshua’s health.

Their statement read: “The governments of Ogun and Lagos States wish to confirm that British-Nigerian two-time unified world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, was involved in a road traffic accident earlier today along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.

“The vehicle conveying a team of four reportedly collided with a stationary truck, resulting in two fatalities. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident and pray that Almighty God grants them the strength to bear this difficult loss.

“Anthony Joshua and another passenger were immediately evacuated to a specialised medical facility in Lagos. Following comprehensive clinical assessments, doctors have confirmed that both patients are stable and do not require any emergency medical intervention at this time. A full medical team has been assembled and will continue to monitor them closely.

“Anthony Joshua is conscious and has been in communication with his family.

“The governments of Ogun and Lagos States are closely monitoring the situation and will ensure that the affected persons receive the best possible medical care. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the accident have also commenced.

“We appreciate the concern shown by members of the public and kindly request privacy for Anthony Joshua and his family at this time.”

The identities of the two men killed have not yet been confirmed.