Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has paid an emotional tribute to two of his close associates who lost their lives in a tragic car accident in Nigeria, describing them as “brothers” and “great men.”
Joshua sustained minor injuries in the crash, which occurred on December 29, but was later discharged from hospital. After his release, he returned to England before travelling back to Nigeria to attend the funerals of the deceased, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, which took place last Sunday.
In a heartfelt message shared on X, the former champion reflected on the loss and the bond he shared with the men. “Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers. I didn’t even realise how special they are. I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men.
“100 per cent, it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents. I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers,” Joshua wrote.
Ayodele, who served as Joshua’s personal trainer, and Ghami, his long-time strength and conditioning coach, both died instantly at the scene of the accident. The crash happened on December 29 along the busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway in southwest Nigeria, a major route known for heavy traffic.
According to reports, the Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and his team collided with a stationary truck on the highway. Nigerian police have since charged the driver of the vehicle, 46-year-old Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, with “dangerous driving causing death.”
Joshua, now 36, has strong family ties to Nigeria and was spending time in the country on holiday following his victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami on December 19.
The tragedy has cast a shadow over what had been a celebratory period for the boxer, who has often spoken about the importance of loyalty and brotherhood within his team.
What you should know
Anthony Joshua has long maintained close personal and professional relationships with members of his training team, many of whom have worked with him throughout his rise to global boxing fame.
The deaths of Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami represent a significant personal loss beyond the ring, highlighting the often unseen bonds between elite athletes and their support staff.
The incident has also renewed attention on road safety concerns along major Nigerian highways, particularly the Lagos-Ibadan corridor, which has recorded several fatal accidents over the years.
