Anthony Joshua has issued his first public update following the tragic incident on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway that injured him and killed two of his close friends.
The collision resulted in the deaths of longtime friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele. Ghami was Joshua’s long-time strength and conditioning coach, who was by his side in the ring after his win over Jake Paul. Ayodele worked as Joshua’s personal trainer, focusing closely on the boxer’s fitness regime. Ayodele had also built relationships with numerous high-profile celebrities, including Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham.
On Instagram, Joshua, 36, posted a brief message simply reading, “My Brothers Keeper ❤️🪖❤️,” along with a pair of photos quietly honoring his late friends. The post marked Joshua’s first public acknowledgment since the crash.
Joshua, who has Nigerian heritage, was spending time in Nigeria following his recent knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami. Ayodele and Ghami were alongside Joshua for the visit.
However, on Monday, Dec 29, the two friends died when the Lexus SUV they were travelling in collided with the rear of a stationary lorry on the notoriously perilous Lagos-Ibadan motorway.
The driver of the car involved in the crash, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was charged by Nigerian police on Friday with offences that include causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a licence.
Authorities have continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including reports that the vehicle suffered a tire blowout and that the driver of a truck involved fled the scene. Police have said inquiries remain ongoing.
The case has been adjourned until January 20.