Anthony Joshua on Thursday shared an emotional tribute to two close members of his team who died in a devastating car crash in Nigeria. The 36-year-old Briton described his late friends as “special” and “great men” in a message that drew widespread support from fans and fellow athletes.
Joshua’s message came nearly 10 days after a December 29 collision on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway that killed his personal trainer, Latif “Latz” Ayodele, and his strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami. The former two-time world heavyweight champion was in the same SUV and sustained minor injuries.
In a social media post, Joshua said, “Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers.” He added that he had not fully understood the depth of their impact. “I didn’t even realise how special they are,” he wrote. “I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men.”
Joshua acknowledged the pain of the loss. “100 % it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents,” he said, extending condolences to the families. “I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers.”
Crash Details and Legal Actions
According to authorities in Nigeria, the SUV in which Joshua and his team were traveling collided with a stationary truck on a busy highway. Preliminary findings suggested the Lexus was travelling at excessive speed before losing control. Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, the driver, has been charged with dangerous and reckless driving causing death, and is expected to appear in court later this month.
Both Ayodele and Ghami were integral parts of Joshua’s boxing camp. Ghami was respected for his work conditioning Joshua for major fights, while Ayodele had trained him for years and was a close personal friend. Their loss has resonated deeply across the boxing world.
Tributes poured in from around the sport after Joshua’s announcement. Prominent fighters and former rivals publicly offered their sympathy. Fellow heavyweight Tyson Fury shared condolences, writing that he hoped Ayodele and Ghami would “rest in peace” and calling the news “heartbreaking.” Other champions praised the two men for their dedication and character.
Joshua attended funeral services in North London earlier this week before returning to Britain, where he continues to reflect on the loss. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, said Joshua needs time and privacy to process his grief before considering his future in the ring.