Boxing Star Mourns Loss of Close Companions in Tragic Accident
Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has shared a heartfelt tribute following a devastating car crash in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends. The 36-year-old British-Nigerian boxer was himself injured in the incident, which occurred near Lagos on 29 December 2025.
In an emotional post on his Instagram account, Joshua expressed his grief and admiration for the men he lost. "Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers," he wrote. "I didn't even realise how special they are." He described their friendship as one filled with casual walks and shared jokes, adding, "not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men."
Joshua acknowledged the profound pain of the situation, stating, "100% it's tough for me, but I know it's even tougher for their parents." He concluded his message with a plea: "May God have mercy on my brothers."
Details of the Fatal Collision Emerge
The fatal accident took place on a major road outside Lagos. Joshua was travelling in the back of a black Lexus SUV when the vehicle collided with a stationary truck. The crash resulted in the deaths of his two friends, who were in the car with him.
The victims have been identified as Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Mr Ghami had been an integral part of Joshua's team for over ten years, working as a qualified sports and exercise rehabilitator. His expertise lay in musculoskeletal injuries and corrective exercise. Mr Ayodele was a personal trainer and a long-time friend of the boxing champion.
Anthony Joshua sustained minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. He has since been recovering. The group had been on holiday in Nigeria following Joshua's high-profile victory over American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami in December.
Legal Proceedings and Community Impact
The driver of the SUV, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, now faces serious legal consequences. He has been charged with four offences, including dangerous driving causing death and operating a vehicle without a valid national driving licence.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the boxing community and among Joshua's fans worldwide. The loss of Sina Ghami, in particular, represents a significant blow to Joshua's professional camp, removing a trusted specialist who had contributed to his training and recovery for a decade.
This incident highlights the personal toll behind the public persona of a global sports icon, reminding fans of the close-knit team and friendships that support elite athletes. As the legal case progresses, the focus remains on the memories of the two men described by Joshua as "great men" and the ongoing recovery of the former champion.
