Heartbroken friends and members of the community have gathered outside a North London gym to pay tribute to its co-founder, who died alongside another friend in a car crash that boxer Anthony Joshua survived.
Floral tributes for 'one of the best humans'
The Evolve gym in Colindale, North London, was covered in flowers and messages of condolence following the tragic news. The gym was owned by Sina Ghami, 36, who died in the accident in Nigeria on Monday, 29 December. Another close friend of the boxer, Latif 'Latz' Ayodele, also 36, lost his life in the same collision.
One poignant tribute left amongst the bouquets described Sina as 'one of the best humans ever made'. A handwritten note taped to the gym's shuttered door conveyed the deep sorrow felt by the team. It read: 'With heavy hearts we announce the temporary closure of Evolve gym on Tue 30th December as we mourn the loss of our beloved owner: Sina Ghami.'
Details of the Lagos-Ibadan highway crash
The fatal incident occurred on the notoriously dangerous Lagos-Ibadan highway in Nigeria. Reports indicate the Lexus SUV carrying the men collided with the rear of a stationary lorry. Anthony Joshua was pulled from the wreckage and taken to hospital with what were described as minor injuries.
A spokesperson for the heavyweight boxer confirmed the devastating news, stating: "It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm, following a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria earlier today, the death of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony's team."
Community support and requests for privacy
The gym's note thanked its members for being a 'supportive community during this difficult time' and promised updates on plans to reopen. Joshua's spokesperson appealed for respect and privacy for the grieving families, adding: "Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment, he is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation."
The second Evolve gym location, in Ruislip, is also understood to be affected by the loss. The sudden deaths of two young, well-loved figures have sent shockwaves through their local community in London and the wider boxing world.
