Two-time heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been involved in a fatal road traffic accident in Nigeria, which claimed the lives of two of his close friends and team members.
Details of the Tragic Collision
The incident occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. According to preliminary findings from Nigeria's Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the crash involved a black Lexus Jeep, in which Joshua was a passenger, and a stationary red commercial Sinotruck.
The FRSC stated that the Jeep, suspected of exceeding the legal speed limit, lost control while attempting an overtaking manoeuvre and collided with the truck, which was parked at the roadside. Five adult males were involved in the collision.
Victims Identified and Joshua's Condition
The two men who tragically lost their lives have been identified as Kevin Ayodele, known as Latz, and Sina Ghami. Ayodele was Joshua's personal trainer and understood to be his closest friend. Ghami served as the boxer's strength and conditioning coach and was a co-founder of Evolve Gym, having been part of Team Joshua for over a decade.
Anthony Joshua, 36, sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment and observation. His promoter, Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing, confirmed the boxer is in a stable condition. Two other men in the vehicle survived the crash unharmed.
Outpouring of Tributes from the Boxing World
Since news of the accident broke, an outpouring of grief and condolences has flooded social media from figures across the sports and entertainment world.
Fellow boxer Chris Eubank Jr wrote: "Thank god our heavyweight champ survived that horrible car crash. And pray for the two fallen soldiers Latz & Sina & their families. I knew both...they were genuinely good men. Rest in Peace boys."
Joshua's most recent opponent, Jake Paul, posted on X: "Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident." He later added a message naming the victims and offering prayers to their families.
Other tributes came from figures including Badou Jack, Misfits Boxing star Slim Albaher, and Mutah Beale, many of whom highlighted the men's character and shared personal memories.
In an official statement, Eddie Hearn said: "With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected." The statement requested privacy for those involved.
The boxing community now mourns the loss of two respected figures while wishing the champion a full and speedy recovery from the traumatic event.
