The boxing community is rallying around former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua after he was involved in a serious road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two members of his team.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The collision occurred on Monday, 30 December 2025, on a major expressway near Lagos. A Lexus SUV carrying Joshua collided with a parked truck. Joshua sustained injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment. Tragically, two other occupants of the vehicle, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, were killed in the crash.
In an official statement, Joshua's promotional company, Matchroom Boxing, expressed its profound sorrow. "Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected," the statement read, requesting privacy for the grieving families.
Boxing World Unites in Support and Tribute
Eddie Hearn, chairman of Matchroom Sports, led the tributes on social media, posting: "With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone."
The news prompted an immediate outpouring of support from across the sporting world, uniting rivals and colleagues in shared grief.
Messages from Fellow Fighters
Tyson Fury, a long-time potential opponent for Joshua, offered his condolences online. "This is so sad. May god give them a good bed in heaven," the WBC champion wrote.
Undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk described the loss as "unbelievable." He praised the victims as "incredible people" and friends, sending condolences to their families and a wish for Joshua's speedy recovery.
Even recent rival Jake Paul, who fought Joshua earlier in December, shared his thoughts. "Life is much more important than boxing," Paul stated. "I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident."
Further Tributes from the Sport
Other notable figures also paid their respects:
- John Fury told Joshua: "AJ, you’ve got a guardian angel, my friend. God has his arms wrapped around you then. Condolences to the deceased."
- Former heavyweight king Wladimir Klitschko called Joshua a "true class act" and sent his best wishes to him and his loved ones.
- Chris Eubank Jr expressed relief that Joshua survived, describing the deceased as "genuinely good men" and "fallen soldiers."
The incident has cast a shadow over the boxing world as it enters the new year, with the focus now on Joshua's recovery and supporting the families of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele.
