British heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been injured and two of his close friends have been killed in a devastating car crash in Nigeria.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The accident occurred on Monday near Lagos, when the vehicle carrying Joshua and his friends collided with a stationary truck on a major road. Sina Ghami and Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, both long-term friends of the boxer, tragically lost their lives in the impact.
Joshua, who was born in Watford to Nigerian parents, was on holiday in the country following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on 19 December. The Ogun State Government confirmed that while Joshua sustained injuries, he is reported to be stable and conscious in hospital.
Heartfelt Tributes from the Boxing World
Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter since his professional debut after winning Olympic gold at London 2012, shared a moving tribute on Instagram. "Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed," Hearn wrote.
He added, "Praying for strength and guidance for all their family, friends and of course AJ during this very difficult time."
The two men were more than just friends to the champion. Sina Ghami served as Joshua's strength and conditioning coach, while Latif Ayodele worked as a trainer, making their loss profoundly personal and professional.
Boxing Community Rallies with Support
The wider boxing world has been quick to offer condolences and support. Retired cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew posted on X, saying, "Thoughts and prayers to the families of these men. Tragic losses in horrific circumstances!"
He expressed concern for Joshua, stating, "I hope he is able to process this with time because there is no pain in life worse than grief."
In the past 24 hours, tributes have also poured in from other boxing greats, including two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, British former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, and former world champion Wladimir Klitschko.
The incident has cast a shadow over the boxing community, with fans and figures alike mourning the loss of two individuals closely tied to one of the sport's biggest stars and willing a full recovery for Anthony Joshua himself.
