Former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has shared his profound grief in an emotional first public statement since a devastating car accident in Nigeria. The British athlete fought back tears as he spoke movingly about the loss of his two close friends, whom he described as his "brothers".
A Tragic Incident Near Lagos
The fatal collision occurred on December 29, 2025, near Lagos, Nigeria. Joshua was a passenger in a black SUV that collided with a stationary truck. While the boxer escaped with only minor injuries, the crash proved fatal for his two companions.
Remembering Latif 'Latz' Ayodele and Sina Ghami
The victims were identified as Latif 'Latz' Ayodele, aged 36, and Sina Ghami, also 36. Joshua revealed in his YouTube video, titled 'My Brothers Keeper For Life', that these men were integral figures in his daily life and career. Ayodele served as his personal trainer, while Ghami worked as his recovery therapist. Joshua explained that he had been living with both men, highlighting their deep personal and professional bond.
"Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins, their friends and myself lose like two great men, we lost people that we dearly care about," Joshua said, visibly emotional. "[They were] major players in all of our lives, major, major players in all of our lives, it's tough, it's really tough."
A Mission Interrupted
The 36-year-old boxer detailed that the trio had travelled to Nigeria to visit family, with plans to conclude 2025 on a positive note. "We had so many plans to wrap up 2025, and we were on a mission," Joshua recounted. "We went back home, went to see our families, and everything just got flipped upside on its head."
Addressing His Supporters
In his video message, Joshua directly addressed his global fanbase, thanking them for their support during this difficult period. "I could reach out to all of you far and wide, worldwide who are showing so much love, care, support through that tragic, traumatic time where we lost Latz and Sina in Nigeria," he stated.
He reflected on the unique nature of this loss, saying, "I've lost people before, but I don't think I've lost people like that, my left and my right." Despite his grief, Joshua affirmed his commitment to continue, stating, "The mission must go on... I understand my duty. I'm gonna do what's right by them. I'm gonna do what's right by their family."
Legal Proceedings Following the Crash
According to reports, the chauffeur driving the vehicle at the time of the incident appeared in a Nigerian court on January 20, 2026. The driver has been charged with four criminal offences, including death by dangerous driving. The legal process continues as authorities investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic accident.
This heartfelt tribute from Anthony Joshua provides a raw insight into the personal tragedy behind the headlines, showcasing the boxer's vulnerability and deep connection to the friends he considered family.
