LAGOS, Nigeria — The boxing world has been plunged into mourning following a devastating car accident on Monday, December 29, involving former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. While the British star survived the wreckage with minor injuries, the crash tragically claimed the lives of two of his most trusted companions and long-time team members.
The incident occurred at approximately 11:00 AM local time on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State. Joshua was traveling as a passenger in a Lexus SUV when the vehicle reportedly suffered a tyre blowout due to excessive speed, losing control and colliding with a stationary commercial truck.
Loss of the Closest Friends
Matchroom Boxing and 258 Management confirmed the heartbreaking news that Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele died at the scene. The two men were not just employees but were considered Joshua’s closest brothers, having been with him since the early days of his career.
Just hours before the tragedy, Joshua had shared a video on Instagram showing him and Ayodele laughing while playing table tennis—a haunting final memory for fans and family.
Global Tributes and Reactions
Condolences have poured in from across the sporting spectrum. Tyson Fury, Joshua’s long-time rival, shared a somber message on Instagram: “This is so sad. May God give them a good bed in heaven. There is no tomorrow… live, love, and give.”
Jake Paul, whom Joshua defeated just 11 days ago in Miami, also expressed his shock: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ, and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally called Joshua in the hospital to offer his sympathies, later stating that the boxer is receiving the “best possible care” and is in stable condition.
Current Status and Investigation
Footage circulating on social media showed a dazed and shirtless Joshua being assisted from the crumpled wreckage by bystanders. While initial reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) described his injuries as “minor,” later updates from sources close to the camp suggest he is undergoing extensive observation for potential internal trauma and the psychological impact of the loss.
Local authorities have launched a full investigation into the crash, citing “excessive speed and wrongful overtaking” as preliminary factors in the collision on what is often described as one of Nigeria’s most dangerous highways.
