British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has publicly mourned the loss of two close friends killed in a fatal car collision in Nigeria last December, describing the event as a “tragic, traumatic time.” The incident occurred in Lagos when the vehicle carrying Joshua struck a stationary truck, resulting in the deaths of Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. Joshua, who also holds Nigerian citizenship, sustained minor injuries.
The accident took place shortly after Joshua’s victory over Jake Paul in Miami on 19 December. He had been on holiday with his friends at the time. In an emotional video message, Joshua referred to Ayodele and Ghami as his “brothers,” stating, “Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins, their friends, and myself lose two great men, we lost people that we dearly care about and have been major players in all of our lives.” He thanked global supporters for the messages, prayers, and public solidarity received in the aftermath.
Ghami served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach for over a decade, while Ayodele, a long-term friend, worked as a personal trainer. Their roles placed them within Joshua’s inner professional and personal circle for years.
Legal proceedings have commenced. The driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, appeared in a Nigerian court earlier this month and faces multiple charges, including dangerous driving causing death. The case was adjourned to 25 February at the request of the prosecution.
While Joshua’s video tribute offered little detail on future boxing plans, he noted that “the mission must go on.” This sentiment aligns with recent social media posts showing him returning to training, which he described as “mental strength therapy.” The 36-year-old former world champion’s immediate focus appears to balance personal grief with physical preparation, though no official fight schedule has been announced.
The tragedy has drawn international attention to Joshua, a figure who often connects his British and Nigerian heritage. The adjournment of the driver’s case sets a near-term legal milestone as the boxing world watches for signs of the athlete’s return to competitive sport following this personal loss.
