BREAKING: Two killed in Anthony Joshua horror automobile crash recognized as boxing world pays tribute
Two men tragically died in the car crash involving Anthony Joshua on Monday, with the British heavyweight champion also taken to hospital with minor injuries
The two men tragically killed in a car crash involving Anthony Joshua on Monday have been identified as Kevin Ayodele and Sina Ghami. The 36-year-old double heavyweight boxing champ was also rushed to hospital with minor injuries after the incident.
Earlier today, it was revealed that Joshua had been involved in a car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway along with four others. The Federal Road Safety Corps of Nigeria’s initial report stated that the accident involved a black Lexus Jeep, with Joshua as a passenger, colliding with a stationary red commercial Sinotruck, with five adult males in total caught up in the crash.
A spokesperson for Anthony Joshua released a statement saying: “It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm, following a road traffic accident in Lagos Nigeria earlier today, the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Lateef’ Ayodele. Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team.
“We respectfully ask that space and privacy be given to the families at this time while they process this truly shocking and devastating news.”
The FRSC further noted that the Jeep, “which was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit,” lost control while overtaking and smashed into the stationary truck parked by the roadside.
The crash tragically claimed the lives of Ayodele, also known as Latz, and Ghami, while Joshua was rushed to hospital for treatment. Two other men in the vehicle miraculously escaped unscathed.
As news of the accident spread, tributes began pouring in on social media for the two friends who lost their lives.
Boxer Chris Eubank Jr tweeted: “Thank god our heavyweight champ survived that horrible car crash. And pray for the two fallen soldiers Latz and Sina and their families. I knew both…they were genuinely good men. Rest in Peace boys.”
OnestoplistDubai shared a heartfelt message: “May Allah forgive you for your shortcomings and grant you the highest level of paradise. Ameen. Nothing but good memories when we were together.
“My condolences go out to your family and loved ones Sina @258mgt @anthonyjoshua. A gentle reminder to all the brothers and sisters. From him we came and to him we will return. Now at peace, Sina.”
Tam Khan posted on X: “Prayers with both their families during this devastating time,” alongside photos of the two men. Jake Paul, Joshua’s recent opponent, also took to X to express his condolences: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”
Paul later added: “RIP Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latif / Latz’ Ayodele. My thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends and AJ.”
Joshua’s boxing pals paid tribute to two friends who died in a car crash in Nigeria. Badou Jack posted on Instagram: “Still in shock! Inna lillahi wa inna lilayhi rajioon. May Allah forgive you for your shortcomings and grant you the highest level of paradise @healthy_mindset.”
Fellow fighter Mutah Beale added: “From Allah we belong to Allah we return, sad and shocking news about the death of our dear brother Abdul-Latif resulting from a car crash, May Allah have mercy on him and grant him Jannah, and May Allah make this difficult time easy for his family. We also wish a speedy recovery for the champ.”
Misfits Boxing’s Slim Albaher also paid tribute, saying: “Sending prayers for Anthony Joshua and for the two brothers who tragically passed away in the car accident. I can’t believe Latz was one of the guys involved…he was such a good soul and a supportive brother. Allah Yerhamu, may Allah grant Latz and Sina Jannah.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed the tragic news, saying: “Anthony Joshua was involved in a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria, earlier today. With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away.
“Matchroom Boxing and 258 BXG can confirm that Anthony sustained injuries in the accident and was taken to hospital for checks and treatment. He is in a stable condition and will remain there for observation.”
The statement read: “Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected – and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time. No further comment will be made at this time.”
Ayodele, who was not only Joshua’s personal trainer but also his closest friend, has passed away.
Ghami, Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, was spotted helping him train for his fight against Paul on Saturday, December 19, in Miami.
As the co-founder of Evolve Gym, Ghami had been an integral part of Team Joshua for over a decade. His impressive portfolio also included working with high-profile athletes such as Le’Veon Bell of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors.
