Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has paid tribute to Kevin Ayodele and Sina Ghami, who died in a Nigeria car crash that left Anthony Joshua hospitalised
Anthony Joshua crash: New video shows start of fatal journey
Promoter Eddie Hearn has issued an emotional new tribute to Anthony Joshua’s late friends Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latz’ Ayodele, who tragically died in a harrowing car crash on Monday (December 29).
The devastating accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway also left the two-time world heavyweight champ Joshua shaken, albeit with only minor injuries.
Since the heartbreaking loss of strength and conditioning coach Ayodele and personal trainer Ghami – who were also extremely close friends of Joshua’s – tributes have been flowing in online.
Now, Matchroom Boxing’s top dog Hearn is the latest to offer fresh condolences as Joshua continues to recover from the traumatic ordeal.
Sharing a poignant photo montage of Joshua, Latz, and Sina on Instagram, the 46-year-old wrote: “Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed. Praying for strength and guidance for all their family, friends and of course AJ during this very difficult time.”
It’s reported that the car crash occurred after a Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and four others clipped a stationary lorry during an ill-fated overtaking attempt, leaving Joshua to be yanked from the wreckage battered and bruised but alive, reports the Mirror.
Joshua’s rep described the sombre mood: “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 Latif Ayodele.”
Joshua’s team has been left reeling after two of his close friends and trainers were killed in a car accident. Ayodele was Joshua’s personal trainer and a key member of his training team, while Ghami was his strength and conditioning coach of over a decade.
In a statement, Joshua’s team said: “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.”
Joshua, 36, was also injured in the crash and is being treated in hospital. His team added: “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. No further information will be made available at this time.”
The two trainers were based in Dubai and played a crucial role in Joshua’s training and preparation for his fights. Ayodele was present at Joshua’s recent bout with Jake Paul in Miami, and Ghami was a qualified sports and exercise rehabilitator with expertise in musculoskeletal injury and corrective exercise.
Meanwhile, Joshua’s family has provided an update on his condition. His great-uncle, David Joshua, said: “We have not been allowed to see him, but from information given by authorities, he is responding to treatment.”
AJ’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, expressed: “The incident shook our family deeply. Though our son, Anthony, is alive, two of his friends, who came to celebrate with us, lost their lives.
“This is a serious tragedy, not only for our family, but for Ogun State, Nigeria, and the world at large. We are deeply saddened that two people very close to Anthony did not survive. Our hearts are with their families.”
In another corner, boxing adversary Oleksandr Usyk has reached out to Joshua following the horrific crash earlier this week. The undefeated Ukrainian, who’s faced off with Joshua in the ring twice, shared on Instagram: “This is an unbelievable loss.
“[Sina and Latz] were two incredible people who were not only part of AJ’s team, but also friends! My sincere condolences to their families, loved ones, and everyone who knew them. Anthony Joshua – wishing you a speedy recovery. Stay strong, champion.”
Joshua’s most recent opponent, Paul, took to social media on Monday to express his sympathy after the tragic event. He penned: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”