Anthony Joshua Pays Tribute To Friends Killed In Crash

Anthony Joshua Pays Tribute to Friends Killed in Crash

Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has paid an emotional tribute to two of his closest friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, who tragically lost their lives in a car crash in Nigeria on December 29, 2025. Joshua himself survived the accident with minor injuries but has since spoken publicly about the deep pain of losing men he described as “brothers” and “great men.”

The accident occurred when the black Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his companions collided with a stationary truck on a busy Nigerian highway. While Joshua was fortunate to escape with only minor injuries, his friends Ghami and Ayodele were killed instantly. Ghami was not only a close friend but also Joshua’s sport and exercise rehabilitation coach, while Ayodele served as his personal trainer. Their roles in Joshua’s life extended beyond professional duties; they were integral members of his inner circle, sharing in his journey both inside and outside the ring.

After being discharged from hospital, Joshua returned to England but quickly made his way back to Nigeria to attend the funerals of his friends. At the service, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who had shown love and care to the deceased, remarking that he had not fully realized how extraordinary they were until their passing. In a moving statement shared on Instagram, Joshua wrote: “Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers. I didn’t even realise how special they are. I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men.” He added that while the loss was devastating for him, he recognized that the grief was even heavier for their parents, and he prayed for strength and mercy for their families.

Joshua’s tribute highlights the profound bond he shared with Ghami and Ayodele, emphasizing that their companionship was more than professional, it was deeply personal. His words reflect both sorrow and reverence, acknowledging the impact his friends had on his life and career. He described the tragedy as one of the toughest moments he has faced, yet he reaffirmed his belief in resilience and faith, saying that he trusts God knows their hearts and will have mercy on them.

The incident has resonated widely, not only among Joshua’s fans but also within the boxing community, where the loss of two respected figures has been deeply felt. Joshua’s openness about his grief and his willingness to honor his friends publicly has drawn admiration, underscoring his humanity beyond the boxing ring.

This tragic event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life, even for celebrated athletes, and the importance of cherishing relationships.

For Joshua, the crash was not just a brush with mortality but a heartbreaking separation from men who were integral to his journey. His tribute ensures that their memory will live on, both in his personal life and in the broader narrative of his career.