Former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has spoken out for the first time since a devastating car accident in Nigeria on December 29, 2025, claimed the lives of his close friends Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele and Sina Ghami.
Joshua, who sustained minor injuries in the accident, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt post, uploading pictures with the caption ‘My Brothers Keeper.’ The British boxer was joined by grieving relatives in the photos, as the community continues to mourn the loss of Ayodele and Ghami.
The incident occurred when the black SUV carrying Joshua struck a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near Sagamu. Preliminary findings by the Nigerian Federal Road Safety Corps cited speeding beyond the limit as a factor. Joshua was hospitalized briefly before being discharged on New Year’s Eve and returning to the UK for the friends’ funerals.
The driver of the car, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, faces four charges, including causing death by dangerous driving and lacking a valid license. He received 5,000,000 Naira (£2,578) bail and is remanded until a January 20 hearing.
Joshua’s statement comes as the boxing world continues to offer its condolences to the former champion. The tragedy has underscored Joshua’s vulnerability outside the ring, amid a career resurgence following his December knockout win over Jake Paul in Miami. The emotional toll of the accident could potentially delay Joshua’s training, as he navigates this difficult period.
Floral tributes have been left at Ghami’s north London gym, as the community pays its respects to the two victims. A fundraising campaign has also been launched to build a mosque in Latif’s honor and a borehole for water, with the target already surpassed.
As the investigation into the accident continues, Joshua’s focus will likely be on coming to terms with the loss of his close friends. The boxing world will be watching as he navigates this challenging period, and looks to return to the ring in the future.
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