Tragic Accident Involving Anthony Joshua
In a tragic incident on a major road near Lagos, Nigeria, heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a car accident that claimed the lives of two of his close colleagues. Sina Ghami, Joshua’s long-time strength and conditioning coach, and his personal trainer Latif Ayodele, known affectionately as ‘Latz,’ were killed when their vehicle collided with a stationary truck. Joshua sustained injuries during the crash but is reported to be in stable condition and conscious, with no need for emergency medical intervention according to the Ogun state government.
Condolences from the Boxing Community
Joshua’s promoters, Matchroom Boxing, expressed their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of both Ghami and Ayodele in an official statement, confirming their deaths and affirming Joshua’s injuries.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected. We respectfully ask for privacy during this difficult time,”
the statement read.
Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn reflected on the tragedy, acknowledging both men as great individuals and stating,
“Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone.”
Tributes and Reflections
As a part of the boxing community, many have paid tribute to Ghami and Ayodele. Boxing expert Steve Bunce described them as integral to Joshua’s life, stating,
“They’ve been with him from early on. They’re not just coaches; they are part of his close-knit circle.”
Fellow fighter Chris Eubank Jr. also shared his thoughts, emphasizing their character as genuinely good men and urging prayers for their families.
Details of the Incident
Hours before the crash, Joshua had shared a video on social media enjoying a game of table tennis with Ayodele, highlighting the personal connection they shared. Ghami, who had been pivotal in preparing Joshua for significant fights throughout his career—including the memorable 2017 bout against Wladimir Klitschko—had also worked with other notable athletes like NFL’s Le’Veon Bell and NBA champion Draymond Green.
On the day of the incident, reports from Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) indicated that the car, a black Lexus, may have been speeding when the driver lost control during an overtaking maneuver, leading to the fatal collision at approximately noon local time. There were five men in the vehicle, and while Joshua and the driver were rescued by the boxer’s security team, the loss of Ghami and Ayodele resonates deeply within the boxing world and beyond.
Impact on Joshua’s Future
At the time of the accident, Joshua had just returned from a successful boxing match in Miami, where he achieved victory against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The British champion had returned to Nigeria to celebrate the New Year with his family, and the tragedy now casts a shadow over his future plans, which included a potential fight in Saudi Arabia next February and a long-awaited bout against Tyson Fury later on.
The emotional implications of this incident are profound, particularly for Joshua, who has lost two significant figures in his life. As the boxing community stands in solidarity with him, they all hope for his recovery and healing from this heartbreaking event.
