Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is recovering in hospital following a devastating road traffic collision in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and key team members.
Details of the tragic collision
The fatal accident occurred on Monday, 29 December 2025, on the busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway. Joshua was a passenger in a Jeep that was involved in a collision with a lorry. Shocking video footage that later emerged showed the British boxer being pulled from the severely damaged vehicle in a state of distress.
His promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed that Joshua was taken to hospital for treatment and is reported to be in a stable condition. He was seated in the rear of the vehicle at the time of the impact. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances of the crash.
Remembering the victims: Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele
The two men who tragically lost their lives have been named as Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele. Both were integral figures in Joshua's inner circle and professional team.
Sina Ghami: The long-time strength coach
Sina Ghami served as Anthony Joshua's strength and conditioning coach for more than ten years. A certified sports and exercise rehabilitator, he specialised in musculoskeletal injuries and corrective exercise. Beyond his work in boxing, Ghami's impressive career saw him work with elite athletes from the NFL, the NBA, and the Michigan State University football team. He was also the co-founder of Evolve Gym in London.
Latif "Latz" Ayodele: The personal trainer
Latif Ayodele acted as Joshua's personal trainer. Originally named Kevin Ayodele, he was a former footballer for Aylesbury before converting to Islam and taking the name Abdul Latif. His social media profiles reflected a deep passion for fitness and his faith. In a pinned post from 2020, he wrote: "Finding Islam in 2012 has been my biggest blessing."
Official statements and ongoing developments
Matchroom Boxing, Joshua's promotion company, issued a solemn statement confirming the details. It read: "With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away."
The statement continued, confirming Joshua's hospitalisation and stable condition, adding that he would remain under observation. The company extended its deepest condolences to the families and friends of those affected and requested privacy during this difficult time.
The boxing world and sports community at large are now awaiting further updates on Joshua's recovery while mourning the profound loss of two respected figures in his camp.
