Two close friends of British boxing star Anthony Joshua have died in a car crash in Nigeria, which also left the heavyweight boxer injured. Sina Ghami and Latif 'Latz' Ayodele lost their lives on Monday when their vehicle collided with a stationary truck on a major road near Lagos.
Joshua sustained injuries in the crash but is reported to be stable and conscious in hospital, according to the Ogun State Government. Ghami was Joshua's strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele was a trainer.
Eddie Hearn, Joshua's long-time promoter, paid tribute on Instagram, writing: '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.'
Joshua, born in Watford to Nigerian parents, was on holiday in Nigeria following his win over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. Retired cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew posted on X: 'Thoughts and prayers to the families of these men. Tragic losses in horrific circumstances! I hope he (Joshua) is able to process this with time because there is no pain in life worse than grief.'
Two-time undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, British former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and former world champion Wladimir Klitschko have also offered condolences.
