Anthony Joshua has shared a heartfelt statement following the deaths of his close friends Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele in a car accident in Nigeria.
The former World Heavyweight Champion was injured last month when his vehicle collided with a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. Ghami and Ayodele, both members of Joshua’s team, were killed in the crash. Joshua has since been discharged from hospital after treatment for his injuries.
Taking to X, 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. 100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents. I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers.”
The driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has been charged in connection with the crash, allegedly for causing death by dangerous driving.
Joshua’s statement comes shortly after UFC fighter Kamaru Usman issued an apology for sharing a private conversation with Joshua that was recorded during preparations for an MMA event in Lagos. Usman wrote that it was “quite heartbreaking” and took responsibility for not keeping the conversation private.
The tragic accident has drawn widespread support from fans and fellow athletes, with many expressing condolences to Joshua and the families of his late friends.
