The world of boxing is reeling following a devastating road accident involving British-Nigerian heavyweight star Anthony Joshua on Monday, 29 December 2025. While the former champion survived with minor injuries, the crash tragically claimed the lives of two of his closest friends and integral members of his professional team.
The incident occurred around 11:00 AM on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, near the Sagamu Interchange in Ogun State, just ten days after Joshua’s knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami.
Matchroom Boxing and Joshua’s camp have confirmed the passing of two figures who were central to the boxer’s career and personal life; Latif “Latz” Ayodele, his long-time personal trainer and companion, who was also a former footballer, Ayodele had been by Joshua’s side since his early rise in the heavyweight division, and Sina Ghami, Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach for over a decade. Ghami was a co-founder of Evolve Gym in London and was credited with the physical transformations seen in Joshua’s recent “comeback” performances.
“It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latif’ Ayodele. Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team.”- Official Statement from Joshua’s Spokesperson.
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Ogun State Police Command, the accident involved a two-vehicle convoy, a black Lexus SUV and a Pajero.
The Lexus SUV, carrying Joshua in the rear seat, reportedly lost control while attempting an overtaking maneuver at high speed. It slammed into a stationary truck parked near the Danco Filling Station.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a dazed, shirtless Joshua being helped from the wreckage. Footage from the scene showed the front and right-hand side of the Lexus completely totaled.
Of the five occupants in the Lexus, two died on the spot, one sustained injuries (the driver), and two escaped, including Joshua, who suffered only “minor injuries” and was conscious throughout the rescue.
As of Tuesday morning, 30 December, Joshua is recuperating in a specialized hospital in Lagos as doctors described his condition as “stable.” He is being kept for observation but does not require emergency surgery.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reportedly spent several hours at the hospital yesterday to oversee his care.
More so, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, currently abroad, spoke with Joshua and his mother by phone to convey his condolences and wish the boxer a speedy recovery.
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of support. Jake Paul, whom Joshua defeated just over a week ago, posted on X: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”
The accident puts a temporary halt on discussions regarding a massive 2026 clash with Tyson Fury, as the boxing community focuses solely on the recovery and grieving process of the former champion.
