The boxing world is mourning the tragic loss of two close members of Anthony Joshua’s inner circle following a devastating car accident in Nigeria, while there is relief that the former heavyweight champion himself is in stable condition.
Joshua was involved in a serious road traffic collision earlier this week in Lagos. Two passengers in the vehicle, longtime strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and close friend and team member Latif Ayodele, were pronounced dead at the scene. Joshua was pulled from the wreckage and transported to hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries.
An official spokesperson for Joshua confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement:
“Anthony Joshua was involved in a road traffic accident in Lagos, Nigeria, earlier today.
With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, have tragically passed away.
Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the families and friends of all those affected, and we ask that their privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time.”
Remembering Latif Ayodele
Latif Ayodele, based in Dubai, was a well-known fitness professional and social media influencer who ran the Instagram page Healthy Mindset. He promoted healthy living, trained clients, and produced motivational content followed by thousands.
Through his work, Ayodele crossed paths with global sporting icons including David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Zlatan Ibrahimović. His positivity and energy were widely remembered in tributes that poured in following the news.
Former world champion Badou Jack shared photos of the pair together, writing:
“Still in shock. May Allah forgive you for your shortcomings and grant you the highest level of paradise.”
The Loss of Sina Ghami
Sina Ghami had worked closely with Joshua for years as his strength and conditioning coach and was a constant presence in Team AJ’s training camps. He was seen in Joshua’s corner during the recent bout against Jake Paul in Miami on December 19 and had previously been part of the team during some of Joshua’s biggest career moments - including the iconic 2017 Wembley victory over Wladimir Klitschko.
Ghami had arrived in Lagos earlier that morning, sharing a photo from the airport shortly after landing. Beyond boxing, the Dubai-based sports rehabilitation expert also worked with NBA and NFL athletes, earning widespread respect across multiple sports.
Rob Madden, Joshua’s former physiotherapist and Team GB staff member, paid an emotional tribute to both men:
“Every memory is a reminder of just how much heart you carried.
Every time Sina called, he never went straight to business. He always checked in first. Asked about my family. That was just who he was.
Latz was pure positivity. Someone who lifted the room just by walking into it.
I will miss you both. The energy, the laughs, the presence, and the way you treated people.”
What Authorities Have Said
Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps stated that the SUV involved was suspected to have been travelling above the legally prescribed speed limit. Officials said the vehicle lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre before colliding with a truck on the Lagos–Ibadan highway.
Other reports suggest the crash may have been triggered by a tyre burst, causing the vehicle to swerve into the truck.
Anthony Joshua’s Condition
The Ogun State Government later confirmed that Joshua is conscious and has already been in contact with his family.
“Anthony Joshua and another passenger were immediately evacuated to a specialised medical facility in Lagos.
Following comprehensive clinical assessments, doctors have confirmed that both patients are stable and do not require emergency medical intervention at this time.
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also reached out personally:
“I have spoken with AJ to personally convey my condolences over the passing of his two close associates.
I wished him a full and speedy recovery, and prayed with him. AJ assured me he is receiving the best possible care.”
A UK Foreign Office spokesperson confirmed that they are investigating the incident and stand ready to offer consular assistance.
A Moment of Reflection for the Boxing World
The accident comes just days after Joshua’s high-profile knockout win over Jake Paul, and while future fight plan, including a long-discussed showdown with Tyson Fury, had already begun to circulate, the focus has now understandably shifted.
For now, the priority remains with recovery and remembrance while the boxing community continues to express its deepest sympathy to the families of Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele - two men remembered not only for their professional contributions, but for the humanity, warmth, and loyalty they brought to everyone around them.