London/Lagos – British boxer and former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has paid an emotional tribute to his two close friends who died in a car crash in Lagos, Nigeria, in December.
Joshua, who also holds Nigerian nationality, was sitting in the back of the vehicle when it collided with a stationary truck, killing Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. He sustained minor injuries in the accident.
The 36-year-old had been on holiday with his friends following his knockout victory over US YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami on December 19.
“My Left and My Right”
In a heartfelt video posted on social media, Joshua described Ayodele and Ghami as his brothers, saying he had been through a “tragic, traumatic time.”
“Not only did their parents, their uncles, their cousins, their friends, and myself lose two great men, we lost people that we dearly care about and have been major players in all of our lives,” Joshua said.
Ghami, a strength and conditioning coach, had been part of Joshua’s team for more than a decade, while Ayodele, an old friend, worked as a personal trainer.
Global Support
Joshua also expressed gratitude to fans and supporters worldwide for their messages of solidarity.
“We saw the messages, the tweets, the social media, the YouTubes, the prayers, it’s all been acknowledged,” he said.
While he gave little away about his boxing plans, Joshua noted that “the mission must go on.” Earlier this month, he shared footage of himself back in the gym, hitting pads with a trainer in what he called “mental strength therapy.”
Legal Proceedings
The driver of the car, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, appeared in court in Nigeria earlier this month. He has been charged with several counts, including dangerous driving causing death. His case was adjourned to 25 February at the prosecution’s request.
Conclusion
Joshua’s tribute underscores the deep personal loss he has suffered, even as he continues to prepare for the next chapter of his boxing career. For the global sporting community, his words serve as a reminder of the human side of athletes whose lives extend far beyond the ring.
