British heavyweight boxing star Anthony Joshua has been injured following a tragic road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two close members of his team.
The crash occurred on a major expressway in Ogun State, near Lagos, when a vehicle carrying the former world champion collided with a stationary truck. Joshua was travelling as a passenger at the time of the accident.
Shocking Video Emerges From Crash Scene
A video circulating online has revealed the devastating aftermath of the accident. The footage shows a severely damaged vehicle, with residents gathered around attempting to offer assistance in the immediate moments following the crash.
In the video, Anthony Joshua is seen seated in the driver’s seat, visibly injured but conscious, as onlookers try to help before emergency responders arrived.
The footage has since sparked widespread concern among boxing fans across the world.
Two Close Team Members Killed
Matchroom Boxing later confirmed that two members of Joshua’s inner circle were killed in the accident. The victims were identified as:
- Sina Ghami – Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach
- Latif “Latz” Ayodele – Joshua’s personal trainer and close friend
In an official statement, Matchroom Boxing said Joshua was taken to hospital for medical checks and treatment and remains under observation.
“Anthony Joshua is in a stable condition in hospital. 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.”
Joshua in Stable Condition
Authorities in Ogun and Lagos states confirmed that Joshua was stable and conscious following the crash and had already been in contact with his family.
Earlier government communication described the boxer as having “narrowly escaped death”, with officials announcing that a comprehensive investigation would be launched to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Tributes Pour In for Ghami and Ayodele
Matchroom Boxing chair and renowned promoter Eddie Hearn paid an emotional tribute to the two men killed in the crash.
“Rest in eternal peace, Sina and Latz. Two great men. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone.”
Veteran boxing analyst Steve Bunce described the pair as central figures in Joshua’s success, calling them “massive parts of the Anthony Joshua machine.”
“They’ve been with him from very early on. Latz was AJ’s personal trainer, and Sina handled strength and conditioning. They were with him all the time,” Bunce told BBC Radio 5 Live.
Final Moments Shared on Social Media
Just hours before the fatal crash, Anthony Joshua shared a light-hearted video on Instagram showing himself and Ayodele playing table tennis, a post that has since taken on heartbreaking significance.
Ghami had also recently posted updates on social media from Lagos, documenting their time in Nigeria before the tragic incident.
President Tinubu Speaks to Joshua
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed that he had personally spoken to Joshua to convey his condolences and wish him a full recovery.
“I spoke with Anthony Joshua to express my condolences and wish him a speedy recovery. AJ assured me he is receiving the best possible care,” Tinubu said in a post on X.
Global Boxing Community in Mourning
The accident has sent shockwaves through the global boxing community, with fans, fighters, and promoters expressing grief and concern for Joshua’s wellbeing while mourning the loss of two respected professionals.
Anthony Joshua, 36, is one of the most recognisable figures in world boxing and has long maintained close personal and professional ties with his support team, making the loss particularly devastating.
Ongoing Investigation
Nigerian authorities have confirmed that investigations are underway to establish:
- Why the truck was stationary on the expressway
- Whether visibility, speed, or road conditions contributed
- If safety regulations were breached
Further updates are expected as officials continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.