The weight of the world settled heavily on Anthony Joshua this week, not from the pressures of the ring, but from a tragedy unfolding on a Nigerian highway. A routine journey on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway turned into a nightmare, leaving the boxing champion shaken and two cherished friends lost forever.
Joshua, traveling in a Lexus SUV, collided with a stationary vehicle. He escaped with minor injuries, a stark contrast to the fate of Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, both integral members of his team, who perished in the impact. The news reverberated through the boxing world, a somber reminder of life’s fragility.
His mother, Yeta Odusanya, rushed to his side, offering solace amidst the devastation. Together, they paid their respects at a Lagos funeral home, a quiet moment of grief before the difficult task of repatriating their friends back to the UK. The scene was filled with raw emotion, a testament to the deep bonds forged over years.
Official statements from the governors of Lagos and Ogun states acknowledged the profound loss, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of public support. The focus, however, remained on the private grief of Joshua and his family, allowing space for mourning.
Latif Ayodele, known affectionately as ‘Latz,’ wasn’t just a trainer; he was a long-time friend, a constant presence since Joshua’s world title victory in 2016. He had embraced Islam in 2012 and brought a quiet dedication to his work, evident in countless gym sessions and moments of shared laughter.
Just hours before the crash, a video surfaced on Instagram – Joshua and Ayodele, smiling and relaxed over a game of table tennis. It’s a poignant image now, a snapshot of joy tragically cut short. Ayodele’s influence extended beyond boxing, having worked with other elite athletes, including rugby legend Sonny Bill Williams.
Sina Ghami, Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach for over a decade, was the architect of his physical prowess. He co-founded Evolve Gym in London, bringing a specialized knowledge of musculoskeletal injuries and corrective exercise to his work.
Ghami was a fixture in Joshua’s corner, present during defining moments like the epic battle against Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley Stadium in 2017. His last Instagram story, a fleeting glimpse of Joshua’s motorcade in Lagos, now carries a heartbreaking weight.
The medical team at Lagoon Hospital Ikoyi received gratitude for their care, but the focus remained on the irreplaceable loss. These weren’t just colleagues; they were confidants, supporters, and friends who helped shape Joshua’s journey to the top.
The boxing world mourns alongside Joshua, recognizing the silent army that often operates behind the scenes. Ayodele and Ghami were essential parts of that team, their dedication and loyalty now etched in memory.
