OGUN STATE, Nigeria — Former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua was injured in a car crash on the Lagos–Ibadan expressway that claimed the lives of two of his closest team members, Latif “Latz” Ayodele and Sina Ghami.
Joshua, 36, was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck on Monday afternoon. He was rescued from the wreckage and taken to hospital in Sagamu, where he was treated and later discharged.
The Victims
Ayodele, Joshua’s personal trainer, and Ghami, his long‑time strength and conditioning coach, were pronounced dead at the scene. Both men had been integral to Joshua’s career for over a decade, preparing him for major fights including his recent victory over Jake Paul on December 19.
Ghami also co‑founded the London‑based gym Evolve, which announced it would close temporarily as staff mourned the loss of their “beloved owner.”
Investigation and Cause
Police Commander Babatunde Akinbiyi of Nigeria’s Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE) said early investigations suggested the SUV suffered a tyre burst due to excessive speed, causing the driver to lose control.
The driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has since been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and other offences, with his case adjourned until January 20.
Tributes and Reactions
Promoter Eddie Hearn described Ayodele and Ghami as “two great men” whose loyalty and energy will be deeply missed. Boxing analyst Steve Bunce called them “massive parts of the Anthony Joshua machine,” noting their constant presence in Joshua’s training camps.
Just hours before the crash, Joshua had posted a video of himself playing table tennis with Ayodele, while Ghami shared updates from Lagos on social media.
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu spoke directly with Joshua, offering condolences and wishing him a “full and speedy recovery.” Fellow boxer Jake Paul 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.”
Family Roots and Local Impact
Joshua, born in Watford, UK, has deep family roots in Sagamu, near the crash site. He was reportedly travelling to join relatives for New Year celebrations when the accident occurred. Local officials confirmed plans to build a new indoor boxing venue named after Joshua in Ogun State, where he serves as a sports ambassador.
Road Safety Context
The Lagos–Ibadan expressway is notorious as one of Nigeria’s deadliest roads, especially during festive periods when traffic surges. Authorities have long warned of the dangers posed by speeding, poorly maintained vehicles, and heavy truck traffic.