In a deeply emotional statement, former two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has spoken publicly for the first time about the horrific car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of his close friends and long-term team members.
Sharing his reflections on Thursday, January 8, 2026, the 36-year-old boxer paid a poignant tribute to Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, the men he described as his “brothers” and “great men.”
A Reflection on Life and Brotherhood
Joshua, who has remained largely out of the spotlight since the December 29 tragedy on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, expressed a profound sense of shock and spiritual reverence for his fallen companions.
“Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers,” Joshua wrote. “I didn’t even realise how special they are. I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men.”
Thank you for all the love and care you have shown my brothers. I didn’t even realise how special they are. I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men. 100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher… pic.twitter.com/qIdvq9O4sO
— Anthony Joshua (@anthonyjoshua) January 8, 2026
The boxer’s words highlight the suddenness of the loss and the deep bond he shared with his training circle, which had been a constant presence throughout his career.
Acknowledging the Pain of the Bereaved Families
Despite his own physical and emotional injuries, Joshua directed the focus of his message toward the parents of Ghami and Ayodele, acknowledging that their loss is incomprehensible.
“100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents ❤️ I have a strong mind, and I believe God knows their hearts. May God have mercy on my brothers,” he added.
Context of the Tragedy
The accident occurred when a vehicle carrying Joshua and his team collided with a stationary truck near Ogere, Ogun State.
- Casualties: Both Latif Ayodele (Joshua’s long-time trainer) and Sina Ghami (his strength and conditioning coach) died at the scene.
- Joshua’s Condition: The former champion was pulled from the wreckage with minor physical injuries and was treated for shock at a private facility in Lekki, Lagos, before being discharged.
This statement comes amid reports from his inner circle that the boxer is seriously considering retirement from the sport, as his family in Sagamu recently expressed their hope that he would leave boxing to avoid further trauma.
While his professional future remains uncertain, Joshua’s first public words since the crash reinforce his commitment to honoring the legacy of the men who stood by him during his rise to global dominance.
Source: Africa Publicity
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