Anthony Joshua car crash: Boxing star lost two mentors and close friends in Nigerian tragedy

The boxing world is in mourning following a devastating road accident in Nigeria that has claimed the lives of two of Anthony Joshua’s closest companions and long-time mentors. The former two-time world heavyweight champion was traveling on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday morning when the vehicle he was in collided with a stationary truck. While Joshua survived the impact with what authorities describe as "minor injuries," the crash proved fatal for two key members of his inner circle: Sina "Evolve" Ghami and Abdul Lateef, aka "Latz."

Those who know Anthony Joshua, know that Sina "Evolve" Ghami and Abdul Lateef, were far more than staff. In fact, they were considered the pillars of his daily life and career. Sina served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach. He was a constant presence in the champion's training camps, most recently seen preparing Joshua for his dominant knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami just ten days ago.


Latz, on the other hand, was Joshua’s personal trainer and a close confidant, and often described as the "heart" of the team. Known for his "Healthy Mindset" philosophy, he was instrumental in maintaining Joshua’s mental and physical sharp edge. Hours before the accident, social media posts showed the group in high spirits, enjoying their time in Joshua’s ancestral homeland. One video showed Latz and Joshua playing table tennis, a haunting final glimpse of a friendship that spanned decades.

Latest update on the collision

According to the Ogun State Police Command and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the accident occurred around 11:00 AM local time (5:00 AM EST) near the Sagamu interchange. Preliminary investigation has revealed that the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and four others was involved in an "overtaking maneuver" before losing control and striking a parked truck.


Images from the scene show the vehicle with extensive front-end damage. Witnesses described a dazed Joshua being helped from the wreckage by onlookers and local authorities. A spokesperson for the local police stated, "It is a tragedy beyond words. Two lives were lost at the scene. Mr. Joshua is receiving treatment and is in stable condition, but the emotional toll is immense."

Anthony Joshua's revelry turned to tragedy

Anthony Joshua had traveled to Nigeria to celebrate his recent win and connect with his roots in Sagamu. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed he had been informed of the incident, stating that while the boxer’s physical injuries are not life-threatening, the loss of his "brothers" has left him devastated.

The bodies of the deceased have been moved to the Livewell Hospital Morgue in Sagamu. As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, the boxing community has begun pouring out tributes for the two men who helped guide one of the sport's greatest modern icons.

Also Read: Anthony Joshua shared a fun table tennis game hours before the deadly car crash