Anthony Joshua’s visit to Nigeria took a devastating turn on Monday when a road traffic collision claimed the lives of two men who stood at the very heart of his inner circle. Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, long-time friends and trusted members of the former heavyweight champion’s team, were killed in a crash on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. Joshua survived and was taken to the hospital, where he remains in a stable condition.
The incident occurred as Joshua travelled in the rear seat of a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck. Video footage from the scene showed the boxer dazed as rescuers pulled him from the wreckage. Nigerian authorities continue to investigate the cause, while tributes from across the sporting world have poured in for two figures who played crucial roles in Joshua’s life.
Who was Latif Ayodele?
Latif "Latz" Ayodele with Anthony Joshua. Image via: X
Latif Ayodele, widely known as Kevin “Latz” Ayodele, was more than a trainer to Anthony Joshua. He was a close companion whose presence dated back to the early stages of the boxer’s rise. Ayodele was a former footballer who later dedicated his life to fitness. He became Joshua’s personal trainer.
Ayodele once shared his personal journey openly, writing, “Finding Islam in 2012 has been my biggest blessing.” Matchroom Boxing confirmed his passing in a statement, saying, “With profound sadness it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele have tragically passed away.”
Who was Sina Ghami in Anthony Joshua’s team?
Sina Ghami and Anthony Joshua. Image via: X
Sina Ghami was Anthony Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach for more than a decade. He played a major role in the boxer’s physical preparation through title wins and recent comebacks. Ghami was also a co-founder of Evolve Gym in London and held credentials as a certified sports and exercise rehabilitator.
According to the gym’s profile, he specialised in musculoskeletal injuries and corrective exercise, with experience working alongside NFL and NBA athletes. His work focused on longevity and recovery, making him an essential figure behind the scenes of Joshua’s career. A spokesperson later confirmed the loss, stating, “Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team.”
How did the crash happen?
The crash occurred near Sagamu at around midday local time. Nigerian road safety officials said preliminary findings suggest the SUV may have been travelling above the speed limit while attempting to overtake before losing control and striking a parked truck. Joshua sustained injuries and was taken for treatment.
Also Read:
What Happened To Anthony Joshua? Cause Of Car Crash Explored As Boxer Hospitalised After Deadly Lagos-Ogun Road AccidentLachit Roy is a sports writer at The Times of India, where he cov...
Read MoreLachit Roy is a sports writer at The Times of India, where he covers the NBA, WWE, and other major international sporting events. With over five years of experience across different media houses, he has developed expertise in reporting, analysis, and storytelling. His sharp insights are complemented by a clear and engaging writing style. He holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Tezpur University. Beyond sports, Lachit is passionate about movies and enjoys gardening in his free time.
Read Less
Start a Conversation
Post comment