Two close associates of heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, have been identified as the victims of the fatal road accident that occurred on Monday along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
The deceased were confirmed as Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, both long-standing members of Joshua’s professional team. The confirmation was made by Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s promotional company, in an official statement.
“With profound sadness, it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, have tragically passed away,” the statement read.
Matchroom Boxing also disclosed that Joshua sustained injuries in the crash and was taken to hospital for medical evaluation. The boxer was reported to be in stable condition and under observation.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) similarly confirmed that the deceased were members of Joshua’s inner circle, noting their long-term professional relationship with the boxer.
Profiles of the Deceased
Sina Ghami served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach for over a decade. He was also a co-founder of Evolve Gym in London and a certified sports rehabilitation specialist, with experience working across elite sporting institutions, including the NFL, NBA, and collegiate athletics in the United States.
Latif “Latz” Ayodele, Joshua’s personal trainer, was known for his dedication to fitness and wellness. His social media presence reflected both his professional work with Joshua and his personal faith. He was seen with the boxer shortly before the accident.
Circumstances of the Accident
The accident reportedly occurred around 11 a.m. on Monday at the Makun axis of Ogun State, near the Danco Filling Station, before the Sagamu Interchange on the Ibadan-bound lane of the expressway.
Eyewitnesses stated that a Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and members of his team was part of a two-vehicle convoy when it collided with a stationary truck. Two occupants of the Lexus reportedly died at the scene, while Joshua sustained minor injuries.
Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps arrived shortly after the incident and commenced rescue and investigation efforts. Preliminary findings by the agency attributed the crash to excessive speed and wrongful overtaking.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that the bodies of the deceased were deposited at a morgue in Sagamu, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are ongoing.
Joshua, who has strong ties to Nigeria and attended boarding school in Ikenne, Ogun State, has received an outpouring of condolences from fans, public figures, and members of the global sports community.
