Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has reportedly returned to the United Kingdom following a tragic car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close associates.
The fatal crash occurred on Monday on a road near Lagos, when a vehicle carrying Joshua and members of his team collided with a stationary truck. Two of his close friends — Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele — were killed in the incident.
Ghami served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele was one of his trainers. Both were key figures in the boxer’s professional journey and personal life.
Joshua Sustained Minor Injuries
Joshua, a two-time heavyweight world champion, sustained minor injuries in the crash and was taken to hospital for treatment. He was discharged on Wednesday after doctors confirmed he was clinically fit and could continue his recovery at home.
British media reports on Saturday indicate that Joshua has since flown back to the UK, doing so before the funerals of Ghami and Ayodele.
Just hours before the crash, Joshua and Ayodele had shared moments together on social media, posting clips of themselves playing table tennis — a detail that has added to the emotional weight of the tragedy for fans and the boxing community.
Driver Charged by Nigerian Police
In the aftermath of the incident, Nigerian police have charged the driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, with dangerous driving causing death. Kayode is expected to appear in court on January 20.
Authorities say the Lexus SUV was travelling on the busy Lagos–Ibadan highway when it rammed into the stationary truck. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are ongoing.
Holiday Trip Turns Tragic
Joshua, who has family roots in Nigeria, was in the country on holiday following his recent victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. What was meant to be a period of rest and celebration quickly turned into one of the most difficult moments of his career and personal life.
Tributes have continued to pour in for Ghami and Ayodele, as fans and fellow athletes express condolences to Joshua and the families of the deceased.
As the legal process unfolds and Joshua continues his recovery, the boxing world remains united in mourning the loss of two respected figures whose influence extended far beyond the ring.
