Tributes have continued to pour in for British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua following a fatal road accident in Makun, Ogun State, on Monday, which claimed the lives of two of his close friends and team members, AbdulLateef Ayodele and Sina Ghami.
Gatekeepers News reports that Joshua, who sustained minor injuries in the crash, is currently in a stable condition and receiving medical treatment in Lagos.
His promoters, Matchroom Boxing, confirmed the deaths of Ayodele and Ghami in a statement, describing both men as integral members of Joshua’s team.
“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 chairman Eddie Hearn also paid tribute to the duo, describing the loss as devastating.
“With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone,” Hearn said.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the incident as a tragic loss that has cast a shadow over the season, offering his condolences and prayers to Joshua and the bereaved families.
“I extend my deep sympathies to you following the tragic accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, which claimed two precious lives and caused you injuries. I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed,” the President said.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also expressed sadness over the incident, noting that Joshua remains a symbol of strength.
“I stand in full solidarity with him during this difficult moment and pray for his swift and complete recovery. Anthony remains a symbol of strength and resilience,” Atiku said.
Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi said he received the news with deep concern.
“It is with deep concern that I received the news of the road accident involving former heavyweight boxing champion, Mr Anthony Joshua, in Makun, Ogun State. May God grant the departed eternal rest,” Obi stated.
Former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun described the accident as “saddening, painful, and most unfortunate,” while offering prayers for Joshua’s recovery and comfort for the families of the deceased.
Members of the sporting community also paid glowing tributes to the victims. Renowned boxing analyst Steve Bunce described Ayodele and Ghami as inseparable from Joshua’s career.
“Sina and Latz are massive parts of the Anthony Joshua machine. He calls them his boys. They are more than that. They are friends,” Bunce said.
Fellow boxer Chris Eubank Jr also mourned the duo.
“Thank God our heavyweight champ survived that horrible car crash. Pray for the two fallen soldiers Latz & Sina. I knew both, they were genuinely good men. Rest in peace, boys,” he wrote.
Former rugby star Sonny Bill Williams paid tribute to Ayodele, saying:
“Rest easy brother Abdul Latif, may the Most High make it easy for your loved ones.”
Nigerian sports authorities also joined in mourning. The Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, expressed condolences on behalf of the Nigerian sports community.
“On behalf of the National Sports Commission and the entire Nigerian sports family, I express my heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate accident. We thank God for the life of Anthony Joshua,” he said.
The Nigeria Boxing Board of Control described Joshua as “a son of Nigeria.” Its President, Rafiu Oladipo, said:
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We pray for his complete and speedy recovery.”
On social media, fans expressed shock and sympathy, with messages of gratitude for Joshua’s survival and prayers for his recovery trending online.
Joshua was in Nigeria for New Year engagements following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami earlier this month.
