In a heartbreaking turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the global sporting community, British boxing legend Anthony Joshua was involved in a fatal car accident in Ogun State, Nigeria on Monday, December 29, 2025, that resulted in the deaths of two of his closest friends and trusted team members. The devastating loss has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, athletes, and public figures worldwide.
The tragic crash occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, one of Nigeria’s busiest and most accident-prone highways. According to official reports and verified news coverage, the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his companions lost control during an overtaking maneuver and collided with a stationary commercial truck, killing Kevin Latif “Latz” Ayodele and Sina Ghami at the scene.
Who Were the Men Lost in the Accident?
1. Kevin Latif “Latz” Ayodele — The Personal Trainer and Trusted Friend
Kevin Latif Ayodele, affectionately known as “Latz,” was more than just Anthony Joshua’s personal trainer — he was a core pillar in the boxer’s professional and personal life. Known for his “Healthy Mindset” philosophy and fitness expertise, Latz played an instrumental role in Joshua’s preparation for some of his biggest fights. He was admired not only for his profound knowledge of athletic training but also for his dedication, loyalty, and positive influence on everyone around him.
Latz rose to prominence within the boxing community and on social media through motivational posts and fitness content, where he inspired countless followers with his approach to mental and physical well-being. Hours before the tragic crash, Joshua and Latz were seen together in a light-hearted Instagram video playing table tennis — a haunting reminder of the joyous moments shared before catastrophe struck.
2. Sina Ghami — Strength & Conditioning Coach with a Legacy
Sina Ghami was Joshua’s long-time strength and conditioning coach, a seasoned expert whose work was pivotal in shaping Joshua’s elite physique and overall athletic performance. Ghami’s influence extended beyond the boxing ring. He was widely respected in fitness circles and was co-founder of Evolve Gym in London, a hub for performance training and rehabilitation that attracted top athletes across sports disciplines.
Throughout a decade-long professional partnership, Ghami helped guide Joshua through rigorous training camps, including preparations for the recent high-profile match where Joshua secured a sixth-round knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami just weeks before the crash. His death is not only a loss to Joshua but to the broader athletic community he served.
The Crash: What Happened on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
The Lexus SUV transporting Joshua, Latz, Ghami, and another passenger was traveling along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near Makun, Ogun State, when it attempted to overtake another vehicle at speed. According to preliminary findings from Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and local police, the SUV lost control during the maneuver and collided with a truck parked on the roadside.
The crash occurred at approximately 11:00 a.m. local time, and the impact was severe. Latz and Ghami, who were seated in the front of the vehicle, tragically died at the scene, while Joshua — seated in the rear — sustained minor injuries and was taken to a hospital for medical observation. Another occupant survived with injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.
The exact cause of the crash continues to be investigated, with road safety officials highlighting speeding and overtaking on a high-traffic highway as contributing factors. Footage circulating on social media shows the wrecked SUV with extensive front-end damage, underscoring the force of the collision.
Anthony Joshua: Condition and Official Response
Following the accident, Joshua was reported to be stable and conscious in a Nigerian hospital, receiving treatment for his injuries. Authorities and his team have consistently emphasized that, despite the trauma of the crash, Joshua does not have life-threatening injuries and is expected to recover physically.
Matchroom Boxing, Joshua’s promoter, released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of Latz and Ghami, describing them as “integral” members of his team and friends whose absence will be deeply felt. The statement also respectfully asked for privacy for the grieving families during this difficult time.
Tributes from the Boxing World and Beyond
The news of the accident has triggered a massive outpouring of support and solidarity from the global boxing community and sports world:
Badou Jack, former cruiserweight champion and friend of Latz, shared a heartfelt tribute:
“Still in shock! May Allah forgive you for your shortcomings and grant you the highest level of paradise.” — a message underscoring the depth of loss felt by those close to the deceased.
Jake Paul, whom Joshua defeated earlier in December, took to social media to extend his condolences:
“Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ, and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”
Eddie Hearn, Matchroom chairman, commented:
“With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz.”
Even political leaders have expressed their sympathies. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally reached out to Joshua and his family, offering prayers and support during the boxer’s hospitalization, demonstrating the widespread impact of the tragedy within Nigeria and abroad.
The Legacy of Latz and Sina: More Than Just Trainers
The passing of Latz and Ghami is not simply the loss of two professional associates; it is the loss of two mentors, friends, and influential figures who helped shape one of boxing’s most iconic careers. Their roles went far beyond training regimens — they contributed to Joshua’s resilience, discipline, and mental fortitude, elements that defined his rise from Olympic hopeful to world heavyweight champion.
For many in the fitness and sporting world, their deaths are a stark reminder of the fragility of life. Social media tributes have flooded in, with athletes, fans, and community members sharing memories, photos, and moments that capture the joy and passion both men brought to their work and relationships.
Reflecting on Road Safety and Wider Implications
This tragic incident also draws urgent attention to road safety concerns in Nigeria, particularly on major intercity highways like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, which has historically seen high rates of traffic accidents due to speeding, heavy vehicle congestion, and risky driving behaviors. Road safety advocates have renewed calls for stricter enforcement and public awareness campaigns to prevent future loss of life on Nigeria’s roads.
Conclusion: A Boxing Legend Shaken, A Community in Mourning
The devastating loss of Kevin Latif “Latz” Ayodele and Sina Ghami in the fatal car crash that involved Anthony Joshua is a tragic moment for the world of sport and beyond. Their contributions to Joshua’s career and to those they trained and inspired will not be forgotten. As Joshua begins his road to physical and emotional recovery, the legacy of his fallen friends will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives they touched.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families of Latz and Ghami, to Anthony Joshua, and to everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy. May their memories be a blessing. 🌟
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