British former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious road accident on Monday, December 29, 2025, in Nigeria’s Ogun State along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. The Lexus SUV he was travelling in collided with a stationary truck, in what officials described as a high-speed crash during an overtaking maneuver.
Joshua was a passenger in the vehicle and sustained minor injuries. He was taken to a hospital where he remains in stable condition and is under observation.
Identities of the Two Victims
The two people who died in the crash have now been named and identified:
Sina Ghami — strength and conditioning coach
Latif “Lateef” Ayodele — trainer and close friend
Both men were described by Joshua’s team as close friends and integral members of his support staff. The news of their deaths was shared by Matchroom Boxing and confirmed by various officials and media outlets.
Official Reactions and Statements
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, and representatives issued statements expressing deep sadness and offered condolences to the families of Ghami and Ayodele. Officials have asked for privacy as the families begin to process the tragedy. Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, also personally reached out to Joshua to offer support and express condolences following the accident.
Context and Investigation
Preliminary reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) suggest the vehicle was travelling above the legal speed limit and lost control while overtaking before crashing into the truck. Police and safety officials have launched an investigation into the exact cause of the accident. Eyewitness footage shared on social media shows chaotic scenes immediately after the crash, including bystanders assisting at the scene and the wrecked SUV.
Aftermath and Reactions
The boxing community and fellow fighters have paid tribute to the two victims and expressed support for Joshua. British boxer Tyson Fury described the development as “so sad”, while others highlighted road safety concerns and paid homage to Ghami and Ayodele’s contributions to Joshua’s career.
Summary
Anthony Joshua was involved in a car accident in Nigeria on Dec. 29, 2025. He suffered minor injuries and remains in stable condition. Two of his close friends and team members — Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele — tragically died in the crash. Officials are investigating the cause, with preliminary findings citing excessive speed and wrongful overtaking.
Conclusion
The tragic car crash involving Anthony Joshua has left the boxing world and fans around the globe in deep shock. While Joshua was fortunate to escape with minor injuries, the loss of two close friends and trusted members of his team has cast a heavy shadow over the incident. Their deaths serve as a heartbreaking reminder that even moments of routine travel can turn fatal in an instant. Beyond the personal grief for Joshua and the families affected, the incident has renewed conversations about road safety, speed, and the dangers of nighttime driving. As investigations continue, messages of support from fellow athletes, officials, and supporters highlight the strong sense of unity within the sporting community during times of loss. Ultimately, this tragedy goes beyond headlines and fame, underscoring the fragility of life and the importance of caution, responsibility, and compassion in the aftermath of sudden and devastating events.
